106A.1 Permits required.

106A.1 Permits required. Except as specified in Section 106A.2, no building or structure regulated by this code shall be erected, constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, improved, removed, converted or demolished unless a separate permit for each building or structure has first been obtained from the Building Official.

When considering an application for a permit for development of “dwellings” as defined in Chapter 87 of the San Francisco Administrative Code, the Department of Building Inspection shall comply with that chapter which requires, among other things, that the Department of Building Inspection not base any decision regarding the development of “dwellings” in which “protected class” members are likely to reside on information which may be discriminatory to any member of a “protected class” (as all such terms are defined in Chapter 87 of the San Francisco Administrative Code).

106A.1.1 Separate permits required. Where buildings or structures are constructed on top of a base structure, and such structures are likely to have their own addresses or functional identities, separate permits shall be required for the base structure and for each of the top buildings or structures.

106A.1.2 Permit and fees for grading, excavation, or filling of land. The valuation for the permit shall be based on the volume of material to be handled, and on a cost schedule posted in the Department. The permit issuance and plan review fees shall be the same as those for new construction. See Section 110A, Table 1A-A – Building Permit Fees, and Table 1A-B – Other Building Permit and Plan Review Fees. See Chapter 33 and Appendix J for general grading provisions.

106A.1.3 Permits and fees for subsidewalk space. A building permit shall be obtained for construction of subsidewalk space. The fee for said permit shall be the fee set for building permits. See Section 110A, Table 1A-F – Specialty Permit Fees – for applicable fees.

Permits for the use of subsidewalk space, except for subsurface space used to connect a building, structure or property with the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit district facilities, shall be granted after approval by the Building Official and the City Engineer. Permission for the use of subsurface space to connect with the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District facilities, shall be granted only as set forth in Section 106A.1.3.1. The City may reserve any part of the subsidewalk space for its own use or the use of the public. The Board of Supervisors reserves the right to suspend or annul the privilege of maintaining such subsidewalk space or to exact a license or rental for the use thereof. The granting of a permit to use the subsidewalk space shall carry with it the right to excavate the space and to build the necessary retaining walls. If the street in front of the building is paved, a deposit will be required of the subsidewalk space. See Section 110A, Table 1A-F – Specialty Permit Fees – for required deposit. The deposit will be refunded to the permittee upon the endorsement of the permit issued therefor and a certificate from the Department of Public Works, Bureau of Engineering, certifying to the satisfactory condition of such roadway at the end of two years after the time the pavement was restored. Should the permittee fail to restore any pavement, the Director of the Department of Public Works may, after 10 days’ notice in writing posted on the building, restore the pavement and deduct the cost of such restoration from the deposit. In lieu of the deposit required herein, a bond in the amount of the deposit may be accepted in the manner set forth in Article 8 of the San Francisco Public Works Code.

No permit shall hereafter be issued by any officer, board or commission of San Francisco to make use of the subsidewalk space within the street lines of Market Street between Steuart Street and Castro Street, except a permit may be granted for the use as subsidewalk space for the following:

1. The space lying contiguous to the property line and extending along a line parallel thereto and up to 22 feet distant therefrom wherever such space is located in Market Street between Steuart Street and Van Ness Avenue.

2. The space lying contiguous to the property line and extending along a line parallel thereto and up to 10 feet distant therefrom wherever such space is located in Market Street between Van Ness Avenue and Castro Street.

Due consideration shall be given to the needs and requirements for the use of subsidewalk space by public utilities.

The remainder of the subsidewalk space is hereby expressly reserved for public use.

106A.1.3.1 Subsurface connection to San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District facilities. Permission to use subsurface space to connect any building or structure or premises with the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District facilities shall be first obtained from the Board of Supervisors of San Francisco by resolution, prior to filing a permit to construct the connection. The Board of Supervisors reserves the right to suspend or annul the permission to use any subsurface space to connect any building, structure or premises with the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District facilities or to exact a license or rental for the use thereof. Upon the Board of Supervisors passing a resolution approving the connection, an application for a building permit to construct the connection shall be filed with the Department. The application, together with plans and specifications, shall be referred for approval to the Planning Department, the Department of Public Works, Bureau of Engineering, and any other department having jurisdiction. If approved, the approvals shall be endorsed in writing on the application by the respective departments and bureaus. The Department shall issue a building permit when the application has been approved by the Building Official, and upon payment of all required permit fees. In addition to the building permit and plan checking fees, the deposit required in Section 106A.1.3 shall also be paid to the Department and refunded as set forth in Section 106A.1.3, provided that all work under the building permit has been satisfactorily completed.

