Permit & Inspection Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What published information can I get at the Permit Center that will help me with my project or permit?
A. The Permit Center maintains informational brochures and technical bulletins designed to assist you in understanding City requirements for various activities which require permits or review. The informational brochures are general information only. They are intended to briefly explain why a permit is required, when a permit is or is not required, what the permit is for from the standpoint of code compliance. They explain how one goes about getting a permit, who can apply for a permit, what exactly is needed to obtain a permit. They offer general information such as hours of operation, phone numbers and the address of the Permit Center. Some brochures will contain simplified application forms where needed. All brochures will refer you to related brochures and technical bulletins that may be necessary or helpful to your project.As indicated, informational brochures will tell you the exact technical bulletin(s) that you will need for the type of permit you are requesting. These bulletins have consolidated, as best as possible, information you or your contractor will need to put your plans together so the City can quickly approve them. These bulletins, often times, give you written examples in order to make it easier for you to provide the information we need.
In addition to the brochures and bulletins just described, the Permit Center will maintain copies of the Salinas Municipal Code, Salinas Zoning Ordinance, General Plan, Uniform Building Code(s), and Public Works Standard Construction Details, among other documents, for your review if desired. (certain documents are available for purchase),. In the future, we will provide two customer work stations, with limited access telephones in the lobby, and self-service on-line computer information services in order to make the permitting process more convenient and accessible.
Finally, if you cannot come to the Permit Center, you may call and ask that brochures or technical bulletins be mailed or faxed to you.
Q. Who should I call if I want brochures or technical bulletins mailed or faxed to me?
A. Please call the Permit and Inspection Services at (831) 758-7251. If you get voice-mail, please leave your request along with your mailing address or fax number and a telephone number. Be sure to speak slowly and clearly so we are able to get all the correct information.Q. What information should I bring with me to the Permit Center?
A. If you are seeking a permit for construction, you will need the following in addition to the information outlined in the informational brochures and technical bulletins:
- If you will be employing others, provide proof of workers' compensation coverage. (If you are a homeowner employing a licensed contractor, the Development and Permit Services Department recommends that you verify that the contractor has workers' compensation coverage for his or her employees.)
- If you are a contractor, provide a contractor's pocket card.
- If you are a contractor, provide a copy of your business license
issued by the City.Permit Specialists may ask for other necessary information, depending on the nature and complexity of your project.
Q. Which permits are not issued at the Permit Center?
A. There are many permits that continue to be issued by other departments and not through the Permit Center. If you have a question concerning which permits are issued, please call (831) 758-7251 or contact the specific department or ask the Permit Specialist for assistance.