TOPIC
Over-the-counter (OTC) permits
The Department of Building Inspection reviews every building permit application for life safety and building code compliance. We provide over-the-counter review for simple permit applications. Drop-in at the Permit Center to submit your application.
How it works
QualifyReview our list to see if your project qualifies for OTC review.
QualifyReview our list to see if your project qualifies for OTC review.
PlansCheck if you need plans.
PlansCheck if you need plans.
Find formsSee our required forms for your project.
Find formsSee our required forms for your project.
Fill out formsFollow our instructions to fill out the forms for your project.
Fill out formsFollow our instructions to fill out the forms for your project.
ApplyCome to the Permit Center.
ApplyCome to the Permit Center.
Services
Find your project type
Get an OTC permit for your interior residential remodel
Follow these instructions for projects like kitchen, bath, and other interior residential remodels.
Get an OTC permit for your exterior residential project
Follow these instructions for doors, windows, reroofing, decks, fences, and other common exterior projects.
Get an OTC permit for your commercial project
Follow our instructions to comply with our commercial construction requirements to get your building permit.
Get a building permit to do a Soft Story retrofit
Follow these instructions for Soft Story permits.
Get a permit to install a sign or an awning
Follow our processes to fill out the right forms, prepare your drawings, and come to the Permit Center.
Permit process to legalize existing awnings
Most fees to legalize existing awnings are being waived through July 1, 2025.
Permit process for existing laundromat alterations
Follow this simplified process to get a permit for alterations to existing laundromats
Submit an application
Permit processing
Recheck your plans for your building permit application
Recheck your plans with the plan checker from your first review. Email your plan checker to coordinate a time to meet.
Track your building permit application or property complaint
Find building permits for current and past construction projects in our permit tracking system.
Gather documents for your building permit issuance
Bring these documents to get your building permit issued.
Unissued Extension or Withdrawal Form
Request to extend or withdraw your unissued building permit application
Instant online OTC permits
Related permits
Get a fire-only permit
We are open for fire-only scopes of work.
Get a street space permit
Apply for a permit to use part of the street or sidewalk for building construction and other construction related work.
Plant a street tree
Get a permit to plant a tree on the sidewalk.
Get your small business permits with a 30-day review
Open a new business or change your business operations under Prop H.
