General Information
Permits required
The Uniform Building Code requires that no building or structure regulated by the code shall be erected, constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, improved, converted or demolished without first obtaining a separate building permit for each building or structure.

For the Building Permit Application, click here. The fields are editable in Adobe Reader, so you can type in your information, print the document, and bring it in when you apply for a permit.

For an owner to allow another person or agency to obtain permits for their property, they will need to fill out the Agent Authorization Form.

Contractors can now apply for their Building Permits Online! Learn more about Solano County's Online Building Permit System!


Some examples of projects requiring permits are as follows:
Permits Exempted
Some examples of work not requiring permits are:
  • One story detached accessory buildings used as tool and/or storage sheds or playhouses and under 120 square feet of floor area with no electric or plumbing within.
  • Fences not over 6 ft. in height.
  • Movable cases, counters and partitions not over 5 ft. 9 inches high.
  • Retaining walls under 4 ft. in height (including foundation)
  • Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R, Division 3 occupancy less than 5,000 gallons and setting above the adjacent grade.
  • Platforms, walks and driveways under 30" high.
  • Painting, papering and similar finish work.
  • Window awnings supported by an exterior wall of Group R, Division 3 or Group U occupancies wherein projecting not more than 54".
  • Water tanks less than 5,000 gallons when supported directly on grade.
Unless otherwise exempted by this code, separate plumbing, electrical and mechanical permits will be required for the above exempted items.
Required Drawings and Reports
Minimum Plan Checklist

Four (4) sets of the following drawings are required, if applicable:

Sheet Sizes/Scale - 8 1/2"x 11" or larger plan sheets are required. Plot plan scale to be sized to show overall property, if less than 1/8"/ft. scale, an enlargement of the building site to at least 1/8" scale is required. Detail is to be at least 1/2" scale, all other views a minimum 1/4" scale. Number each sheet, example: sheet 1 of 8, 2 of 8, etc.

Site Plan - This plan is a view of the entire property. Clearly show and dimension to scale all property lines, easements, setbacks, roads, drainage away from the building, existing structures, proposed structures, retaining walls, water well(s), septic system(s), LP tank(s), streams, north arrow, scale, owner name, name of person preparing plans and project address. Additions and/or areas of remodel shall be shaded and/or cross hatched in relation to overall building. Example of a Site Plan

Foundation Plan - Provide layout of foundation to scale. Show perimeter and interior bearing footings, slab, piers, stairs and fireplaces. Show details of each foundation section indicating size, reinforcement and sill plate attachment.

Floor Framing Plan - Provide sheathing thickness, size, grade, spacing and layout of all framing members. Provide wet stamped and signed manufactured truss plan(s) and layout if applicable. Show details of all connections, components, attachments, anchorage, etc.

Roof Framing Plan - Provide sheathing thickness, size, grade, spacing and layout of all framing members. Provide wet stamped and signed manufactured truss plan(s) and layout if applicable. Show details of all connections, components, attachments, anchorage, etc.

Floor Plan - Show all interior and exterior walls, doors, windows, stairways, fireplaces, closets, counters, attic/underfloor access, plumbing fixtures (water heaters, toilets, showers, tubs, sinks, dishwashers, clothes washer/dryer, stove top, oven, etc.). Show location and layout of HVAC system. Show all electrical outlets, switches, lights, smoke detectors and electric panel(s). For additions and alterations, graphically show new, existing, and removed components.

Elevations - Show the elevations being changed. Show all exterior features such as the style of the building, doors, windows, decks, finishes, patios, chimneys, trims, etc.

Energy Forms CF-1R -are required for all applicable projects including signatures and supporting calculations showing compliance. Forms shall be a permanent part of the plans and shall be signed by the owner and designer.

Soils Report -and analysis with foundation design criteria (foundation type, soil load limits, etc.) may be required for all new structures.

Example of Construction Plans