Building Permits Alameda

Governments have detailed regulations in place to ensure that all building, construction and renovations  are safe for use. They make sure new developments follow these regulations by inspecting plans in advance before granting permits. Construction companies or homeowners can proceed with the structure only after they have a valid permit from their local building department.

• Do I need a building permit in Alameda CA?
• How long does it take to get a building permit in Alameda?
• Permit Service companies in Alameda California.

This process can be a little complicated and time-consuming, which is where we come in. At Service First Permits, we are familiar with the permit application process in Alameda, California. Here’s a look at what you must know about it:

When Do You Need A Construction Permit in Alameda California?

People need permits for almost every kind of construction that makes significant changes to your property. There are different forms for different projects, so you need to check with the Alameda Building Department to find the right ones. The different projects you need permits for include:

• • Kitchen remodels
  • Room additions (of an area greater than 120 sq feet)
  • Installing any electrical building sign
  • Window installation or replacement
  • Plumbing installations or repairs
  • Water heater repairs or installation
  • Roofing repairs or replacements (of areas greater than 200 sq feet)
  • Electrical permits for repairs or installations
  • Swimming pool installation or repair
  • Skylights
  • HVAC installation or replacement
  • Patios, decks, arbors, gazebos (if the total area exceeds 120 sq feet)

Several small-scale installations or repairs don’t require permits. Our expediters will scrutinize your project plans to determine if it is eligible for an exemption before going through the application process. This step saves you some time and money because you don’t need a permit if the project is exempted.

What is the Permit Application Process in Alameda, California

Different counties have different permit application requirements. What works in other areas of California may not work in Alameda. Our team is familiar with this building department and its requirements. You can rely on us to create a valid application packet for good results. Here’s a look at what to expect:

Over-the-Counter– Small projects like minor repairs or installations don’t have complicated plans. Alameda Department of Building provides over-the-counter permits for such projects. They will assess plans immediately and provide permits if there are no issues.
Full Review Process – If the project is a little more complicated, you may need to go through a thorough review process. The building department will send copies of your plan to other city authorities for a full assessment. The department also notifies property owners within 100 feet of a construction/renovation site. They have 10 days to comment or voice objections.
Duration of Assessment – Simple plans that require more time than an over-the-counter assessment are usually approved in five working days if there are no problems. It may take around 15 working days for a complete evaluation of more complex projects. Every effort is made to ensure all applications are approved within this time.
Re-submission – If a plan has issues, the city department will mention them and send the application packet back with plan checks. We can correct these errors before resubmitting, which usually takes less time. Resubmitted plans are often approved quickly if there are no additional corrections.

According to the Alameda Building Department, most plans are ready for issue in around three weeks. Approximately 60% of applications are ready for issue on the same day, which means you won’t have to wait for a permit. However, very complex building plans will take more time. Sometimes, builders, architects, or building owners are called in for a consultation if city departments have questions about the plans.  We can make sure this entire process goes smoothly, and you don’t have to deal with any significant delays.

How can our Alameda Building Permit Services Help?

Poorly planned permit applications, riddled with mistakes, will come back with plan checks, which means you will have to resubmit them after correcting all errors. Re-submission delays projects and costs money, so it is best to avoid them whenever possible. Here’s a look at how an expediter can help:

Consultation – An expert will first consult with you to understand the project requirements and priorities.
Assessment – They will then assess materials like blueprints, project descriptions, inspirations, etc. carefully to look for any code violations. Experienced expediters can spot violations immediately.
Second Opinion – Most professionals have a network of architects, designers, or consultants. They will send your plans to one of these professionals for assessment and to get a second opinion.
Creating an Application’s Packet – Once all plans or blueprints are approved, our expediters start assembling an application packet. We follow Alameda Department of Building’s guidelines when it comes to the permit application. We double-check every aspect of the application carefully to make sure there are no errors.
Additional Documents – We also ensure that the application includes other required documents like soil or geotechnical reports, title 24, Alameda County Green Building Program, etc. Different kinds of projects have different document requirements, so we check what your project needs before including that information.
Plan Checks – Our team takes every precaution to ensure there are no errors in plans. If the application does come back with plan checks, our team carefully makes all required corrections before resubmitting.

Permits are only valid for a specified period. We pick them up immediately after they’re granted so you can start work on the project. If a permit isn’t picked up within this time, you may have to resubmit it.

If you want to know more about the process or wish to consult with Service First Permits, don’t hesitate to reach out. Their team will be happy to answer all of your questions and help you get permits quickly.