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Building Services

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1. Do I need a permit to change out my windows?

Yes. Windows should be checked for proper installation and location of tempered glass where needed. If the glass is the only thing that is being replace, no permit is required. Window Change-Out Permit Procedure

2. Am I allowed to have a canopy carport on my property?

Fabric, canvas or plastic covered structures over 120 square feet are not permitted. Metal clad structures could be permitted with specific requirements. Complete details are provided at Canopy & Storage Structures

3. What are the hours of operation?

Office hours are from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

4. Who do I contact if I want to remove trees from my property?

The city's Fire Department provides inspections of your entire property including defensible place and tree removal. You can contact the Fire Department at (530) 542-6180.
You may cut trees on your property if:1:They are dead (determined by a qualified forester). 2: If they are UNDER 14'' in diameter at 4 1/2 feet off of the ground on the uphill side. 3:If your tree is in a shorezone, which means in between your house and the lake, you may only cut without a permit if it is UNDER 6" in diameter at 4 1/2 feet off the ground on the uphill side. If you think you might need a permit, please call (530) 542-6180.

5. When can I speak to an Inspector?

The inspectors are available at the counter from 8:00 am - 9:30 am and 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Monday thru Friday.

6. I have an ADA question about my business. Who do I contact?

There are approximately 360 Certified Access Specialists in the State of California.The City of South Lake Tahoe also has a Certified Access Specialist who can answer your ADA questions. Dave Walker can be contacted at (530) 542-6072. Certified Access Specialists

7. How long does the plan check process take?

From the date the plan check is received, it could take anywhere from 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the time of year. Winter time could be 2 to 3 weeks and Summer time up to 6 weeks.

8. Do I need a building permit for a shed?

All sheds require permitting. Whether it requires a building permit and/or Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) permit is determined by a number of factors. Please refer the Guide to Constructing Sheds & Other Non-Permanent Structures handout for additional information.

9. Do I need a permit to work on my driveway?

Yes, an encroachment permit is required to do any work on your driveway. All driveways are to be paved with an acceptable material, have an associated BMP to manage the stormwater runoff, and comply with TRPA land coverage regulations. Please visit the Permit Center for any questions regarding the work that can be performed on your new or existing driveway. Encroachment permit

10. How can I pay for my permit?

We accept cash, check, Master Card, Visa and American Express. There is a $10,000 limit on credit card payments.

11. Can I find the Building Codes on line?

Yes, the California Building Standards Commission website provides current 2013 Codes. 2013 Building Codes

12. How can I view my street file?

All street files are public record and can be viewed at the Permit Center:
1052 Tata Ln.
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

The Permit Center has 10 days to respond to the request. Files may be reviewed over the counter at the time of request depending on the availability of Permit Center staff. An appointment may be scheduled to ensure the file will be ready to view upon visit.

Copies are $0.10 per page.

13. Do I need a permit for a fence at my home?

Yes, for further information contact the City's Permit Center at (530) 542-6010. Fence application

14. Can I see what permits are in the file for my house?

Yes, all permits issued for your property are available for Public review. Visit the Permit Center counter to review the file:
1052 Tata Ln
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Files may be reviewed over the counter at the time of request depending on the availability of Permit Center staff. The Permit Center has 10 days to respond to the request. An appointment may be scheduled to ensure the file will be ready to view upon visit.

15. I am going to work on my existing deck, do I need a permit?

Yes, any structural improvements to a deck requires a building permit and Engineering to support the seismic conditions in our area. Railing is required on decks higher than 30 inches from the ground.

16. Do I need a permit to build a new deck over existing dirt?

All new decks need a permit and TRPA will also be involved due to the additional coverage.