San Francisco requires permits for most renovation work beyond cosmetic changes. DBI and SF Planning both review permits. The process is complex and often requires professional help. Penalties for unpermitted work are up to 9x the permit fee.
San Francisco requires building permits for nearly all renovation work that goes beyond purely cosmetic changes. Structural modifications, electrical rewiring, plumbing changes, HVAC modifications, window replacements (even like-for-like in some cases), and re-roofing all require permits. Separate trade permits are needed for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. DBI handles building permits while SF Planning reviews for zoning compliance. In historic districts or for buildings on the Historic Register, additional review by the Historic Preservation Commission may be required. San Francisco's permitting process is known for complexity — even simple projects can require multiple reviews. Over-the-counter permits are available for minor work, but most renovations require plan review. The penalty for unpermitted work is severe: fines up to 9x the original permit fee, plus the cost of opening walls for inspection. Many homeowners use permit expediters to navigate the process.
Unpermitted work: fines up to 9x permit fee. Work must be exposed for inspection. DBI can order removal of non-compliant work.
San Francisco, CA
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See how San Francisco's renovation permits rules stack up against other locations.
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