Inspections are scheduled on the City of Calabasas Building and Safety Portal.  An online portal account is required.  Click on the link below to schedule an inspection:

Building inspection requests may be submitted through the online portal until 3:00 p.m. on the prior business day. Requests received after 3:00 p.m. will be automatically scheduled for the next available business day. Please note that inspection requests do not guarantee that an inspection will be scheduled, as all inspections are subject to availability.

An automated email confirming receipt of the inspection request will be sent to the email address associated with the project’s portal account. This email does not confirm that the requested inspection date and time have been scheduled.

The inspection schedule is finalized by 8:00 a.m. each business day. All registered portal account users associated with the project address will receive an email confirmation on the morning of the scheduled inspection. If you do not receive an email, you may:

• View the daily inspection schedule in real time

• Log in to the online portal

• Call (818) 224-1600 to confirm that the inspection has been scheduled and to obtain the anticipated time frame

If you have questions regarding inspection scheduling or need assistance creating an online portal account, please contact BuildingSafetyInfo@cityofcalabasas.com or call (818) 224-1600.

On small residential projects, such as patios, decks, and pools, where the work can be inspected without entering the occupied portion of the house or garage, the inspections can be performed without the owner or contractor present. Be sure to allow access to the area to be inspected and make sure that dogs or other animals are secured. If a ladder is required to access the area where the work was performed, have one available for the Inspector to use. Also be sure to leave the Permit Inspection Card and the Approved Plans on the site for the Inspector.

On larger projects or projects where the Building Inspector will need to inspect inside the occupied home, an adult (over the age of 18) will need to be present during the inspection. If a contractor is in charge of the work, we recommend that they be present during the inspection in order to consult with the Inspector if any problems are identified.

In California, most construction work is required to be performed by a licensed contractor.  In certain instances, the owner of the property may secure a permit as an owner-builder, but there are strict limitations on when this may occur.  It is important to note that only the owner of the property qualifies for this type of permit issuance, and not the owner of a business or other tenant of the property. The Contractors State License Board has compiled a convenient summary of the limitations related to owner-builder projects for all owners to consider.

There are several ways to confirm whether a Building Inspector has approved an inspection. When the City of Calabasas issues a permit, a Permit Card is provided to the permit holder. This card must be printed and kept onsite, along with all required construction documents, including stamped plans (if applicable), for inspections. After each inspection, the inspector will record the inspection date, note whether it passed, required corrections, or failed, and then sign the Permit Card.

In addition to the physical permit card, the permit holder can review the inspection history by logging into the Portal on the Building and Safety website or by contacting Building and Safety to request a copy of the permit card.

Permit records are public information and must be accessible to residents under the California Public Records Act (CPRA). Some Building and Safety permit records in the City of Calabasas may be viewed at the counter, however, stamped building plans and other permit records are stored offsite and/or require a Public Records Request. (PRR). Public Records Requests are submitted electronically to the City Clerk through the web portal. Please contact the City Clerk at (818)224-1600 if you  have questions regarding Public Records Requests.

Generally, the building inspector will need to inspect all aspects of the work before it is covered or concealed from view. These inspections are done to ensure that the work has been done to a minimum safety standard and that it complies with the Approved plans for the project. The following is a list of the typical inspections that may be required on a project:

• Foundation
• Framing
• Slab
• Insulation
• Grout Lift
• Drywall
• Roof Sheathing
• Fireplace
• Lath Scratch Coat
• T-bar ceiling grid
• Underground plumbing and electrical
• Plumbing, Mechanical and Electrical (rough and final)
• And many others, depending on the type of work being done.

In addition to the inspections provided by our City Building Inspectors, the Uniform Building Code mandates that the owner or the engineer or architect acting on behalf of the owner employ one or more special inspectors who shall provide inspections during construction on certain types of critical structural elements. It is critically important to note that these Special Inspectors are not on the project in lieu of our City Building Inspectors, but rather they are on the project in addition to our City Building Inspector.

