You are viewing the permanent link for the record currently in effect, published 2026-09-19.
Huntington Beach building permits
Huntington Beach, California — as published 2026-09-19.
Reviewed 2026-09-19 · Source
Codes adopted
Permit types & fees
Building Permit
Huntington Beach issues building permits through its Permit Center at 2000 Main Street, which "is responsible for processing and issuing several types of construction permits (including building, combination, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, swimming pool & spa, and solar permits) as well as certificates of occupancy". The city publishes its issuance requirements by project type, and several of them turn on obtaining a SEPARATE permit first.
Reviewed 2026-09-19 · Source
Requirements
- "Obtain plan check approval" is the first step the city lists for residential swimming pool, residential combination and commercial projects alike.
- FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION ON A BUILT LOT, THE DEMOLITION COMES FIRST AND SEPARATELY: "A demolition permit for the existing building is required on a separate permit prior to the new construction permit issuance."
- FOR POOLS, THE ENCLOSURE IS NOT PART OF THE POOL PERMIT: "Walls and fencing are required to be on separate permits."
- A separate planning application is required for address assignment on residential combination and commercial projects.
- FOR COMMERCIAL WORK: "Complete and upload a Certificate of Occupancy Application with tenant's information prior to permit issuance", and food establishments require Orange County Health Department approval.
- Solar PV system plans are submitted separately where required.
Required documents
- Optional
- Optional
- Optional
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building permit fee | NOT PUBLISHED on the pages read for this record. | The city offers a Building Permit Fee Calculator to "estimate the construction fees based on the project valuation" but prints no rate table on the page read. Show full citationHideThe city offers a Building Permit Fee Calculator to "estimate the construction fees based on the project valuation" but prints no rate table on the page read. It cautions that "The fees calculated above are an approximation of the actual fees based on the current fee ordinance, and may be subject to change without notice." |
| Excluded from the building permit fee | Charged separately. | THE CALCULATOR'S OUTPUT IS NOT THE BILL: "The total fee calculated is for Building permit only and does not include Plumbing, Mechanical, Electrical permit fees or any other department's fees."… Show full citationHideTHE CALCULATOR'S OUTPUT IS NOT THE BILL: "The total fee calculated is for Building permit only and does not include Plumbing, Mechanical, Electrical permit fees or any other department's fees." Developmental impact fees are also listed as a separate item for residential combination and commercial projects. |
| Card payment service fee | 3.00% of the transaction. | The Permit Center page states: "Effective 7/1/2024, all credit and debit card transactions will be subject to a service fee of 3.00%". It applies to credit and debit alike, so paying by card is not fee-neutral against a check. |
Sources & verification
Key facts verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-09-19.
Fee schedules
Codes & ordinances
Department & other records
Fees, timelines, and adopted codes are researched from each jurisdiction's published records — see how we verify. Requirements change and vary by project, so always confirm the current details with the Huntington Beach building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.