guide to getting a Building Permit for Home ... - Berkeley, California€¦ · and plant debris for...

to getting a Building Permit for

BERK

ELEY

’S

2008

guideHome Remodeling

BEST BUILDERSA program of the City of Berkeley

Green Building Initiative

Green Remodeling: Smart Ideas for Home ImprovementWhether doing it yourself or hiring a professional, green remodeling measures will make your home healthier and more comfortable, save on utility bills, and improve resale values. While you can take steps to green your home any time, remodels offer opportunities to go deeper and make even more rewarding improvements. Retrofitting existing homes to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions is a critical component of the City of Berkeley’s Measure G, Climate Action Campaign.

Energy Efficiency: Improved comfort and lower energy billsAn energy-efficient house reduces greenhouse gas emissions, lowers utility bills, and improves comfort.

✓ Install insulation that meets or exceeds code.✓ Caulk and weatherstrip all areas adjacent to

outside or unheated space.✓ Check heating ducts for leaks and seal with

foil or mastic approved for heating ducts.✓ Use energy efficient lighting such as CFLs

(available in a range of colors).✓ Replace old, inefficient appliances with new

energy-efficient models – Energy Star when available.

✓ Replace single-pane windows with double-paned.✓ Replace or coat roof surface with highly reflective

roof material or “cool roof”. ✓ For more tips, contact PG&E

www.pge.com/myhome/saveenergymoney/.

Water Conservation: Protection and conservation of water suppliesReducing water consumption conserves limited water supplies, protects the SF Bay and saves energy.

✓ Retrofit all existing toilets and faucets and install ultra-low flow models.

✓ Look for Energy Star qualified appliances. ✓ Landscape with native and drought-tolerant plant

and pervious hardscape.✓ For more tips, contact EBMUD and BayFriendly

www.ebmud.com/conserving_&_recycling www.stopwaste.org/home/index.asp?page=8.

✓ Consider a greywater system to irrigate non-edible landscape. For more information: www.ecologycenter.org/ecohouse/greywater.html

Healthy Indoor EnvironmentReducing pollutants inside the home creates a safe, pleasant and healthy environment.

✓ Use no- or low-VOC paint, wood-finishes, carpeting and adhesives.

✓ Look for low or no formaldehyde building materials.✓ Protect building materials from moisture to reduce

the risk of mold.

Resource ConservationConservation of building materials and careful handling of construction and demolition debris saves valuable resources such as wood and landfill space.✓ Use efficient design, such as advanced framing

techniques.✓ Specify durable roofing materials with 40-50 year

warrantees. ✓ Specify reclaimed and recycled products.✓ Reuse or recycle materials whenever possible.

How to BeginHire architects with Green Expertise. Building Professional Directory:

www.builditgreen.org/building-professional-directory

Consider getting your remodel green certified. Green Building Guidelines and Rating Systems: www.builditgreen.org/guidelines-rating-systems

Planning Department Website: www.CityofBerkeley.info/Planning Click on Residential Remodeling under Quick Links


The purpose of the Green Remodeling in Berkeley Guide is to help homeowners, builders and architects navigate the residential building permit process and to help make your project as healthy, energy-and resource-efficient as possible.

Table of Contents1. Where do I go for Building Permits? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See Below

2. How do I get a Zoning Permit? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 2

3. How do I get a Building Permit? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4. What additional requirements might apply to my project? . . Page 4

5. Where can I get ideas for greening my home? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside back cover

6. Who do I call with questions? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back cover

Do I need a Building Permit? All new buildings and most remodeling projects require a building permit to protect health, safety and general welfare of the public and building occupants. Check the Planning Department website for a list of exceptions.

Where do I go for Building Permits?Permit Service Center (PSC)Location: 2120 Milvia Street (at Center)Hours: M, T, Th, F 8:00 am-5:00 pm; W 10:00 am-5:00 pm; (financial transactions end at 4:00 pm); Check Planning department website for scheduled closures.Phone: 510.981.7500 The PSC has a consolidated permit counter offering services from four separate agencies in one centralized location to issue permits for Building, Zoning, Fire Prevention and Public Works/Engineering. The Permit Specialists at the PSC coordinate review of building permit applications with other City agencies as needed and issue permits when approved.