Building permits are generally required for home remodeling and repair projects, especially those that alter a home's structure, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems, or that change the home's footprint.

Some examples of projects typically requiring a building permit include:

Kitchen & bathroom remodels:  Removal and/or relocation of cabinets, countertops, dishwasher, sink(s), installed appliances, changes to lighting, drywall replacement, and any changes to the electrical, mechanical, and/or plumbing systems.

Patio covers & other outdoor improvements: Construction of patio covers, retaining walls, fireplaces, & firepits.

Swimming Pool & Spa: Construction, renovation, and demolition of pools and/or spas.

Structural changes: Adding or removing walls, creating a new room, or making alterations to the home's layout.

Electrical work: Installing new circuits, running new wiring, or making other changes to the electrical system.

Plumbing work: Relocating pipes, changing the location or replacement of fixtures, including replacing water heaters.

Mechanical work: Work involving heating, air conditioning, ventilation, or gas systems.

Home additions: Projects that add to the existing square footage of a home, such as a second story or extending a kitchen out.

Alternatively, some minor projects do not require a building permit including: Minor repairs and aesthetic improvements such as painting or replacing flooring.

The first steps in remodeling a house are defining your goals, creating a budget, gathering inspiration, and developing a detailed plan that outlines the scope of your project, materials, and overall vision.  Comprehensive planning is important for setting a realistic budget and laying the groundwork for a smooth and successful renovation process. Once you are ready to move forward, a licensed contractor can guide you through the permitting, construction, and inspection process. 

A construction permit is needed for all new construction. In many cases, a permit is needed for the repair or replacement of existing fixtures, such as replacing windows. A plumbing, electrical, or a mechanical permit may be needed for any addition or changes to a building’s existing system; for example, moving or adding an electrical outlet, replacing a water heater or replacing a heating or air conditioning unit.

Handyperson Exemption to Increase to $1,000 in 2025 SACRAMENTO, CA – A new law will raise the threshold for work requiring a contractor’s license from $500 to $1,000. Assembly Bill 2622 (Carrillo, Chapter 240, Statutes of 2024), effective January 1, 2025, will allow an unlicensed person to complete small projects up to $1,000 without obtaining a contractor’s license if they do not hire workers and no building permits are needed. If a consumer’s project under $1,000 requires workers or permits, a contractor’s license in the appropriate license classification is required. The new law states that a person who is not licensed may advertise for construction work if the total contract price for labor, materials, and all other items on a project is less than $1,000. The $1,000 includes all costs associated with the project. The advertisement must state the person is not licensed. As with any home improvement construction project, CSLB cautions that a down payment should not exceed 10 percent of the contract price, and any subsequent payments should not exceed the value of the work completed or the materials delivered. If an unlicensed person provides a bid greater than $1,000, performs work requiring a permit, or employs any workers, that person is subject to legal action. Penalties for unlicensed contracting include administrative fines of up to $15,000, jail sentences of up to six months, and fines up to $5,000. Repeat offenders may face a mandatory 90-day jail sentence and a fine of $5,000 or 20 percent of the contract price, whichever is greater.

Permits are the way the City of Calabasas regulates construction. This is designed to ensure that all construction in the City is safe. The safety of the occupants in buildings is the primary reason for having construction codes. The City of Calabasas has adopted several codes, among them the 2022 California Building, Residential, Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing codes In addition, there are federal, state and local laws that govern construction, such as those covering energy conservation.

The City has handouts to help you through this process.

Once plans are approved, you’re required to build the project according to those plans. If any changes are made to the plans, revised plans must be submitted for review and approval.

The second half of the process is the inspection of the work. Please refer to the "All About Inspections" FAQ category on this page for detailed information about inspections.

A construction permit is not needed for items such as painting, wall papering, tiling, carpeting, small storage sheds of 120 SF or less (some exceptions apply), portable heating or cooling appliances, the clearing of stoppages in pipes, valves or fixtures, and retaining walls less than 3 feet tall (unless supporting a surcharge) are some examples.

