Multiple permits may be required:

• Mechanical Permit: Required for any installation involving air ducts, ventilation, or major HVAC components.
• Electrical Permit: Required if the project includes new wiring, dedicated circuits, or modifications to the electrical panel.
• Building Permit: If any modifications are made to strutural elements of the dwelling unit.

At SJPermits.org, in one session you can apply for all necessary permits for the installation.

Key code requirements

1. Energy Efficiency - California requires a minimum SEER2 rating for new residential central air conditioners:
   
   
   • Split System AC (< 45,000 BTU): Minimum 14.3 SEER2
   • Split System AC (> 45,000 BTU): Minimum 13.8 SEER2
   • Packaged Systems: Minimum 13.4 SEER2
   • Heat Pumps: Minimum 14.3 SEER2
     
     
2. Electrical Standards
   
   
   • Disconnect Switch: A readily accessible electrical disconnect must be installed within sight of the outdoor unit.
   • Service Receptacle: A 15- or 20-amp GFCI-protected outlet must be located within 25 feet of the equipment for servicing.
   • Panel Capacity: If the existing electrical panel cannot support the new load, an upgrade (often to a minimum of 200 amps for single-family homes) may be required.
   
   
3. Condensate Disposal - Condensate must be discharged to an approved plumbing fixture or an exterior disposal area like landscaping. See Condensate Disposal Requirements. 
   
   
4. Ductwork Integrity - Under Title 24, "HERS" (Home Energy Rating System) testing is required to ensure duct leakage is below a certain threshold (e.g., 15% for existing ducts or 5-6% for new ducts). 

Be prepared to show the inspector:

• Equipment data sheets (model, tonnage, efficiency)
• Electrical load calculations
• If applicable, duct layouts

A mechanical permit is required for installing, altering, or replacing ductwork, especially when changing HVAC equipment capacity, extending lines, or penetrating the building envelope.

Key code requirements

1. Insulation (R-Value): Ductwork in unconditioned spaces (attics, garages) requires a minimum R-6 to R-8 insulation rating.
   
   
2. Duct Sealing & Testing: Systems must be sealed to reduce leakage and must be verified by a HERS (Home Energy Rating System) rater to meet standards.
   
   
3. Materials: Only UL 181-approved materials, such as galvanized steel, rigid fiberglass board, or listed flexible ducts, are permitted.
   
   
4. Title 24 Compliance: Installation must align with California’s Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential/Nonresidential Buildings.

Be prepared to show the inspector:

• Manufacturer's installation documentation
• HERS rating report

Installing a residential ductless mini-split system generally requires three permits:

• Mechanical permit: Covers the installation of the refrigerant lines, indoor head units, and outdoor condenser.
• Electrical permit: Required for the new dedicated 220/240V circuit, circuit breaker sizing, and required disconnect switch.
• Building permit: Necessary for structural mounting of indoor units and, crucially, for sealing/flashing the wall or roof penetration where line sets enter the home

1. Energy Code (Title 24) - Mandates high-efficiency ratings (often 15 SEER or higher)
   
   
2. HERS verification - For many installations, a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) rater must verify the refrigerant charge and proper airflow.
   
   
3. Disconnect switch - A secure, code-compliant disconnect switch within sight of the outdoor unit.
   
   
4. Structural & Safety - Units must be properly mounted (pads or brackets), with required firestopping for wall penetrations. 

Be prepared to show the inspector:

• Data sheets
• Electric Load Calculation: You must submit load calculations to show that your electrical panel can handle the new load.
• Equipment placement plans.
• HERS field verification

A permit is required for a new installation of a gas or electric fireplace.

Electric logs or portable electric fireplaces - If they plug into a standard outlet, a permit is not required. However, carefully follow the manufacturer instructions for operating these devices. If a dedicated circuit is specified, make sure the device has sole use of a circuit breaker in the electrical panel. If a new outlet is needed, an electrical permit is required. 

Woodburning appliances - Find information at Appliance Installations.

Key code requirements

• For gas fireplace installations, see Gas Lines & Piping. 
  
  
• For electric fireplace installations, see Electrical Projects.
  
