SF Permits MCP Server

{ "source_id": "decision-tree-draft", "version": "0.1", "created_date": "2026-02-13", "description": "Draft 7-step decision tree mapping project descriptions to SF building permit requirements. Synthesized from G-20 routing matrix, permit forms taxonomy, in-house review process, and supplementary info sheets.", "data_sources": [ "tier1/G-20-routing.json (154 routing entries, 14 discussion rules)", "tier1/permit-forms-taxonomy.json (7 forms, selection logic)", "tier1/inhouse-review-process.json (11-step process, agency triggers)", "tier1/otc-criteria.json (12 no-plan + 24 with-plan + 19 not-OTC project types)", "tier1/completeness-checklist.json (13-section residential pre-plan check checklist)", "tier2/G-series/G-24.txt (G-23 ADU rules)", "tier2/G-series/G-26.txt (G-25 Restaurant FAQ)", "tier3/AB-004.txt (Priority Permit Processing)", "tier3/AB-032.txt (Site Permit Processing)", "tier4/sf-planning-code-full.txt (complete SF Planning Code, 222K lines)" ], "known_gaps": [ "GAP-1: RESOLVED — OTC criteria found at sf.gov/information--projects-eligible-over-counter-otc-permit (saved as otc-criteria.json)", "GAP-2: Fee calculation formulas (G-13 scanned, needs OCR)", "GAP-3: Timeline estimates (sparse data, needs Amy input)", "GAP-4: PARTIALLY RESOLVED — SF Planning Code ingested (222K lines, 12.6MB), needs indexing", "GAP-5: RESOLVED — Completeness checklist found at sf.gov PDF (saved as completeness-checklist.json)" ], "steps": { "step_1_need_permit": { "question": "Does this project need a building permit?", "description": "Determine if the proposed work requires a DBI building permit", "rules": { "permit_required": { "description": "Most construction work in SF requires a building permit", "examples": [ "Any structural work (walls, foundations, framing)", "Change of use or occupancy", "Electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work", "New construction of any kind", "Additions to existing buildings", "Demolition", "Signs (exterior)", "Grading, excavation, or fill", "Kitchen or bathroom remodel", "Window or door changes", "Deck construction or replacement", "Fire escape work", "Seismic retrofit", "ADU construction or legalization" ] }, "permit_may_not_be_required": { "description": "Very minor work may be exempt, but confirm with DBI", "examples": [ "Painting (interior only, no lead abatement)", "Cosmetic finishes (wallpaper, flooring replacement in-kind)", "Minor repairs (less than $500 value, same material)", "Furniture and non-structural fixtures" ], "warning": "Even seemingly minor work may require a permit in SF. When in doubt, call DBI at (415) 558-6088." } }, "separate_processes": { "description": "Some project types have their own permit processes outside standard DBI review", "types": [ { "type": "ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)", "process": "Separate ADU permit process with pre-approval application", "reference": "Detached ADU Pre-Approval Application, Info Sheet G-23" }, { "type": "Development Agreement project", "process": "Projects under Development Agreements follow negotiated timelines" }, { "type": "Affordable Housing", "process": "May qualify for priority processing per AB-004" }, { "type": "Fire sprinklers/alarms only", "process": "Separate fire permit, not standard building permit" } ] } }, "step_2_which_form": { "question": "Which permit application form is needed?", "description": "Select the correct DBI application form based on project type", "decision_logic": [ { "condition": "New construction (Type I, II, III, IV - non-wood)", "form": "Form 1 (via combined Form 1/2)", "notes": "Mark Form 1 checkbox on Form 1/2. Construction types: Fire-Resistive, Non-Combustible, Ordinary, Heavy Timber." }, { "condition": "New construction (Type V - wood frame)", "form": "Form 2 (via combined Form 1/2)", "notes": "Mark Form 2 checkbox on Form 1/2." }, { "condition": "Additions, alterations, or repairs to existing buildings (large scope)", "form": "Form 3 (via combined Form 3/8)", "notes": "Mark Form 3 checkbox. This is the 'pink form' — most building applications use this. Triggers In-House Review.", "review_type": "In-House Review" }, { "condition": "Small projects eligible for over-the-counter review", "form": "Form 8 (via combined Form 3/8)", "notes": "Mark Form 8 checkbox. For projects that can be reviewed over the counter or do not require plans.", "review_type": "OTC", "note": "See step_3_otc_or_inhouse for complete OTC eligibility