Fences 6 feet high or lower do not generally require permits. Nevertheless, the Planning Department may regulate fence height, location and type. If you are uncertain about your project, contact the Planning Department at (818)224-1600 if you have questions.

Please review the Work Exempt from Permits handout for additional details specific to Building and Safety. Please contact Building and Safety if you are unsure or have questions regarding work exempt from permits and/or building permit requirements.

Navigating the permit process may seem complex, so here’s a quick guide to submitting your project to the City of Calabasas Building and Safety Department.

 The City of Calabasas now accepts online permit applications and digital plan submittals for all residential and commercial projects.

 Important Things to Know Before You Apply

•  Exterior Work: If your project involves any exterior work, you'll likely need a Zoning Clearance first. To confirm, please email BuildingSafetyInfo@cityofcalabasas.com before you submit your application.

• Major Projects: For major developments or new home construction, we highly recommend contacting us first to discuss your project and specific submittal requirements.

• No Expedited Permits: The City does not issue express or expedited permits. All applications are submitted electronically, applications and/or plans may not be submitted at the Public Counter.  Applications are reviewed in the order they're received.

Tips for the Online Submittal Process

• Required Documents: Your submission must include the necessary hard copy application(s) and construction documents in PDF format.

• Electronic Review: All plan reviews and communications will be electronic, following the guidelines in the Electronic Plan Review document.

• Application Review: After you submit your application, you'll receive a confirmation email. Our team will review your submission and contact you if any additional information or documentation is needed to accept your plans for review or issue your permit.

• Fees and Verification: Before your permit can be issued, you must pay all required fees and ensure your CSLB documentation has been verified and approved by our department.

Need Help?

If you have any questions, you may call us at (818) 224-1600 or email BuildingSafetyInfo@cityofcalabasas.com. We respond to all inquiries in the order they're received and do our best to reply within 24 hours. Inquiries received after 4:00 p.m. may be answered the following business day.

The time it takes to obtain a permit depends on the type of permit and the scope of work for your project. The most important factor is the completeness and accuracy of the construction documents submitted. Building and Safety provides forms and handouts outlining requirements for different project types.

For many residential repairs and small projects that do not require building plans, permits may be issued in as little as one day. Examples include plumbing repairs, non-structural kitchen and bathroom remodels (fixture replacement only), HVAC installation, door and window replacement, and roof replacement.

Larger projects require complete building plans and a formal review before permits can be issued. These include all commercial projects, new residential construction, ADUs, additions, alterations, site improvements, patio covers, retaining walls, swimming pools, solar and battery backup systems, EV charging systems, and generators. Depending on the scope of work, approvals from outside agencies may also be required, which can extend the review process.

Other government agencies may need to review and approve your project. For example, grease interceptors require County Health Department approval as well as City approval. After your plans have been submitted, the City will provide you with a Regulatory Agency Referral Handout with contact information for the required agency approvals specific to your project.

If a permit, when needed, is not obtained before construction, you have violated City codes and regulations. You’ll be required to obtain permits for the work and expose all aspects of the work so that it can be inspected or you’ll have to return the structure or site to its original condition.

Complications may occur at time of sale. Many lenders will not fund a loan for the sale of a house if it has non-permitted construction. Sometimes un-permitted construction must be modified or torn down. For example, holes may have to be punched in walls to make sure the framing, wiring, and plumbing meet the code requirements.

Remember, construction codes were created for safety reasons. Work performed without required building permits may be unsafe and result in costly unforeseen consequences.

The City of Calabasas currently retains copies of all residential plans that are approved for construction for 90 days after final date of inspection (per California Health & Safety Code Section 19850).

State law stipulates that plans become copyrighted documents when an architect or engineer has placed their professional seal upon them. As such, they may not be duplicated without the written authorization of the architect or engineer who prepared them. The law also requires the owner authorize the duplication of the plans.

If you would like to determine if the City has building plans on file and/or request a copy of those plans, please submit a Public Records Request (PRR). Public Records Requests are submitted electronically to the City Clerk's office through the web portal. Instructions and contact information specific to PRR can be found on the E-Form. Please contact the City Clerk's office at (818)224-1600 if you have questions or require additional assistance.

