STATE OF CALIFORNIA ACCESSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
For Accessibility
requirements enforced by the State of California please see the
California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 2 Volume 1, Chapters 10,
11A, 11B and 11C. A copy of these regulations is available for viewing
at the Building Department located on the second floor of the City
Hall. This book cannot be removed from the Building Department. These
regulations are under copyright by both the California Conference of
Building Officials and the California Building Standards Commission and
can not be photocopied.
BUILDING & CODE ENFORCEMENT
DEPARTMENT FAQ:
City Hall Location and
Hours
Q. Where is the
Building and Code Enforcement Division counter located?
A. We are located
on the 2nd floor of Winters City Hall 318 First St., Winters,
CA.95694.
Q. When is the
counter open?
A. Counter hours
are Tuesday/Thursday from 9-Noon or by appointment only.
Building Permits
Q. When do I need
a building permit?
A. Before a
structure in the City of Winters can be built, enlarged, altered, removed,
demolished, and/or repaired, a Building Permit for that work is required.
This includes but is not limited to single-family homes, multi-family
residential buildings, and commercial buildings.
Some examples of
construction activity that require a permit include:
Construction of new
buildings
Construction of tenant
improvements
Additions and remodels
Installation of signs
Upgrading or replacement
of electrical service panels
Adding or moving outlets,
lights, switches, or other electrical equipment
Adding or moving
registers, ducts, or mechanical equipment
Adding or moving plumbing
lines or plumbing fixtures - including lawn irrigation (sprinklers)
Demolition
Patio covers, enclosures
and decks
Pools/ hot tubs and spas
Retaining walls
supporting a surcharge
Fences over 6 ft. in
height
Block or masonry walls
Photovoltaic systems
Sheds, playhouses or
similar uses, provided the floor area exceeds120 sq. ft. and/or roof is over
10 ft. in height
Re-roofs
Re-pipes
Water heater and water
softener change-outs
Window and door
change-outs
Drywall replacement
Repairs of damaged areas
Stucco and siding
There are other work
types that require a permit and not on this list, please contact the
Building and Code Division prior to starting a project if you have any
questions.
When is a building
permit not required?
A Building Permit shall
not be required for the following, however compliance to applicable codes
and set-backs are necessary:
-Painting, wallpapering,
and similar work
-Movable cases, counters,
and partitions not over 5feet- 9inches.
-Prefabricated swimming
pools accessory to Group R-3 occupancy less than 18 inches deep, do not
exceed 5,000gallons and are installed entirely above ground.
-One-story detached
accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar
uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet. Please
contact the Planning Department for required setbacks.
-Walkways (not in public
right-of-way) and driveways not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade,
and not over any basement or story below and are not part of an accessible
route. Please contact Public Works if you have questions.
-Temporary motion
picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.
-Window awnings supported
by an exterior wall that do not project more than 54 inches from the
exterior wall and do not require additional support of Group R-3 and U
occupancies.
-Fences less than 6 feet
high. Contact Planning regarding setback information.
If you have any questions
please contact the Building and Code Enforcement Division, please call Gene
Ashdown at 530-795-4910 x117 or
email.
What other type of
permits and licenses are required with a Building Permit?
When applying for a
building permit, the counter staff will review your proposed project and
inform you if additional permits are necessary; such as electrical, plumbing
or mechanical and other related permits including Grading Permit and/or
Encroachment Permits issued by the Public Works Department and Fire
Sprinkler Permits. Unless the property owner is acting as his/her own
general contractor, the project’s general contractor and subcontractors will
require the appropriate classified state contractor’s license and worker’s
compensation insurance coverage. All contractors and subcontractors
performing work in the City of Winters must possess a current business
license. A copy of the signed contract between the homeowner and
contractor is also required to be provided prior to permit issuance.
How do I find out the
building requirements for my project?
For your convenience the
Building and Code Division has various helpful information handouts
available at its counter to assist you. There are also planning, zoning and
grading requirements that may apply to your project. Staff in the related
departments at City Hall is available to discuss the requirements for your
project and answer questions in their area of expertise.
How do I obtain a
Building Permit?
