A building permit is required for all single-family dwellings and duplexes.

Chapter 19 of the Chula Vista Municipal Code (the Zoning Ordinance) applies to the use and location of all structures, including those not requiring a building permit. All new structures must therefore be reviewed by the Planning Division to ensure the structure meets the requirements of the zone. Please check with Planning staff to ensure your proposed structure meets all standards, such as setbacks from property lines and adjacent structures, allowable height, and lot coverage.

Any required discretionary approvals (Design Review, Conditional Use Permit, etc.) must be in place before applying for a building permit.  Please check with the staff at our Permit Counter or contact us with any questions prior to submittal.

Submit a complete application package, including:

1. A completed New Single & Multi-Family Worksheet (4611)
2. Plot/Site Plan showing the general layout of the building site, location of new and existing buildings, retaining walls and other structures.
3. Construction plans and details, including but not limited to:
   1. Title sheet
   2. Site plan
   3. Foundation plan
   4. Floor plan
   5. Elevations
   6. Roof plan
   7. Cross sections
   8. Framing plans
   9. Details and other applicable plans as listed in the New Single & Multi-Family Worksheet (4611)
4. Other Documents
   1. Soils Report
   2. Title 24 energy compliance documentation (Certificate of Compliance sheets shall be reproduced on actual plan sheets)
   3. Structural analysis/calculations
   4. Engineered trusses layout and details (if roof/floor trusses are used)
   5. Single line diagram for electrical services over 200 amps
   6. Storm Water Requirements Applicability Checklist

Please see our Project Submittal Page for current application procedures.

Once the building permit is issued, you can start construction. At certain stages of construction, you must schedule inspections. The following list represents the sequence of required inspections for a typical new single-family dwelling or duplex:

• Underground plumbing and electrical
• Foundation
• Roof nailing
• Exterior wall construction
• Interior framing and rough trades (electrical, plumbing, mechanical)
• Drywall nailing
• Lath nailing
• Gas pressure test
• Final Inspection

Schedule an Inspection 

For a list of detailed information on what is to be completed for each inspection see our Single-Family Dwelling and Room Addition Inspection Information.

After all required inspections are approved and required approvals from other divisions are obtained, our Building Inspector will sign-off the Inspection Card and notify the utility company to release the electric meter.

• Residential Plot Plan Guide (4595)
• Fee Information

At permit application, you will be required to pay Building Permit fees (Intake & Plan Check fees). Building Permit fees are based on occupancy type, construction type, and square footage.

At permit issuance, you will be required to pay Building Inspection fees, Fire Sprinkler fees, State Seismic and Building Code fees, Residential Construction Tax, and Sewer fees.

School fees are also due prior to issuance. DSD staff will prepare a Certificate of Compliance (school fee letter) that you will take to each of the local school districts for payment. The signed Certificate must be submitted to the City prior to or at permit issuance.

New construction projects are also required to pay Development Impact Fees.