An AC unit permit must meet the following requirements:

Zoning Compliance

All AC units located at single-family homes or duplex properties:

• Must be at least 3' from the side or rear property line;
• Cannot be located within the front yard or be visible from the public street. It can be located in the street side yard on a corner lot, but must be located within a fenced yard area; and
• If roof-mounted, it must be within the height limits of the zoning district where the property is located and screened on all sides so as to not be visible from the public street. Check your zoning

R1 Zone Height Limit:	1-Story: 24'	2-Story: 28'
R2 Zone Height Limit:	1-Story: 24'	2-Story: 30'

If you are proposing exterior modifications to a building to accommodate the AC unit, such as a new exterior closet, review by the Planning Division is required prior to issuing a permit for installation. 

Noise Limitations

• All air conditioning units must meet the noise level standards per City Code Section 21.26. Noise must not exceed 50 dBA during the nighttime hours of 10:00 pm to 7:00 am and 55 dBA during the daytime hours of 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Electrical Requirements

• An electrical disconnect for the unit must be located within sight and readily accessible from the air conditioning or refrigerant equipment (CEC 440.14);
• Every circuit for the AC equipment shall be legibly identified in the main electrical panel (CEC 408.4(A));
• Provide a 15 amp-rated or 20 amp-rated electrical receptacle outlet at an accessible location within 25 feet of the equipment (CEC 210.63);
• The electrical receptacle for the AC unit shall be GFCI protected, water-resistant and in a weatherproof cover (CEC 210.8 and 406.9); and
• The existing main electrical panel size can support the new electrical load (amps), in compliance with the City of Mountain View requirements. If the existing panel size is not sufficient to support the new load, the main service panel must be upgraded to a minimum 200 amp service for a single-family home and a minimum 125 amps service for a duplex. (City Code Section 8.51(C) & (D)) 

Equipment and Specification Requirements

• The condensate disposal must be collected and discharged to an approved plumbing fixture (e.g. in sanitary sewer) or disposal area (e.g. in landscaping). Condensate, or wastewater cannot drain over a public sidewalk or public street (CPC 814.1);
• The compressor or condenser unit must be anchored to a minimum 3-inch-thick concrete slab or approved platform above ground level. An unobstructed, readily accessible opening and passageway to the compressor no less than 36 in. wide and 80 in. high must be provided and maintained (CMC 1105.2 and 1105.3);
• The refrigerant port protection circuit access that is located outdoors must be protected from unauthorized access with a locking-type tamper resistant cap (CMC 1105.11);
• Installed air conditioner and heat pump outdoor condensing units must have a clearance of at least 5 feet from the outlet (termination) of any dryer vent  (CEnerC, Subchapter 7, 150.0(h)3(A));
• Minimum cooling efficiency for central air conditions and heat pumps up to 45,000 Btu/hour must have a minimum Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) of 14 and an Energy Efficient Ratio (EER) of 12.2 per table 4-6 of the 2022 Residential Compliance Manual; and
• Any insulation shall be protected from damage and be suitable for outdoor service, typically protected by aluminum, sheet metal, paint or plastic cover  (CEnerC, Subchapter 7, 150.0(m)9).

Installation Requirements

• The installation of the air conditioning unit must follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions and shall be available on the job site at time of inspection (CRC R106.1.2);
• AC unit condensation drain must be equipped with a trap and should discharge by gravity to a drywell (min. 2 ft. x 2 ft. in size and 2 ft. deep), an indirect waste, or through a condensate pump connected to an indirect waste; and
• In all climate zones, when a space-conditioning system is altered by the installation or replacement of space-conditioning system equipment (e.g. replacement of the air handler, outdoor condensing unit of a split system AC unit, or heat pump, cooling or heating coil), a Duct Air Leakage Test performed by a HERS rater is required for altered ducts (CEnerC, Subchapter 9, 150.2(b)(1)(E)).

 Exceptions:

1. Duct systems that are documented to have been previously sealed as confirmed through field verification and diagnostic testing in accordance with procedures in the Residential Appendix Table RA3.1.
2. Duct systems with less than 40 linear feet as determined by visual inspection.
3. Existing duct system was constructed, insulated or sealed with asbestos.
4. If a Duct Air Leakage Test is performed, the HERS report completed by a HERS rater must be provided to the City Building inspector at the final inspection.

 An A/C unit permit is NOT available if you are:

• Replacing or installing a new AC unit at a multi-family residential or commercial building or property;
• If the property is overseen by an HOA and the scope of work is in the common area; or
• Electrical load exceeds existing load capacity.

