Building Permits
Apply for Building permits via email using the Building Permit Application Form. Once a completed application form is emailed, someone from the Building department will reply with fees, payment instructions, and next steps.
If you have questions about the permitting process or wonder if your project needs a permit please email building@cityofsancarlos.org
View the Building department fee schedule.
The City has adopted the following Building Codes:
Adopted Codes
California Building Codes Online
Technical Building Codes
Municipal Code
Climate Zone: 3
Seismic Zone: E
Basic Wind Speed: 91 mph
Soil Hazard Zones: A and B (B Most Restrictive)
Soil Hazard Zone A Information
Soil Hazard Zone B Information
Soil Hazard Map
Building Exposure: B, C and D (D Most Severe)
Soil Bearing Value: 1500 psf (Lower values require soils report)
Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) - South of San Carlos Avenue and West of Alameda de las Pulgas:
San Carlos Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Map
Building Fee Schedule
Forms and Handouts
e-Trakit
Frequently Asked Questions
If the side or rear yard fence is 6 feet high or less, you do not need a building permit. No front-yard fence, wall, hedge or screen planting of any kind located between the front property line and the front-most wall of the residence is permitted to exceed 4 feet in height.
For corner lots, no fence, wall, or hedge may exceed 3 feet in height when it is located within the site distance triangle area; the remainder of the front yard area outside of the site distance triangle area may have a fence, hedge or screen maximum of 4 feet.
The site distance triangle on corner lots is the area formed by the intersecting curb lines (or edge of pavement when no curb exists) and a line joining these points at a distance of 40 feet along each line from their point of intersection.
Please also note that you may not build your fence too close to the street in the City's right-of-way without an encroachment permit (see Encroachments). Should you have any questions regarding fence regulations, please contact the Planning Division at (650) 802-4263.
For corner lots, no fence, wall, or hedge may exceed 3 feet in height when it is located within the site distance triangle area; the remainder of the front yard area outside of the site distance triangle area may have a fence, hedge or screen maximum of 4 feet.
The site distance triangle on corner lots is the area formed by the intersecting curb lines (or edge of pavement when no curb exists) and a line joining these points at a distance of 40 feet along each line from their point of intersection.
Please also note that you may not build your fence too close to the street in the City's right-of-way without an encroachment permit (see Encroachments). Should you have any questions regarding fence regulations, please contact the Planning Division at (650) 802-4263.
Single-story buildings that are not attached to other buildings may not exceed 120 square feet without a permit. However, Planning Division regulations limit the location and height of these non-permitted buildings. For any structure above 120 square feet, contact the Building Division at building@cityofsancarlos.org
If the retaining wall is wood, no permit is required if it is 3 feet or shorter. A permit is not required for a masonry or concrete retaining wall less than 4 feet, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall. See the permit information above. However, as with fences, you may not build a retaining wall in the City's right-of-way without an encroachment permit. Contact Public Works at (650) 802-4195 for information on encroachment permits.
Yes, you will need an encroachment permit. See the Encroachments section, and call the Public Works Department at (650) 802-4195.
Hot tubs, spas, and swimming pools require building permits and security fencing. You can review our Swimming Pool handout here. Email the Building Division at building@cityofsancarlos.org for more information.
Yes. Most furnaces are replaced by mechanical contractors, and they will obtain the permit for you.
If you are simply replacing a toilet like for like, a permit is not required. We issue simple plumbing permits for sink replacements and similar work. Please call the Building Division at (650) 802-4261 for more information.
Yes. Most roofs are replaced by roofing contractors, who obtain the permit themselves. In fact, roofing contractors apply for more permits than any other group of contractor. Residential re-roofs must be least "B" rated. No unrated roofing is allowed in California. Please contact the Building Division at (650) 802-4261 for more information.
Yes. Whether you pay a plumber to do the job or replace it yourself, a permit is required. Codes have changed dramatically since most old water heaters were installed. Please call the Building Division at (650) 802-4261 for more information on recent code changes as they pertain to water heater installations in California.
The Building Division has records for almost all properties, but they are primarily short records of the permits taken out since the development of the property. Sometimes, especially for older houses, there may be no plans, they may be outdated or incomplete, or the work may have been done without the proper permits. In such cases, the plans would not appear in the file. We typically have more complete files for homes built from 1980 to present.
If you would like to request information on past building permits or plans, complete a public records request.
State law prohibits the City from releasing copies of any plans it has on file without the written permission of the current owner of the property and any architect or engineer who may have stamped or signed the plans. For more details, call the Building Division at (650) 802-4261 or make an appointment to stop by during our business hours.
