Check out the following resources to help you understand more about how the building permit process works in Madera.
- Building Process
When do I need a building permit?
Most new construction and remodeling projects require a building permit. Any time you add or modify plumbing, electrical or mechanical equipment, you will also need a permit.
Certain kinds of work are exempt from permitting requirements. Read more about exempt activities here. Examples of work you do not need a permit for include:
- A one-story garden shed or playhouse less than 120 square feet in size with no plumbing or electrical.
- Surface treatments (paint, tile, etc.)
- On-site cement work
- Fences that are six feet or less in height
Steps in the Building Permit Process
The building permit process typically involves a series of steps in which a homeowner or builder submits an application and gets a plan checked and approved by the Building Department. Permits for simple projects can be issued within a day or two, while more extensive projects may take 6 to 8 weeks. A summary of the typical steps in the permit process is described below.
- Deliver all submittal requirements to the Building Department.
- Building Department will perform a plan check if required.
- Make corrections to plans if necessary.
- Building Department will complete a “back-check.”
- Building Department will issue a permit.
- Start construction on your project.
- Call for inspections as required by the permit.
Inspection Requests MUST be received 24 Hours in Advance. (559) 661-5445
- Passing a “Final Inspection” will complete the permitting process.
- Building Submittal Requirements
Minor Permits
Examples of minor permits include the following: single room remodels, window replacements, air conditioning system installation.
- Description of Work. Provide one or more drawings showing the existing condition and proposed construction, sufficiently detailed to show the work being done.
- Fees. The Building Department will calculate building Permit Fees for your project. Fees must be paid before the permit will be issued.
Major Remodels and New Construction
- Site Plan or Plot Plan
Site Plan. If the Planning Department required a site plan review (SPR) for your project, submit the approved site plan with your building permit application.
Plot Plan. A basic plot plan template is provided for projects where a site plan review is not required. This should be used primarily for single-family construction.
- Fees. The Building Department will calculate plan Check Fees for your project. Plan Check fees must be paid before your application will be accepted. When your permit is ready to be issued, building permit and development impact fees will be calculated.
Additional Information
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms Self-Certification Form
Patio Plans with Top Plate or Ledger Connection
Eligibility List for Expedite PV Solar
CalGREEN Construction & Demolition Guide
- Additional Contacts
Dan Cook, Combination Building Inspector
Commercial Projects
(559) 661-5438
dcook@madera.govJesus Vazquez
Combination Building Inspector
(559) 662-4917
jvazquez@madera.govJohn Lippincott
Plans Examiner
(559) 661-5439
jlippincott@madera.govMercedes Bravo
Administrative Assistant
(559) 661-5441
mbravo@madera.govMatthew S. Tarr, FPE
Interim Fire Marshal
(559) 661-5442
mtarr@madera.govRichard Seaton
PT Combination Building Inspector
(559) 661-5444
rseaton@madera.govBuilding & Fire Inspection Request Line (Message Only) -
Inspection Requests MUST be received 24 Hours in Advance. Please call
(559) 661-5445.- Current Permits
Permits are posted monthly by the 5th for the previous month's activity.
- Completed Permits
Permits are posted monthly by the 5th for the previous month's activity.