Permit Expiration Changes: More Time, Less Administration, Email Now Required

Dear Customers,

Starting this week, all permit applications require an email address. This only affects Over-the-Counter applications and Trade permit applications submitted in-person as an email address is already required for In-House, Online Trade and PermitSF portal applications.

We are highlighting this minor change because it’s part of a larger effort to improve communication with permit holders and reduce the administrative tasks required of you.

Last year, the Department of Building Inspection (DBI) teamed up with Supervisor Bilal Mahmood on legislation to revise expiration timelines for permit applications. This legislation also automatically extends permit expiration dates by a year when progress is demonstrated at the site or when a new addendum is submitted for a site permit. You’ll be able to see the new expiration date on your permit details page in the online Permit Tracking System.

For more detail, check out our new permit expiration webpage.

At the same time, the law requires that the City expire applications and permits when they surpass their end date. To meet these dual purposes, DBI is now requiring email addresses with all permit applications. Notices will be emailed to the applicant or property owner 60 days in advance of expiring applications and permits.

We appreciate your support and patience as we begin to use this new system. Please contact dbicustomerservice@sfgov.org if you have any questions or need additional assistance.

Thank you.