If you would like to request information on past building permits or plans, complete a public records request.
State law prohibits the City from releasing copies of any plans it has on file without the written permission of the current owner of the property and any architect or engineer who may have stamped or signed the plans. For more details, call the Building Division at (650) 802-4261 or make an appointment to stop by during our business hours.
Some products commonly used in home remodeling projects must have prior approval by the Building Division, or be listed by a nationally recognized independent agency. Some of the listing agencies are Underwriters Laboratories (UL), American Gas Association (AGA) and the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO Evaluation Reports).
When you identify a specific brand and model you want to install, check with the Building Division to see if it is approved for use in San Carlos.
When you identify a specific brand and model you want to install, check with the Building Division to see if it is approved for use in San Carlos.
We are asked this question quite often. The following is the Building Official's definition of what constitutes a bedroom within a single-family residence:
Bedroom: any space in the conditioned area of a dwelling unit or accessory structure that is 70 square feet or greater in size and that is located along an exterior wall, but not including the following: hall, bathroom, kitchen, living room (maximum of one per dwelling unit), dining room (in proximity to kitchen, maximum of one per dwelling unit), family room (maximum of one per dwelling unit), laundry room, closet/dressing room opening off of a bedroom.
Sewing rooms, dens, studios, lofts, game rooms and any other conditioned room along an exterior wall that is 70 square feet or greater in size will be considered to be bedrooms unless the room is specifically exempted. If a home office, library or similar room is proposed, it may be exempted from being considered a bedroom if there is no closet and at least one of the following is present: A) permanently built-in bookcases, desks and other features that encumber the room in such a way that it cannot be used as a bedroom; B) a minimum 4-foot opening, without doors, into another room; or C) a half wall (4-foot maximum height) between the room and another room.
Please email the Building Division at building@cityofsancarlos.org and provide the property address and a brief description if you require further clarification.
Bedroom: any space in the conditioned area of a dwelling unit or accessory structure that is 70 square feet or greater in size and that is located along an exterior wall, but not including the following: hall, bathroom, kitchen, living room (maximum of one per dwelling unit), dining room (in proximity to kitchen, maximum of one per dwelling unit), family room (maximum of one per dwelling unit), laundry room, closet/dressing room opening off of a bedroom.
Sewing rooms, dens, studios, lofts, game rooms and any other conditioned room along an exterior wall that is 70 square feet or greater in size will be considered to be bedrooms unless the room is specifically exempted. If a home office, library or similar room is proposed, it may be exempted from being considered a bedroom if there is no closet and at least one of the following is present: A) permanently built-in bookcases, desks and other features that encumber the room in such a way that it cannot be used as a bedroom; B) a minimum 4-foot opening, without doors, into another room; or C) a half wall (4-foot maximum height) between the room and another room.
Please email the Building Division at building@cityofsancarlos.org and provide the property address and a brief description if you require further clarification.
Ask your friends and neighbors about positive experiences they had with area contractors.
Contact the Peninsula Builders Exchange, a non-profit, member-run organization, for a referral. Call (650) 591-4486 or visit the exchange online.
Licensed contractors offer the best protection and tend to do the best work. Ask to see the Contractor’s License Card they carry. Make sure the license is active and issued to the person with whom you speak. Call the Contractors State License Board at (800) 321-2752 to verify all information provided by the contractor. Have the contractor's name, license number, and business address handy when you call.
Try to get bids on a job from at least three different contractors. Ask for references of work the contractor has completed locally. Make sure you get a written contract, and don't sign it until you fully understand all the terms. It is a good idea to arrange with your contractor to hold the last substantial payment until the Building Division signs off on the final inspection.
Contact the Peninsula Builders Exchange, a non-profit, member-run organization, for a referral. Call (650) 591-4486 or visit the exchange online.
Licensed contractors offer the best protection and tend to do the best work. Ask to see the Contractor’s License Card they carry. Make sure the license is active and issued to the person with whom you speak. Call the Contractors State License Board at (800) 321-2752 to verify all information provided by the contractor. Have the contractor's name, license number, and business address handy when you call.
Try to get bids on a job from at least three different contractors. Ask for references of work the contractor has completed locally. Make sure you get a written contract, and don't sign it until you fully understand all the terms. It is a good idea to arrange with your contractor to hold the last substantial payment until the Building Division signs off on the final inspection.
Building a new commercial building or house or adding onto an existing structure is a process that varies based on the project that you are trying to complete. For more information on this process, visit our Building a New Home/Home Additions page.
Yes, work on an owner-occupied home may be performed by the owner. You may also hire another person or a contractor to perform the work on your own home. The contractor must be licensed and maintain the proper insurance and business license.