Contractors licensed by the State of California or your authorized agent may obtain permits. The homeowner may also obtain the permits as an owner/builder. If an authorized agent of the homeowner or of the contractor is going to be pulling the permits, then they must present a notarized Authorized Agent form at the time of permit issuance.

• Find the Authorized Agent template in  Forms and Handouts.

It is the responsibility of the contractor who pulled the permit to request inspections at certain points in the project, depending on the work that’s being performed.  The contractor shall request inspections, but it is still your responsibility, as the property owner, to make sure the inspections are made and the final inspection is approved. 

• Inspection Requests

Remember, the project is not complete for legal purposes until it has passed the final inspection.

Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 365 days after issuance or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced.

The Building Official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for periods not more than 90 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.

The City of Calabasas currently retains copies of all residential plans that are approved for construction for 90 days after final date of inspection (per California Health & Safety Code Section 19850).

State law stipulates that plans become copyrighted documents when an architect or engineer has placed their professional seal upon them. As such, they may not be duplicated without the written authorization of the architect or engineer who prepared them. The law also requires the owner authorize the duplication of the plans.

If you would like to determine if the City has building plans on file and/or request a copy of those plans, please submit a Public Records Request (PRR). Public Records Requests are submitted electronically to the City Clerk's office through the web portal. Instructions and contact information specific to PRR can be found on the E-Form. Please contact the City Clerk's office at (818)224-1600 if you have questions or require additional assistance.

If your project requires a plot plan, you may want to consider hiring a draftsperson, architect, contractor, surveyor, or civil engineer to assist you. The City of Calabasas cannot provide referrals for these services, however, you may want to consider asking neighbors, online searches, and the Chamber of Commerce Business Directory.

Generally, when a building project is completed, and all of the required Departments have granted a final approval for the project, the Building and Safety Division will release electrical and gas clearances to the utility providers so that they can work with the tenant or owner to schedule a turn on date.

A Certificate of Occupancy is a legal document that is issued by the Building and Safety Division, which certifies that a specific building has been inspected by all necessary City Departments and that it complies with the applicable regulations.

A Certificate of Occupancy is generally issued to the building, not the tenant. As such, a new certificate of occupancy is not always required as new tenants occupy an existing building. When a building project is completed, and all of the required Departments have granted a final approval for the project, the Building and Safety Division will print out a Certificate, upon application received and fees paid.

Generally, only a California Licensed Contractor or the property owner can pull a permit. There are, however, a few exceptions to this basic rule. There are different categories of contractors, for example; General Building Contractors, Electrical Contractors, Plumbing Contractors, Re-Roofing Contractors, and many others. By State law, these different types of contractors are limited as to the types of permits that they can pull. For example, a Plumbing Contractor cannot pull an electrical permit, and vice versa.

If the permit is to be pulled by someone other than the licensed contractor (the actual licensee listed on the contractor’s license) or the actual property owner (as listed in the Assessor’s database) then you will need to review the question below, "What paperwork do I need if I am not the property owner or the Licensed Contractor?"

As a California Licensed Contractor, you will need the following paperwork in order to pull a permit:

• Your State Contractor’s License, generally the wallet card issued by the Contractors State License Board or other documentation that you are the licensee.
• Your Workers’ Compensation Insurance Certificate. If you have any employees, then you are required by State law to show proof of coverage at the time of permit issuance.
• If you are not the licensee listed on the contractor’s license, then you will need to have a Contractor Authorized Agent Form which lists you as being authorized to pull permits on behalf of the licensed contractor. This form will need to be on file with us or in your hands to present to us at time of permit issuance.

As the property owner, you do not need any paperwork other than proof of identification, typically a state photo ID such as a Driver’s License. If you have recently acquired the property and the Assessor’s database does not yet show you as the owner, then you will need to show evidence that you are the actual owner.

