This month I’d like to discuss the basics of Building Permits and Building Codes. The North Area Neighborhood Service Center is located at 6015 Watt Ave on the corner of Watt and Freedom Park Dr. (formerly E St.). This county building can provide you assistance with almost any concern you have regarding residential and light commercial building codes and permits. Having used this facility numerous times, I can confidently attest to the fact that they provide tremendous customer service and are extremely helpful.

Everyday there are a large number of improvements that are being done in violation with county building codes. If you fail to comply with these codes or neglect filing for the proper permit, you may face a penalty and a county case manger can issue a citation or schedule a hearing, and you may face a lawsuit or criminal charges. If you are aware of a violation, or hazardous conditions, you are encouraged to call the Community Hazards and Nuisance Complaint Line at (916) 875-5656.

Here are a few common improvements that require county inspection and permit to be filed:
Sidewalks
New Roofs
Mobile Home Setup & Support
Additions/add-ons
Gas piping or new gas lines
Hot water tanks
HVAC systems
Pools

Even with any minor improvement, the best thing to do is to call and verify if any permit is required. Having to deal with a violation and extra fees is a headache that can be easily avoided.

If your home improvement needs are being serviced by a contractor, make sure the permit has been filed and the inspections are scheduled accordingly. County inspectors are an excellent third party and independent of the contractor and home owner, offering an unbiased opinion and strictly observing the code compliance of the work being performed. For more information, visit http://www.bldginspection.org/.

North Area Service Center
6015 Watt Avenue, Suite 4
North Highlands, CA 95660
(916) 874-2424
(916) 874-2632 Fax
Operating Hours
Monday - Friday
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. closed for lunch
1:00 p.m. to 04:00 p.m.