Inspections

A final inspection is required for A/C unit replacements, once all work is completed.

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.

An electrical service panel upgrade permit must meet the following requirements:

• The zoning at the address must be residential; 
• The new electrical panel is being replaced in the same general location as the current electrical panel;
• The new electrical panel must be 200 amps for a single-family home or 150 amps for a duplex or accessory dwelling unit (see Mountain View City Code Sec. 8.51(C) and 8.51(D));
• The new electrical panel must comply with the California Electric Code and PG&E installation standards; and 
• Grounding and bonding of the electrical service is required when the panel is replaced and must comply with the California Electric Code.

The electrical service panel upgrade permit is NOT available if you are:

• Installing a new electrical service panel in a different location;
• Installing a new electrical service panel larger than 200 amps for a single-family home or larger than 125 amps for a duplex or accessory dwelling unit;
• Installing electrical service subpanels with a new electrical panel; or
• Performing additional electrical work in conjunction with the new electrical service panel installation.

Inspections

 The following inspections are required:

1. The utility release inspection when the new service panel is installed and ready to be hooked up to the PG&E supply. The City Building Inspector will provide a utility release form which must be provided to PG&E to have the supply hooked up to the new panel;
2. A wire lath inspection is required for any stucco repairs; and
3. A final inspection after all of the work is complete.

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.

An electrical vehicle (EV) charger permit must meet the following requirements:

• The zoning of the address must be residential.
• This permit must be to either replace an existing EV Charger or install a new one in a garage or on an exterior wall serving a residential unit.
• A new EV charger shall not exceed existing house electrical load capacity. If the EV charger exceeds the electrical load capacity on-site, then an electrical load management system is required to optimize the additional load or the electrical panel must be upgraded under a separate permit (see Same-Day permit for Electrical Panel Upgrade).
• An EV charger must be installed at an approved location.

Installation Requirements

• The electric vehicle charging system shall be listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (e.g., UL) in compliance with UL 2202 “Standard for Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging System Equipment.” (CEC 90.7)
• The electric vehicle charging system shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines and shall be suitable for the environment (indoor/outdoor). If installed indoors, the charging station shall be labeled “Ventilation Not Required” in a location clearly visible after installation. (CEC 625.52(A)&(B))
• Provide the size of the existing electrical panel, existing load on the panel, and proposed load/circuits from the electric vehicle charging system to determine if there is adequate capacity in the existing panel. (CEC 220)
• If installed indoors, the electric vehicle charging coupling (the nozzle) shall be located between 18" and 48" above the finished floor. If installed outdoors, it shall be located between 24" and 48" above the finished grade. (CEC 625.50)
• If the electric vehicle charging equipment is in an area subject to vehicular damage, an adequate barrier must be installed (e.g., a 4" diameter steel pipe filled with concrete, extending a minimum of 40" above the finished floor/grade, installed in a footing measuring 12" in diameter and 3' deep). (CEC 110.27)
• If the project site is in flood zone, the charging equipment shall be elevated or designed per the flood requirement (SMC 16.62). Flood zone information is available at the Permit Center located at City Hall.

Electrical Requirements

• If a separate meter will be installed for the electric vehicle charger, it shall be mounted between 48" and 66" above the ground. Additionally, if a single mast will continue to be used to serve multiple meters, ensure that the service entrance conductors are sized for the sum of both meters (CEC Table 310.15(b)(7) and Chapter 9 Table 1); and
• The existing electrical panel must support the new electrical load (amps) and comply with all City requirements. If the existing panel size (amps) is not sufficient, the panel shall be upgraded. Per the City Code SEC. 8.51(C), a minimum 200 amp service disconnect is required for a single-family dwelling, and per SEC. 8.51(D), a minimum 125 amp service disconnect is required for other than a single-family dwelling.

The EV charger permit is NOT available if you are:

• Replacing or installing a new EV Charger on a multi-family residential or commercial building or property;
• Replacing or installing a new EV Charger in the common area of a property overseen by a homeowners association (HOA); or
• Exceeding the existing electrical service panel load capacity. If so, you will be required to upgrade the electrical service panel or add an electrical load management system.

Inspections

The following inspections are required to be performed:

• An inspection is required for an EV Charger replacement; or
• A final inspection is required when all work is complete.

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.

A furnace replacement permit must meet the following requirements:

• The zoning at the address must be residential; 
• The new furnace is being replaced in the same location as the existing furnace;
• The furnace must have proper combustion air; and
• A furnace may not be installed in a sleeping room, bathroom, bedroom, or enclosed space with access only through the room or space.