  
• Any alteration to walls and structural elements will require a building permit and submitting plans through Standard Plan Review (see the webpage section, "How to Apply.")
  
  
• Fireplace screens are required on all types of fireplaces.

• Newly installed gas fireplaces shall be direct vent, sealed combustion type.
  
  
• Any work to walls or structure, within 12 inches of a fireplace will require removal of same or replacement with listed electric, direct vent, or EPA-approved fireplace insert. (SJ Field Note 34)

Installing or replacing a furnace generally requires three permits; these can all be obtained through one application at SJPermits.org.

• Mechanical Permit: Covers the installation of the furnace, indoor head units, and outdoor condenser.
• Electrical Permit: Required for new wiring and any new circuits or circuit breaker sizing.
• Building Permit: Necessary for structural mounting of indoor units.

Key code requirements 

Emissions & Efficiency - New residential central furnaces must meet the state's "Ultra-Low NOx" standards. Gas furnaces must have a minimum 80% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE).

Installation & Safety (CMC)

1. Clearances: Must follow manufacturer's instructions for spacing from combustible materials.
2. Anchorage: Must be securely fastened to withstand vertical and horizontal loads (seismic bracing).
3. Access: A 30-inch x 30-inch workspace is required for maintenance.
4. Gas Line: A dedicated shut-off valve must be within 6 feet of the unit.
5. Venting: Plastic venting (PVC) must be installed per manufacturer instructions with contrasting color primer.
6. Moving a furnace to the attic: Requires structural evaluation for load, proper anchoring, and fire-resistant materials.
7. Installing a new furnace in a garage: Requires elevation above the floor to protect from fuel vapor ignition.

• Manufacturer installation guides

Key code requirements

Important Tip:
Check sound specifications before purchasing equipment to ensure it meets the maximum noise specifications in Table A below. 

1. Permits - The online permit for a heat pump covers both a mechanical and electrical permit. Some systems may also require a plumbing permit, and you will need to add the plumbing permit to your online application.  
   
   
2. Listed Use - Equipment is to be listed for its use and meet current energy standards.
   
   
3. Adhere to Installation Instructions - Manufacturers have specific requirements for the space and installation. Strictly adhere to installation instructions.
   • Manufacturer instructions must be provided during inspection.   
     
     
4. Condensate Requirements - Condensate from heat pumps must drain to approved termination. See Condensate Disposal Requirements. Heat pump water heaters may drain to landscape while other appliances may require additional measures.
   • If necessary, raise the unit base to accommodate drains.
     
     
5. Electrical Improvements - Heat pump installations commonly require a new or altered electrical circuit; an electrical permit is required for such work.
   
   
6. Building Modifications - Modifying the home or building to accommodate new equipment may require a building permit and plan submittal if structural changes are involved. See also Equipment Mounted on Roofs, Floors, or Walls. The instructions would be similar to a simple remodel or contact a building inspector for guidance; see the sidebar for Contact info.
   
   
7. Smoke & CO Alarms - Be prepared to provide the City inspector with verification of proper alarm installation and the Affadavit of Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Installation, to be signed by either the property owner or licensed contractor.
   
   
8. Setbacks and Noise - Heat pumps that are installed outside are subject to city ordinances with requirements for location and noise.

Setbacks

The outdoor heat pump compressor unit is allowed to be placed between 3 feet and 5 feet from the property line.

A 3-foot clear path between the equipment and fences must be maintained.

Noise

A sound pressure level of 55 dBA must be maintained at the property line.

For equipment installed less than 5 feet from the property line, Table A expresses the maximum sound pressure allowed per the product specification.

Table A also applies to planned developments where heat pump equipment is commonly replacing air conditioning condensers that were originally approved for installation at less than 5 feet from the property line. 

Table A
Heat Pumps: Maximum Noise Levels Allowed
Between 3 to 5 feet From Property Line 

 * Where only Sound Power is reported, use this conversion to compute the appropriate Sound Pressure value: Sound Pressure = Sound Power - 7 (dBA).

** If equipment specifications do not clearly state that the unit is an inverter or variable speed type, then use the column for Single Speed Heat Pump.

