City of San Jose
Home MenuOver-the-Counter Service
Walk in with accurate plans, walk out with a permit. No appointment required.
Over-the-Counter Service is for smaller residential projects and limited to no or only minor structural changes.
Types of Properties
- SF/D - Single-Family and Duplex homes
- MF - Multifamily properties that are 1 story and non-sprinklered
Service is available for | SF/D | MF |
---|---|---|
1-story Additions ≤ 500 sf | Yes | Yes |
Remodeling ≤ 750 sf (e.g., kitchen or bathroom projects). This remodeling may include an addition of up to ≤ 500 sf. | Yes | Yes |
Accessory structures ≤ 500 sf | Yes | Yes |
ICC-approved engineered patios and screen rooms | Yes | Yes |
Fire or auto damage repair work to a structure (minor structural scope) | Yes | Yes |
Foundation improvements such as adding seismic bolting | Yes | Yes |
Foundation repairs | Yes | Yes |
Pool and septic tank abatements | Yes | No |
Pools with a current master structural file | Yes | No |
Siding or stucco replacement | Yes | Yes |
Termite and dry rot repairs; must include a report from the company performing the work | Yes | No |
Remodeling required for code compliance, subject to above size limitations |
Yes | No |
To Use Over-the-Counter Service
Come to the Permit Center during service hours and bring:
- A completed Building Permit Application
- Accurate project plans; they do not have to be professionally drawn, but they must be accurate in order to get the permit issued on the day you visit. View the Building Handouts and Forms web page for guides on the content for project plans. Or visit the Permit Center in advance, and staff will provide no-cost guidance on what your plans should include.