106A.1.4 Permits and fees for moving buildings.

106A.1.4.1 General. The applicant for a permit for moving a building shall pay a permit fee for documentation and inspection of the moving work. See Section 110A, Table 1A-F – Specialty Permit Fees – for applicable fee. A permit and plan review fee for work required at the building’s new site shall be per Section 110A, Table 1A-A – Building Permit Fees, and Table 1A-B – Building Permit Application and Plan Review Fees.

106A.1.4.2 Permit application for new site. Before a permit may be issued for moving a building, a building permit must be obtained for the necessary alterations and additions to the building on the new site. The application for the alterations at the new site is to be accompanied by complete plans showing floor plans, elevations, plot plan, and such other information as contained in Section 106A.3.3 as may be required by the Building Official.

106A.1.5 Permit and fees for demolition of buildings. A permit shall be required for demolishing any structure. See Section 110A, Table 1A-F – Specialty Permit Fees – and Section 110, Table 1A-L – Public Information – for applicable fees. See Section 3303 for general requirements.

106A.1.6 Permits and fees for chimneys, flues. A flue permit shall be required to erect, construct, alter or repair any chimney or flue except when it is a Type 1 grease hood or is constructed of masonry. A separate flue permit shall be required for each flue or chimney. Grease and masonry flues and chimneys shall require building permits per Section 106A. See Section 110A, Table 1A-F – Specialty Permit Fees – for applicable fees.

106A.1.6.1 Permits for boiler flues. A boiler flue permit shall be required to:

1. Install, alter, or replace any boiler flue or section thereof;

2. Install any approved type heat reclaimer or other approved type device within a boiler gas flue.

106A.1.7 Permits and fees for temporary buildings or structures. A permit is required for the construction and erection of temporary reviewing stands, bleachers, grandstands and other miscellaneous structures. The Building Official may require that any temporary building or structure be inspected by a registered civil engineer and found to be in compliance with all provisions of this code before it is permitted to be used by the public. See Section 110A, Table 1A-F – Specialty Permit Fees – for applicable fee.

106A.1.8 Garage door permits and fees. A garage door permit shall be required for the installation of such doors in existing buildings. See Section 110A, Table 1A-F – Specialty Permit Fees – for applicable fee.

The provisions of this section shall not apply where structural alterations are made, or are required in connection with the installation of garage doors. This section also shall not apply to the alteration, repair, or replacement of garage doors in public garages. In all these cases, the permit and fee requirements of Sections 106A, 107A and 110A shall apply.

106A.1.9 Permits and fees for signs.

106A.1.9.1 General. A sign regulated under Chapter 31 shall not be erected or altered until a sign permit has been obtained for such work. Application for a permit shall be made at the Department on supplied forms. Where signs are illuminated by electric lighting, a separate permit shall be obtained as required in the Electrical Code. Replacement of copy on the face of a sign, without affecting the structural members or the attachment to a building, structure, or the ground, shall not require a sign permit.

106A.1.9.2 Permit fees. Permit fees for signs shall be based upon job valuation. See Section 110A, Table 1A-A – Building Permit Fees – for applicable fees.

106A.1.9.3 Plan review fees for signs. See Section 110A, Table 1A-A – Building Permit Fees – for applicable fee.

106A.1.10 Permit and fees for residential elevators and lifts.

106A.1.10.1 General. An elevator or lift regulated under Chapter 30 shall not be installed or altered until a building permit has been obtained for such work.

106A.1.10.2 Fees. The permit fees and plan review fees shall be those required in Section 110A, Tables 1A-A and 1A-B. The valuation shall be based on the total installation, including those portions, if any, which are regulated by the State.

106A.1.10.3 Exemption. Elevators regulated by the State of California are exempt from permits and the provisions of this code. However, the elevator shafts and enclosures, and any structural alterations or strengthening work to accommodate the installation, shall comply with the permit and other requirements of this code.