State law requires worker's compensation insurance be provided for all workers, so be sure your contractor has worker's compensation insurance for their employees.
You may check your contractor's license status on the California State License Board website.
State law requires worker's compensation insurance be provided for all workers, so be sure your contractor has worker's compensation insurance for their employees.
You may check your contractor's license status on the California State License Board website.
Yes, we accept MasterCard and Visa for permits
Construction hours are: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Construction noise on Sunday is prohibited.
Construction hours include set up and securing of the site.
No construction noise-related activities are allowed on the following holidays:
Construction hours include set up and securing of the site.
No construction noise-related activities are allowed on the following holidays:
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Memorial Day
- Juneteenth
- Fourth of July
- Labor Day
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
The Planning Division requires that residential air conditioners be installed in the rear half of the lot.
Air conditioning (AC) equipment must be located to comply with the City’s Noise Control Performance Standards (SCMC TABLE 18.21.050-A: Noise Limits). A minimum setback of 25 feet from any property line while located in the rear yard area will generally comply with the noise standard (55 dBA daytime and 45 dBA nighttime, measured at the property line). Air conditioners located in side yard areas generally do not comply with the City’s noise regulations.
When the AC condenser is replaced or installed in a side yard location, it must allow for a clear 3-foot path of travel and the installer must provide documentation to the satisfaction of the Building Official that the unit will comply with the Table 18.21.050-A Noise Limits referenced above.
If the air conditioning unit is later determined by the City to exceed the limits of the Noise Ordinance, it must be relocated, replaced or otherwise modified to achieve compliance with the Noise Ordinance.
Air conditioning (AC) equipment must be located to comply with the City’s Noise Control Performance Standards (SCMC TABLE 18.21.050-A: Noise Limits). A minimum setback of 25 feet from any property line while located in the rear yard area will generally comply with the noise standard (55 dBA daytime and 45 dBA nighttime, measured at the property line). Air conditioners located in side yard areas generally do not comply with the City’s noise regulations.
When the AC condenser is replaced or installed in a side yard location, it must allow for a clear 3-foot path of travel and the installer must provide documentation to the satisfaction of the Building Official that the unit will comply with the Table 18.21.050-A Noise Limits referenced above.
If the air conditioning unit is later determined by the City to exceed the limits of the Noise Ordinance, it must be relocated, replaced or otherwise modified to achieve compliance with the Noise Ordinance.
Most anything that you can possibly think of requires a building permit from the City. It is much easier to list things that do not require a permit:
- Fences 6 feet tall or shorter; however, our Fence Ordinance governs where tall fences are allowed. Check with the Building Division to discuss location of fencing before you start construction.
- Wood retaining walls 3 feet tall or shorter, measured from grade, and concrete or masonry walls less than 4 feet tall, measured from the bottom of the footing.
- Painting and wallpapering.
- Freestanding sheds less than 120 square feet, but check with the Planning Division for setbacks to property lines, height, etc.
- In general, any mechanical or structural work (e.g., cabinets, doors, windows, roofs), plumbing work (e.g., sinks, irrigation, water heaters), or electrical work (e.g., appliances, furnaces, garage door openers, pool pumps) require a building permit. If you have any questions about a specific project, call the Building Division at (650) 802-4261.
Building permits control the type of construction and use of property in the city. The building permit is based upon the California Building Codes, which were adopted (in addition to local ordinances) to protect health, general welfare and the investment in your property. The evidence of a building permit is oftentimes necessary to obtain financing from lending agencies.
Many permits also require review by the Planning Division. The Planning Division is a separate division from the Building Division, but is also located in San Carlos City Hall on the first floor. The Planning Division reviews height, size and occupancy type of your project, as well as neighborhood impact.
The Planning Division can be reached at (650) 802-4263
Many permits also require review by the Planning Division. The Planning Division is a separate division from the Building Division, but is also located in San Carlos City Hall on the first floor. The Planning Division reviews height, size and occupancy type of your project, as well as neighborhood impact.
