The Building Division is dedicated to administering, implementing and enforcing state and local building construction regulations in the unincorporated areas of Mendocino County and the cities of Fort Bragg and Point Arena, in order to preserve the general health and safety practices for all construction projects requiring a permit.

State and local construction regulations include:

Typically, the Building Division will complete reviews and/or plan checks, then inspect structures during several phases of a project’s construction, prior to its final inspection.

The Building Division requires you to obtain building permits for your project in accordance with Mendocino County Code (MCC) Section 18.08.10, which states:

“Except as otherwise exempted by the California Building Code and/or other county ordinances, no person, firm, or corporation shall erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, occupy, remove, convert, or demolish any building or structure in the unincorporated area of the County or cause the same to be done without first obtaining a separate building permit for each such building or structure as required by this Title. Permits shall be issued and fees collected by the Planning and Building Services Department. The schedule of fees collected is adopted from time to time by the Board of Supervisors of the County of Mendocino.”

 Planning and Building Services utilizes the following resources to determine when a permit is NOT required:

• California Building Code (CBC) exemptions, as listed under CBC 105.2 – Work Exempt from Permit
• California Residential Code listed exemptions (as fully adopted in the Mendocino County Code of Ordinances)

 The following constitutes work which can take place without requiring a building permit:

Building:

• One-story detached accessory structures (other than storm shelters), provided that the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet (11.15 m²). It is permissible that these structures still be regulated by Section 710A, despite exemption from permit.
• Fences not over 7 feet (2134 mm) high.
• Retaining walls not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge.
• Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons (18 927 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
• Sidewalks and driveways.
• Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
• Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep.
• Swings and other playground equipment.
• Window awnings supported by an exterior wall that do not project more than 54 inches (1372 mm) from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
• Decks not exceeding 200 square feet (18.58 m²) in area, that are not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling and do not serve the exit door required by Section R311.4.

Electrical:

• Listed cord-and-plug connected temporary decorative lighting.
• Reinstallation of attachment plug receptacles (but not the outlets thereafter).
• Replacement of branch circuit overcurrent devices of the required capacity in the same location.
• Electrical wiring, devices, appliances, apparatus or equipment operating at less than 25 volts and not capable of supplying more than 50 watts of energy.
• Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.

Gas:

• Portable heating, cooking or clothes drying appliances.
• Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.
• Portable-fuel-cell appliances that are not connected to a fixed piping system and are not interconnected to a power grid.

Mechanical:

• Portable heating appliances.
• Portable ventilation appliances.
• Portable cooling units.
• Steam, hot- or chilled-water piping within any heating or cooling equipment regulated by this code.
• Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.
• Portable evaporative coolers.
• Self-contained refrigeration systems containing 10 pounds (4.54 kg) or less of refrigerant or that are actuated by motors of 1 horsepower (746 W) or less.
• Portable-fuel-cell appliances that are not connected to a fixed piping system and are not interconnected to a power grid.

Plumbing:

• The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipe; provided, however, that if any concealed trap, drainpipe, water, soil, waste or vent pipe becomes defective and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, such work shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be obtained and inspection made as provided in this code.
• The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures, and the removal and reinstallation of water closets, provided such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.

Applications for a building permit can either be submitted either in-person at either one of our offices (located in Ukiah or Fort Bragg) or submitted electronically via our e-TRAKiT system.

 Please note that submittal of permit application materials via either method does not guarantee the issuance of the building permit being sought. It is important to ensure that all supplemental materials requested through our plan review process are proactively submitted for the fastest issuance process.

The Building Division can ONLY accept permit applications from the following:

• The property owner as an owner-builder
• A contractor licensed and bonded through the State of California
• An authorized agent for either the property owner or the contractor

Regardless of the permit type and method of submittal, all applications must have a fully completed Building Permit Application Form. A Building Permit Application Checklist is available, which provides additional requirements depending on what type of project is being undertaken.

A correctly submitted permit application cuts down on significant staff time for the plan review process by avoiding the need for staff to send out correction notices to the applicant, and therefore resulting in further delay of the intended project.

Each building application, regardless of the project type, requires the following information for the initial submittal:

Over-the-Counter permits (for projects eligible for same day issuance)

• One (1) permit application with all fields and the applicable declaration(s) completed. Incomplete applications will be rejected.
• One (1) copy of an 8 ½” x 11” plot/site plan

Examples of over-the-counter permits include, but are not limited to:

• Electrical
• Demolition
• Roofing/Re-roofing
• Residential Mechanical (HVAC, plumbing etc)
• Windows/Siding (replacing like for like)
• Minor interior remodels

All other project permits

 The above listed items, PLUS THE FOLLOWING:

• Three (3) copies of construction (building or grading) plans.
• Two (2) copies of construction plans stamped by Brooktrails Services District (if applicable)
• One (1) copy of Cal Fire application with preliminary approval (if applicable)
• Two (2) copies of Title 24 – Energy Compliance for conditioned space (if applicable)
• Two (2) copies of engineering calculations with “wet” signature (if applicable)
• Two (2) copies of erosion and sediment plans meeting Green Building Standards (Projects disturbing less than one (1) acre)