106A.1.11 Permit and fees for boilers. A separate building permit shall be required for a new boiler installation or replacement except where a building permit has been issued which included such work, the fee for which shall be the minimum fee per Section 110A, Table 1A-A – Building Permit Fees. In addition, a permit to operate the boiler is required and shall be charged a fee based on the schedule in Section 110A, Table 1A-M – Boiler Fees. The fee for renewal of a permit to operate shall be based on the same schedule. Such fee shall be paid whether or not a permit to operate is issued. All fees shall be paid at the time of application for permits. Any additional fees billed will be increased to twice the billed amount when payment is not received by the Department within 30 days of billing. Failure to pay required fees will result in cancellation of the issued permit to operate. See Chapter 10 of the Mechanical Code for boiler requirements.

106A.1.12 Permit and fees for change in occupancy or use. Whenever a change in occupancy or use, as defined in Section 302 of this Code, is made, a building permit shall be required to legalize the changed occupancy or use. The fee shall be the minimum fee required for filing for a permit and must be secured prior to the change of occupancy.

Building permit applications for a change of use shall not require plans prepared by a registered design professional, provided all of the following apply:

(a) the previously established use designation is in A (Assembly), B (Business), and M (Mercantile) occupancy classifications and remains within that classification;

(b) the occupant load remains the same or decreases;

(c) there are no alterations, as defined by section 202 of this Code;

(d) the tenant space does not require changes to the mechanical, electrical, or plumbing systems; and

(e) the tenant will not be introducing new kitchen, service bar design or related equipment in the space.

In the event any alteration work is required, the alteration permit with plans shall be considered sufficient for this requirement and no additional permit will be required or additional fee required for the change in use or occupancy except as set forth in Section 109A.8.

(Amended by Ord. 241-24, File No. 240798, App. 10/18/2024, Eff. 11/18/2024)

106A.1.13 Permits and fees for construction of an impervious surface in a front yard setback; penalties for violation of requirements.

(a) General. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to commence or proceed with the construction of an impervious surface in a front yard setback area, other than a driveway as defined in Planning Code Section 136(c)(30), unless a permit is first obtained. See Section 110A, Table 1A-F – Specialty Permit Fees – for applicable fee.

(b) Referral to Planning Department. The Department shall refer all applications for a permit pursuant to this Section 106A.1.13 to the Planning Department for a determination regarding the proposed construction’s compliance with Sections 132(g) and 136(c)(30) of the Planning Code. The Department may not issue the permit unless Planning determines the proposed construction to be compliant with the Planning Code requirements.

(c) Verification of compliance during inspections. In performing the inspections required under Section 108A.1 of this Code, the inspector shall also verify that an impervious surface has not been constructed in the front yard setback area in violation of this Section 106A.1.13. If the inspector finds that there is a violation of Section 106A.1.13, the violation shall be required to be corrected under that existing permit.

(d) Penalties for violation.

1. Notice of Municipal Code Violation (“NOV”). The Department shall issue an NOV pursuant to Section 102A.4 of this Code to the owner of the property determined to be in violation of the provisions of subsection (a) above. The NOV shall require the owner or the owner’s authorized representative to apply for and obtain a permit to bring the existing surface in the front yard setback area into compliance with current Municipal Code requirements, including but not limited to the Building and Planning Codes.

2. Investigation Fees. Violations of this Section 106A.1.13 shall be subject to the fees set forth in Table 1A-K of this Code for either work without permit or work exceeding the scope of the approved permit.

3. Civil and criminal penalties. Any person, including the owner or the owner’s authorized representative, who violates, disobeys, omits, neglects, or refuses to comply with, or resists or opposes the execution of the provisions of this Section 106A.1.13 shall be subject to the civil penalty of up to $500 per day and the criminal penalties that are set forth in Section 103A of this Code.

4. Costs of Abatement. In addition to any monetary penalties authorized by Section 103A of this Code, the Department shall be entitled to recover its costs of abatement pursuant to Section 102A.7(d).

106A.1.14. Damaged apartment houses where residential occupants have been displaced, preliminary information and Action Plan required. Whenever an Apartment House, as defined in the Housing Code, has been damaged by fire or other emergency that results in the displacement of residential occupants, the property owner shall submit to the Department’s Building Inspection Division, with a copy to the Housing Inspection Division, the following information and an Action Plan within the timeframe specified. The Department shall include a statement in all applicable Notices of Violation issued pursuant to this Section that allowing the residential occupants to retrieve their personal property in a safe manner through a visit supervised by the property owner’s engineer, general contractor, or other industry professional for a short duration is not in conflict with the issued Notice of Violation.

