DEPARTMENT MISSION

The Building Department oversees the effective, efficient, fair and safe enforcement of the City of Gonzales Building Codes through public information, building plan review, permit and building inspection services; with a knowledgeable, dedicated and creative team.

Permit Center

Located at 147 Fourth St., the office is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM (closed for lunch) 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM.  Please note that we stop processing permit submittals after 4:30 PM.  Scheduling an appointment with staff, in advance, is highly encouraged to assure staff member is present to assist you.

Permit submittals are done electronically through the City’s Online Permitting Portal; or you may submit in-person.   Please visit the Building Forms and Handouts for permitting requirements.

Building Plan Review

After the submittal is processed and deemed complete by staff, the submitted documents are reviewed for building code requirements and City Ordinances that govern buildings and construction.

With the exception of minor works, such as water heater and furnace replacements, all new residential construction projects such as; additions, remodels, ADUs and garage conversions, can take up to 30 days to complete the review before the permit can be issued, depending on the completeness of the submitted documents. 

Building Inspections

Building inspections are currently conducted on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, unless arrangements are made with the Building Inspector in advance.  To schedule inspections, you may do so through the Online Permitting Portal, or by contacting staff at (831) 675-5000.   When scheduling an inspection, please provide the following information:

Please note; the building permit card, and the official City stamped approved plans must be onsite at all times.

Business Licenses (Contractors)

All contractors and subcontractors conducting business in the City limits are required to have a current and active Business License, prior to commencing any work; you may visit the City’s Business License site for information on how to apply or renew a business license.  You may also access the Business License Application by clicking here.  Please note that this is not a Contractor’s State License. A contractor’s license is issued by the State of California, and anyone who contracts to perform work on a project that is valued at $500 or more (for combined labor and materials costs) must hold a current, valid license from the California State License Board.  To verify a license, click here; and to find a local contractor, click here.