SJPermits FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about using SJPermits.org

Which permits are available online at SJpermits.org?

For Building permits, see Online Building Permits.
For Planning Permits, see Planning Online Permits.
For Public Works permits, see Public Works Online Permits.
For Fire permits, see Fire Online Permits.

WHO CAN APPLY FOR PERMITS AT SJPERMITS.ORG?

Fire Prevention: The permit subtypes available on SJPermits will be filtered by the contractor’s license class.

Building Permits: Only property owners and qualified contractors are allowed to apply for Self-Serve permits on SJPermits.org. Contractors are only allowed to apply for building permits that align with their Contractor’s License classification type. Business entities such as contractors will also need a valid City of San Jose Tax Certificate to be able to apply.

What are the system requirements for using SJPermits.org?

Permits Online works with most browsers, however please be aware of the following:

Browsers: SJPermits.org has been tested with Chrome, Safari, and Firefox browsers. Internet Explorer is recommended for inspection scheduling. The minimum browser versions for use of SJPermits.org are:

IE 10+
Edge 13+
Firefox 42+
Chrome 48+
Safari 7.1+
Opera 37+

Mobile Devices: SJPermits works with most mobile devices. The minimum operating system version recommended are:

iOS Safari 7.1+
Android Browser 4.4+
Chrome Mobile 48+

QUESTIONS ON SETTING UP YOUR ACCOUNT

How do I set up an account on SJPermits.org so that I can apply for a permit?
To apply for an online permit, you first need to register and create an account. Visit the Login page to get started. See also the SJPermits Account Setup Guide.
How do I get an extension for my Building Permit?
If permit has not expired yet and this is your first request to extend your permit expiration, please contact the Call Center at 408-535-3555 and request an extension. Please see How to Extend or Refile a Building Permit.
I’m a contractor with more than one contractor class. How do I set up my account?
Contractors can now designate more than one Contractor’s License Class on their SJPermits.org account. You can designate your multiple license classes during the Account Set Up, or for an existing account, you can update your license classes by using Update Personal Info. If you have a B Class license, that currently allows the full range of available Online Permits.
As a contractor, do I need a separate account for my personal property?
Yes. To get a permit for your personal property, you should create a separate account without including your Contractor’s License Number/Class. You will need to use a different email address for each of your SJPermits accounts.

QUESTIONS ON USING FEATURES

What is a Sub Trade Permit?
A Sub Trade Permit is the common wording for a permit pertaining only to Plumbing, Electrical, and Mechanical fixtures, for example a Water Heater or Furnace replacement. Please watch this video that walks you through the steps on how to obtain a Sub Trade Permit online.
Can I schedule an inspection online?
Yes, if you have a permit, you can use the online Schedule Inspection feature. You will need your Customer Identification Number or Rapid Service Number (RSN), which is on the Permit Record card and on your account in SJPermits.org. You can find information about inspection requirements at the Inspection Information webpage.
How do I confirm if my property is in the City of San José’s jurisdiction?
Go to SJPermits.org and tap “Permits & Property Information.” Enter your address. On the next screen, click “Select” by your property address. A list of property descriptions will appear. At the “Incorporated” data field, “yes” means the property is in the city boundary; “no” means it is in a different jurisdiction. We base our data on information provided by the Office of the Assessor, County of Santa Clara. You can also go to the Office of the Assessor website, enter your address, and view the data for “School District/Tax Rate Area.” Properties in San José are notated with 017, for example: “TAX RATE AREA INFORMATION 017-057”

Customers may use Public Information Searches in Online Permit Services to look up this information. However, this data is based on what we receive from the Office of the Assessor, County of Santa Clara.
Steps to use Online Permits Public Search to determine City of San Jose Jurisdiction
1. Direct link to Public Information Searches
2. Use the Property Search function to locate and select the property you wish to review.
3. Review the PROPERTY INFO codes and locate the description “Other Jurisdiction”. Properties within the City’s jurisdiction will indicate “San Jose” or “No”, etc. Unincorporated areas are under jurisdiction of the County.
How do I change my Account Login email address?
If you are verifying your email account for the first time, you may update your email address while setting up your account. If your account has already been set up, you are not able to update your email address as it is the identifier for your account. The only way to change your account email address is by setting up a new account.
On the My Services page, what do the status fields mean?

Application Status – This field indicates the status of your online application. The status options are In-Progress, Submitted, and Cancelled:
- In-Progress: Your application has not yet been submitted or paid for.
- Submitted: Your application has been submitted. If you a Building Self-Served application, you will have this status when your permit is paid for and you have access to your Job Card, invoice, and inspection scheduling.
- Cancelled: You have opted to cancel your application prior to submission and payment.
Status – This field is the City’s processing status. The status and definition is dependent on the Permit Type and Division that is reviewing your application. For more information please check the How to Check your Permit Status webpage.
How do I complete a permit application that is “In-Progress”?

If you have started the permit application process and your status is “Pending” or “In-Progress,” go to My Services and select Folder Details. Select the Detail button for the permit you wish to continue. At the top of the My Services Details screen, select Continue to Submit Application. This will take you back to the permit application process and allow you to complete your permit.
Where do I add Solar Photovoltaic System installations on a single-family home?
At My Services, when you click on Apply for New Permit, select Solar Installation or Stationary Storage Battery under Application Type. Then select 1 & 2 Family Residential under Sub Type and Photovoltaic under Work Type.
How do I get an online permit for a Stationary Storage Battery?
A permit for a photovoltaic system with storage batteries requires special preapproval on file. For more information, email BuildingPermits@sanjoseca.gov. If you would like to apply for a Stationary Storage Battery System, please visit Permit Services & Virtual Appointments.
How do I complete my Residential Occupancy Permit Renewal and Certification?
See the 2021 Guide for easy-to-follow instructions. Read more about the Multiple Housing Inspection Program and the Residential Occupancy Permit Renewal.
Where can I find information about the business tax license?
Go to the Business Tax & Registration page.
I still have questions. Who can I contact?

For further information, submit a question here.