Building Permits in San Leandro

San Leandro's Building & Safety Division administers building permits. Applications can be filed through the City's Online Permit Portal or at the Permit Center.

Codes

The City's current codes took effect January 1, 2026 and include the 2025 California Building, Residential, Electrical, Energy, Fire, Green Building, Mechanical and Plumbing Codes, with state and local amendments in San Leandro Municipal Code Title 7.

Permits, fees and review

The City says most building permits are based on project valuation. Its current valuation guidance includes labor and materials, while the current adopted fee schedule controls actual charges. Plan-check fees apply when a project requires plan review.

San Leandro currently tells applicants to allow 15–20 business days for initial plan review, depending on project complexity. This is published City guidance, not a statutory guarantee. The City also lists examples that can be issued without plan review, including reroofs, certain service upgrades/replacements and specified window/door or siding work; a permit may still be required.

Inspections and completion

Required inspections depend on the approved permit and scope. Final approval or a certificate of occupancy applies where required by code. Do not use a generic inspection sequence in place of the permit's required inspections.

Professional design

California professional-license and seal requirements depend on project type and statutory exemptions. The City's own guidance recommends design professionals for complex design issues but does not make a universal seal requirement for every permit.

Official sources

Use the City's current permit and fee pages before filing.