Go to the Planning Department Website for:

✓ Building permit history for a property✓ Site-specific information about Zoning Designation✓ Maps designating areas affected by creek ordinance,

Seismic Hazards Mapping Act, flood or fire zone ✓ Permit application forms, submittal guidelines, and

fee information

Zoning PermitsLand Use PlanningPhone: 510.981.7410 Land Use Planners manage regulation of proposed development projects under the Zoning Ordinance. The first step for most construction projects is to check Zoning regulations. Contact zoning staff to determine what type of zoning permit is needed (Zoning Certificate or Administrative Use Permit) and to ensure that your project is allowed in the location proposed.

Zoning permits ensure that the location and proposed uses of a building are in accordance with zoning ordinances to minimize negative impacts on neighbors.

Building PermitsBuilding and SafetyPhone: 510.981.7440 Staff from the Building and Safety Division review building, plumbing, electrical and mechanical plans for conformance with the California Building Codes, inspect construction projects to ensure they are constructed in conformance with approved building plans and permits, and manage programs to mitigate seismic risk.

1Planning Department Website: www.CityofBerkeley.info/Planning

Click on Residential Remodeling under Quick LinksPlanning Department Website: www.CityofBerkeley.info/Planning

Click on Residential Remodeling under Quick Links

How do I get a Zoning Permit?The first step for a residential remodel is to check the site-specific zoning requirements. Zoning staff will help you determine what kind of zoning permit you will need based on your project scope and location. Many proposed projects require some level of “discretionary review”, meaning they are subject to notice to neigh-bors and in some cases a public hearing.

Do I need a Use Permit? Review project location, scope and plans with Land Use Planning staff to determine type of permit needed. If your project does not require a discretionary use permit, Land Use Planning staff can issue a Zoning Certificate over the counter. Drop by the Zoning Counter in the Permit Service Center (no appointments) or call 510.981.7410 to verify specific requirements.

Staff determines YES:1. Review project plans with Land Use Planning staff

to determine whether an Administrative Use Permit or a Use Permit with Public Hearing is required.

2. Obtain Zoning Project Submittal Requirements document from Permit Service Center.

3. Submit Application.4. Hearing through the Zoning Adjustments Board,

if applicable. 5. Use permit issued.6. Apply for Building Permit.

Staff determines NO: 1. Submit Zoning Certificate application over

the counter.2. Zoning Certificate is issued.3. Apply for Building Permit.




How do I get a Building Permit?Once you have met all the Zoning requirements, you can apply for a building permit. Obtain forms from the Permit Service Center or download forms from the Planning Dept. website. Note that separate permits are required for electrical, mechanical and plumbing.

How do I submit the permit application?

General Building Permit

1. Permit applications for major repairs and alterations require appointments for submittals, re-submittals and revisions

• Schedule appt. with the Permit Service Center: 510.981.7502.

• Submit completed application packet and plans.

• Complete requested revisions, schedule new appointment and resubmit.

• Permit reviewed in 1 to 3 weeks, then issued

2. Permits for minor repairs and alterations that can be reviewed in 30 minutes or less may be submitted on a drop-in basis (may require zoning pre-approval.)

• Submit completed application packet and plans over-the-counter between 9 am and 3 pm (10 am on Weds).

• Plans reviewed and permit issued over-the-counter.

Submittal for Specific Permits — roofing, electrical, mechanical, plumbing and sewer lateral

• Submit application by mail to PSC or fax: 510.981.7505.

• Application processed within 48 hours.• Permit issued by mail or fax.

Permit Application

Plan Check Status can be found on the Planning Department website.




Greening Your Project: Applicants for projects that (1) require a Use Permit or Administrative Use Permit, and (2) involve demolition or construction, are required to consult with a green building expert prior to submitting the permit application. For details, check Planning Department website.

RECO (Residential Energy Conservation Ordinance): Any home or apartment building undergoing renovations valued at $50,000 or more or if there is a transfer of title must comply with energy and water conservation requirements. For details, check Planning Department website.

Reducing Construction Waste: New construction or renovation projects valued at $100,000 or more, and all demolition projects regardless of value, are required to develop a Waste Diversion Plan (recycling plan) for all waste, scrap and debris generated. The plan is due to Public Works prior to submitting your building permit application. For details, check Public Works Department website.

