Overview
On November 29, 1995, the City of San Carlos Building Department began a new program called Permits by Fax that enables contractors to obtain routine building permits by fax. The program involves completing a permit application form, providing credit card information to cover the permit charges and then faxing the application to the Building Department. Once the application is reviewed and approved, the contractor will receive a building permit by mail, typically within two working days. This enables both the contractor and the City to speed the permitting process for routine jobs.
In July 1996 we made Permits by Fax available via the Internet as part of our new Forms on the Web program. To participate in the Permits by Fax program, you will need to read the guidelines below. If your project(s) qualify for Permits by Fax, you can download the free Acrobat reader software, print out the application forms, complete them with license and payment information, and then fax them to the City Building Department. We will review the application and then mail you a permit.
Projects Approved for Permits by Fax
Permits by Fax can be issued for projects in these categories:
1. Replacement of Water Heaters, Furnaces or Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems.
2. Re-Roof and Window Replacement.
3. Repair of Gas, Sewer or Water Lines.
4. Residential Electrical Service Change up to and including 200 Amps.
5. Sub Permits (plumbing, mechanical or electrical) for projects where a valid building permit has been issued and additional plan checks are not required.
6. Kitchen and Bathroom Remodels (Please note: Additional information required for kitchen and bathroom remodel projects. Call the Building Department, at 650-802-4261).
Requirements and Conditions for Permits by Fax
The following requirements and conditions apply to all applications for Permits by Fax:
1. A faxed permit application is not a permit.
2. All declarations on the application, including the contractor's license, workers compensation insurance, etc. must be signed.
3. A valid certificate of workers compensation insurance must be faxed with each application.
4. You must provide your credit card number, expiration date, and a copy of the signature side of the card with your signature below the card
5. Please fill in the actual work to be performed on the application. Include the class of material and manufacturer for re-roofing permits.
6. The contractor must take the mailed copy of the permit to the job site.
7. Work authorized by a Permit by Fax must be inspected according to the regular schedule of inspections.
8. The permit will be mailed to the contractor. If you have not received your permit within two working days after application, please call the Building Department, at 650-802-4261
