Do I need a permit for a interior / bathroom remodel in San Diego, CA?

Yes for a remodel. A kitchen or bath remodel with no structural, wall-framing or exterior-wall changes and no added fixtures qualifies for a No-Plan Building Permit. Tub-to-tub and shower-to-shower swaps of the same size and location are exempt.

What changes the answer

• Same-size tub or shower swap: no permit
• No structural changes or added fixtures: No-Plan permit
• Otherwise: plans required

Cost

Fee not extracted; see Development Services. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://www.sandiego.gov/development-services/what-permits-do-i-need

Where to apply

City of San Diego Development Services Department (online permits)

Permitting authority: City of San Diego Development Services Department. Applies inside the City of San Diego. Exemptions do not apply to designated historical resources, historic districts, or work that needs a development permit (for example environmentally sensitive lands).

Official sources

“Remodel of an existing kitchen and/or bathroom(s) within residential buildings (Group R-2 or R-3 occupancy only) with no changes to structural elements, wall framing or exterior walls and no added plumbing fixtures.”

Source: https://www.sandiego.gov/development-services/forms-publications/information-bulletins/203

“Tub-to-tub and shower-to-shower replacements that do not change the size or location of the tub or shower.”

Source: https://www.sandiego.gov/development-services/forms-publications/information-bulletins/203

Verified: 2026-10-19 · Status: verified · Confidence: high