Remodeling a home can be an exciting endeavor, but it’s crucial to ensure all necessary permits are obtained before commencing any construction. Failing to do so can result in a range of consequences, from fines and project delays to legal action and difficulties selling the property. This research paper examines the ramifications of remodeling without a permit in Orinda, California, drawing exclusively from legal, city, and state resources.
Building Codes and Regulations in Orinda, CA
Orinda, California, adopts the 2022 California Building Code, Residential Code, Green Building Standards Code, Existing Building Code, and Energy Code 1. These codes provide comprehensive guidelines for construction projects, ensuring safety and compliance with building standards. The city contracts with Contra Costa County for building services, including permit issuance and inspections 2.
A building permit is required before any person, firm, or corporation can erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, or demolish any building or structure 2. This includes common remodeling projects such as:
- Additions
- Alterations
- Interior/exterior remodels
- Running new electrical, water, or gas lines
- Repairs
- Outdoor kitchens
- Pergolas
- Pavilions
- Decks
- Carports
- Garages
- Docks
- Pools
- Foundation repairs
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs)
- Solar installations
- Energy storage systems 3
However, certain projects do not require a building permit in Orinda. These include:
- Painting
- Wallpapering
- Replacing floor coverings
- Installing cabinets without altering the room layout
- Repaving driveways or walkways
- Installing fences 7 feet or under 4
Permit Requirements for Remodeling in Orinda, CA
The City of Orinda does not have its own building department and contracts with Contra Costa County for building services 2. The permit application process involves submitting an online application to the Contra Costa County Building Department through their ePermits Center 5. The application must include detailed plans that meet specific requirements, such as being in unsecured PDF format and showing the property address, scope, and current code cycle 5.
Anyone seeking to perform construction work can apply for a permit, including a licensed contractor, an owner-builder, or an authorized agent acting on behalf of the owner or contractor 3. If an authorized agent applies, they must submit a Building Permit Declaration form completed and signed by the property owner or licensed contractor to whom the permit will be issued 3.
In addition to the Building Department, projects may require review and approval from other agencies. The following table outlines the responsibilities of each agency:
| Agency | Responsibility |
Works cited
1. Chapter 15.08 – BUILDING CODE | Code of Ordinances | Orinda, CA – Municode Library, accessed March 12, 2025, https://library.municode.com/ca/orinda/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT15BUCO_CH15.08BUCO
2. Building Permits | Orinda, CA – City of Orinda, accessed March 12, 2025, https://www.cityoforinda.org/432/Building-Permits
3. FAQs • Who can pull a permit? – Contra Costa County, accessed March 12, 2025, https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/FAQ.aspx?QID=472
4. When is a Building Permit Required vs. Not Required in California – Top Home Builders, accessed March 12, 2025, https://tophomebuildersinc.com/when-is-a-building-permit-required-vs-not-required-in-california/
5. Applying for a New Building or Grading Permit | Contra Costa County, CA Official Website, accessed March 12, 2025, https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/7863/Applying-for-a-Building-or-Grading-Permi