106A.1.14.1. Information submittal. Within 72 hours of the posting of a Notice of Violation on the subject site, the property owner shall provide the following information in writing:

(a) a description of the steps taken and the methods used to stabilize and secure the subject building and premises, including but not limited to the following, as appropriate: (1) fencing the building perimeter, (2) securely barricading all windows, openings, and other points of entry to the building from the outside, (3) assessing the property at least weekly to ensure that no unauthorized entry is occurring and that any fencing and barricades are secure and remain in place, and (4) providing 24-hour security;

(b) if the City has determined that the subject building, or portions thereof, is unsafe for occupancy, a description of the steps taken and the methods used to either secure the personal property of the residential occupants or allow them to retrieve their personal property, including but not limited to the following: (1) fencing the building perimeter, barricading all points of entry, or taking the other steps listed in Section 106A.1.14.1(a) above, and (2) obtaining the recommendations of a structural engineer or other appropriate consultant for allowing the residential occupants access to the building or undamaged portions thereof, for the purpose of obtaining their personal belongings; and

(c) the name and contact information of the owner or an agent of the owner who is able to respond to questions and concerns from the residential occupants and others.

106A.1.14.2. Action Plan submittal. Within 30 days from release of the scene by the Fire Department and other emergency responders, the property owner shall submit an Action Plan in the form required by the Department that contains the following elements:

(a) a description of the steps taken and the methods used to stabilize and secure the subject building and premises, including supporting documentation by a structural engineer or other industry professional as specified in the Notice of Violation, including but not limited to the following, as appropriate: (1) fencing the building perimeter, (2) securely barricading all windows, openings, and other points of entry to the building from the outside, (3) assessing the property at least weekly to ensure that no unauthorized entry is occurring and that any fencing and barricades are secure and remain in place, and (4) providing 24-hour security;

(b) a summary of the extent of fire or water damage to the building, describing with specificity the damage to individual dwelling units that were occupied prior to the damage by fire or other emergency;

(c) a description of the repairs necessary to bring the building into compliance with any Notices of Violation issued by the Department of Building Inspection, Fire Department, or Health Department;

(d) a general schedule and description of the permits that will be filed to comply with (c) above;

(e) the contact information of the individuals who will perform the work under (c) above, which information shall be updated as necessary and kept current;

(f) an estimated date (month and year) when the displaced residential occupants can reoccupy the building. The estimated date shall be within a time reasonably necessary to accomplish the required repairs;

(g) proof that the owner has complied with the notice requirements of Section 106A.1.14.3; and

(h) information about prior complaints, notices of violation, and the status of their abatement or compliance with code requirements.

106A.1.14.3. Updating information. Within 90 days from the submission of the Action Plan to the Department required by Section 106A .1.14.2, and every 90 days thereafter, the property owner shall provide to the Department any new or corrected information concerning items (a) through (h) in Section 106A .1.14.2 above, including but not limited to any change to the estimated date by which the displaced residential occupants can reoccupy the building.

106A.1.14.4. Notice of filing of Action Plan. Within 72 hours of the filing of the required Action Plan with the Department, the property owner shall (a) post a notice of the filing in a prominent location at the building site and (b) mail or personally deliver a notice of the filing to each displaced residential occupant at their last known location.

106A.1.14.5. Re-inspection of the premises. Following a fire that has resulted in the displacement of residential occupants, the Department shall reinspect the premises at least every 90 days until the property owner has responded to and abated all pending Notices of Violation. If the property owner does not give the Department access to the premises necessary to conduct such re-inspection(s), the Department shall request assistance from the City Attorney to gain access to the premises or take such other action as the City Attorney deems appropriate.

106A.1.15 Solar energy systems.

106A.1.15.1 Definitions. For purposes of this Section 106A .1.15, the following definitions apply:

“Solar energy system,” as defined in California Government Code Section 65850.5(j) and Civil Code Section 801.5(a), means either of the following:

1. Any solar collector or other solar energy device whose primary purpose is to provide for the collection, storage, and distribution of solar energy for space heating, space cooling, electric generation, or water heating.

2. Any structural design feature of a building, whose primary purpose is to provide for the collection, storage, and distribution of solar energy for electricity generation, space heating or cooling, or for water heating.

