Permitting Online Portal FAQs
What is the City of Santa Clara Permitting Online Portal?

The Permitting Online Portal (POP) allows Santa Clara residents, businesses, and contractors to submit permit applications, check permit status, pay fees, upload documents, schedule appointments, and schedule inspections online.The POP is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at your convenience.

How do I allow pop-ups from this site?

For Microsoft Edge

  1. Open Microsoft Edge.
  2. Click the three dots (...) in the top-right corner.
  3. Select Settings.
  4. In the left menu, select Privacy, search, and services.
  5. Select Site permissions.
  6. Then choose All permissions.
  7. Click on Pop-ups and redirects.
  8. If your default is set to Blocked (recommended), then you'll want to Add site:

For Google Chrome

  1. Open Google Chrome.
  2. Click the three dots (...) in the top-right corner.
  3. Select Settings.
  4. In the left menu, select Privacy and Security.
  5. Select Site settings.
  6. Click on Pop-ups and redirects.
  7. Under Allowed to send pop-ups and use redirects, you can Add the site:

For Safari (Mac)

  1. Open Safari.
  2. In the top menu bar, click Safari >Preferences or Settingsin newer macOS versions)
  3. Select theWebsites.
  4. In the left sidebar, clickPop-up Windows.
  5. Next to the website, choose Allow.

For Mozilla Firefox

  1. Open Firefox.
  2. Click the three horizontal lines in the top right corner of the browser
  3. Select Settings.
  4. In the left menu, go to Privacy & Security.
  5. Scroll down to the Permissions session.
  6. Uncheck Block pop-up windows to allow all pop-ups. To allow only specific sites, leave it checked, then click Exceptions...and add the website: https://aca-prod.accela.com.
  7. Click Save.
If I'm having system issues with POP, what should I do?

Clearing your cache is the most direct way to resolve many of the system issues.

Clearing your Microsoft Edge browser cache

  1. Open Edge.
  2. Click the three dots in the top right corner of the browser (or press Alt + F).
  3. Select Settings.
  4. In the left sidebar, click on Privacy, search, and services.
  5. Under the Clear browsing data section, click Clear browsing data now. Choose what to clear.
  6. In the pop-up:
    • Set the Time range (e.g. Last hour, Last 24 hours, All time).
    • Check Cached images and files.
    • Click Clear now.

Clearing your Google Chrome browser cache

  1. Open Google Chrome.
  2. Click the three vertical dots in the upper right corner of the browser.
  3. Go to Settings.
  4. On the left sidebar, click Privacy and security.
  5. Click Delete browsing data.
  6. In the pop-up, select your preferred options:
    • Choose the Time range: (e.g., Last hour, Last 7 days, All time).
    • Check the box for Cached images and files.
    • Click Delete data.

Clearing your Safari (Mac) browser cache

  1. Open Safari.
  2. In the top menu bar, click Safari > Settings (or Preferences on older versions).
  3. Go to theAdvanced.tab.
  4. At the bottom, check Show Develop menu in menu bar.
  5. Close the settings window.
  6. In the top menu bar, click Develop > Empty Caches.

Clearing your Firefox browser cache

  1. Open Firefox.
  2. Click the menu button (three horizontal lines) in the top right corner.
  3. Select Settings (or Options on Windows).
  4. Go to Privacy & Security.
  5. Scroll down to the Cookies and Site Data section.
  6. Click Clear Data...Check Temporary cached files and pages
  7. Click Clear.
Can I make an appointment to speak to someone from the City about my permit?

Santa Clara City Hall (1500 Warburton Avenue.) is open Monday-Friday, from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (The Planning counter at the Permit Center is closed on Thursday, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. for staff meetings). The City of Santa Clara encourages scheduling virtual appointments for services. Additional information can also be found on our Permit Center webpage.

Do I need to create an account for the Permitting Online Portal to access services?

Yes, you'll need to set up an account and login to submit applications, upload or download documents, schedule inspections, and see more record details for projects you are connected to.

How do I create an account in the Permitting Online Portal?
  1. From the POP home page, the Login and Register buttons will be on the right side. Create an account by clicking on Register.
  2. Complete the required fields under Login Information.
  3. Read and accept the Terms of Service.
  4. Click Continue.
  5. Fill out the required fields of the Contact Details.
    IMPORTANT! Please use the same email as the Login Information screen. The Contact Type is automatically completed for you.
  6. Click Submit.
  7. A confirmation screen will show that you've successfully created your account.
How do you login to the Permitting Online Portal?

From the home page, click on the Login button and enter your username/email and password in the next screen.

What should I do if I forget my password?

If you've forgotten your password, click on the Forgot Password? link and you will be emailed a link to reset your password.

