Building Permits

Applying for a Building Permit During COVID-19

​​​TO PROMOTE HEALTH AND SAFETY CONSIDER USING ONLINE SERVICES

To protect the health and safety of our community and employees during the COVID-19 pandemic, the City Services counter at City Hall will have limited public access until further notice. It is highly recommended that those needing to speak directly with City staff call ahead of an office visit to confirm availability. Updates will be made on our website as circumstances change.

The Building Department accepts residential permit application submittals vial email to help serve our customers at this time. Submittals are accepted for the following scope of work:

  • Electrical service upgrade for an existing main panel
  • Gas inserts
  • HVAC repairs, replacement, new installation
  • Patio/Pergola structure construction
  • Re-roofs
  • Sewer, minor plumbing, fixture replacement
  • Swimming Pools/Hot Tubs
  • Water Heater install, replace
  • Window retrofits
Every effort will be made to respond the same day if your application is received early in the day, but please allow up to three business days for processing. Once an application has been reviewed and approved, the applicant will receive an email with further instructions to complete the permit issuance process.

NOTE: Online application submittals are restrcited exclusively to permits outlined above. Any work beyond this scope will not be accepted online. Application submittal does not constitute approval or permit issuance.

Work Requiring a Permit

The Building Department is responsible for issuing building permits and performing building inspections.

 A permit is required for most construction and/or repair projects, including electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. Permits are necessary for, but not limited to: residential and business additions, alterations, patios, decks, gardens, and retaining walls, swimming pools, spas, air conditioners, all electrical and plumbing installation, including sprinklers, water heaters, and gas lines.

To obtain a Building Permit, complete the Project Identification Worksheet and submit with corresponding plans or drawings in person or by mail to the Building Department, 336 Pacific Ave, Shafter, CA 93263.
Residential HVAC Form

If the project requires Kern County Fire Department approval, please complete Application for Permit Request for Service.

The Building Department is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Closed between 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Obtaining a Permit


A homeowner can obtain a permit to make improvements on their own home. You can do your own design and prepare your own plans, as long as they show compliance with all the applicable codes, including, but not limited to structural, energy, and fire, life, and safety items. You will be responsible for these items.

For additional information regarding the requirements for obtaining a permit, please visit the Home Additions page. 

Scheduling Inspections

 
Inspections may be scheduled by calling 661-746-5002 or in person at the Building Department counter located at 336 Pacific Ave, Shafter. When scheduling please have the following information ready:
  • Project Address or Location of Inspection
  • Day/Date Inspection is Requested
  • Type of Inspection
  • Permit Number
Residential inspection schedule is as follows:
  • AM inspections are between 8 am and 12 pm
  • PM inspections are between 1 pm and 5 pm
  • Although every effort is made to keep appointments as scheduled, inspections may be delayed or rescheduled without further notice
Commercial inspections are as follows:

Re-inspections and Corrections 


If a correction notice is given by the inspector, a re-inspection is necessary. The applicant must call the office to reschedule an inspection once the corrections have been made. Fees may be collected for excessive re-inspections of the same scope.

Qualified Personnel

It is recommended in most cases to use the services of a qualified professional. This may be required if minimum code requirements are not complied with. Licensed individuals must be bonded and provide their own workers compensation and liability insurance.

This could potentially be a burden for a homeowner not normally covered for these types of exposure. It is recommended you contact your insurance agent and review your coverage before taking on a project.

Priority Permitting and Inspections

For information on priority permitting and inspections for affordable housing projects click here (English/Spanish).



Additional Information

For more information or to apply for a building permit, please contact the Building Department at 661-746-5002.