“Small residential rooftop solar energy system,” as defined in California Government Code Section 65850.5(j), means a solar energy system that:

1. is no larger than 10 kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating or 30 kilowatts thermal;

2. is installed on a single or duplex family dwelling;

3. has a solar panel or module array that does not exceed the maximum legal building height in applicable City codes;

4. conforms to all applicable state fire, structural, electrical, and other building codes as adopted or amended by the City and County of San Francisco; and

5. conforms to all state and City health and safety standards.

106A.1.15.2 Permit and fees. An electrical permit is required to install or alter a solar energy system. See Section 110A, Table 1A-E – Electrical Permit Fee Issuance and Inspection Fee Schedule for applicable fee. The fee for a building, plumbing, mechanical, or other permit, if required, shall be the fee established in the Section 110A fee tables for that permit.

EXCEPTION: An electrical permit is not required to make minor alterations to an existing solar energy system unless the alterations materially change the size, type, or components of the system in such a way as to require new permitting.

106A.1.15.3 General requirements.

1. A solar energy system and its installation shall comply with Article 690 and other applicable sections of the Electrical Code, and any applicable sections of the Mechanical Code, Plumbing Code, Building Code, or other codes enforced by the Department of Building Inspection.

2. A solar energy system for producing electricity shall meet all applicable safety and performance standards for such systems established by the Electrical Code, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories and, where applicable, rules of the Public Utilities Commission regarding safety and reliability.

3. A solar energy system used for heating water in single-family residences or for heating water in swimming pools shall be certified by an accredited listing agency as defined by the Plumbing and Mechanical Codes.

4. A solar energy system proposed for installation on a building that is (a) a designated landmark, (b) a contributory resource in a designated historic district, or (c) on the National Register or State Register, or deemed eligible for listing on the National or State Register, requires a building permit and shall be reviewed by the Planning Department to ensure compliance with Article 10 of the Planning Code and, if required, referral to the Historic Preservation Commission pursuant to the provisions of Section 1005 of the Planning Code.

5. Installation of a solar hot water system requires a plumbing permit.

106A.1.15.4 Permit application submittal documentation; expedited review. Except as set forth in Section 106A.1.15.3(4) above, upon submittal of the application and the documentation listed in paragraphs 1 through 4 below, an application for a permit to install a solar energy system is deemed complete and eligible for expedited review in accordance with the Department’s Priority Permit Processing Guidelines. (See Administrative Bulletin 004.)

1. a standard plan contained in the most current version of the California Solar Permitting Guidebook and adopted by the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research or other plan acceptable to the Building Official;

2. the information required by the checklists contained in the most current version of the California Solar Permitting Guidebook and adopted by the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research;

3. verification, using standard engineering techniques, that the support structure for the solar energy system is stable and adequate to transfer all wind, seismic, and dead and live loads associated with the system to the building foundation; and

4. verification, using standard electrical inspection techniques, that the existing electrical system including existing line, load, ground and bonding wiring, as well as main panel and subpanel sizes, are adequately sized, based on the existing electrical system’s current use, to carry all new photovoltaic electrical loads.

The application, and the documentation required by this Section 106A.1.15.4, may be submitted electronically.

106A.1.15.5 Permit review and issuance. A permit for a solar energy system that is 4 kilowatts or less is issued over the counter if the application meets all requirements and a public health or safety issue has not been identified. A larger system requires review by the Electrical Division, and a review by other Divisions may be required depending on the system. An application for installation of a solar energy system on a building that is (a) a designated landmark, (b) a contributory resource in a designated historic district, or (c) on the National Register or State Register, or deemed eligible for listing on the National or State Register, requires review by the Planning Department to ensure compliance with Article 10 of the Planning Code and, if required, referral to the Historic Preservation Commission pursuant to the requirements of Section 1005 of the Planning Code.

tory resource in a designated historic district, or (c) on the National Register or State Register, or deemed eligible for listing on the National or State Register, requires review by the Planning Department to ensure compliance with Article 10 of the Planning Code and, if required, referral to the Historic Preservation Commission pursuant to the requirements of Section 1005 of the Planning Code.

