PlainPermit

Do I need a permit for an HVAC or AC replacement in San Diego, CA?

Short answer: Yes, a permit is required for an HVAC or AC replacement in San Diego, CA.

Last verified: · Confidence: high · Status: Verified from official source

Not legal advice. Always confirm with your local building department. Rules change, and your parcel's zoning, HOA, historic district, floodplain or utility work can change the answer. We show the official source and the date we last checked it so you can verify for yourself.
Permit required Confidence: high

Yes. Installing furnaces or A/C units uses a Simple (no-plan) mechanical permit outside historic districts.

What changes the answer

Cost

Fee not extracted; see San Diego 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). See also: how to apply for a building permit.

Official sources

“A Simple Permit is a “No-plan” permit for minor Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) work that does not require plan review by the City.”

Source: https://www.sandiego.gov/development-services/permits/faqs

“Installation of forced air units (FAU) or air conditioner units (A/C), exhaust fans, and replacement of furnaces.”

Source: https://www.sandiego.gov/development-services/permits/faqs

Verified: · Status: verified · Confidence: high

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