In some cases the real estate transaction papers will confirm the ownership status. Other cases may require contacting a title company to confirm the ownership status. If you are not the property owner, then you will need to have a Contractor Authorized Agent Form which lists you as being authorized to pull the permit on behalf of the property owner.

If you are a permit service, then you will need a Contractor Authorized Agent Form.

If you are not the property owner, then you will need to have an Owner Authorized Agent Form which lists you as being authorized to pull the permit on behalf of the property owner.

If you are not the licensee listed on the contractor’s license, then you will need to have a Contractor Authorized Agent Form which lists you as being authorized to pull permits on behalf of the licensed contractor. This form will need to be on file with us or in your hands to present to us at time of permit issuance. This form is in addition to the other paperwork listed in the previous question, "What paperwork do I need as a Contractor to pull a permit?"

No. The City of Calabasas does not require a business license or permit to conduct business within the City. There are various zoning and land use laws that regulate specific business use of properties. Please contact the Planning Department for any questions. For Home Occupations (operating a business out of a home) please see the City of Calabasas Municipal Code Section 17.32.100.

Contractors State license law requires that all California licensed contractors maintain Workers’ Compensation Insurance coverage if they have employees. As part of the application process, the contractor will be required to complete a Building Project Identification Form prior to permit issuance.  The contractor must provide contact information, details specific to his/her Contractor's License, and Workers' Compensation insurance policy information which will be verified with the Contractor's State License Board (CSLB).

Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 365 days after issuance or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced.

The Building Official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for periods not more than 90 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.

Is your business growing or moving to a new location in the City of Calabasas?

Congratulations! We’re happy that your company is helping to boost our economy and provide jobs for the citizens of Calabasas.

But, as you expand, there are a few questions you may want to ask the City or other agencies. For example:

• If I expand my business, are there any new planning permit or zoning requirements?
• Will I have to add more parking?
• Do I need a building permit for my remodel?
• Are there any low-interest loans or other assistance available?
• Will the fire code require more exits, sprinklers or safety equipment?
• What about disabled access?
• How much will the Fees be?

The City of Calabasas wants your business to succeed -- it benefits all of us.

So, before you expand, talk to a contractor, engineer, architect or other design professional, along with City staff members...they’re there to help you find out what’s needed.

And, after you’ve learned about the requirements, you may need to hire an architect, engineer, contractor, consultant or other design professional to help you in drawing up plans or other necessary documents.

These requirements help your business be a safer, better neighbor, and preserve the beauty and character of Calabasas.

A construction permit is needed for all new construction. In many cases, a permit is needed for the repair or replacement of existing fixtures, such as replacing windows. A plumbing, electrical, or a mechanical permit may be needed for any addition or changes to a building’s existing system; for example, moving or adding an electrical outlet, replacing a water heater or replacing a heating or air conditioning unit.

Handyperson Exemption to Increase to $1,000 in 2025 SACRAMENTO, CA – A new law will raise the threshold for work requiring a contractor’s license from $500 to $1,000. Assembly Bill 2622 (Carrillo, Chapter 240, Statutes of 2024), effective January 1, 2025, will allow an unlicensed person to complete small projects up to $1,000 without obtaining a contractor’s license if they do not hire workers and no building permits are needed. If a consumer’s project under $1,000 requires workers or permits, a contractor’s license in the appropriate license classification is required. The new law states that a person who is not licensed may advertise for construction work if the total contract price for labor, materials, and all other items on a project is less than $1,000. The $1,000 includes all costs associated with the project. The advertisement must state the person is not licensed. As with any home improvement construction project, CSLB cautions that a down payment should not exceed 10 percent of the contract price, and any subsequent payments should not exceed the value of the work completed or the materials delivered. If an unlicensed person provides a bid greater than $1,000, performs work requiring a permit, or employs any workers, that person is subject to legal action. Penalties for unlicensed contracting include administrative fines of up to $15,000, jail sentences of up to six months, and fines up to $5,000. Repeat offenders may face a mandatory 90-day jail sentence and a fine of $5,000 or 20 percent of the contract price, whichever is greater.

