Related Information

The Permit Process

Building permits can be applied for in-person at the Permit Center or through other online services. During the current public health emergency presented by COVID-19, we encourage the use of online resources when possible.

We are also available to assist customers by telephone and email. For additional information and assistance from the Community Development Department, please Contact Us.

For city-wide updates, please visit the City of Stockton Updates webpage.

Express Review Program

The Express Review Program is a personalized service to expedite building permits for residential homeowners, small businesses, and contractors. Building permits that meet the criteria are listed on the Building Express Review Form.

Residential Tuesdays

Residential Tuesday helps expedite permit processing for homeowner improvement projects.

Commercial Wednesdays

Commercial Wednesday helps expedite permit processing for tenant improvement projects for small businesses. Customers meet one-on-one with City staff to process smaller tenant improvement and residential improvement building applications.

Scheduled appointments – available every Tuesday and Wednesday – ensure applicants can meet with City Building and Planning Department staff directly to review and process improvement applications.

Community Development staff also help customers connect with other agencies responsible for approving building permits (including Fire Department, Utilities, and Public Works.)

Building Permits

Construction projects typically require a building permit, plan check, and inspections. Building permits are required when any type of construction that will change or add structure to an existing property and for work regulated by City codes or ordinances, such as:

New Buildings (dwellings, sheds, carports)
Additions (buildings, swimming pools, decks over 30 inches above grade, retaining walls, patio covers)
Alterations beyond cosmetic changes, such as converting garages to family rooms
Moving or demolishing a building
Repairs involving structural members
Installation of heating equipment, such as wood-burning stoves
Changing in use of a structure
Re-roofing or new roof covering
Signs
Site development

When submitting a building permit, you must complete a BuildingPermitApplication.

Cost is based on the valuation of the proposed construction project, as determined by the type of construction, size of the project, and specific use of the buildings or structure.
Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing plan check fees are also applied to the plan review process.
All plan check fees are payable at the time of application submittal.

Permit Fee Estimator

Please Contact Us for project estimates.

Beginning Construction

Construction can begin only after the permit is issued and must commence within 180 days. Construction may not stop completely for more than 180 days. If these time periods are exceeded, the permit will automatically expire and a new application for a building permit is necessary.

Any questions about the Permit Process?

External Links

There are currently no external links.

This City of Stockton web page last reviewed on --- 11/10/2021