FAQs

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• What kind of projects require a building permit?

  What kind of projects require a building permit?

  What kind of projects require a building permit?

  Building permits are required for the construction/renovation of most buildings and structures. Almost anything constructed on or attached to the ground or attached to something located on the ground is considered a structure, including fences, walls greater than 18 inches tall, antennas, and pools more than 18 inches deep. Accessory buildings (i.e., storage sheds, playhouses, etc.) smaller than 120 square feet in size generally do not require a building permit.

  However, all buildings and structures, regardless of whether they require a building permit, are subject to development standards and code requirements, including those that are temporary or portable. Before erecting or constructing anything on your property, you should first consult with City planning staff.

• Why do I need a permit?

  Why do I need a permit?

  Why do I need a permit?

  Requiring permits allows the City to make sure that building codes and zoning regulations are properly followed in all neighborhoods. These regulations have been adopted to protect your property's value, as well as the community's health and welfare. Not having a permit may jeopardize your chances of obtaining financing, invalidate your fire and liability insurance, and create problems when you sell your property.

• How do I go about getting the necessary approvals and permits?

  How do I go about getting the necessary approvals and permits?

  How do I go about getting the necessary approvals and permits?

  The first step is to stop by the planning division counter at City Hall to discuss what you would like to do. You should bring along a preliminary site plan/plot plan that shows the shape and dimensions of your property, any adjacent streets, and the locations of all existing and proposed buildings and structures on the property. Usually this can be a simple pencil drawing on an 8-1/2" x 11" paper. When the changes you want to make involve the exterior of the building, the plan must show what the building will look like, and the materials to be used (stucco, wood, tile roof, brick veneer, etc.). The exterior elevation should be drawn to scale.

  At that point, City staff will tell you what the next steps in the approval/permitting process will be. For fences and simple patio covers, this preliminary plan may be all that is necessary for approval. Other projects will require more technical drawings. City staff will assist you in determining the level of detail that is needed for your particular project.

• Do I have to apply for my own permit?

  Do I have to apply for my own permit?

  Do I have to apply for my own permit?

  State law requires that either a licensed contractor or the owner of the property obtain the building permit. A friend or relative can apply for your permit if they provide a letter of authorization from you. Please provide the following when applying for a building permit.

  Owner/Builder
  A. Proof of ownership (Deed, etc.)
  B. Letter of authorization if a friend or relative is obtaining your building permit.

  Note: You will receive a letter within a week after getting your permit stating that a building permit was issued in your name and telling you of your responsibilities. Also included will be a form asking who will perform the work. Please return this form as soon as possible.

  Contractors
  A. City of Claremont Business License.
  B. Original certificate of workman's compensation insurance made out to the City of Claremont.
  C. Proof of current State Contractor's license.

• How long does it take before a permit is issued?

  How long does it take before a permit is issued?

  How long does it take before a permit is issued?

  Simple projects, such as patio covers and fences, usually can be checked immediately when you bring your plans into City Hall, and you can get your permit before you leave. At the very most, simple projects can be checked within one to two days. More complex projects will take 15 to 30 working days.

• Is there a fee?

  Is there a fee?

  Is there a fee?

  Yes, there are several fees that may be required, depending on the scope of the project. A design review and/or land use application fee, plan check fee, building permit fee, a grading plan fee, and impact fees such as schools, parkland, fire, etc., maybe required. The amount of these fees varies, depending on the amount of work being done and the scope of the project. The Community Development staff members will assist in determining the applicable fees and the amounts. A copy of the current fee schedules are accessible through the Planning Division web pages.

• Do I need separate permits if my plans involve electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work?

  Do I need separate permits if my plans involve electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work?

  Do I need separate permits if my plans involve electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work?

  Yes, separate permits are required for this type of work. The Building Division will tell you if you need to get these permits.

• How long does a permit last?

  How long does a permit last?

  How long does a permit last?

  You must begin work within 180 days from the date the permit is issued. Once work has begun, the permit will expire if work is stopped for more than 180 days. If necessary, extensions can be arranged through the Building Division.

• Will inspections be required?

  Will inspections be required?

  Will inspections be required?

  An inspection is required when the next phase of construction will conceal the phase just completed. An inspection card, issued with your permit, will help you in determining when inspections are necessary. It is your responsibility to call the different departments or divisions for inspections when each phase is completed. It is also your responsibility to call the Building Division to schedule the final inspection.