lists (12 no-plan + 24 with-plan project types)" }, { "condition": "Sign installation or erection", "form": "Form 4/7", "notes": "For all signs including attached, monument, and post-mounted signs. Per Info Sheet G-04." }, { "condition": "Grading, excavation, fill, or quarry", "form": "Form 5", "notes": "For any earth-moving work." }, { "condition": "Demolition of existing building or structure", "form": "Form 6", "notes": "Often paired with Form 1/2 for new construction. Requires asbestos report per DBI rules. Requires BAAQMD Job Number for issuance per S-04." }, { "condition": "Detached ADU", "form": "Detached ADU Pre-Approval Application", "notes": "Separate application form for pre-approval of detached Accessory Dwelling Units." } ], "additional_forms_that_may_be_required": [ "Permit Applicant Disclosure and Certification form", "Licensed Contractor's Statement Form", "Final Declaration for Permit Issuance", "Owner-builder handout package (if no contractor)", "Demolition Affidavit Form (for demolitions — declares mortgage/deed holders notified)", "Disabled Access Upgrade Compliance Checklist (all commercial TI projects)", "San Francisco Green Building Form (GS1-GS6 depending on project type)", "SFPUC fixture count form (if adding plumbing fixtures or new water service)" ] }, "step_3_otc_or_inhouse": { "question": "Is this project eligible for OTC (over-the-counter) review, or does it require In-House Review?", "description": "Determines whether project can be reviewed at DBI counter (fast, same-day) or requires multi-agency in-house review (weeks-months). Source: sf.gov/information--projects-eligible-over-counter-otc-permit", "routing_criterion": { "rule": "Can plan review at each station be completed within approximately one hour?", "yes": "OTC eligible", "no": "In-House Review required", "caveat": "The one-hour rule is an implicit operational criterion, not formally codified. DBI can reassign any OTC application to in-house review if it lacks required details or contains conflicting/incorrect information.", "lists_are_non_exhaustive": true }, "otc_without_plans": { "description": "Simplest permits — no drawings required, issued same day. Use Form 8 (via Form 3/8).", "projects": [ "Re-roofing", "In-kind skylight replacement (same size and location) — must apply online through PermitSF", "In-kind repair decks and/or stairs (less than 50%)", "In-kind window replacement (same size and same location) — must apply online through PermitSF", "In-kind exterior siding repair and/or replacement — must apply online through PermitSF", "In-kind minor dry rot repair", "In-kind kitchen remodel (no changes to the floor plan or walls)", "In-kind bathroom remodel (no change to the floor plan or walls)", "In-kind replacement of garage doors (same size and same location)", "Exploratory work to determine depth of footing, stud size/spacing, floor/roof joist size and direction (holes filled with slurry, finishes replaced with same fire resistance rating)", "Replacement of wall finishes in R-3 occupancies complying with SFEBC Section 503.11.1", "Bolting down existing foundation and/or adding plywood panels to crawl space/1st floor garage area (NOT complying with DBI Info Sheet S-09)" ] }, "otc_with_plans": { "description": "Plans required, reviewed at counter stations in approximately one hour per station. Use Form 3 or Form 8 (via Form 3/8).", "projects": [ "Kitchen remodel (changing layout, floor plan or removing walls)", "Bathroom remodel (changing layout, floor plan or removing walls)", "Residential interior remodel (changing floor plans or removing walls)", "Repairing decks and/or stairs (more than 50%)", "New windows and/or exterior doors in new locations", "New skylights in new locations", "Decks less than 20 feet above grade that meet Planning Department setbacks", "Sign permits", "Single story non-structural commercial tenant improvement projects", "Permits to comply with accessibility requirements", "Installation of power door operators", "Voluntary structural strengthening", "Disability access barrier removal projects", "Small to medium projects that do not require Planning Department neighborhood notification", "Fences taller than 6 feet in side or rear yard and/or fences taller than 3 feet in front yard", "Exterior facade work, visible from street, that involves changes in finishes (e.g., stucco to siding, wood to vinyl)", "New mechanical equipment installed inside or outside the building", "Storefront security