Permit submittals and the building codes that govern them change based on the type and scope of the project. Below are some useful links and some of the most used documents for building permit applications. If you cannot find what you need, please review our Required Permits Bulletin or check out our Forms and Guides page for additional resources.

• New permits must adhere to current California Building Code 
• Complete a Permit Application: Residential or Non-residential
• For permits applied for by property owner, please complete an Owner/Builder form. 
• For permits applied for by a licensed contractor, you must have an active City of Novato Business License.
• Smoke detectors & carbon monoxide alarms required on all permits with valuation exceeding $1000. (Sections 314 & 315 CRC) 
• Construction Site Storm Water Runoff Control Program has been in place as of July 2015 under the city's NPDES Phase II MS4 Permit. Building Permits applications that contain earth work or grading will require an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP).
• For Existing Buildings: All multifamily and non-residential projects with the job valuation exceeding the valuation set by the California Division of State Architects for a given year, must complete the Disabled Access Hardship Application Form. 

All completed applications and forms must be submitted in PDF format to: permitcenter@novato.org

Note: Not all permits related to construction are issued or regulated by the Building Division. Please visit the Public Works Forms and Resources page for information on applying for an Encroachment Permit or Grading Permit.