The furnace replacement permit is NOT available if you are:

• Installing a new furnace in a new location; or
• Installing a new gas line to supply a new furnace.

Inspections

A final inspection is required after the furnace has been installed.

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.

A heat pump HVAC permit must meet the following requirements:

• The zoning of the address must be residential;
• This permit is to replace an existing heat pump HVAC system in the same location or install a new heat pump HVAC in an approved location;
• Any new heat pump HVAC unit cannot exceed the electrical service load of the existing house. If a Service Panel Upgrade is required, a separate Same-Day Permit can be submitted. 

Zoning Compliance

All condenser units associated with a Heat Pump HVAC unit must be located outdoors at single-family homes or duplex properties meeting the following:

• Must be at least 3' from the side or rear property line;
• Cannot be located within the front yard or be visible from the public street. It can be located in the street side yard on a corner lot, but must be within a fenced yard area; and
• If roof-mounted, it must be within the height limits of the zoning district where the property is located and screened on all sides, so as not to be visible from the public street.

R1 Zone Height Limit:	1-Story: 24'	2-Story: 28'
R2 Zone Height Limit:	1-Story: 24'	2-Story: 30'

 

If you are proposing exterior modifications to a building to accommodate the Heat pump HVAC condenser, such as a new exterior closet, review by the Planning Division is required prior to issuing a permit for installation.

Noise Requirements

• All condenser/outdoor units must meet the noise level standards per City Code Section 21.26. Noise must not exceed 50 dBA during the nighttime hours of 10:00 pm to 7:00 am and 55 dBA during the daytime hours of 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Electrical Requirements

1. An electrical disconnect for the unit must be located within sight and readily accessible from the air conditioning or refrigerant equipment. (CEC 440.14)
2. Every circuit for the AC equipment shall be legibly identified in the main electrical panel. (CEC 408.4(A))
3. Provide a 15 amp- or 20 amp-rated electrical receptacle outlet at an accessible location within 25 feet of the equipment. (CEC 210.63)
4. The electrical receptacle for the AC unit shall be GFCI protected, water-resistant, and in a weatherproof cover. (CEC 210.8 and 406.9)
5. The existing electrical panel can support the new electrical load (amps) and will comply with all City requirements. If the existing panel size (amps) is not sufficient to support the new electrical load, the panel shall be upgraded. Per the Mountain View City Code SEC. 8.51(C) a minimum of 200 amps service disconnect shall be required for one family dwelling and SEC. 8.51(D) a minimum of 125 amps service disconnect shall be required for other than one family dwelling.

Equipment and Specification Requirements

1. The condensate disposal must be collected and discharged to an approved plumbing fixture (e.g., in a sanitary sewer) or disposal area (e.g., in a drywell). Condensate, or wastewater, cannot drain over a public sidewalk or public street. (CPC 814.1)
2. The compressor or condenser unit must be anchored to a minimum 3-inch-thick concrete slab or approved platform above ground level. An unobstructed, readily accessible opening and passageway to the compressor—no less than 36" wide and 80" high—must be provided and maintained. (CMC 1105.2 and 1105.3)
3. The refrigerant port protection circuit access that is located outdoors must be protected from unauthorized access with a locking-type, tamper-resistant cap. (CMC 1105.11)
4. Installed air conditioner and heat pump outdoor condensing units must have a clearance of at least 5 feet from the outlet (termination) of any dryer vent. (CEnerC, Subchapter 7, 150.0(h)3(A))
5. Minimum cooling efficiency for central air conditioners and heat pumps up to 45,000 Btu/hour must be a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) of at least 14 and an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of at least 12.2, per Table 4-6 of the 2022 Residential Compliance Manual.
6. Any insulation shall be protected from damage and be suitable for outdoor service, typically protected by aluminum, sheet metal, paint, or plastic cover. (CEnerC, Subchapter 7, 150.0(m)9)

Installation Requirements

1. The installation of the Heat Pump HVAC unit must follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions and shall be available on the job site at time of inspection (CRC R106.1.2).
2. In all climate zones, when a space-conditioning system is altered by the installation or replacement of space-conditioning system equipment (e.g., replacement of the air handler, outdoor condensing unit of a split system AC unit, or heat pump, cooling or heating coil), a Duct Air Leakage Test performed by a HERS rater is required for altered ducts (CEnerC, Subchapter 9, 150.2(b)(1)(E)).

