California note
San Francisco property questions start at the city counter
For a San Francisco property project, start with the Permit Center. It brings several permit desks into one place, including Planning, Building Inspection, Public Works, and Fire.
Give staff the address and the full list of work. A kitchen remodel, room addition, new use, sign, or sidewalk job may take a different path. Some simple jobs can get over-the-counter review if the work is on the city’s list and the right plans and forms are ready.
One front door does not mean one permit covers it all. Planning may check land use or design. Building Inspection checks building-code work. Fire or Public Works may have a part too. The Permit Center helps you learn which desk comes first. Before you go, check the official page for current hours, visit rules, needed forms, and the list of projects.
Official sources
Official pages
Reviewed July 22, 2026
Current rules, forms, fees, deadlines, maps, and office instructions.
Rules, forms, fees, deadlines, and office procedures can change. Check the current page before you file, pay, or rely on a date.
Connected places
Open the local directory
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