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By law, building permits and inspections are required for new construction, additions, and remodeling work to confirm that all structures meet applicable County, State and Federal Building Codes.
The County of Tulare regulates construction and development to safeguard and ensure the health and safety of the public. As part of the permit process, plans are reviewed to ensure compliance with the adopted codes. Building permits are issued for new construction as well as for additions to and remodeling of existing buildings and structures. Most repairs or alterations require a building permit.
For simple projects, permits can be processed in our office over the counter. These projects include: water heaters, wall furnaces, re-roofs, re-siding, and air conditioner replacement.
However, if subsequent to the issuance of this type of Permit, the Building or Planning Official determines that plans or other reviews should be required for the work undertaken, the permit may be suspended or revoked (this will be done in writing) until proper reviews and approvals are obtained.
Full Permits
Full Permits require a site plan, construction plans, engineering calculations, and energy calculations.
Some examples include demolition of residential property, room additions, alterations to existing structures, and new construction.
Emergency Permit Information can be found by clicking HERE.
For Planning and Zoning Information or for more information on how to apply for a permit, please call the Zone Information Phone at (559) 624-7100 or email at Zone-Information@tularecounty.ca.gov.
To make an appointment at the Permit Center please contact 559-624-7016 and speak to a receptionist.
Zoning Ordinances and Requirements can be found by clicking HERE.
Planning and Land Use Applications (Entitlements) can be found by clicking HERE. (Application Fees are subject to change at any time. Please call (559) 624-7100 for current application fees.)
The Tulare County RMA Adopted 2020-2021 Fiscal Year Fee Schedule can be found by clicking HERE.
To Schedule a Building Inspection Online Click HERE. Or call 559-624-7104
To check the status of your permit or to apply for a building permit online, please visit: tcpermits.com or click this link: https://palmscss.tularecounty.ca.gov/EnerGov_Prod/SelfService#/home
Online Building Permits: Starting March 1st, 2023, we will no longer accept applications via email, we will only be accepting applications via TCPermits.com. Applying online is faster and more efficient, for instructions, please CLICK HERE.
Applications and Forms:
Site Plan Requirements and Example
Requirements for Obtaining a Building Permit (English)
Manufactured / Mobile Home Brochure
Requirements for Electronic Plans over 25 pages
Requirements for Electronic Plans under 25 pages
Encroachment permits are required for any improvements located within public right away. Email us at EncroachmentPermits@tularecounty.ca.gov or call 559-624-7073 for more information.
Encroachment Permit Requirements
General Encroachment Permit Application
Concrete Work Encroachment Permit Application
Bonds are required for all Encroachment Permits except for Utility/Public Agency Permits.
Bonds shall be between $5,000 and $25,000, depending on the size of the job, to be determined by the Tulare County Permit Agent.
Click HERE for a sample Encroachment Bond application
Events involving County right-of-way only.
Email us at SpecialEvents@tularecounty.ca.gov or call 559-624-7073 for more information.
Memo to Special Event Applicants
Special Event Permit (Parade) Application Packet
Email us at TransportationPermits@tularecounty.ca.gov or call 559-624-7073 for more information.
Certificate of Insurance Sample
Sample Annual Transportation/Moving Permit Application
Sample One-Time Trip Transportation/Moving Permit Application
Blank Annual Transportation/Moving Permit Application
Blank One-Time Trip Transportation/Moving Permit Application
