STEP-BY-STEP

Replace siding on your building

Get a building permit to replace exterior siding.

Department of Building Inspection

You can now apply online to replace exterior siding 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 siding in a residential or commercial building.

1

Landmark history buildings only: Get approval from SF 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 preservation status, you likely do not have an A* building.

Check your property's historic resource status.

2

Follow requirements when buying siding

As exterior wall covering, siding requirements depend on the project. Your installer must follow building code requirements for:

  • Insulation
  • Weather protection
  • Materials
  • Coatings
  • Resisting fire
  • Blocking fires from getting inside
3

Apply for a permit online

The application will ask you about your planned replacement work, including:

  • Square footage of the siding repair or replacement
  • Material of the existing and proposed siding
  • Design of the existing and proposed siding

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