STEP-BY-STEP

Replace a door

Get a building permit to replace existing doors.

Department of Building Inspection

You can now apply online for door replacements that are in-kind, or the same size and in the same location, as we move permitting processes into one accessible and transparent online hub.

If you have questions about applying online, email PermitSF@sfgov.org.

Follow these steps to replace exterior doors in a residential or commercial building.

1

Landmark historic buildings only: Get approval from Planning

Landmark historic category A* buildings need either an Administrative Certificate of Appropriateness or a Minor Permit to Alter before applying for a building permit. Email pic@sfgov.org for next steps, or talk to a SF Preservation Planner at the Permit Center's Planning counter.

If you do not know your building's historic resource status, you likely do not have an A* building.

Check your property's historic resource status.

2

Determine if you need to provide plans to get a permit

If you expand or create new wall openings, you must provide plans in-person to get an Over-the-Counter (OTC) permit. The permitting process will include plan review.

If you are not changing the existing wall openings, it is considered an in-kind replacement. You will not need to provide plans to get your permit. You will also apply for your permit online.

3

Follow requirements when buying doors

Doors must follow building code requirements for fire resistance and being easy to use in evacuations.

All glass in doors must have safety glazing, including for swinging, sliding, and bifold doors.

All doors used to evacuate a building should be easy to open, without needing a key or specialized knowledge or ability.

Exterior doors within 3 feet of a property line must be fire-rated for 1 hour.

Interior doors separating dwelling units (including garage doors and apartment entry doors) should be:

  • Self-closing
  • Self-latching
  • Fire-rated (20 minutes or solid core for garage door to living space, 45 minutes for apartment entry doors off hallways)
4

Apply for a permit online to replace residential doors the same size and location

If you are not changing the existing wall opening and are not installing an automatic door, apply for a permit online.

The application will ask you about your planned replacement work. If you are planning to have a contractor do the work, hire one before applying. We will ask for their information in the form.

We will send you the fee amount after we review your application. Our goal is to approve the majority of permits within two business days.

Apply online

or

Apply in-person to get an Over-the-Counter permit for other door replacements

You must apply for a permit at the Permit Center if you are doing any of the following:

  • Expanding, reducing, or moving the existing wall opening
  • Installing or replacing a door powered by a motor, like automatic garage or Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) doors
  • Doors for a storefront
  • Replacing a garage door that rolls up into the ceiling

Get an over-the-counter permit for your exterior residential project.