Building Permits in San Francisco
Find permit requirements, fees, and application steps for all common building projects in San Francisco, CA. Source-cited from official city building code.
Most home improvement projects in San Francisco require a building permit. Select a permit type below to see whether a permit is required, what the fees are, and how to apply through the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI).
Permit Types
Fence Permit
Requirements →
Shed Permit
Requirements →
Deck Permit
Requirements →
Pool Permit
Requirements →
Addition Permit
Requirements →
ADU Permit
Requirements →
Demolition Permit
Requirements →
Electrical Permit
Requirements →
Plumbing Permit
Requirements →
Roofing Permit
Requirements →
HVAC Permit
Requirements →
Solar Permit
Requirements →
San Francisco Building Department
San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI)
Phone: (415) 558-6088
Visit Building Department WebsiteAbout San Francisco Building Permits
Building permits ensure that construction work in San Francisco meets local safety codes and zoning requirements. Unpermitted work can result in fines, required demolition, and complications when selling your home. Always confirm permit requirements with the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI) before starting any project.
Source: San Francisco Planning Code Section 207.1; California Government Code Chapter 13 §§66314–66333 (Stats. 2024 Ch. 7 §20). Last verified April 5, 2026. View source