gates (excluding some preservation districts)", "Residential security gates at entry doors and/or window security bars, grills, and/or grates", "Replacement of wall finishes in occupancies other than R-3", "New washer, dryer, and/or laundry sink hookups in new/existing areas within existing building", "In-kind replacement of garage slab (no ceiling height changes) — saw-cutting SOG to repair/replace sewer lines does not require plans", "Brace and bolt per DBI Information Sheet S-09", "Removal of Underground Storage Tanks" ] }, "not_otc_requires_inhouse": { "description": "These projects MUST go through In-House Review — cannot be processed over the counter. Source: official sf.gov OTC page.", "projects": [ "Change of use tenant improvements involving Family Day Care, 'E' occupancies, and Laboratory uses", "Serial permitting that continues to increase the scope of the initial remodel", "Foundation replacements and/or seismic upgrades when there is a prior permit for further expansion under review", "Projects in hillside or landslide areas requiring geotechnical report, third-party engineering review, or SAC review (incl. earthquake-induced landslide zones, NW Mount Sutro, Edgehill Mountain)", "Excavation projects that expand the below-grade footprint", "Extensive residential remodels that change gravity load-carrying members", "Extensive residential remodels that require mandatory seismic upgrade on all levels", "Special (non-conventional) foundation systems including tie backs, deep foundations, and/or complex shoring systems", "Extensive commercial tenant improvements that change gravity load-carrying members", "Tower Crane installation permits", "Adding and/or removal of units", "ADU or unit legalization", "Advertising Billboard removal", "Change of use from partial restaurant to full restaurant", "Housing projects", "MOU projects", "Revision permit to remove sprinkler from Issued Building Permit", "Revision to Site permit", "Creation and/or legalization of one or more housing units" ], "additional_from_practice": [ "New construction", "Additions and expansions", "Exterior work on Historic Resource Buildings", "Roof deck construction", "Windscreens over 42 inches", "New stairs, decks, and firewalls exceeding 10 feet in height", "Change of occupancy", "Interior remodels involving demolition of more than 75% of interior walls" ] }, "otc_to_inhouse_conversion": { "url": "https://www.sf.gov/step-by-step--convert-your-over-counter-building-permit-application-house-review", "rule": "An OTC application can be required to convert to In-House Review at any time if it lacks required details or contains conflicting or incorrect information" }, "inhouse_review_details": { "timeline": "4+ weeks for DBI review after Planning approval. Larger scopes take longer.", "review_agencies": [ "DBI (Building Inspection)", "Planning Department", "DPW (Public Works)", "SFPUC (Public Utilities)", "SFFD (Fire Department)", "DPH (Public Health)", "OCII (Community Investment)", "Department of Environment" ], "completeness_checklist": "See tier1/completeness-checklist.json for 13-section residential pre-plan check checklist", "escalation": "Completeness reviews requiring 3 rounds get escalated to DBI supervisor" }, "full_vs_site_permit": { "description": "For In-House Review, choose between Full Permit or Site Permit process", "full_permit": { "description": "Condensed process, preferred by most customers", "initial_submittal": "Architectural, Structural, Mechanical/Electrical plans + Title 24", "payments": "Two: initial filing fee + issuance fee" }, "site_permit": { "description": "Iterative design/engineering, often for projects > $25M", "initial_submittal": "Architectural plans only", "payments": "Minimum four: filing fee, issuance fee, addendum submittal fee, addendum issuance fee", "process": "Addenda submitted after site permit issuance per approved schedule", "reference": "Administrative Bulletin AB-032 (Site Permit Processing)" }, "key_rule": "Cannot switch between Full and Site Permit without resubmitting application" } }, "step_4_agency_routing": { "question": "Which City agencies must review this permit application?", "description": "Based on the G-20 routing matrix (154 scope-of-work entries), determines which agencies review the permit. Routing varies by project scope, location, and building characteristics.", "agencies": { "PLANNING": { "full_name": "Planning Department (City Planning - Zoning Counter)", "common_triggers": [ "Change of use or occupancy", "New construction", "Exterior changes visible from public way", "Ground floor or street-level commercial work", "ADU creation", "Demolition", "Most work in historic districts" ], "conditional_triggers": [ "Interior tenant improvement at ground/street or second floor (#)", "Siding replacement visible from street (#)" ], "pre_approval": "Many projects require Planning zoning approval BEFORE building permit submission. In OCII areas, route to OCII instead." }, "BLDG": { "full_name": "DBI Architectural and Structural Plan Review", "common_triggers": "Almost all permitted work requires BLDG review", "conditional_triggers": [ "HVAC work over 400 lbs per unit (^)", "Work involving structural elements" ] }, "MECH_MECH_E": { "full_name": "DBI Mechanical Plan Review / Electrical Plan Review", "common_triggers": [ "New HVAC systems", "Kitchen hoods", "Elevator work", "Electrical system changes", "Commercial tenant improvements" ], "conditional_triggers": [ "MECH only for certain work types (#)", "HVAC over 400 lbs triggers MECH (^)" ] }, "SFFD": { "full_name": "San Francisco Fire Department", "common_triggers": [ "Group A-2 occupancy (>49 occupants)", "High-rise buildings (occupied floors >75ft)", "Kitchen hoods Type 1 (grease)", "Fire alarm/sprinkler work", "New construction (fire flow analysis)" ], "conditional_triggers": [ "Any SFFD-regulated occupancy: High-rise, A, E, H, I, L, or R except R-3 (*)", "R2 occupancy with construction cost $99K+ (per G20-M)", "Occupant load greater than 49" ], "exceptions": [ "Kitchen/bath no-plan permit: skip SFFD unless cost >$99K in R2 (per G20-J)" ] }, "BSM": { "full_name": "DPW Bureau of Street-Use and Mapping", "common_triggers": [ "Work in public right-of-way", "Curb cuts", "Awnings/canopies with posts in right-of-way", "Street space during construction", "Sidewalk work", "New openings for food service (pass-thru windows)" ], "conditional_triggers": [ "Hood/cooking exhaust in food/beverage facilities (+)", "Improvements at building entry/exit points adjacent to public right-of-way (^)" ], "exemptions_per_g20": [ "Element affixed to building ≤4 inches into Public Way", "Minor utility fixtures authorized by previous permit", "Permit exclusively for accessibility compliance" ] }, "PUC": { "full_name": "Public Utility Commission (SFPUC)", "common_triggers": [ "New water service connections", "Stormwater management (5,000+ sq ft impervious surfaces)", "Water reuse systems (40,000+ sq ft projects)", "Non-potable water systems" ], "conditional_triggers": [ "Projects adding plumbing fixtures (Ø)" ] }, "DPH": { "full_name": "Department of Public Health", "triggers_per_g20_rule_c": [ "New construction/remodel of buildings under DPH programs", "Retail projects involving Food Facility", "Medical Cannabis Dispensing facilities (DPH first, then Planning)", "Soil disturbance of 50+ cubic yards in Maher Area", "Soil disturbance of any volume in Health Code Article 31 Area", "Dust control for projects >0.5 acre" ], "exception": "Do NOT route Article 38 (enhanced ventilation) construction plans to DPH" }, "OCII": { "full_name": "Office of Community Investment and Infrastructure", "trigger": "Projects in OCII areas route to OCII INSTEAD of Planning (per G20-E)", "note": "OCII is last station to review. Reviews all permit addenda." }, "PW_DAC": { "full_name": "DPW Office of Disability Access Coordinator", "triggers": [ "Site permit and architectural addendum for new construction, alteration, addition, or change in occupancy/use", "Any City project or project receiving public funds", "City-owned or leased property projects" ] }, "CON_BOND": { "full_name": "Controller's Office (Construction Bond)", "trigger": "Multi-residential building increasing unit count by 10+ (per G20-N)", "exceptions": [ "Development Agreement projects", "Publicly-funded projects", "Projects with established Labor Agreement" ] } }, "routing_categories": { "exterior_work": { "description": "Work affecting building exterior or visible from outside", "example_scopes": [ "ATMs", "Awnings/Marquees/Canopies", "Cellular antennas", "Curb cuts", "Decks", "Demolition", "Doors/Windows", "Fire escapes", "Foundations", "Garages", "New construction", "Penthouses", "Re-roofing", "Seismic retrofit", "Signs", "Solar/PV", "Stairs", "Storefronts" ] }, "interior_work": { "description": "Work primarily affecting building interior", "example_scopes": [ "Bars/Night clubs", "Cannabis retail", "Change of