Building & Safety

Permits are the way the City of Riverside regulates construction. This is designed to ensure that all construction in the city is safe. The safety of the occupants of buildings is the primary reason for having construction codes. The City of Riverside has adopted several codes, among them the Uniform Building, Mechanical and Plumbing, and National Electrical codes.

In addition, there are federal, state and local laws that govern construction, alteration, enlargement, conversion, reconstruction, remodeling, rehabilitation, erection, demolition, moving or repair of a building such as those covering energy conservation and disabled access. The City has handouts to help you through this process. Once plans are approved, you’re required to build the project to those plans. If any changes are made to the plans, they must be made with the City’s approval.

• Plan Submittal & Plan Review
  There can be many aspects to a building project, including architecture, electrical and plumbing, and the City's objective is to ensure the finished project meets its safety, aesthetical, and community standards. Some projects may require blueprints or third-party environmental impact reports. Others, like a reroofing project on an existing structure may only require a written estimate from a licensed contractor.  The City's Planning Division is responsible for pre-approving construction project plans
• Permit Granted
  Once approval is granted, a permit is issued for the construction to begin.  The construction generally must be completed within 180 days from the issuance of the permit.
• Building Inspection
  A City building inspector may need to inspect the project during or after the construction to ensure the work is being done according to the approved plans and City building codes.  These inspections are specified in the permit and may occur without the need for the home or business owner to be present.
  The City may also engage the services of pre-approved outside inspectors for certain types of construction projects.
• Permit Closed or Finaled
  After the final inspection, the permit and plans are archived by the City and can be viewed online using the City's Permit Records Online website.