106A.1.15.6 Inspections. Only one inspection is required for a small residential rooftop energy system that is eligible for expedited review under Section 106A.1.15.4. An inspection will be scheduled within three business days of a request and provide a two-hour inspection window. If the system fails inspection, a subsequent inspection is required.

106A.1.15.7 Separate approval required to connect a Solar Energy System to the electricity grid. Approval of a permit for installation of a solar energy system does not authorize the applicant to connect the system to the local utility provider’s electricity grid. The applicant is responsible for obtaining such approval or permission from the local utility provider.

106A.1.15.8 Denial of permit; permit conditions. Pursuant to Government Code Section 65850.5(c), if the Department or other agency of the City denies an application for a solar energy system use permit, it shall make written findings, based upon substantial evidence in the record, that the proposed installation would have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety or a historic resource and there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact. The findings shall include the basis for the rejection of potential feasible alternatives for preventing the adverse impact. Any conditions imposed on the permit shall be designed to mitigate the specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety at the lowest cost possible.

106A.1.16 Electric Vehicle (EV) Supply Equipment; permit and fee. An electrical permit obtained by a California state licensed Electrical Contractor is required to install Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) defined in Section 202 of this Code, and the alteration or modification of any portion of the electrical system on the property. See Section 110A, Table 1A-E – Electrical Permit Fee Issuance and Inspection Fee Schedule for the applicable fees.

EXCEPTION: A permit is not required to install a Residential Electrical Vehicle Charger when a plug in type charger is utilizing a previously approved receptacle outlet.

106A.1.16.1 General requirements.

1. The EV Charging Station and its installation shall comply with Article 625 and other applicable sections of the Electrical Code, and all applicable sections of the Mechanical Code, Building Code, and Fire Code. The installation shall also meet any safety and performance standards established by the Society of Automotive Engineers, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories, and the California Public Utilities Commission that the Building Official determines shall apply.

sections of the Mechanical Code, Building Code, and Fire Code. The installation shall also meet any safety and performance standards established by the Society of Automotive Engineers, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories, and the California Public Utilities Commission that the Building Official determines shall apply.

2. New construction and certain major alterations, as those terms are defined in Section 202 of the Green Building Code, are subject to the requirements of Sections 4.103.3.3 and 5.103.3 and other applicable sections of the Green Building Code, per Ordinance No. 92-17, enacted in April

4. All electrical materials, devices, fittings, and associated equipment shall be listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

5. Level 2 EVSE shall be connected and fastened in place per the manufacturer’s instructions and Section 625.44 of the Electrical Code. The anchorage of either floor-mounted or wall-mounted stations shall comply with the Building Code and Electrical Code.

6. For indoor locations, the coupling means of the EVSE shall be stored at a height of not less than 18 inches and not more than 48 inches above the finished floor level.

7. For outdoor locations, the coupling means of the EVSE shall be stored or located at a height of not less than 24 inches above grade level.

106A.1.16.2 Application submittal requirements.

1. Consistent with existing procedures, the Department shall continue to allow a California state licensed Electrical Contractor registered with the Department to obtain an electrical permit for installation of electrical materials, devices, fittings, and associated equipment. Where the scope of a project, including installation of an EV Charger, solely requires an electrical permit, such a permit shall continue to be available electronically and over the counter to licensed Electrical Contractors registered with the Department. The Department shall publish guidance clarifying conditions where an electrical permit is sufficient.

2. For projects which require additional review or permits, the Department shall publish guidance clarifying when any or all of the following are required in order for an EV Charging Station permit to be complete. The application, and the information and documentation required by this Section 106A.1.16.2, may be submitted electronically.

(a) an electrical plan and calculations signed and stamped by either a California registered Electrical Engineer or the licensed Electrical Contractor who is responsible for design and installation of the system;

(b) a line diagram that includes all relevant information regarding the electrical charger, panels, raceways, wire types and sizes, utility service main breaker ampacity, and utility service voltage;

(c) if applicable, identification of the type of EV Charger being installed;

(d) current manufacturer specification sheets for major components of the system;

(e) information from the manufacturer indicating whether or not ventilation is required;

(f) if ventilation is required, a mechanical plan signed and stamped by either a California registered Mechanical Engineer or the licensed Mechanical Contractor responsible for the ventilation design;

(g) a site plan approximately to scale that includes the locations of new and existing panels, meter, charging unit, and associated items;

(h) a completed Department service load calculation form;

(i) an electrical panel schedule; and

(j) listing and labeling information from an approved nationally recognized testing laboratory.