Permits are the way the City of Calabasas regulates construction. This is designed to ensure that all construction in the City is safe. The safety of the occupants in buildings is the primary reason for having construction codes. The City of Calabasas has adopted several codes, among them the 2022 California Building, Residential, Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing codes In addition, there are federal, state and local laws that govern construction, such as those covering energy conservation.

The City has handouts to help you through this process.

Once plans are approved, you’re required to build the project according to those plans. If any changes are made to the plans, revised plans must be submitted for review and approval.

The second half of the process is the inspection of the work. Please refer to the "All About Inspections" FAQ category on this page for detailed information about inspections.

A construction permit is not needed for items such as painting, wall papering, tiling, carpeting, small storage sheds of 120 SF or less (some exceptions apply), portable heating or cooling appliances, the clearing of stoppages in pipes, valves or fixtures, and retaining walls less than 3 feet tall (unless supporting a surcharge) are some examples.

Fences 6 feet high or lower do not generally require permits. Nevertheless, the Planning Department may regulate fence height, location and type. If you are uncertain about your project, contact the Planning Department at (818)224-1600 if you have questions.

Please review the Work Exempt from Permits handout for additional details specific to Building and Safety. Please contact Building and Safety if you are unsure or have questions regarding work exempt from permits and/or building permit requirements.

A permit is needed for all new construction. In many cases, a permit is needed for repair or replacement of existing fixtures, such as replacing windows. A plumbing, electrical, or a mechanical permit maybe needed for any addition or changes to a building’s existing system; for example, moving or adding an electrical outlet requires a permit.

A commercial building permit is required for the following scope of work:

• New construction
• Commercial alteration
• Commercial site improvement
• Tenant improvement
• Roof replacement
• Generator
• Electrical vehicle charging system
• Fire sprinkler & suppression system
• Solar installation
• Wireless communications
• Demolition

A commercial mechanical, electrical, or plumbing (MEP) permit is required for new construction, as well as for any additions or modifications to existing systems or fixtures.

The first step in the process is to contact the Planning Department to obtain Zoning Clearance. Applications must be submitted electronically through the online portal.  Once the Zoning Clearance has been issued the next step is to determine if building permits are required. Generally permits are not required if the prior use of the building was the same as the proposed new use and no construction or modifications are proposed for the new tenant/owner.

If construction and/or improvements are proposed, a full set of plans which shows the scope of work and compliance with applicable codes must be submitted for review before construction work begins.  Commercial construction and tenant improvements shall be provided by a licensed Architect, Engineer, or Registered Design Professional.  Current California law does not provide for an Owner-Builder permit on non-residential projects. 

The Tenant Improvement Submittal Requirements handout is an excellent source of information when preparing commercial building plans for Building and Safety review. 

The time it takes to obtain a permit depends on the type of permit and the scope of work for your project. The most important factor is the completeness and accuracy of the construction documents submitted. Building and Safety provides forms and handouts outlining requirements for different project types.

For many residential repairs and small projects that do not require building plans, permits may be issued in as little as one day. Examples include plumbing repairs, non-structural kitchen and bathroom remodels (fixture replacement only), HVAC installation, door and window replacement, and roof replacement.

Larger projects require complete building plans and a formal review before permits can be issued. These include all commercial projects, new residential construction, ADUs, additions, alterations, site improvements, patio covers, retaining walls, swimming pools, solar and battery backup systems, EV charging systems, and generators. Depending on the scope of work, approvals from outside agencies may also be required, which can extend the review process.

Other government agencies may need to review and approve your project. For example, grease interceptors require County Health Department approval as well as City approval. After your plans have been submitted, the City will provide you with a Regulatory Agency Referral Handout with contact information for the required agency approvals specific to your project.

Generally, plans are required whenever it is determined that a building permit is required for a new tenant to occupy a building or tenant space. If no work is taking place to accommodate the new tenant, but it has been determined that a permit is required, a Site Plan and a Floor Plan may be all that are necessary to show the location and number of parking spaces and the intended uses of each room or space within the building.