Reuse and Waste Diversion: The City of Berkeley’s Transfer Station recycles construction waste, and accepts clean loads of unpainted wood, sheetrock and plant debris for composting at a discount. The City can deliver roll-off bins or dumpsters to your Berkeley site for a competitive fee—see coupon on the back page. City bins can be used to satisfy the diversion requirements for projects requiring Waste Diversion Plans.

For disposal rates or to order a dumpster, call: 510.981.7270

For technical assistance to identify reuse and recycling opportunities, call: 510.981.6368

Protecting Local Waterways from Leaks in Sewer Laterals: Remodeling projects that cost more than $100,000 or cost more than $50,000 and involve replacing or relocating two or more plumbing fixtures must comply with this ordinance to reduce the amount of water flowing into city sewer systems and protect water quality of our creeks and watersheds. For more information, call 510.981.6423 or see: For details, check Public Works Department website.

Protecting Health of Creeks and Adjacent Property: On January 4, 2007, new regulations related to development on or near creeks became effective. These regulations ensure that both the health of creeks and the rights of property owners are protected.

Requirements and restrictions for a project vary depending on project scope and distance from the creek. The City has developed a Creek Map that depicts open and culverted creeks. Solar energy equipment is exempt from the creek regulations. For details, check Planning Department website.

Reducing Storm Water Pollution: Construction activities are the largest source of storm water pollution in the San Francisco Bay. All construction projects must manage both the site and materials to keep pollution from getting into the runoff that drains directly into the Bay. For details, check the Alameda County CleanWater Program website: www.cleanwaterprogram.org/businesses_developers.htm

Title 24 Energy Efficiency Standard: Title 24 outlines California’s energy efficiency regulations for residential and non-residential buildings. These standards, along with those for energy efficient appliances, have saved more than $56 billion in electricity and natural gas costs since 1978.

The low-rise residential standards affect the design of lighting, the building envelope, the water heating system, and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Before your permit is issued, the City of Berkeley will examine your plans and specifications to verify that your project complies with applicable Title 24 standards. For more information, see: www.energy.ca.gov/title24

Green Points Green Building Checklist: Construction of a new dwelling requires the completion of the Green Points Checklist to be submitted with use permit application and updated during the project. For details, check Planning Department website.

For additional requirements that might be applicable to your specific project, please check Planning Department website.

What Other Requirements Might Apply To my Project?

TRIGGERS FOR REQUIREMENTSAll projects ✓ Must comply with Title 24, including mechanical

and electrical ✓ Must consider stormwater pollution reduction ✓ Must recycle demolition wasteProjects requiring use permit ✓ Green building consultation$1,000 or more ✓ Smoke detectors

$50,000 or more ✓ RECO (Residential Energy Conservation Ordinance) ✓ Sewer lateral replacement (two or more plumbing

fixtures affected)$100,000 or more ✓ Construction and Demolition Waste Diversion plan ✓ Automatic Sprinklers in Fire Zone 3 Transfer Title ✓ RECO (Residential Energy Conservation Ordinance) ✓ Sewer lateral replacement (even if no fixtures

affected)



Greening Your RemodelA green building is sited, designed, constructed, and operated to enhance the well being

of its occupants and support a healthy community and natural environment.

Whole house fan

2 foot overhang

Fiber- cement siding

Low-emitting, recycled content carpet

Fluorescent lighting

Dual pane low-E windows

Cellulose insulation

No-VOC paint

FSC Certified wood framing

Sealed ductwork

Dual-flush toilet

Native and drought- tolerant landscaping

Natural linoleum flooringFlyash concrete foundation

40 year roofing, “cool roof” and solar panels

Low-VOC wood finishes

High-efficiency furnace

Incentives & Resources 1. Federal Tax Credits Check web page for the latest tax credits for energy efficiency and solar: www.energytaxincentives.org/consumers/

2. PG&E rebates for energy efficient products including clothes washers, furnaces and more. www.pge.com/res/rebates/

3. EBMUD rebates for water efficient products including clothes washers, toilets, greywater systems and more. www.ebmud.com/conserving_&_recycling/residential/

Why Build Green?Increase comfort, reduce utility bills, provide a healthier environment and support a sustainable future.

