How to Apply for a Permit

How to Apply for a Permit

Who can apply? Both homeowners and contractors may apply for a building permit to construct an ADU/JADU.

Review the building permit submittal requirements. Download and review the Pre-Approved ADU Building Permit Checklist (for Pre-Approved ADUs) or the Residential Building Permit Checklist (for all other ADUs).

Contact utility districts. Contact the following utility districts to determine whether connection fees or line upsizing will be required for your project (see the permit checklists for when items are applicable and for timing).

Meet with a City planner (optional, but recommended). Make an appointment to meet with a city planner to ensure your project is compliant by emailing your request to zoning@cityofconcord.org. This is an optional step, but this cursory review may lead to an expedited approval.

Apply for a building permit. Apply for a building permit and submit the required documentation included in the Pre-Approved ADU Building Permit Checklist (for Pre-Approved ADUs) or the Residential Building Permit Checklist (for all other ADUs) via the City’s Virtual Permit Center.   Detailed instructions are available here for Pre-Approved ADUS and ADUS).

If you are building a JADU, a deed restriction is required to be recorded before a certificate of occupancy can be issued. Staff can provide you with instructions and the deed restriction form, which needs to be submitted to the Planning Division prior to building permit issuance.

Construction Guide. Find additional information that will assist applicants and contractors during construction of a new Pre-Approved ADU by clicking here.

Pay fees. Upon applying for a building permit, instructions will be sent on how to pay your application fee within five business days of submittal of your application.  Check our Permit Pal website for a fee estimate.  Pre-Approved ADUs will be assessed reduced plan review fees. These will be hourly fees for review of the site plan only.

How long does it take to obtain a permit? Permits are typically issued within 60 calendar days of submittal of a complete building permit application. Pre-Approved ADU permits are issued much faster because only the site plan requires review.

ADUs and JADUs are reviewed through the building permit process and do not require a public review process.  This means that if the proposed unit complies with all standards and requirements, then it will be approved by City staff.

Check the status of your building permit application (click here).