Permits that do not
require plan check such as water heater change-outs, meter panel upgrades
and re-roofs may be issued over the counter at the Building and Code
Enforcement Division.
Who may apply for and
obtain a Building Permit?
A building permit may be
applied for and obtained by the parcel owner, licensed contractor or with an
authorization letter and proof of current workers compensation insurance
from either the parcel owner or licensed contractor.
Can I submit an
application for a Building Permit by mail or email?
Yes, currently over-the
–counter permit applications may be either mailed or e-mailed to our
department. This allows us to complete the proper paperwork prior to your
coming to the office thus reducing your waiting time. Please note: Building
permits must be obtained prior to starting work.
Can I consult
Building/Planning about land-use restrictions and submittal requirements
while my project is still in the planning stage?
Yes. In fact, this is
part of the normal development process for projects.
What is required to
obtain a re-roof permit?
A building permit for a
re-roof can be issued over-the-counter if no structural calculations are
necessary. However, roof materials weighing 6 lbs. or more per square foot
will require plan check of engineered structural calculations. A minimum
class B roof is required.
How long does it take
to get a Building Permit?
With a complete proper
submittal application, some permits can be issued over-the-counter while you
wait.
For projects that require
plan check, typical times are as follows:
Minor projects- 5-10
working days
Major projects 10-20
working days
Complete and proper
submittal will help your project move in a timely manner.
How can I find out the
status of my permit and/or plan check?
You will be notified when
your plan check process has been completed. You may also contact the
Building and Code Enforcement Division at 530 795-3586 x 117.
What is a sub-list?
A sub-list is short for
contractors list. The sub-list is a form that list all subcontractors used
for a project. If a project is completed by a homeowner, a sub list would
indicate “No subcontractors were used”. The sub-list must be submitted and
approved by the Building and Code Enforcement Division prior to final
inspection. Sub-lists may be submitted by mail, faxed to 530 795-4935 attn:
Building and Code Enforcement Division or submitted at the counter.
How many sets of plans
are needed to apply for a Building Permit?
Residential - 3 complete
sets plus one if Fire Department review is required
Commercial- 4 complete
sets plus one if Fire Department review is required
What plans are
required when applying for a Building Permit?
Larger projects require
the following plans submitted along with the Building Permit Application:
(additional plans may be required)
Site plan
Floor plan (existing and
proposed)
Elevation plans
Sectional drawings
Framing plan
Roofing plan
Structural calculations
and details
Energy calculations
Fire suppression plans
Some smaller projects
require less information. Please contact the Building and Code Enforcement
Division for informational handouts.
What format is
required for plans?
Plans must be submitted
on a minimum of 18” x 24” sheets, fully dimensioned and drawn to scale.
Who can draw my plans?
Architects may
design any building of any type except: a structural portion of a hospital
Civil Engineers
may design any building of any type except: hospitals or schools
Structural Engineers
may design any building of any type: no limitations
Unlicensed persons
may design the following:
Single-family dwellings
of woodframe construction not more than two stories in height.
Multiple dwellings
containing not more than four dwelling units of woodframe construction not
more than two stories and basement in height. No more than four dwellings
per lot.
Garages or other
structures appurtenant to single-family dwellings, of woodframe construction
not more than two stories and basement in height.
Agricultural buildings of
woodframe construction unless the building official having jurisdiction
deems that an undue risk to the public health, safety, or welfare is
involved.
Nonstructural or
non-seismic storefronts, interior alterations or additions, fixtures,
cabinetwork, furniture, or other appliances or equipment, including
nonstructural or nonseismic work necessary to provide for their
installation.
May not design any
component that changes or affects the safety of any building, including but
not limited to structural or seismic components.
Note: Building
officials may require plans, computations, and specifications to be prepared
and designed by an engineer or architect licensed by the state to practice
as such even if not required by state law. Sec. 5537,5538 and 6737.1
Business & Professional Code
If I don’t understand
the Plan Check Comments, can I confer with the reviewer?
Yes, the comment sheet
will include the name and contact phone number of the plan checker assigned
to your project. If you are the property owner, you may consult with your
licensed professional to review the comment sheet.
What do I need to
rebuild my existing fence?