Exceptions:

• Duct systems that are documented to have been previously sealed as confirmed through field verification and diagnostic testing in accordance with procedures in the Residential Appendix Table RA3.1.
• Duct systems with less than 40 linear feet as determined by visual inspection.
• Existing duct system was constructed, insulated, or sealed with asbestos.

If a Duct Air Leakage Test is performed, the HERS report completed by a HERS rater must be provided to the City Building Inspector at the final inspection.

The Heat Pump HVAC Permit is NOT available if you are:

• Replacing or installing a new HVAC system for a multi-family residential or commercial building or property;
• Installing a unit associated with the common area of a property overseen by a homeowners association (HOA); or
• Exceeding the existing electrical service panel load capacity without upgrading the panel size or installing an electrical load management system.

Inspections

The following inspections are required:

• An inspection is required for any Heat Pump HVAC replacement; or
• A final inspection after installation of a new Heat Pump HVAC. The final inspection should be scheduled when all work is completed.

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.

A heat pump water heater permit must meet the following requirements:

• The zoning of the address must be residential;
• This permit is to replace an existing heat pump water heater in the same location or installing a new heat pump water heater in an approved location;
• The new heat pump water heater’s electrical load cannot exceed the existing electrical load capacity of the home; and
• The heat pump water heater must be located in a garage or an enclosed storage area.

Electrical Requirements

• An electrical disconnect for the unit must be located within sight and readily accessible from the air conditioning or refrigerant equipment. (CEC 440.14)
• Every circuit for the AC equipment shall be legibly identified in the main electrical panel. (CEC 408.4(A))
• Provide a 15 amp- or 20 amp-rated electrical receptacle outlet at an accessible location within 25 feet of the equipment. (CEC 210.63)
• The electrical receptacle for the AC unit shall be GFCI protected, water-resistant, and in a weatherproof cover. (CEC 210.8 and 406.9)
• The existing electrical panel can support the new electrical load (amps) and will comply with all City of Mountain View requirements. If the existing panel size (amps) is not sufficient to support the new electrical load, the panel shall be upgraded. Per the Mountain View City Code SEC. 8.51(C), a minimum of 200 amps service disconnect is required for a single-family dwelling, and per SEC. 8.51(D), a minimum of 125 amps service disconnect is required for other than a single-family dwelling.

The Heat Pump Water Heater Permit is NOT available if you are:

• Replacing or installing a new heat pump water heater at a multi-family residential or commercial building or property;
• Installing a heat pump water heater in the common area of a property overseen by a homeowners association (HOA); or
• Exceeding the existing electrical service panel load of the home without an upgrade to the service panel (a separate Same-Day permit) or installation of an electrical load management system.

Inspections

The following inspections are required:

• An inspection is required for a heat pump water heater replacement; or
• A final inspection is required when all work is completed.

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.

A fireplace permit allows repairs to existing fireplaces and/or chimneys that meet the following minimum requirements:

• The zoning at the address must be residential;
• This permit is to repair an existing masonry fireplace and/or chimney; and
• The fireplace/chimney repair and construction complies with Chapter 21 Section 2113 of the California Building Code.

The fireplace permit is NOT available if you are:

• Building a new chimney or fireplace;
• Converting an existing fireplace or chimney to an electronic fireplace as part of a repair;
• Adding a gas appliance to the existing masonry chimney;
• Adding a fireplace insert; or
• Modifying a firebox.

Inspections

The following inspections are required:

1. The first inspection is conducted once the new steel straps are installed.
2. The final inspection is conducted after all work is complete.

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number. 

A reroofing permit an existing single-family home or duplex is available that meets the following requirements:

• The re-roofing installation complies with Chapter 15 of the California Building Code and Chapter 9 of the California Residential Code;
• The roof covering meets a minimum Class C fire resistive rating or better;
• Reroofing requires providing minimum cross ventilation per CRC 806.1; and
• Must provide a copy of the product Listing Report, by a recognized agency, at the construction job site for roofing materials and installations other than wood shingles, wood shakes, tar and gravel, or composition roofs. A copy can be sent prior to the first scheduled inspection; a reinspection fee can be charged if the Listing Report is not available at time of inspection with the City Building Inspector.

A reroofing permit is NOT available if:

• An existing roofing material is being replaced by a new and different roofing material with a total weight that exceeds 7.5 lbs. per square foot;
• You are adding a new roof as part of a home remodel or addition; or
• You are modifying the roof structure/framing or adding skylights.