use", "Commercial kitchens", "Elevator", "HVAC", "Institutions", "Kitchen additions/removals", "Kitchen hoods", "Laundry rooms", "Live/Work", "Massage establishments", "Medical offices", "Mezzanines", "Nail spas", "Tenant improvements" ] }, "work_with_no_plans": { "description": "Smaller projects that may not require full plan sets — potential OTC candidates", "example_scopes": [ "Emergency panel/fire alarm replacement", "Furnace replacement in-kind", "Garage door replacement in-kind", "Kitchen/bath remodel (no structural, no new fixtures)", "Deck repair in-kind (<50%)", "Stair repair in-kind (<50%)", "Siding replacement in-kind", "Re-roofing (simple)", "Window replacement in-kind", "Voluntary seismic anchor bolts" ] }, "others": { "description": "Special categories including health/environmental triggers, city property, and compliance items", "example_scopes": [ "Maher Area soil disturbance", "Health Code Article 31 areas", "Physical Inspection Report legalization", "Lot split/merger", "Cannabis cultivation", "City-owned property projects" ] } } }, "step_5_required_docs": { "question": "What documents and plans are required for submission?", "description": "Documents required vary by form type and project scope", "universal_requirements": [ { "document": "Completed permit application form (appropriate Form 1/2, 3/8, 4/7, 5, or 6)", "details": "Must be filled out completely with accurate project description" }, { "document": "Construction plans (PDF for electronic plan review)", "details": "Prepared by licensed architect or engineer. All plan sets must include a Back Check page.", "exceptions": "Some 'Work with No Plans' categories per G-20 may not require plans" }, { "document": "Permit Applicant and Authorized Agent form", "details": "Must be signed by property owner" }, { "document": "Title 24 Energy forms", "details": "Per info sheets M-03, M-04, M-08. Exceptions per M-06." }, { "document": "San Francisco Green Building Form", "details": "GS1-GS6 depending on project type" } ], "conditional_requirements": [ { "document": "Planning Department approval letter", "trigger": "Projects requiring Planning review (most exterior work, change of use)", "notes": "Must be obtained BEFORE building permit submission" }, { "document": "OCII approval letter", "trigger": "Projects in OCII areas (instead of Planning)" }, { "document": "Disabled Access Compliance Checklist", "trigger": "All commercial tenant improvement projects, projects in existing commercial buildings" }, { "document": "Geotechnical report", "trigger": "Hillside properties, safe construction concerns" }, { "document": "Asbestos report", "trigger": "Demolition permits (required BEFORE application)" }, { "document": "Fire flow study", "trigger": "New construction or projects adding new floor area", "agency": "SFFD" }, { "document": "Stormwater Management Plan", "trigger": "Creating/replacing 5,000+ sq ft impervious surfaces (combined sewer) or 2,500+ (separate sewer)", "agency": "SFPUC" }, { "document": "SFPUC fixture count form", "trigger": "Adding faucets, toilets, plumbing fixtures, or new water service" }, { "document": "Acoustical report", "trigger": "New residential buildings" }, { "document": "Construction Waste Management tracking", "trigger": "New construction, commercial additions 1,000+ sq ft, commercial remodels $200K+, full demolitions" }, { "document": "Maher Ordinance site assessment", "trigger": "50+ cubic yards soil disturbance in Maher area or any soil in Article 31 area" }, { "document": "Demolition Affidavit Form", "trigger": "Demolition permits — declares mortgage/deed holders notified" }, { "document": "Street Space Permit", "trigger": "Using sidewalk during construction", "agency": "BSM" }, { "document": "Comprehensive Master Sign Plan (CMSP)", "trigger": "Signs on new buildings (2 copies with Form 3/8)", "reference": "Info Sheet G-04" } ], "plan_format": { "submission": "Electronic PDF via building permit application portal", "minimum_size": "11x17 inches", "copies": "2 sets for most applications", "prepared_by": "Licensed architect or engineer (required for all permit plans)", "include": "Back Check page in all plan sets" } }, "step_6_timeline": { "question": "How long will the permit process take?", "description": "Timeline estimates based on available data. SIGNIFICANT GAP — most timelines are not published by DBI.", "gap_warning": "GAP-3: DBI does not publish standard processing timelines. These estimates are derived from scattered