Building Division

Additional documentation may be required.

Common Over the Counter Requests

• Reroof (permit is required for each structure)
• Residential HVAC
• Window Replacement
• Electrical Service Meter Upgrade <400 amps
• Septic Tank (tank only)
• Water Heater Replacement
• Demo of an Accessory Structure (non-habitable) - Site Plan Required

Common Addendums & Revisions

• Truss Package Revisions
• Structural Revisions
• Revised Energy Reports
• Revised Footing Details
• Solar Equipment Type, Layout, and System Size Changes
• Fire Sprinklers
• Fire Alarm
• Commercial Kitchen Hood Suppression Systems

The inspectors spend most of the work day out in the field so it is highly recommended inquiries be sent by email. If your question relates to a specific inspection or correction notice left by an inspector, email that inspector directly. Direct email addresses can be requested at (805) 461-5000 or you may submit your inquiry to permitcenter@atascadero.org and it will be routed to the appropriate inspector.

No. You must have an issued permit with approved plans (if applicable) before work can begin.

The inspector must be able to have full uninhibited access to the project area(s); no gates, dogs, or other deterrents. An OSHA approved ladder must be onsite for roofing inspections. For interior residential inspections, someone 18 years or older must be present. The approved set of plans and permit card must be available to the inspector at the time of the inspection and throughout construction.

You are done! Keep the permit with the signatures for future record need.

Call (805) 461-5035 or email permitcenter@atascadero.org for the status of your permit.

The time frame for obtaining your permit will depend on the permit class. For an estimated time frame, please view our submittal intake checklists.

All counter transactions require a scheduled appointment. You can schedule an appointment by calling (805) 461-5000. We also accept electronic submittals. Please email permitcenter@atascadero.org to submit.

For Building, Planning, and Public Works inspections, call the automated 24-hour inspection request hotline at (805) 466-8099. Inspection requests made after 5:00 p.m. will receive 2nd business day service. Inspections may be scheduled Monday - Friday. Please be advised, A.M. or P.M. requests will be accommodated as scheduling permits.

For Fire inspections, call (805) 466-3300.

Visit the Permit Activity Reports page.

For other questions regarding a permit, please call the Community Development Department at (805) 461-5035.

Construction is allowed between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Noise Ordinance Section 9-14.03 (c)), or as specified in any applicable conditions of approval or as approved by the Building Official for limited portions of a project.

Current and recent permit activity can be searched by address through our Permit Services e-portal. 

Yes. An application for a permit for any proposed work shall be deemed to have been abandoned 180 days after the date of filing, unless such application has been pursued in good faith or a permit has been issued.

The expiration date after permit issuance is one year, with each passed inspection extending the date an additional 180 days.

A ninety day compliance timeline applies in cases of unlawful construction.

If you feel this window cannot be met, reach out to the Permit Technicians for information about requesting an extension before time runs out!

Most services at the Permit Counter require an appointment. To schedule an appointment, call (805) 461-5000. We also accept electronic submittals. Please email permitcenter@atascadero.org to submit.

See Permit Exempt handout for projects that do not require a permit.

Any person who commences work on a project before obtaining necessary permits shall be subject to the following investigative fee:
1) First offense: $100.00
2) Second offense: $250.00
3) Third and any consecutive offense: $500.00