Building Permit Summary Reports for 2010:

View 2010 Current Year-to-Date Building Activity Reports

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Additional monthly data will be posted after being compiled.

We all know that a completely new building or an addition to an existing building, requires a building permit. However, did you know that a building permit is also required to be issued by the Building & Safety Division prior to:

1. Replacing or moving your water heater.

2. Replacing or installing a new wall or forced air furnace.

3. Replacing or installing a new wood burning stove or fireplace.

4. Replacing or installing a fireplace insert.

5. Installing or replacing water softeners, reverse osmosis units or other water treatment systems.

6. Installing most new electrical appliances such as ceiling fans, bathroom fans, outdoor lighting (except low voltage), replacement or new wiring, or new replacement of receptacles and/or switches.

7. Replacing or installing a spa (electrical or gas) including portable units that utilize existing exterior outlets.

8. Replacing or installing fences of all heights and materials.

9. Remodeling or adding onto your home or commercial building.

10. Installing drywall in your garage.

11. Changing the use of a portion of your home, such as converting the garage into a habitable use or enclosing an existing patio.

12. Replacing or installing new windows.

13. Replacing an existing window with a door.

1. Movable cases, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches high.

2. Painting, papering, carpeting and similar finish work.

3. One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, and constructed on a parcel approved for the construction of one detached single family dwelling provided:
   1. The floor area does not exceed 120 square feet.
   2. The maximum height above adjacent grade shall not exceed 8 feet.
   3. The maximum ceiling height shall not exceed 7 feet.
   4. The maximum length to width ratio of the building shall not exceed 2:1.
   5. The building shall not be located closer than 5 feet from any other building on the site.
   6. Electrical, plumbing or mechanical installations are prohibited.
   7. Accessory buildings must be located behind the front wall of the dwelling unit and screened by a 6 foot fence or wall.
   8. The number of exempt accessory buildings on the site shall be limited to two.

For the protection of the property owner, it is recommended that a site plan be submitted to the Planning and Building Divisions of the Community Development Department for a "no fee" review. The Planning Division will stamp and sign the plans with an approved stamp. The Building & Safety Division will informally advise the property owner of applicable building code requirements, if any. Unless a site plan is approved as recommended, the property owner has complete responsibility for a shed, including the determination that it is exempt.

This procedure assures the property owner that the building will comply with City requirements, and gives the property owner and the City a record of the approval.

Approval by the Planning and Building & Safety Division is required for all accessory structures built in the City of Santa Maria not conforming to the items above.