references in info sheets and should be verified with Amy.", "estimates": { "otc_review": { "description": "Over-the-counter review", "estimate": "Same day to 1-2 weeks", "notes": "Simple projects may be approved while you wait. Some OTC projects may take additional review time." }, "inhouse_review_small": { "description": "In-house review for smaller scope of work", "estimate": "4-8 weeks after Planning approval", "notes": "Per G-25 Restaurant FAQ: 'smaller scopes of work may qualify to be reviewed and potentially approved over-the-counter while you wait'" }, "inhouse_review_standard": { "description": "Standard in-house review", "estimate": "8-16 weeks", "notes": "Includes multiple agency reviews. May be longer if comments require multiple revision rounds." }, "conditional_use_permit": { "description": "Projects requiring Conditional Use permit from Planning", "estimate": "3+ months for Planning review alone (per G-25 Restaurant FAQ)", "notes": "Requires public hearing. Neighborhood notification may also be required." }, "site_permit": { "description": "Site Permit process (large projects, typically >$25M)", "estimate": "Months to years depending on project complexity", "notes": "Iterative process with multiple addenda. Per AB-032." }, "priority_processing": { "description": "Priority permit types per AB-004", "categories": [ "Emergency work for health/safety", "City-owned/leased property work", "Disabled access improvements only", "Clean energy systems only (solar, ESS, EV charging, wind)", "Telecommunications facilities", "Voluntary/mandatory seismic upgrades", "Historic building maintenance/preservation", "Creating new dwelling units", "HOME-SF program projects" ], "notes": "Priority applications may be given priority assignment for plan review and issuance per AB-004." } }, "process_notes": { "completeness_review": "3 rounds of incomplete evaluations → escalated to DBI supervisor", "comment_rounds": "3 rounds of comments/revisions → escalated to DBI supervisor", "cal_osha": "Cal OSHA Industrial Safety Permit may be required for buildings >36ft/3 stories or trenches/excavations 5+ ft deep" } }, "step_7_fees": { "question": "What fees will be required?", "description": "Fee information based on available data. SIGNIFICANT GAP — detailed fee schedules are in G-13 (scanned, needs OCR).", "gap_warning": "GAP-2: Complete fee calculation requires Info Sheet G-13 which is a scanned PDF (0 chars extracted). Fees are percentage-based on construction cost per SFBC Section 110A.", "fee_structure": { "filing_fee": { "description": "Initial filing fee paid when submitting application", "calculation": "Based on estimated construction cost per DBI fee schedule", "reference": "www.sfdbi.org/fees → 'Alteration Building Permit' under 'Permit Fee Tables'" }, "issuance_fee": { "description": "Paid when permit is approved and ready for issuance", "calculation": "Based on construction cost, adjusted per DBI Cost Schedule" }, "site_permit_fees": { "description": "Site Permit process has minimum 4 payment stages", "payments": [ "Filing fee", "Issuance fee", "Addendum submittal fee", "Addendum issuance fee" ] }, "school_impact_fee": { "description": "SFUSD-levied fee for projects increasing commercial floor area", "trigger": "Any project that increases floor area for commercial occupancies", "timing": "Must be paid PRIOR to permit issuance", "reference": "Info Sheet G-11" }, "other_potential_fees": [ "Planning Department review fees", "SFFD plan review fees", "DPW street permit fees", "Green building compliance fees", "Electrical permit fees (separate)", "Plumbing permit fees (separate)", "Mechanical permit fees (separate)" ] }, "cost_note": "DBI may adjust proposed construction cost according to latest edition of DBI Cost Schedule. Consult licensed professional for accurate estimates." } }, "special_project_types": { "restaurant_change_of_use": { "description": "Opening a new restaurant (change of use to restaurant)", "source": "G-25 Restaurant FAQ (tier2/G-series/G-26.txt)", "process": [ "Step 1: Visit Planning Department first to confirm zoning allows restaurants at site", "Step 2: Some neighborhoods prohibit additional sit-down restaurants but may allow counter-service", "Step 3: If Conditional Use required: 3+ months, public hearing, neighborhood notification", "Step 4: After Planning approval, apply for building permit", "Step 5: Plans required — prepared by licensed architect/engineer, 2 sets minimum", "Step 6: SFFD