106A.1.16.3 Inspections. Inspections by the Electrical Division are required for EV Charging Station installations, and for any alteration or modification of the electrical system on the property, including the installation of EVSE.

106A.1.17 Mixed-Fuel Buildings. The Building Official shall not issue permits for construction of any new Mixed-Fuel Building that submitted an initial application on or after June 1, 2021. Permits for new construction, the initial applications for which were submitted on or after that date, may only be obtained for All-Electric Buildings or Projects. New construction that includes natural gas infrastructure solely to serve appliances covered by the Federal Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. §§ 6201 et seq. ) and that complies with the Design Guidelines for Electric-Ready Buildings published by the Department of Building Inspection shall be considered an All-Electric Building or Project for purposes of this subsection 106A.1.17. For purposes of this subsection, the initial application shall be the first site or building permit application associated with the project.

EXCEPTIONS: The Building Official may issue a permit for construction of a new Mixed-Fuel Building in the following circumstances, and provided that the building shall be Electric-Ready as specified in the Design Guidelines for Electric-Ready Buildings published by the Department of Building Inspection:

(1) Upon the Building Official’s finding that constructing an All-Electric Building or Project is physically or technically infeasible and that a modification pursuant to section 104A.2.7 is warranted. Financial considerations shall not be a sufficient basis to determine physical or technical infeasibility. Modifications from this section 106A.1.17 shall only be issued under this exception where the Building Official finds: sufficient evidence was submitted to substantiate the infeasibility of an All-Electric Building or Project design; the installation of natural gas piping systems, fixtures and/or infrastructure is strictly limited to the system and area of the building for which All-Electric Building or Project design is infeasible; and that the project’s modified design provides equivalent health, safety and fire-protection to All-Electric Building or Project design; or

asibility of an All-Electric Building or Project design; the installation of natural gas piping systems, fixtures and/or infrastructure is strictly limited to the system and area of the building for which All-Electric Building or Project design is infeasible; and that the project’s modified design provides equivalent health, safety and fire-protection to All-Electric Building or Project design; or

(2) The Building Official may issue a permit for a new Mixed Fuel Building that includes an area specifically designated for occupancy by a commercial food service establishment (A-2 Occupancy) that is a Mixed-Fuel Building solely because it provides gas piping systems, fixtures and/or infrastructure exclusively for cooking equipment within the designated commercial food service area where the initial application was submitted prior to January 1, 2022.

(i) For initial applications submitted on or after this date, the Building Official may issue a permit for such a new Mixed-Fuel Building—that is a Mixed-Fuel Building solely because it provides gas piping systems, fixtures and/or infrastructure exclusively for cooking equipment within the designated commercial food service area—upon finding that the applicant has submitted sufficient evidence that such gas systems are necessary for the specific commercial food service establishment that will operate the food service area. Applicants may appeal determinations made by the Building Official to the Board of Examiners, pursuant to section 105A.1.

REPORTING: No later than July 15, 2022 and annually thereafter until 2025, the Building Official shall provide to the Department of Environment a report listing the status of all permits granted or in process to construct a new Mixed-Fuel Building pursuant to the above exceptions. The reports shall be cumulative and shall include a brief description of the circumstances for which the applicant seeks or has been granted an exception.

(Amended by Ord. 247-24, File No. 240845, App. 10/24/2024, Eff. 11/24/2024)

106A.1.17.1 Conversion to Mixed-Fuel Buildings. The Building Official shall not issue permits that would convert an All-Electric Building or Project into a Mixed-Fuel Building where the initial application was submitted after June 1, 2021.

106A.1.17.2 Municipal New Construction. The provisions in section 106A.1.17 do not apply to Municipal New Construction as defined by Chapter 7 of the Environment Code that are subject to Section 706 of the Environment Code.

106A.1.17.3 All-Electric Major Renovations. After July 1, 2026, the Building Official shall not accept permit applications to conduct Major Renovations, as defined in Section 202 of this Code, of Mixed-Fuel Buildings. Permit applications for Major Renovations submitted to the Department after that date may only be accepted for work that retains or results in All-Electric Buildings or Projects.