Note: All sound levels assume 3-foot value, hemispherical as measured from equipment.

Installing a whole house fan often requires:

• Building permit if cutting into the ceiling/joists
• Electrical permit for installing a new dedicated circuit

Key code requirements

1. Attic Venting: Minimum 1 sq. ft. of free attic vent area per 750 CFM (or 375 CFM per some codes) to prevent pressure issues.
   
   
2. Fan Sizing: Must provide at least 20 air changes per hour.
   
   
3. Product Listing: Fans must be certified by the Home Ventilating Institute (HVI).
   
   
4. Attic Venting Ratios: Improper venting can damage your roof. You must have adequate gable, ridge, or soffit vents to allow air to escape (usually 1 sq. ft. of net free vent area per 750 CFM).
   
   
5. Installation Standards: Fans must be HVI-rated and, in many cases, verified by a HERS (Home Energy Rating System) rater to meet efficiency and noise standards (often 1 Sone or less).
   
   
6. Safety: Installation must account for fire safety (e.g., proper framing) and avoid backdrafting other combustion appliances.

Be prepared to show the inspector

• Manufacturer's installation guide

This information pertains only to single-family/duplex properties.

A building permit with plan review is required for the installation of a woodburning appliance and for remodels or certain repairs near a woodburning appliance, as outlined below.

Per City Ordinance 21633, woodburning appliances are limited to:

• A pellet-fueled wood heater
• An EPA-certified wood heater, see EPA Certified Wood Heater Database
• Listed gas appliances installed in masonry fireplaces

Application of Regulations

Per City Ordinance 21633:

• Building renovations or repair to an older woodburning appliance may trigger compliance requirements.
• Any repair to a wood burning appliance that costs more than $1,759 must comply.
• Any remodel or renovation that costs more than $1,759 and comes within 12 inches of a wood burning appliance must comply. This 12-inch dimension is measured on the plane of the wall where the appliance is located; walls at right angles to the appliance are exempt.

* An annual cost threshold adjustment is made every July 1st. 

How to Apply

An online permit is not available for woodburning appliances or the repair of such appliances (see above repairs that trigger compliance, which includes the need to submit plans to obtain a permit). 

• Prepare and submit plans using the Single-Family, Duplex & Townhouse Projects - Plan Instructions.
• Submit the Single-Family & Duplex Projects Submittal Checklist and forms as outlined on the checklist.
• Submit documents and plans using the Standard Plan Review Service.

• Go to SJPermits.org.
• Use the Application Wizard to be guided to the correct process and permit.
• You may secure multiple permits, if needed, with one application.
• SJPermits presents the fee and enables online payment; for more info, see Building Fees.
• After payment, you will be able to download the Permit Card.
• For help, first see Help for SJPermits. If you still need assistance, use Submit a Help Ticket.

PREPARE THE PERMIT APPLICATION PACKAGE   

Who can prepare plans? While some plans may be prepared by anyone, we recommend working with professionals. Inaccurate plans will require resubmittals and more fees. Accurate plans save time and money. See Plans That Require an Architect or Engineer.  

Forms may require digital signatures. See Digital Forms & Signatures for help.   

REQUIRED

• Building Permit Application - See instructions.
  
  
• Owner-Builder Acknowledgement and Verification of Information Form - Submit only if the property owner is the permit applicant. 
  
  
• Submittal Checklist - Select the appropriate checklist below. It also outlines relevant forms and plans to include in the permit application package.  
  Single-Family & Duplex Projects Submittal Checklist
  Multifamily Projects Submittal Checklist
  Commercial & Industrial Projects Submittal Checklist
  
  
• Project Plans - Draw relevant site and electrical plans following the appropriate instructions:
  Single-Family & Duplex Projects - Plan Set Instructions
  Commercial, Industrial, Multifamily - Plan Review Submittal Package

TO APPLY

This service uses online platforms. You will first apply at SJPermits and then upload documents through SJePlans. A City plan reviewer will review the plans and send comments to the ePlan Applicant through SJePlans. After the plans are approved and final fees are paid, then the building permit will be issued. Follow these instructions:

* Standard Plan Review Service *

We look forward to serving you.