Mobile/Manufactured Home permits

The above listed items, PLUS THE FOLLOWING:

• Three (3) copies of Manufactured Home installation manual OR Manufactured Home block setup (office handout)
• Three (3) copies of Manufactured Home permanent foundation plans OR Manufactured Home engineered tie down system

The following may be required prior to permit issuance for new construction and demolition permits (if applicable, staff will advise at time of application):

• One (1) copy of local Fire Department approval
• One (1) copy of Air Quality approval
• One (1) copy of recycling ordinance approval
• One (1) copy “Class K” waiver form
• One (1) copy of current deed
• One (1) copy of school impact fees (Anderson Valley)
• One (1) copy of sewer district approval
• One (1) copy of water district approval
• One (1) copy of MS4 handout (if in MS4 area)

SWRCB Construction General Permit Coverage

• Projects that disturb one (1) acre or more or whose projects disturbs less than one (1) acre but are part of a larger common plan of development that in total disturbs one (1) or more acres, are required to obtain coverage under the General Permit for Discharges of Storm Water Associated with Construction Activity Construction General Permit Order 2009-0009-DWQ)

When are inspections required?

An issued building permit for an approved project will require at least one inspection by a building inspector in order for the project to receive a final permit status. However, depending on the project type and extent, multiple inspections may be required throughout various stages of the project, prior to receiving its final permit status.

In order to complete the permit process, you must obtain all necessary inspections and receive final approval to verify that your project has been constructed per the approved plans or the job description identified on your permit. You must schedule your first inspection within one (1) year of the date the permit was issued.

After the first inspection, you must obtain an inspection approval within 180 days from each previous inspection until your project is complete and has received final approval from the Building Inspector. If you are unable to meet the required inspection time frames, you may obtain a 180-day extension for your permit. A request for extension must be submitted (along with the associated fee) PRIOR to the expiration date of your permit. The request must be submitted in writing to the County Building Official for approval. Your permit may expire if you do not request inspections within the identified time frame, do not obtain permit extensions, or do not obtain final inspection approval. If your permit expires you must pay a re-instatement fee to re-activate your permit.

Mendocino County Planning & Building Department makes a concerted effort to complete all inspections requested in a timely manner on each day requested. We attempt to meet morning or afternoon requests, but this can only be verified by calling our office between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. the day of the inspection to verify your inspection time frame from staff or by visiting our website any time after 5pm at www.buildingmendocino.org Please keep in mind that inspectors must perform their routes in the manner that is most efficient. Do not call for an inspection until all of the work required for your inspection is completed. Your address must be posted in numbers 2 ½” to 4” high visible from the road, and the job copy of the plans and permit must be on the site for the inspector to review.

How to schedule an inspection

There are two ways you can schedule your inspection:

Automated Phone System

The automated inspection request line is available both during and after office hours. To schedule an inspection by phone, call:

• Ukiah: (707) 234 6650
• Fort Bragg: (707) 961 2677

Please have your site address and permit number ready when calling to schedule an inspection, and follow all prompts. The deadline to call for an inspection is 3:00pm THE DAY BEFORE.

 Online

You can also schedule your appointment online by using our eTrakit system.

Please note below the days we serve various areas of the County. An additional fee will be charged prior to serving an area that is not normally served on that day.

A larger version of the above map can be found by clicking here

RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

Permit Amnesty Program (EXTENDED TO DECEMBER 31, 2024)

• Amnesty Program News Release 
• Amnesty Program Flyer
• Amnesty Packet  (Not eligible for Code Enforcement violations)

Building (Application Forms)

• Agent/Applicant Authorization Form
• Agricultural Exempt Building Application
• Air Quality Asbestos Form for Demolition and Renovation
• Building Permit Application
• Building Permit Extension/Reinstatement Form (Fillable PDF)
• Building Permit Extension/Reinstatement Form (Printable)
• Building Request for Permit Information
• CalGreen Operation and Maintenance Manual
• Construction And Demolition Forms- Revised March 2015
• Electric Vehicle Charging Station Packet
• Electrical Service for Water Well Agreement
• Erosion Control Special Permit
• Generator Permitting Info Packet
• MS4 Over the Counter Form
• Pond Exemption Packet
• Revision/Recheck - Submittal Cover Sheet (required)
• Roofing Verification/Completion
• Self Certification for Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide

Building (Informational Handouts)

• Building Permit Application Checklist
• Building Permit Information with CO and Smoke Detector (Handout)
• Building Permit Frequently Asked Questions
• Building Permit Status Definitions
• Cargo Container (pre-manufactured metal shipping container) Conversion Policy
• Demolition of Multiple Structures
• Expedited Residential Rooftop Photovoltaic Systems - Review, Fees, & Inspections
• Fire Sprinkler Handout
• Ground Mount Solar Permit & Inspection Checklist (Policy #1)
• Guidelines for Online Permit Applications
• Housing Affordability Survey
• Plot Plan Requirements
• Quick Check Information - Revised 2019 (SUSPENDED)
• Reroofing Code Requirements
• Residential Additions Plan Submittal Requirements

