Permit Application Timelines, Expiration and Extensions

The timelines below apply to permit applications filed on or after June 21, 2026. Refer to Section 106A.3.7 of the San Francisco Building Code for more information.

Timeline
The permit application process starts with a completeness check to confirm your application has all required forms, plans and documents, including the Property Owner's Disclosure Form.

Once all required documentation is provided and the initial payment is made, your application will be considered filed. You'll have up to 730 days to complete the review process and obtain your permit.

Review
Your application will be reviewed by multiple City permitting departments to confirm the proposed work complies with applicable codes and requirements.

Once your application meets all requirements and you pay any remaining fees, your permit will be issued.

Extensions
If a permit is not issued within 730 days, your application will expire.

If you need additional time before your application expires, you can request a 180-day extension for a fee.

Timeline
Once your permit is issued, it remains active for 365 days and you'll be able to begin construction according to the approved plans and permit scope.

To keep your permit active, continue to schedule inspections or submit approved site permit addenda, if applicable.

Passed inspections, or inspections where the inspector determines sufficient progress has been made, approved site permit addenda and altered site permits will extend your permit expiration date by 365 days.

When all required inspections are complete and final approval has been issued, your permit will be finalized and closed.

Extensions
If you need additional time, you can request a 180-day extension for a fee before your permit expires.

Trade and Revision Permits
If your project includes trade permits, they follow their own permit expiration schedule and do not affect the expiration date of your full permit or site permit.

If your project includes revision permits, they share the same expiration date as the original permit. You will need to schedule inspections under the most recently issued revision permit.

• An Administrative Bulletin with additional guidance will be posted in July 2026 after review by the Code Advisory Committee and approval by the Building Inspection Commission.
• San Francisco Building Code 106A.3.7

For questions about your project timeline or extension requests, contact us at dbicustomerservice@sfgov.org.