Building permits for home renovation in San Francisco are managed by the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI). Understanding the process before your project starts lets you set a realistic timeline and avoid costly delays.
What Requires a Permit in San Francisco
Most structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work requires a permit. This includes kitchen remodels with plumbing or electrical changes, bathroom renovations, roof replacements, ADU construction, room additions, deck construction above 18 inches, and any work that changes the building’s structure or systems. Cosmetic work — painting, flooring, like-for-like fixture replacement — generally does not.
Permit Timeline in San Francisco
Plan check at the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI) currently takes approximately 6–16 weeks for plan check; over-the-counter for simple scopes. Simple scopes may be approved over the counter. Complex projects — ADUs, significant structural work, full gut renovations — require full plan check review.
ADU Permits in San Francisco
San Francisco has a strong pro-ADU stance following state law changes. Garage conversions and detached ADUs are well-supported across all SF neighbourhoods. California state law has streamlined ADU permitting across all jurisdictions, and a licensed contractor with local ADU experience can navigate the process efficiently.
Working with IronNest
IronNest pulls all required permits as part of every project. We submit complete permit packages — correctly formatted with all required documentation — to minimise plan check cycles. Contact us for a free consultation on your San Francisco renovation project. CSLB Licenced #1130134.