EXCEPTIONS: The Building Official may accept an application and issue a permit for Major Renovation of a Mixed-Fuel Building that qualifies for one of the five exceptions outlined below. Any permit qualifying for one of the exceptions shall be Electric-Ready and shall provide equivalent health, safety, and fire-protection to a design with no gas piping systems. The Department of Building Inspection, in consultation with the Environment Department, shall publish Design Guidelines and Review Procedures for Public Safety and Electric-Ready Construction to facilitate implementation of this requirement.

(1) Upon the Building Official’s finding that converting to an All-Electric Building or Project is physically or technically infeasible and that a modification pursuant to Section 104A.2.7 is warranted. Financial considerations shall not play any role in determining physical or technical infeasibility. Modifications shall only be issued under this exception if the Building Official finds: (a) sufficient evidence was submitted to substantiate the infeasibility of an All-Electric Building or Project design; (b) the installation of natural gas piping systems, fixtures, and/or infrastructure is strictly limited to the system and area of the building for which an All-Electric Building or Project design is infeasible; and (c) the project’s modified design provides health, safety, and fire-protection equivalent to that of an All-Electric Building or Project design; or

(2) The Building Official may issue a permit for Major Renovation of a Mixed-Fuel Building that includes an area specifically designated for occupancy by a commercial food service establishment (A-2, B, or F Occupancy) that is a Mixed-Fuel Building solely because it retains gas piping systems, fixtures, and/or infrastructure exclusively for cooking equipment within the designated commercial food service area; or

(3) Major Renovation projects that consist of a change of use from non-residential to new residential dwelling units shall be exempt from this Section 106A.1.17.3 through January 1, 2031 and are not required to be Electric Ready. After January 1, 2031, this exception expires.

(4) The Building Official may issue a permit for Major Renovation involving a Substantial Upgrade to Mechanical Systems if the following conditions are met: (a) The project installs either space heating or water heating systems that will serve at least 80% of the total conditioned floor area of the building; and (b) The project retains for ongoing use an existing water heating or space heating system that serves at least 80% of the total conditioned floor area, provided the equipment was installed within the last five years and complies with all applicable codes and safety standards.

(5) 100% Affordable Housing, as defined in Administrative Code Section 109.1, shall be exempt from this Section 106A.1.17.3 until July 1, 2027. From July 1, 2027 to January 1, 2031, 100% Affordable Housing projects that demonstrate the cost of converting to All-Electric conflicts with the projects’ ability to meet their housing goals are exempt. After January 1, 2031, this exception expires.

(Added by Ord. 174-25, File No. 250702, App. 9/9/2025, Eff. 10/10/2025)

106A.1.18. Labor Compliance Bonds for Certain Residential Projects. As the terms “Project” and “First Construction Document” are defined in Labor and Employment Code Section 81.3, and may be amended from time to time, a First Construction Document shall not be issued to a Project that filed an application for a building permit or a complete Preliminary Permit Application pursuant to California Government Code Section 65941.1 on or after the effective date of Labor and Employment Code Article 81 unless the Department has received written confirmation from the Controller that the surety bond required under Labor and Employment Code Section 81.5(a) has been filed.

(Amended by Ord. 58-23, File No. 230134, App. 4/21/2023, Eff. 5/22/2023)

106A.1.19 State-Mandated Accessory Dwelling Unit Program. California Government Code Sections 66314 and 66333 require expedited, ministerial consideration of Accessory Dwelling Units (“ADUs”) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (“JADUs”) that meet the requirements of Planning Code Section 207.2 .

106A.1.19.1 Permit Application Review and Approval. The City shall approve or deny an application for a permit to construct an ADU or JADU on a lot containing an existing dwelling within 60 days from receipt of the complete application if the proposed construction fully complies with the requirements set forth in Planning Code Section 207.2 and any other applicable requirements. If the applicant requests a delay, the 60-day time period shall be tolled for the period of the delay. If the City has not approved or denied the completed application within 60 days, the application shall be deemed approved.

106A.1.19.2 Notice of Garage Demolition. Written and posted notice shall not be required for the demolition of a detached garage that is to be replaced with an ADU, unless the property is located within a historic or conservation district pursuant to Article 10 or Article 11 of the Planning Code.

(Added by Ord. 62-24, File No. 230310, App. 3/28/2024, Eff. 4/28/2024; amended by Ord. 297-24, File No. 241055, App. 12/19/2024, Eff. 1/19/2025)