The Department of Building Inspection (DBI) along with the Permit Center and other permitting agencies are work together to review and issue the permit application you submit to DBI. The process consists of three parts and may vary depending on your permit situation and/or construction work you need to do at the project site. 

During this period that DBI and its partnering permitting agencies’ offices are closed, we are using the following process to issue your. 

The permit issuance process consists of three parts:

1. PRE:Initial submittal process

• Depending on the type of permit you are submitting an application for you are  permit type, you can Visit sf.gov and ensure all required information and required supporting documents are submitted online as part of the complete submittal package.
  • Digital forms
  • Online forms 
• Email confirmation with Permit Tracking System information to obtain latest permit updates 

2. DURING: Review of submittal by DBI and other permitting agencies

• Quality review
• Routing to other agencies, as required
  • For a number of permit types, applicants may need work with agency representatives plan review with applicant and/or agent through the use of Bluebeam
• All required agencies complete review and issue permit 

3. POST: Payment and Issuance

• Applicant is informed that the permit is ready for payment with issuance of permit. 
• Applicant picks up permit from DBI.
• Job cards will be emailed to individuals on file. 

After receiving your issued permit, you may start your construction work. You may need to have inspections conducted of your work during the process. Call or email DBI to schedule the appropriate inspection during the different milestones of your construction project.  For more information, visit: www.sfdbi.org/inspection-services

Permitting Department Contact Info 

• DBI
• Planning
• Public Works
• Fire Department
• Permit Center