Building Projects

Projects Not Requiring A Permit

  1. Projects for 1-story detached accessory structures, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet (11.15 m2) do not require a permit. However, be sure to contact the Planning Department Counter for specific property line setback requirements at 714- 961-7130.
  2. Masonry or concrete fences not over 3 feet (1829 mm) high measured from the lowest adjacent finish grade. Wood, vinyl, or chain link fences not over 6 feet (1,829 mm) high measured from the lowest adjacent finish grade and are not part of an existing swimming pool barrier fence. Be advised, however, that height limitations of the City of Yorba Linda Zoning Code are still applicable. Contact the Planning Department Counter for the defined height limitations. 
  3. Movable cases, counters and partitions not over 5 feet, 9 inches (1,753 millimeters) high do not require a permit.
  4. A permit is not required for retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1,219 millimeters) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall unless supporting a surcharge, supporting a sloped backfill with a slope greater than 2:1 or impounding flammable liquids. 
  5. A permit is not required for water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons (18,925 liters) and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
  6. A permit is not required for platforms, sidewalks, and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 millimeters) above grade and not over any basement or story below and are not part of an accessible route.
  7. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work do not require a permit. A permit is required if the project involves the removal or replacement of sinks, electrical-related items, or drywall is involved. Be sure to contact the Building Department Counter for specific requirements at (714) 961-7120.
  8. A permit is not required for temporary motion picture, television, and theater stage sets and scenery.
  9. A permit is not required for window awnings supported by an exterior wall of Group R, Division 3, and Group U Occupancies when projecting not more than 54 inches (1,372 millimeters) from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
  10. Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R, Division 3 Occupancy that are less than 18 inches deep, do not exceed 5,000 gallons (18,925 liters), and are installed entirely above ground. Be sure to contact the Planning Department Counter for specific setback requirements at (714) 961-7130.
  11. Decks not exceeding 120 square feet in area, that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling, and do not serve the existing door required by Section R311.4.

Unless otherwise exempted, separate plumbing, electrical and mechanical permits will be required for the above-exempted items.