New construction · San Diego
What permits are needed for new construction in San Diego?
New construction in San Diego requires building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits through City of San Diego Development Services Department (DSD), plus any entitlements (zoning / planning review) triggered by the project. DSD plan check via Accela; complex projects routed to specialized reviewers (coastal, ESL, historic).
What changes the answer in San Diego.
Coastal Development Permit required in Coastal Overlay Zone; ESL triggers biology, geology, and steep-slope review. Historic Resources Board review for designated districts. DSD inspectors; online scheduling.
- San Diego uses base zones plus community-plan overlays; coastal, hillside, and Environmentally Sensitive Lands (ESL) overlays widely applied.
- Steep slopes >25% are 'sensitive' per ESL — encroachment is heavily restricted, often determining buildable area.
- SDG&E + Public Utilities Department (water/sewer). Service upgrades through SDG&E.
- City sewer in developed areas; some hillside/canyon parcels still on septic with County Environmental Health oversight.
Source-backed note
Official source: City of San Diego Development Services Department (DSD). We link every cited form, fee schedule, and inspection page from the city's permit directory entry.
Reference: CSLB — License a Contractor — California Contractors State License Board
Local authority: City of San Diego Development Services Department (DSD)
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