Building Division

The Building Division of the Pacifica Planning and Economic Development Department reviews and issues permits for construction and demolition. To find out if you need a permit or for additional information, please call (650) 738-7344 or contact us via email at the Building Division.

IMPORTANT UPDATE:
As of January 1, 2017 the building code will be changing to the 2016 versions of the California codes, including but not limited to: Residential Code, Building Code, Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Codes, as well as CalGreen.  For more information, please contact the Building Department at 650-738-7344.

Click here to be linked to important information about landslide preparedness

Additional Building Resources:

Building Permit Application

Apply for a Building Permit ONLINE here! (or check current building permit applications)

Construction, Deconstruction & Demolition Information Guide

Second Units:

Interested in building a second unit (Accessory Dwelling Unit)?  Through a partnership with 21 Elements and Home for All, a second unit resource center has been created with a very helpful step-by-step workbook for homeowners.  These workbook takes homeowners from vision to permitting to what to know when becoming a landlord for the first time.  

Do I Need a Building Permit?

Water Efficient Landscaping

PG&E Rebate and Energy Saving Programs

USEPA Water Sense

Construction Hours of Operation Municipal Code (choose Title 8, Chapter 1, Section 8-1.06)

Construction Stormwater BMP's

San Mateo Countywide Water Pollution Prevention Program Website

Flood Insurance Maps/Information

Green Building in Pacifica


Seismic Retrofit Standard (Plan Set A) *

* Note:  Plan Set A can be used by homeowners in obtaining quotes for retrofitting, by contractors when obtaining building permits, and by cities and counties as a basis for a minimum prescriptive retrofit standard. This standard applies to wood-framed residential structures not more than two stories in height and containing not more than two dwelling units, on relatively flat sites, and with cripple walls 4 feet in height or less.