Inspections

The following inspections are required:

1. An initial inspection is required at the following stage based on the new roof material:

• Composition - All plywood nailed down, 1/2 felted with valleys felted and flashing over felt. Courses started. Drip edge at all rakes installed over felt.
• Tar and Gravel/Foam - All areas cleaned of debris and materials being used on site for inspection.
• Tile - Have furring members in place with approved fireblocking.
• Shake - Have rating of shakes identified, courses started, and felt and flashing in place.

2. An in-progress inspection can be in-lieu of initial inspection for the following:

• covering existing roof, or
• Replacement without sheathing inspection.

3. The final inspection is required after all of the work is complete including the following:

• Spark arrester installed,
• Overflow drains cleaned,
• Skylights secured,
• All flues extended and secured,
• Any roof equipment and/or piping secured,
• All exposed nails protected, and
• All exposed wood, roof jacks, and metal flashing or edging painted

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.

A residential sewer line replacement / clean-out permit must meet the following requirements:

• The zoning at the address must be residential;
• The permit must be to replace an existing residential sewer line or install a new / replace a sewer clean out at the property line in the same location; 
• The new sewer line materials are cast iron, copper, vitrified clay pipe, Schedule 40 ABS, PVC plastic pipe, or any approved materials (CPC Table 701.2);
• Clean-outs shall be installed at the exterior of the building, at each aggregate horizontal change in direction exceeding 135 degrees, and at the property line. Property line clean-outs shall be one-way and have a Christy Box G-5 or equal when in a paved area or F-8 or equal when in a landscaped area (CPC 707.4, 719 and SMC 18.12.150); 
• The new sewer line must be buried a minimum of 12 in. below finish grade;
• A cleanout must be placed within 2 ft. of the building and another cleanout must be installed at the property line per city standard; and
• The sewer line must be installed with a minimum 2% slope or 0.25 in. to the foot.

The sewer line replacement / clean out permit is NOT available if you are:

• Including replacement/upgrade to the sewer line as part of a home remodel or addition;
• Replacing or repairing a septic tank or system; or
• Installing a new connection to the City sewer main.

Inspections

The following two inspections are required for sewer line replacements:

1. A rough inspection should be scheduled when the new sewer line is installed (but before it is connected to the City connection) and filled with water to check for any leaks.
2. A final inspection should be scheduled when all work is completed.

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.

A water piping replacement permit must meet the following requirements:

• The zoning at the address must be residential;
• This permit must be to replace an existing interior and/or exterior water pipe(s); 
• The new interior water piping materials are copper, galvanized iron, galvanized steel, PEX, or approved plastic (Note: Extensive removal of walls or ceilings could require an additional building permit);
• Plumbing faucets and valves may be replaced in the same location as part of this permit. New or replaced shower or tub-shower control valves must be  pressure balanced and set at a maximum of 120.5 Fahrenheit;
• Grounding and bonding of the electrical service is required when the water piping is replaced. Grounding and bonding must comply with the California Electric Code. 
• Grounding of the electrical service is required with all re-pipes. Grounding shall consist of a continuous grounding conductor run from the panel to a ground rod (grounding electrode) and to the cold water pipe. Grounding of the electrical service at the main water line must be within the first 5.5 feet of water piping into the building. The underground water service shall not be used as the sole grounding system; it must be supplemented with a ground rod.

The water piping permit is NOT available if you are:

• Replacing or repairing the tub or tub-shower enclosure;
• Adding new water piping as part of a home remodel; or
• Relocating plumbing fixtures, faucets, or valves.

Inspections

The following two inspections are required:

1. A rough inspection when the new water line is installed and before it is covered up; and
2. A final inspection after all work is complete.

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.

A siding replacement permit must meet the following requirements:

• The zoning at the address must be residential;
• This permit is to replace exterior building siding in the same location; and
• Any external siding materials per CBC 1404 & CRC R703 is allowed.

A siding replacement permit is NOT available if you are:

• Replacing or repairing siding on a multi-family residential or commercial building or property;
• Working on a building that requires design review by the Planning Division or is part of a building addition;
• Installing new exterior building material that is not siding (e.g. stucco) or enlarging the location where siding exists on the building; or
• Doing framing, structural, dry rot, or window replacement.

Inspections

The following inspections are required:

1. A lath/waterproofing inspection. The lath inspection should be scheduled once the existing siding material is removed and the weather-resistant barrier over the sheathing has been installed; and
2. A final inspection. The final inspection should be scheduled once all work is completed.

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.