The Planning Division can be reached at (650) 802-4263
Plan Turnaround Time
| PERMIT | TIMELINE |
|---|---|
| Deck | 1-2 weeks |
| Interior Remodel | 1-3 weeks |
| Electric Vehicle Charging Installation | 1-2 days |
| Fire Alarm | 2-3 weeks |
| Fire Sprinkler | 10-15 days |
| Kitchen and Bath Remodel | 3-5 days |
| New Commercial | 4-6 weeks |
| New Multi-Family | 6-8 weeks |
| New Single-Family Residence | 4-6 weeks |
| Recheck for Plan Review | 10 days to 2 weeks |
| Residential Reconstruction | 4-6 weeks |
| Revisions for Permits Issued | 1 week |
| Second-Story Addition | 3-5 weeks |
| Single-Story Addition | 2-4 weeks |
| Signs and Awnings | 1-3 weeks |
| Solar Installation | 3-5 days |
| Tenant Improvements | 2-4 weeks |
Reach Codes
San Carlos has adopted a reach code creating local energy standards to electrify new construction and achieve greenhouse gas reduction goals. The local amendments to the California Energy Code and Green Building Code require:
- New construction of all building types to be all-electric, with exceptions
- Rooftop solar in non-residential and high-rise residential buildings
- Electric vehicle charging readiness for all building types
New Construction Checklists:
Take advantage of the Electrification Technical Assistance Program that provides extensive free technical assistance to architects, builders, developers, design engineers, contractors, and energy consultants to learn about all-electric building technologies and electric vehicle infrastructure.
- Nonresidential New Construction Checklist
- High-rise Multi-Family New Construction Checklist
- Single-family and Low-rise Multi-Family New Construction Checklist
- Third Party Verification Cost Effectiveness Methodology for Scientific Laboratories
Take advantage of the Electrification Technical Assistance Program that provides extensive free technical assistance to architects, builders, developers, design engineers, contractors, and energy consultants to learn about all-electric building technologies and electric vehicle infrastructure.
Are gas appliances still allowed in home remodels or additions?
Yes, the all-electric requirement only applies to new construction and substantial rebuilds where 50% of the existing framing or foundation are replaced.
Can gas still be used for outdoor cooking as well as indoor cooking appliances in new residential construction?
Yes, the ordinance allows gas for outdoor and indoor cooking appliances in newly built single-family homes and duplexes. Multi-unit residential buildings must be all-electric.
How do the reach codes apply to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs)?
Detached ADUs must be all-electric but can use gas for cooking appliances and fireplaces. Attached ADUs and JADUs are treated like a home renovations and are not subjected to the reach code requirements unless over 50% of the home's existing foundation or framing is replaced during construction.
How does the reach code apply to back-up energy generators?
The reach code does not apply to back-up energy generation and any fossil fuel powered generators or other back-up power sources are allowed.
When did the new requirements go into effect?
The reach code requirements went into effect on May 12, 2021 after approval by the California Energy Commission. Projects that received entitlements through Planning prior to the Ordinance effective date are exempt.
Does the City have a list of consulting firms who can provide cost effectiveness reports?
The list of consultants below is provided as a courtesy only. The City does not endorse or require the use of any of the listed consultants, nor is the list intended to exclude the selection or use of any other consultants. The City shall have no liability or responsibility for the work performed by any of the consulting firms listed.
Yes, the all-electric requirement only applies to new construction and substantial rebuilds where 50% of the existing framing or foundation are replaced.
Can gas still be used for outdoor cooking as well as indoor cooking appliances in new residential construction?
Yes, the ordinance allows gas for outdoor and indoor cooking appliances in newly built single-family homes and duplexes. Multi-unit residential buildings must be all-electric.
How do the reach codes apply to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs)?
Detached ADUs must be all-electric but can use gas for cooking appliances and fireplaces. Attached ADUs and JADUs are treated like a home renovations and are not subjected to the reach code requirements unless over 50% of the home's existing foundation or framing is replaced during construction.
How does the reach code apply to back-up energy generators?
The reach code does not apply to back-up energy generation and any fossil fuel powered generators or other back-up power sources are allowed.
When did the new requirements go into effect?
The reach code requirements went into effect on May 12, 2021 after approval by the California Energy Commission. Projects that received entitlements through Planning prior to the Ordinance effective date are exempt.
Does the City have a list of consulting firms who can provide cost effectiveness reports?
The list of consultants below is provided as a courtesy only. The City does not endorse or require the use of any of the listed consultants, nor is the list intended to exclude the selection or use of any other consultants. The City shall have no liability or responsibility for the work performed by any of the consulting firms listed.
| FIRM | CONTACT INFORMATION | ADDRESS |
| Guttman & Blaevoet |
Website |
2351 Powell St San Francisco, CA 94133 |
| DNV GL Energy |
Website |
751 East Brokaw Road San Jose, CA 95112 |
| EnergySoft |
Website (415) 897-6400, ext. 304 |
1025 5th St, Suite A Novato, CA 94945 |
| TRC Consultants | Website (510) 473-8421 |
436 14th St Oakland, CA 94612 |