CalFire

• CalFire Application- New
• Cal-Fire - Homeowners Summary of Fire Prevention and Loss Reduction Laws

Cannabis

• Cannabis Equity Fee Estimate Forms
• Cannabis Working Group FAQ's

Class K (Limited Density Rural Dwellings)

• Class K Legal Opinion 
• Class K Ordinance (MCC Chapter 18.23)
• Class K Waiver

Expedited Residential Rooftop Mounted Solar (For Solar PV Installations 10 kW or Less)

• #1 Application Guide
• #2 Eligibility Checklist
• #3 Standard Plan, Simplified Central/String Inverter Systems
• #4 Standard Plan, Simplified Microinverter and ACM Systems
• #5 Structural Criteria 

Greywater

• Graywater Reuse and Disposal
• Graywater System Guidelines for Outdoor Irrigation

Inspections

• Building Permit Inspection Procedure
• Checklist for FINAL Inspection
• Special Inspections Statement
• Special Inspection Recognized Agency List

Manufactured/Mobile Homes

• Manufactured/Mobile Home 433A Form (Must be submitted with Grant Deed)
• Manufactured/Mobile Home Booklet

COMMERCIAL PROJECTS

• Commercial Alterations/Additions Accessibility Worksheet
• Commercial Cannabis Greenhouse Permit Submittal Checklist Information
• Commercial Tenant Improvement Remodel/Alteration

How long will it take to process my permit application?

Our Plancheck process currently takes 6-8 weeks

Why do I need to include a plot plan with my permit application?

Most permit applications require a that a plot plan (also known as a site plan) be submitted. The information contained in the plot plan helps County staff in determining property setbacks, distances to other structures, septic tank and leach field location, as well as other information necessary to evaluate the application for consistency with County Codes. The plot plan also provides a record of improvements and/or changes for future owners/buyers/sellers.

What does "Class K" mean?

Class K is a relaxed construction standard available to owner-built rural dwellings and ap­purtenant structures intended "... to allow and facilitate the use of alternatives to the specifica­tions prescribed by the Uniform technical code to the extent that a reasonable degree of health and safety is provided..."

To qualify, the property must be zoned for a one acre or larger minimum lot size and the structure cannot exceed 2 1/2 stories. The fee to process the permit is the same for a Class K or Uniform Building Code structure. (Note: Class K does not apply to commercial, industrial or rented structures.)

I am just replacing the shingles/tiles on my roof, but not the sheathing underneath. Do I still need a permit?

Yes, a permit is required

Does the County have a Grading Ordinance?

Grading in Mendocino County is governed by Chapter 18.70 of the Mendocino County Code of Ordinances

Do I need to obtain a permit to grade my property?

Information on what requires a grading permit (and what is exempt) can be found in Section 18.70.30 of the Excavation and Grading Ordinance. If you are unsure whether a permit is required for your planned project, please contact the Building Division.

I noticed that School Impact Fees are included in the cost of my permit. I don't have any children in public schools, so why do I have to pay them?

School impact fees are established by the local school district and are assessed on new residential and commercial construction of 500 square feet or more, regardless of whether or not there are school age children in the household. School fees for residential construction apply only to living space; garages and workshops are exempt.

Do my plans have to be drawn by an architect or engineer?

In general, state law requires that plans for commercial or industrial projects be drawn by a licensed engineer or architect.  Other structures of a complex design or those not conforming to the California Building Code definition of conventional construction may also require plans by a licensed engineer or architect.

What are energy calculations, and why does my project require them? Who can I contact to get them done? 

An energy calculation or heat load calculation determines how much heating and cooling a home requires.  Any conditioned space requires energy calculations.  We are unable to recommend specific companies - you may wish to start with an online search for "energy calculations near me"

I want to install a generator in case the power goes out as a result of wildfires, or storms. Where can I find more information?

Portable or temporary generators NOT connected to a permanent wiring system do not require a permit. However, if you wish to install something more permanent, you can download our Generator Permitting Information Packet

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

• Informational Page

Fire Districts in Mendocino County

Mendocino County has a total of 23 fire agencies: 20 cities or districts, 2 volunteer departments, plus CalFire. Additionally, there are two Joint Powers Authorities (JPA) in the County, one in Ukiah and one in Fort Bragg. These JPAs provide fire services in both the incorporated and rural areas of Ukiah and Fort Bragg.

Four fire districts have the authority to review permits - Anderson Valley, Fort Bragg, Hopland, Little Lake and Ukiah. Follow the links below for more information.

Fire Responsibility Areas and Fire District Boundaries

A larger version of the above map can be found by clicking here

MS4 and Stormwater

• Informational page
• Stormwater Runoff Pollution Prevention Procedure (MCC Chapter 16.30)

Ukiah Area MS4 Stormwater Permitting Map

A larger version of this map can be found by clicking here

Fort Bragg Area Stormwater Permitting Map

A larger version of this map can be found by clicking here

Regulations

• Informational page