New Structures
New homes, garages, additions, and many detached structures usually require permits.
Guide
Permit and Inspection Guide
Permits and inspections are a normal part of many residential construction projects. This guide helps homeowners understand when permits may be required, what inspections typically involve, and how the process usually works.
On This Page
When a Permit Is Commonly Required
Permit requirements vary by city, county, and project scope, but these are common situations where homeowners may need one.
Interior Remodels
Projects involving structural work, layout changes, or major system updates commonly require permits.
Electrical Upgrades
Panel changes, rewiring, new circuits, and service upgrades typically need permit approval.
Plumbing Changes
Relocating fixtures, adding fixtures, or modifying supply and drain lines often requires a permit.
HVAC Work
New heating and air systems, ductwork changes, and mechanical replacements often require permits.
Roof Replacement
Many reroof projects require permits, depending on the material, layer count, and local jurisdiction.
Sometimes Required
These items often depend on size, height, structural impact, property conditions, or local code.
Windows and Doors
If you are changing the size of an opening or affecting structural framing, a permit is often required.
Decks and Patios
Attached structures, elevated decks, and certain covered patio builds commonly trigger permit review.
Fences
Fence permits often depend on height, location, and whether the property is subject to special requirements.
Small Accessory Structures
Small sheds may be exempt under local size thresholds, but rules vary and utilities can change that quickly.
Usually Not Required for Basic Cosmetic Work
Pure finish work often does not require permits, as long as no structural, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems are being changed.
Painting and Finish Updates
Painting, flooring, trim, and similar finish work often do not require permits by themselves.
Cabinet Replacement
Simple cabinet swaps may not require permits if no plumbing, electrical, or layout changes are involved.
Check Local Rules First
Even when work seems minor, always verify with the local building department before starting.
Typical Inspection Stages
Inspections usually happen at key points so work can be reviewed before it gets covered or finalized.
Plan Review
Before a permit is issued, plans and supporting documents are often reviewed for code compliance.
Rough Framing
Framing is commonly inspected before insulation and drywall go in.
Rough Electrical
Wiring, boxes, circuits, and related electrical work are usually inspected before walls are closed.
Rough Plumbing
Water, waste, and vent lines are commonly inspected before finish materials are installed.
Rough Mechanical
Ducting, vents, and HVAC-related components may be inspected before concealment.
Insulation
Insulation inspections may be required to verify energy compliance.
Drywall or Shear
Some jobs include an inspection at drywall or shear stages, depending on the scope.
Final Inspection
The final inspection helps confirm the project is complete and ready for signoff.
How the Permit Process Usually Works
Each jurisdiction is different, but most projects follow a similar path.
Contact the Building Department
Start by confirming who has jurisdiction over the property, city or county.
Submit Plans or Scope Details
You may need drawings, product information, engineering, or a written scope of work.
Pay Permit Fees
Fees vary based on project value, type of work, and local requirements.
Start Work After Approval
Permit issuance usually needs to happen before covered work begins.
Schedule Inspections
As the project moves forward, required inspection stages are scheduled and signed off.
Complete Final Signoff
Once the final inspection passes, the permit process is typically closed out.
Who Pulls the Permit?
For many construction projects, the permit is obtained by the contractor performing the work, though requirements can vary depending on the project and jurisdiction.
Contractor Permits
Licensed contractors commonly obtain permits for projects they are hired to complete. This helps ensure work is performed according to code requirements.
Owner-Builder Permits
Homeowners may sometimes apply for permits as an owner-builder if they plan to manage the work themselves.
Always Confirm Requirements
Permit responsibilities and requirements vary by jurisdiction, so it is important to confirm the process with the local building department.
Who to Contact Locally
Building permits are handled by the city or county where your property is located. The offices below are common contacts for homeowners in the Chico and Paradise area.
Butte County
Properties in unincorporated areas of Butte County are often reviewed through the county building department.
Phone: (530) 552-3700
Website: buttecounty.net/dds/building
City of Chico
Projects located within Chico city limits are typically handled through the city building division.
Phone: (530) 879-6700
Website: chico.ca.us/building-division
Town of Paradise
Projects in Paradise are generally reviewed through the town building department, depending on the property location and scope of work.
Phone: (530) 872-6291 ext. 114
Website: townofparadise.com
Silverado Tip
Do Not Guess on Permits
Skipping permits can create delays, failed inspections, correction costs, and problems during resale or insurance review. When in doubt, verify the requirements before work begins.