CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODES HAVE BEEN UPDATED, EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2026.
SIGNIFICANT CHANGES INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:
• Additional mandates for electric vehicle chargers and infrastructure
• Significant increases in snow load design values
• More stringent wildland fire construction standards
• Enhanced energy efficiency standards
• Additional requirements for bicycle parking
• Updated seismic design standards
• New accessibility mandates and indoor air ventilation standards for apartments
The Building & Safety division is an important tool for the orderly development and maintenance of properties within the City. In addition to the enforcement of local codes and ordinances, Building & Safety is also responsible for the enforcement of certain state and federal regulations when they become applicable to construction projects in the City. Building & Safety reviews development plans, issues permits and provides inspection for both private and public projects while also being responsible for the abatement of unsafe or unpermitted structures.
Under State Law, construction must comply with the California Building Standards Codes and the Building & Safety Division is responsible for implementing the City's Building Code. This includes regulating and controlling the design, construction, quality of materials, use and occupancy, location, and maintenance of all buildings and structures. As part of its responsibility to ensure that buildings and structures are built to minimum standards to safeguard health, safety, and welfare, the City requires that a building permit be obtained prior to the construction of many improvements to private property. Once a permit is obtained, City building inspectors visit the property as needed to ensure that the construction is occurring per approval.
Building permits are required to build, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, or demolish any building. Permits are also required for most plumbing and electrical improvements.
For further information on building permits or to see if your project needs a permit, visit the Building & Safety public counter any time between 8 AM and 5 PM Monday through Friday.
Building inspectors are available by appointment Monday through Thursday - call (909) 752-2896 to schedule an appointment.