review triggered if Group A-2 occupancy (>49 occupants) or building >75ft", "Step 7: Accessibility (Chapter 11B) requirements triggered for alteration/structural repair", "Step 8: Seismic retrofit triggered if >10% increase in building occupant load AND >100 person increase", "Step 9: Separate sign permit (Form 4/7) after building permit issued", "Step 10: Separate electrical and plumbing permits (building permit Form 3/8 should indicate both needed)" ], "costs": "Permit fee is percentage of construction cost per SFBC Section 110A. School Impact Fee may apply per G-11.", "forms_needed": ["Form 3/8", "Form 4/7 (for sign)", "Electrical permit", "Plumbing permit"] }, "adu_construction": { "description": "Accessory Dwelling Unit construction or legalization", "source": "Info Sheet G-23 (referenced, partially in tier2)", "key_rules": [ "Separate ADU permit process with pre-approval application for detached ADUs", "Planning Department review required", "May qualify for priority processing per AB-004 (creating new dwelling units)" ] }, "seismic_retrofit": { "description": "Seismic upgrade or soft-story retrofit", "source": "G-20 routing matrix", "routing": "Routes to PLANNING, BLDG, and conditionally SFFD", "priority": "Qualifies for priority processing per AB-004", "notes": "Voluntary anchor bolt installation at first story of wood-frame may be OTC (no plans)" }, "commercial_tenant_improvement": { "description": "Interior tenant improvement for commercial space", "source": "G-20 routing matrix", "routing": { "PLANNING": "Required on ground/street level or second floor (#)", "BLDG": "Required (X)", "MECH_MECH_E": "Required (X)", "SFFD": "Conditional — SFFD-regulated occupancy (*)", "BSM": "Conditional — entry/exit improvements adjacent to right-of-way (^)", "PUC": "Conditional — adding plumbing fixtures (Ø), OCII areas only (//)" }, "disabled_access": "Disabled Access Compliance Checklist required for all commercial TI projects" }, "adaptive_reuse": { "description": "Commercial-to-Residential Adaptive Reuse", "source": "G-29 (found in tier2/S-series/S-03.txt, 34K chars)", "notes": "Detailed guidelines for converting commercial buildings to residential use. Full content available in knowledge base." }, "solar_clean_energy": { "description": "Solar PV, Energy Storage Systems, EV Charging", "source": "G-20 routing matrix + AB-004", "routing": "Varies by system type — rooftop solar typically routes to BLDG and potentially PLANNING", "priority": "Qualifies for priority processing per AB-004 (clean energy supply systems)" } }, "pre_application_checklist": { "description": "Pre-application requirements that must be completed BEFORE submitting building permit", "items": [ { "requirement": "Planning zoning approval", "agency": "Planning Department", "trigger": "Projects requiring Planning review", "action": "Visit Planning at 1660 Mission St, 1st Floor, or call (415) 558-6377" }, { "requirement": "OCII approval (if in OCII area)", "agency": "OCII", "trigger": "Projects in OCII areas", "action": "Receive letter from OCII instead of Planning" }, { "requirement": "Water reuse system design", "agency": "SFPUC", "trigger": "Projects creating 40,000+ sq ft of space (100,000+ sq ft requires onsite reuse)" }, { "requirement": "Stormwater Management pre-application meeting", "agency": "SFPUC", "trigger": "Creating/replacing 5,000+ sq ft impervious surfaces (combined sewer) or 2,500+ (separate)", "contact": "stormwaterreview@sfwater.org" }, { "requirement": "Fire flow study", "agency": "SFFD", "trigger": "New construction or adding new floor area" }, { "requirement": "Construction Waste tracking setup", "agency": "Department of Environment", "trigger": "New construction, commercial additions 1,000+ sq ft, commercial remodels $200K+, full demolitions" }, { "requirement": "Public Right-of-Way permit", "agency": "DPW/BSM", "trigger": "Work within public right-of-way", "contact": "BSMPermitDivision@sfdpw.org" }, { "requirement": "Maher Ordinance site assessment", "agency": "DPH", "trigger": "50+ cubic yards soil disturbance in Maher area or any volume in Article 31 area" }, { "requirement": "Asbestos report", "agency": "DBI", "trigger": "Demolition permits" }, { "requirement": "Valid address confirmation", "agency": "DBI", "action": "Confirm property has valid address via SF Property Information Map" }, { "requirement": "Labor Compliance Bond", "agency": "Controller's Office", "trigger": "Projects creating 10+ units of housing" } ] } }