If the fence is wood or
vinyl and 6 feet or less, a permit is not required. If the fence is a block
wall and will be constructed to City standards, a plot plan and building
permit is required. If the block wall is not constructed to City standards
engineered structural details are required.
What needs to be
included in pool or spa plans?
A pool or spa requires a
site plan indicating location, existing fencing, gates and doors leading to
pool area. For in ground pools/spas engineered structural details must be
wet stamped. For additional requirements, please refer to the Swimming Pool
and Spa information handout.
What types of barriers
(fencing) are required for swimming pools, hot tubs and spas?
Please contact the Building and Code
Enforcement Division to obtain the Swimming Pool and Spa information
handouts for specific requirements.
How much are the fees
for a Building Permit?
Fees depend on various
factors such as the type of construction, square footage, use of building,
type of project, etc. For additional information you may contact the
Building and Code Enforcement Division at 530 795-3586 x 112.
When do I have to pay
the fees?
Plan check fees are due
at time of plan submittal. Permit fees are paid at permit issuance.
Additional fees may apply to specific projects. Such as:
School impact fees
Fire and Police impact
fees
General impact fees
Yolo County Facilities
and Services Authorization Fee
Others as required
How may I pay for my
required fees?
The city will accept
cash, personal check or money orders. At this time we are not set up
to take credit or ATM cards.
Once I have a Building
Permit, when do I request an inspection?
You will receive a job
card at the permit issuance which lists inspections in chronological order.
If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact the Building and Code
Enforcement Division at 530 795-4910 x 117. Do not conceal any work prior
to passing the required inspections.
How do I request an
inspection?
You may contact the
Building and Code Enforcement Division at 530 795-4910 x 117 to request an
inspection. Inspections are typically completed M-F 7:00am -3:00p.m. Due
to limited staff next day inspections can not be guaranteed.
How do I cancel an
inspection?
Call the same number you
call for requesting an inspection: 530 795-4910 x 117. Please cancel an
inspection as soon as you know you will not be ready.
What does the
inspector look for?
The inspector verifies
that the construction conforms to the approved plans and meets applicable
Building Codes and relevant requirements. The City of Winters inspects to
the minimum standards of the codes.
How is inspection
results recorded?
The inspector signs the
Job Card (orange) at the job site. When the inspector returns to the office
the inspection results are entered into the inspection log book. Your
building permit and office inspection card become part of the property
record.
What happens if I fail
an inspection?
If your requested
inspection is not approved, the inspector will write a Correction Notice.
The notice will identify the items that need to be corrected. After all
corrections have been completed, the inspection request may be recalled. If
you schedule an inspection and are not ready or you have not completed the
items on your correction notice prior to scheduling an inspection a
re-inspection fee may be assessed.
How can I register a
Special Inspector?
A Special Inspector
Registration form must be completed by the applicant and submitted in person
at the Building and Code Enforcement Division counter. A copy of all
certificates and licenses are required for verification. A Special
Inspector is required to register with the Building and Code Enforcement
Division prior to any special inspection activity.
How do I extend my
permit to complete my project?
A permit extension must
be completed and approved prior to the expiration of the permit. If your
request for extension is accepted, a one-time additional 6 months may
be granted.
How do I get a refund
if I have been overcharged?
A written refund request
must be submitted to the Building and Code Enforcement Division. Upon
review, you will be notified if you qualify for a refund.
Who should I hire as
the contractor for my project?
It is highly recommended
that you hire a well qualified, licensed contractor with a proper class
license for the work being performed. The Contractors State License Board
is an excellent source of information and assistance in verifying the status
of a contractor.
The City cannot
recommend a contractor but will assist you with CSLB and Business License
background checks.
How do I know what
underground pipelines are on my property?
Before commencing
excavation for your project, you may contact USA North Underground Service
Alert @ 1-800-227-2600 to determine the location of any underground lines
you may have on your property. A minimum of 2 working days are required.
This is a free service.
Please remember that
we are here to help you. If we can be of assistance do not hesitate to
contact us.
Gene Ashdown
Building Official
530-795-4910 x117
gene.ashdown@cityofwinters.org
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