Duplicating Plans

Anyone requesting copies of building plans must have written permission from both the owner of the property and the certified, licensed, or registered professional who signed/stamped the original documents, or their successor (if any). Copies can also be provided by order of a proper court.

All plans are maintained in the City's files and they are a public record available for public viewing. However, the City complies with California Copyright Law which does not allow the duplication of these documents without meeting certain criteria.

Copying of Documents Prepared by Licensed Professionals

California State Health & Safety Code
Inspection of Records
Section No. 19851

"The official copy of the plans maintained by the Building Department of the city or county provided for under Section 19850 shall be open for inspection only on the premises of the Building Department as a public record. Such copy may not be duplicated in whole or in part except with the written permission of the certified, licensed or registered professional or his successor, if any, who signed the original documents and the written permission of the owner of such building, or by order of a proper court."

Should you wish to obtain copies of professional drawings or other documents, it will be necessary to follow the procedures detailed below:

1. Review the drawings in order to determine the name of the licensed professional. If there is not a licensed professional's signature on the drawings but an architectural or engineering firm's title block exists, then the company's name should be noted.
2. Contact the licensed professional, engineering or architectural firm, and obtain written permission on company or personal letterhead to receive copies of microfilmed drawings.
3. The letter should include the property address as well as the types of drawings, specifications, etc. which are to be made available to you.
4. If you are not the owner of the property in question, it is also required that you obtain written permission from the owner. Letterhead is preferred.
5. Bring the original letters to the Building Division. The Building Division will then make arrangements for the microfilm to be copied. You or your company will be billed directly.
6. If you cannot obtain these authorizations, the Building Division will assist you. In order to receive this assistance, we will need you to print and complete the Request Form and submit it to the Building Division. The Building Division will contact you within 30 days with a response.