About building permits
Summary
New building projects can change the complexion of a neighborhood. In this section of EveryBlock, we publish recent building permits that have been filed (by applicants) and issued, so you can find out about projects near you.
The data, which comes from the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection, lets you find out whether the permit has been applied for or issued, when the action took place, where the project is located, the existing use, the proposed use and a description of the project.
Each permit also has a project type, such as new construction, major alterations or additions and demolition.
Source
This data comes from the Building Permits Filed and Issued and Demolition Permits Filed and Issued reports found in the Monthly Building Permit Activity Reports published by the Department of Building Inspection. The reports are published on the 15th of each month covering the previous calendar month. We at EveryBlock publish the data shortly thereafter.
What other resources can I use to find out more about permits?
The Department of Building Inspection offers an Online Permit and Complaint Tracking tool where you can search for permits and other documents if you have the exact location, permit number, or applicant name. You also can search for documents using a browsable city map.
The department provides several brochures and publications about the permitting process, including Getting a City Permit: A Guide to doing construction work in the city and county of San Francisco and a list of frequently asked questions.
Also available is a complete set of forms and checklists relating to building permits and the building department's lists of its internal divisions, with contact information. The sections include the Building Inspection Division, responsible for inspecting the construction of all new and existing buildings and structures, and the Code Enforcement Section, which investigates complaints of violations of the Building, Plumbing and Electrical Codes.
The department also provides steps for filing a complaint and requesting an inspection.
The department also provides a list of current fees for building work and a list of building codes.
