If a building permit is required for my project, is it required that a licensed contractor obtain the permit?

A permit may be obtained by either a licensed contractor or the property owner, also known as an owner-builder permit. If the property owner is not performing any of their own work personally, the contractor typically obtains the permit. A frequent practice of unlicensed persons professing to be contractors is to have the property owner secure an “owner--builder” permit, erroneously implying that the property owner is providing his or her own labor and materials personally. If the property owner will be performing all or a portion of the work and wishes to be their own general contractor, an owner-builder permit typically is obtained. Please visit our Owner-builder Information page for additional details.

Show All Answers

1. Are contractors required to be licensed, bonded, and carry worker’s compensation insurance?
2. How do I check if a contractor has an active and valid license through the State of California?
3. Are there any guides or pamphlets for consumers regarding hiring contractors and home improvement projects?
4. If a building permit is required for my project, is it required that a licensed contractor obtain the permit?
5. Where do I file a construction complaint?
6. Where do I file a construction complaint?