For more information, please contact:

Stanislaus County Department of Public Works
1010 10th Street, Suite 3500
Modesto, Ca. 95354

Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Monday thru Friday
Phone: (209) 525-6557    Fax: (209) 525-7759
24-Hr Inspection Requests: (209) 525-7550
Building Inspectors: (209) 525-7589 (7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.)

Directions

When Is A Permit Required?

A permit is required for all new construction and additions to or remodeling of existing structures.

The following minimum drawings are usually required for approval:

Please note: The State of California only allows the "owner" of a property or a licensed contractor to obtain a building permit.

What Are The Steps In Applying For A Building Permit?

1. The Application

   Pick up an application for a building permit at our Building Inspection & Land Development Services (BUILDS) division of Public Works OR go online for the application (PDF format).

2. Complete The Application

   Prepare three sets of construction plans, specifications, engineering calculations, truss calculations as required, and energy package with the building permit application. A registered architect and/or engineer may be required to stamp and wet sign the construction plans. In addition, site plans showing proposed and existing structures, lot lines, required setbacks, septic & leach field locations and any easements must be provided.

3. Submit The Completed Application Packet To BUILDS

   Our building staff will conduct a review of the application and documents submitted to ensure completeness. If the application is incomplete, the licensed builder or homeowner may have to provide additional information before the application can be accepted. The plan check fee is payable upon submission of the application and construction documents. Summary information concerning location, project cost, proposed use, type of work, contractor's name, etc. are entered into BUILDS data base (TideMark) for tracking and permit purposes.

4. Plan Review

   The construction plans with supporting documentation will then be forwarded to the plan review staff for review. After all approvals are obtained, staff notifies the owner/contractor. If the application is disapproved, the applicant will be notified of discrepancies and be requested to resubmit revised plans or additional documents.

5. Final Approval

   Once all approvals are obtained, staff notifies owner/contractor and issues permit card with a set of approved plans. The second set of plans is filed in the BUILDS plan review.