A tub and shower replacement permit must meet the following minimum requirements:

• This permit is to repair or replace an existing tub-shower enclosure, a tub, a shower enclosure, and/or tub-shower fixture; 
• The water piping materials is copper, ductile iron, galvanized steel, or PEX; and
• Plumbing fixtures may be changed, but the new tub-shower control valve is a pressure balanced valve type or a thermostatic mixing valve type.

The tub and shower replacement permit is NOT available if you are:

• Replacing or repairing the tub-shower enclosure as part of a termite inspection repair;
• Moving the existing tub-shower to a different location; or
• Adding a new tub or shower.

Inspections

The following inspections are typically required during construction before work is covered up:

• A rough plumbing and rough frame inspection,
• Insulation inspection,
• A drywall nail inspection,
• Shower pan/tub test and inspection of tile lath, and
• A final inspection once all work is complete.

The number of inspections required depends on the scope of work. Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.

A water heater replacement permit must meet the following requirements:

• The zoning at the address must be residential;
• This permit is for the replacement of an existing gas or electric water heater in the same location as the current water heater. If you are proposing to relocate the water heater to a new location, see other building permit requirements;
• Water heaters require two seismic straps - (1) one located within the top 1/3 of the water heater unit and (2) one located at the bottom 1/3. The bottom strap must be located at least 4 in. away from the water heater controls;
• The new water heater must be between 30 and 150 gallons;
• Water heaters located in a garage must be elevated so the pilot light and controls are at least 18 in. above the garage floor surface. If subject to potential damage, adequate barriers must be installed to protect the unit (e.g. bollard);
• Combustion air must be maintained per current California Plumbing Code. When the appliance is located in an unconfined space (e.g. garage) the combustion air can be used from that area. When located in a closet, combustion air must be provided at a minimum of two openings (one at the top and one at the bottom) sized at 100 square inches each;
• A fuel burning (gas) water heater may not be installed in a sleeping room, bathroom, bedroom, or clothes closet;
• The vent and the water heater must maintain clearance from combustible materials such as wall framing or roofing. Generally the minimum distance is 6" for single wall and 1" for double wall and the water heater, but check the manufacturer's listing on the materials. The vent shall terminate a minimum 6" above the roof through flashing at the roof and terminate in a listed and approved vent cap. Vents may require additional supports depending on the material, design and length. All single wall and single wall to double wall joints shall be secured with a minimum of three sheet metal screws, rivets or similar positive connection;
• All water heaters have a pressure/temperature (P/T) relief valve. The valve shall be drained to the exterior and terminate toward the ground maintaining between 6" and 24" of clearance from the ground and pointing downward. The diameter of the valve opening (generally 3/4") must be maintained to the termination of the drain. Check the manufacturer's requirements. When approved by the Chief Building Official, such drain may terminate at other locations (i.e. laundry tub, floor sink, or floor drain). No part of such drain shall be trapped and the terminal end of the drain shall not be threaded;
• If located in an attic or furred space (i.e. closet) where leaking could cause damage to underlying wood framing, the water heater must be set in a pan constructed of water tight corrosion resistant material. The pan must be fitted with a minimum 3/4" drain that drains to an approved location; and
• Tankless water heaters shall be listed by an approved testing agency (UL, UPC, etc.) and be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements.

The water heater replacement permit is NOT available if you are:

• Installing a new water heater in a different location; or
• Installing a water heater larger than 150 gallons.

Inspections

A final inspection is required after the water heater has been installed.

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.

A water service line replacement permit must meet the following requirements:

• The zoning at the address must be residential;
• This permit must be to replace an existing water service line between the house or duplex and the City water meter;
• The new water service line piping materials must be copper, galvanized iron, galvanized steel, PVC, CPVC, or PE plastic pipe;
• The new water service must be buried a minimum of 12 in.;
• Grounding and bonding of the electrical service is required when the water service line is replaced and shall comply with the California Electric Code; and
• Grounding of the electrical service is required with water service replacements when using a less conductive material than currently exists. Grounding shall consist of a continuous grounding conductor run from the panel to a ground rod (grounding electrode) and to the cold water pipe. Grounding of the electrical service at the main water line must be within the first 5.5 feet of water piping into the building. The underground water service shall not be used as the sole grounding system; it must be supplemented with a ground rod.

The water service line replacement permit is NOT available if you are adding a new water service with a new City water meter.

Inspections

The following inspections are required:

1. A rough inspection when the new water line is installed and before it is covered up; and
2. A final inspection after all work is complete.

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.