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Building

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1. Why do I need a building permit?

The issuance of a building permit ensures that appropriate plans have been reviewed and the resulting construction is inspected to satisfy local, State and Federal requirements to safeguard the public health, welfare and safety. These requirements include building construction codes for fire and earthquake safety, energy conservation codes, and zoning codes.

2. How long will it take to get a Building Permit?

Depending on the scope of work proposed, it could be an over-the-counter permit or take up to six weeks or longer depending on Design Professionals. The Building Division’s goal is for a 10-day turnaround for the first review and 5-day turnaround for each additional review.

3. What is an Owner-Builder?

The term “Owner-Builder” can mean three different things: 1)“Owner as Worker”, 2)“Owner as Contractor” or 3)“Owner as Employer”.

For important information you need to know BEFORE pulling your permit please visit the Owner-Builder web page.
http://www.pismobeach.org/index.asp?NID=436

4. I want to remodel my kitchen. Will I have to bring the whole house “up to code?”

No. Your work will be limited to the area(s) shown on the approved plans. For example: If you modernize the kitchen with new wiring, you would not be required to re-wire the entire house.

5. I recently purchased a house which had work done without a permit. I also have performed further work without obtaining permits. Will everything have to be ripped out?

Not necessarily. It depends on the complexity of the work done and whether or not it meets City standards and codes. Please contact us to discuss your particular situation.

6. Are there regulations concerning the use of streets and sidewalks for the placement of construction-related vehicles and material?

Yes, please contact our Public Works Department at (805) 773-4656 for more information.

7. What happens if I do not obtain a building permit?

Property owners who build or remodel structures without obtaining the necessary permits are in violation of the Uniform Building Codes and various ordinances. They may be required to remove the structure. Unless the structure is removed, approvals are still required. Upon sale of the property, you must disclose any work that has been done without the benefit of required permits. This could jeopardize the sale of your property.

8. How much will my permit cost?

It depends on the type of project being permitted. Fees tend to be job specific, usually provoking more questions than answers. If you wish to get an estimate specific to your project, please call the office at (805) 773-7040.

9. How do I check the status of my plan check?

Call the office at (805) 773-7040 to get a status.

10. How do I obtain a re-roof, plumbing, electrical or mechanical permit?

Most of these are over-the-counter permits. You will need to bring a completed Building Permit application into the Building Division. Building Permit Application

11. What are Green Buildings and are they important?

Green buildings are those built using innovative building techniques to reduce energy and water usage while still providing a high level of economic, engineering and environmental performance. Additional information on green buildings can be obtained from www.slogreenbuild.org. or U.S. Green Building Council

12. What Codes are enforced in Pismo Beach?

◘ 2007 California Building Code (Volumes 1 and 2)
◘ 2007 California Mechanical Code
◘ 2007 California Plumbing Code
◘ 2007 California Electrical Code
◘ 2007 California Energy Code
◘ 2007 California Historical Building Code
◘ 2007 California Existing Building Code
◘ 2006 International Property Maintenance Code

The new codes will be effective January 1, 2008 and will govern all projects that are submitted for plan check on or after the effective date. Permit applications that have been submitted and paid plan check fees prior to January 1, 2008 will be reviewed and permitted under the 2001 California Codes as long as the plan check has not expired.