National City, CA Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)

Section 15.08.010 adopts Volumes I and II of the 2025 California Building Code for National City through Ordinance No. 2025-2551 (November 18, 2025), and the building official is the authority having jurisdiction. Section 15.08.030 rewrites the work-exempt-from-permit list in Subsection 105.2. Item 4 sends retaining walls to Chapter 15.70, and added items exempt playground, gymnastic and similar recreation equipment accessory to Group R Division 3 structures, ground mounted satellite antennas up to ten feet in diameter, roof mounted satellite antennas up to eight feet in diameter, and painted or foam mounted wall signs.

Repairs to lawfully existing Group R Division 3 structures, and Group U structures accessory to them, are exempt only when they replace component parts or existing work with similar materials for maintenance and affect no structural components or plumbing, mechanical or electrical installations. Painting and decorating including refinishing exterior stucco, floor covering, cabinet work, and outside paving on private property outside the public right-of-way are named as exempt. Any addition, change or modification in construction, exit facilities or permanent fixtures or equipment is not exempt.

Once a permit issues, Section 15.08.040 makes it expire if work does not start within twelve calendar months, stops for six calendar months, or runs past three calendar years from issuance. An extension costs one-half of a new permit fee, or one-quarter when only a final inspection remains. Section 15.08.045 requires the permit, inspection record and approved plans to stay on site until the project is complete.

Other conditions attach to the application. Section 15.08.087 requires a survey from a State of California licensed surveyor when a building will be constructed up to the minimum front, side or rear yard setback and no monuments exist. Section 15.08.092 requires a geotechnical investigation with each application for a new building or addition of 500 square feet and larger. Under Section 15.08.050 the authority having jurisdiction can deny a permit on property with an unsafe or substandard building, unlawful construction, or any violation of the National City Municipal Code. Fees follow the current City of National City Fee Schedule.