4. Build It Green’s Tools & Resources www.builditgreen.org • Find green building products, suppliers, and contractors

in the Building Professional Directory.• Download Green Building Guidelines.• Have your home GreenPoint Rated.• Contact the free Ask an Expert hotline for trusted,

unbiased answers to your green building questions: call 888-40-GREEN ext.2 or submit your question online.

5. California Youth Energy Services www.risingsunenergy.org/cyes.htm Get free energy audits and conservation upgrades.

6. Green Building in Alameda County for recycling and Bay-Friendly Landscaping and Gardening www.BuildGreenNow.org.


Who Do You Call?General Information, Customer Service Center: 510-981-CITY

Permit Service Center 2120 Milvia Street, Berkeley, CA 94704 www.cityofberkeley.info/planning 510.981.7500Faxed permit applications: 510.981.7505 Appointment scheduling: 510.981.7502 Check Planning Department website for permit application status: www.CityofBerkeley.info/Planning.

Land Use Planning www.cityofberkeley.info/planning 510.981.7410 Obtain Use Permits or Administrative Use Permits.

Building & Safety www.cityofberkeley.info/planning General information: 510.981.7440

Public Works www.cityofberkeley.info/planning Sewer laterals: 510.981.6423 Stormwater: 510.981.6394 Refuse & Recycling: 510.981.7270

Build It Green www.builditgreen.org Green Building Consultation: 510.845.0472 ext. 2

Construction Phase Inspection telephone line: 510.981.7444 Inspection requests received by 5:00PM will be scheduled for the next working day. All other inspection calls will be for the next available working day. If you need to speak with an inspector directly, they are available from 8:00-9:00AM and 4:30-5:00PM.

Did You Know?The City of Berkeley provides roll-off bins and dumpsters at VERY competitive prices. What’s more, City bins can be used to satisfy diversion requirements for projects requiring Waste Diversion Plans.

For disposal rates or to order a dumpster, call: 510.981.7270Or check the Public Words Department’s website: www.cityofberkeley.info under ‘Services’

Cover image: Installation of post-industrial recycled cotton fiber (denim) insulation improves energy efficiency and acoustics. Healthy insulation options include recycled-content formaldehyde-free batts and post-consumer recycled cellulose (newsprint) or aerated concrete blown into attics, crawl spaces or wall cavities.

INCENTIVES FOR HISTORIC RESOURCESMIllS ACT: Allows owners of qualified historic properties

to receive a reduction on property taxes in exchange for rehabilitation, restoration, and maintenance of their buildings (http://ohp.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21412)

FEdERAl HISTORIC pRESERVATION TAx INCENTIVES: Tax credits for substantial rehabilitations of qualified historic buildings and buildings placed in service after 1936; restricted to income-earning properties (http://www.nps.gov/hps/tps/tax/index.htm)

INCENTIVES FOR SUSTAINABIlITY MEASURESpG&E ENERGY EFFICIENCY REBATES: Provide

rebates for purchasing energy-efficient appliances and fixtures (http://www.pge.com/myhome/saveenergymoney/rebates/)

CAlIFORNIA SOlAR INITIATIVE: Rebate program for solar power systems (http://www.gosolarcalifornia.org/)

FEdERAl TAx CREdITS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY: Provide some tax credits to homeowners for making energy-efficient home improvements; check for most current legistlation (http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits)

BERKElEY FIRST: The City of Berkeley is planning to launch a program that would pay the up-front costs for energy efficiency improvements and installation of solar energy systems for residential and commercial property within the city limits. (http://rael.berkeley.edu/berkeleyfirst)

OTHER USEFUl lINKSUS GREEN BUIldING COUNCIl: http://www.usgbc.orgGREENpOINT pRINCIplES: http://www.builditgreen.org/

greenpoint-ratedNATIONAl TRUST FOR HISTORIC pRESERVATION:

http://www.preservationnation.org/issues/sustainabilityCAlIFORNIA BUIldING pERFORMANCE CONTRACTORS

ASSOCIATION: http://www.cbpca.org/

GREENING YOUR HISTORIC BUIldINGTom dufurrena, AIA, lEEd Ap, principal, PAge & TuRnBull

CITY OF BERKELEY LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSIONNOVEMBER 6, 2008

Insulate attic

Apply weather-stripping

Low-flow fixtures

Energy efficient appliances

Utilize natural ventilation

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