Foundation Projects | City of San José

For single-family & duplex properties
For other properties, see Start Your Project
Updated: 04/15/2026

If your foundation is sinking or cracking, you may need a foundation repair or replacement. A building permit is required to repair or replace a foundation.

Permit Process

Design Considerations

Important: Read the common Design Considerations before you create any plans or start a project. These can affect the design, location, and permitting of the project.

Get Ready to Apply

Who can apply? We recommend that the applicant be a licensed contractor. See Who Can Apply for a Building Permit for others who may apply. Whoever signs the building permit application is responsible and potentially liable for all activity under the permit. See Owner-Builders Beware!

SJPermits can help. At SJPermits.org, you can pay fees, schedule inspections, check the status of a permit, and find permit records and property information. An SJPermits account is required only if you are applying for an online permit or for projects that require Standard Plan Review.

Permit Fees

Find fee information and payment methods at Building Fees.

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.

> Single-Family & Duplex Projects Submittal Checklist - Under Project Scope, check "Other" and enter "Foundation Repair"

> Project Plans - Prepare plans using the Single-Family & Duplex Projects - Plan Set Instructions, create plans as appropriate for a foundation project.

IF APPLICABLE per Design Considerations

> Geologic Hazard Clearance

> Grading Permit Application

> Historic Preservation Permit, Adjustment, or Amendment

> Owner-Builder Acknowledgement and Verification of Information Form - Submit if the property owner is the permit applicant.

> Tree Removal Permit Application

> This project may be subject to a refundable Construction and Demolition Diversion Deposit (CDDD).

How to Apply

Use the Standard Plan Review Service to apply:

Standard Plan Review Service

For the submittal, see “Prepare the Permit Application Package.”

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

Inspections

You will be issued a Permit Card that lists required inspections. Schedule inspections at SJPermits.org or call 408-535-3555 for assistance.

Be ready — read Inspection Success.

The Permit Card must always be on-site.
Have building plans and manufacturer instructions, if any, available to the Inspector.
Ensure there is access to all areas of the project work; provide a ladder if one is needed.

Questions?

We are here to help — visit, call, or email us. See Contacts sidebar.