Almanac note · Home and property
Richmond building permits now start in iMS
Richmond has moved building permit applications to the iMS portal, and older eTRAKiT users can use the same email when setting up access.
Richmond building permit work now starts in iMS. That is worth knowing if you find an older page, email, or saved bookmark that still points you toward eTRAKiT.
For a home project, the first question is whether the job touches structure, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, roofing, demolition, or a bigger change to the building. Small repairs can still land in different lanes, so it is better to check before the work starts.
If you used eTRAKiT before, Richmond’s permit page points people toward registering in iMS with the same email. That helps connect older account history with the newer permit system.
Before you sit down to apply, gather the project address, owner or contractor information, and a short description of the work. For reroofing, planning review may need a photo of the existing roof. For remodels, additions, or tenant improvements, expect more plan detail.
The cleanest path is to start with the permit page, then use iMS once you know which project type fits.
Where to see it
Richmond Obtaining Permits page.
Official sources
Official source trail
Reviewed July 4, 2026
California Porch explains the path. The official source is still the place to confirm the current rule, fee, form, map, deadline, or office decision.
Use the official page before you spend money, file paperwork, rely on a deadline, or change a property.
Connected places
Where it fits on the map
Open a place page for the county layer, nearby places, and other California entries tied to that local page.
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