When additions or alterations to the building are proposed or the intended use of the building or tenant space presents special Fire or Life/Safety concerns, additional plans which clearly show the extent of the work and its compliance with the applicable laws, codes and ordinances may also be required.

• Tenant Improvement Submittal Requirements

If a permit, when needed, is not obtained before construction, you have violated City codes and regulations. You’ll be required to obtain permits for the work and expose all aspects of the work so that it can be inspected or you’ll have to return the structure or site to its original condition.

Complications may occur at time of sale. Many lenders will not fund a loan for the sale of a house if it has non-permitted construction. Sometimes un-permitted construction must be modified or torn down. For example, holes may have to be punched in walls to make sure the framing, wiring, and plumbing meet the code requirements.

Remember, construction codes were created for safety reasons. Work performed without required building permits may be unsafe and result in costly unforeseen consequences.

Your business may need permits from the California State Board of Equalization to operate in California. You may contact them directly at the California State Board of Equalization website or 800-400-7115. Our local California State Board of Equalization district office is located at 15350 Sherman Way, Suite 250, Van Nuys, CA 91406-4203.

A construction permit is not needed for items such as painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops, small storage sheds of 120 SF of less (some exceptions apply), portable heating or cooling appliances, the clearing of stoppages in pipes, valves or fixtures, retaining walls less than 3 feet tall; and in several other cases. However, reviews may be required from other agencies; be sure to check before building.

Please review the Work Exempt from Permits handout for additional details specific to Building and Safety. Please contact Building and Safety if you are unsure or have questions regarding work exempt from permits and/or building permit requirements.

Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 365 days after issuance or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced.

The Building Official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for periods not more than 90 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.

Other government agencies may need to review and approve your project. For example, grease interceptors require County Health Department approval as well as City approval. After your plans have been submitted, the City will provide you with a Regulatory Agency Referral Handout with contact information for the required agency approvals specific to your project.

State law requires that all cities and counties in California enforce the building codes as mandated by the California Building Standards Commission. The City of Calabasas has adopted by ordinance the following model codes:

• 2025 California Administrative Code (CAC)
• 2025 California Building Code (CBC)
• 2025 California Residential Code (CRC)
• 2025 California Electrical Code (CEC)
• 2025 California Mechanical Code (CMC)
• 2025 California Plumbing Code (CPC)
• 2025 California Energy Code (CEnC)
• 2025 California Historical Building Code (CHBC)
• 2025 California Existing Building Code (CEBC)
• 2025 California Green Building Standards Code (CGBSC)
• 2025 California Fire Code (CFC)
• City of Calabasas Amendments

The following design factors are utilized in the City of Calabasas

• Wind: 85 MPH (usually exposure C)
• Rain: 2 inches per hour
• Seismic: Site Class D Min.
  
  • Assume seismic design category D if soil report is not provided & specify otherwise.
• Snow Load: None
• Climate Zone: Zone 9
• Soil Types: Expansive soil with high sulfates. Check with your geotechnical engineer or soils report.

Plans for simple projects such as small single story houses, room additions and garages can usually by drawn up by qualified individuals such as draftsmen. Assuming that these simple projects are constructed within the parameters of the Residential Conventional Construction Requirements, engineering calculations to support the design will not be required. Other projects may require plans prepared and signed by a licensed architect or engineer.

Plans for new commercial buildings, apartments or hotel/motel buildings and changes in the use of existing buildings which cause a change of Occupancy Group generally must be prepared, stamped and signed by an Architect or Engineer licensed to practice in the State of California.

For projects such as routine Retaining Walls, Patio Covers and Second Story Decks, the Building and Safety Division has handouts that include drawings and specifications that can be followed. Those handouts, together with a plot plan showing your project, are accepted as your plans for the project.

Use the links below to view separate checklists for residential and commercial plan review submittal.

• ADU Plan Requirements 
• Residential Plan Requirements
• Tenant Improvement Submittal Requirements