How do I use the Permit Assistant?

The Permit Assistant is a tool to help guide you through the permitting process. It provides instructions, requirements, and required forms as you go through the application process.

  1. Log in to Permitting Online Portal.
  2. Click on the Apply for a Permit icon from the home page.
  3. Select Permit Assistant.
  4. Enter a search term or phrase in the search box to get started.
  5. Select the most relevant search result. The Permit Assistant will provide instructions or ask questions in the following screens to submittal of your application.
How do I view my records?

To view your permits, log in to the Permitting Online Portal. From Account in the top navigation, select My Records to view all records. Your records will display by department. Click the permit number to view more details. The My Dashboard view displays applications in progress, and not yet submitted.

How do I check the status of a permit or application?

You can view the status of a permit or application by first logging in to the Permitting Online Portal. Click on Account in the top navigation, and select My Records.A list of all your permits or applications will display, along with Status and Actions to take. Click the record number to view more details.

As another option, you may also Search for Permits from the home page. Select the department. If you're logged in, your permits will display on top of the page.

What kind of permit types are there?

At this time, permit types include Building, Planning, Public Works, and Fire permits.

For more information, please visit the Permit Center on the City website.

What are some common abbreviations used in the Permitting Online Portal?
How do I save and resume an in-progress application?

During the application process, you can click Save and resume later. To continue an application you saved, go to My Records under Account in the top navigation. In-progress permit applications have TMP in the record number. Click Resume Application in the Action column.

Note: Incomplete applications are deleted after 30 days.

How do I add or change contacts on a permit?

To add other contacts to the permit or change the applicant or Primary Contact, email permitcenter@santaclaraca.gov with the permit number, contact details, and role. The Primary Contact receives critical correspondence such as fee notices and plan check comments.

What file formats are accepted when uploading attachments into the Permitting Online Portal?

When uploading drawings, calculations, or forms as part of your permit application submittal, they must be in .pdf format. Digital plans and documents must be in a text searchable .pdf format. Note: Image files (e.g., .jpeg, .png, etc.) and .zip files are not acceptable.

What is the maximum file size for documents or files uploaded?

The maximum file size for attachments is 300 MB. For drawings, please follow the Electronic Plan Submittal Guide.

How do I upload or download files to a permit during or after the application?

You need to be logged in and your account must be connected to the specific permit to upload or download files. When applying for a permit, you can upload documents in the Attachments step.

If you are returning to an application, find your permit under Account > My Records. When your list of records appear, click on the Resume Application link for the record. The system will ask if you'd like to Start from the beginning or Pick up where you left off. You'll be able to upload and download files when you get to the Attachments step.

  1. Fill out all required fields and click Continue Application until you reach the Attachments step.
  2. To download a file, click on the linked file.
  3. To upload a file, use the Add button.
  4. Select the file(s) you would like to upload from your computer. Ctrl + Click to select multiple files.
  5. Click Continue once all the files are listed.
  6. Type a detailed description next to each file.
  7. For the Type, use Uploaded from ACA unless the page specifies otherwise.
  8. Click Save.
  9. The document status will show as Uploaded.
  10. A confirmation will also appear at the top of the page that the attachment has been successfully uploaded.
  11. Click Continue Application to proceed.

If you are adding files to your permit application submittal, access your record to add required documents.

  1. From the Permitting Online Portal home page, go to Account in top navigation and select My Accounts in the dropdown.
  2. Click on the record number, and go to the Record Info dropdown to select Attachments.
  3. Click on the Add button to open the File Upload screen and browse to files on your computer. To select and upload multiple files, use Ctrl + Click.
  4. Click Continue.
  5. Select the Type. Use “Uploaded from ACA” unless the instructions list required files. Write a detailed Description for each file (Example: “Drawings - 1st Submittal” or “C&D Waste Form”)
  6. Click Save.
How do I delete a file I uploaded by mistake?
  1. Find your record under Account > My Records or search for your record.
  2. Open the Record Number to click Resume Application for the record.
  3. The system will ask if you'd like to Start from the beginning or Pick up where you left off.
  4. When you get to the Attachments screen, go to the file you want to delete, click the Actions dropdown > select Delete. Only user-uploaded files can be deleted.
  5. A pop-up message will ask to confirm you want to delete the file. Respond with Yes.
  6. A notification displays that the Attachment was removed successfully.
  7. Click on Continue Application.

Note: If you need to delete a document for a Planning application after it has been submitted, please contact your Planner or email planning@santaclaraca.gov.

Can I pay for fees online?

Yes, you can pay for permit fees online by credit/debit card or e-check (bank account).

Note: Fees of $100,000 or more must use e-check (bank account), check, or wire transfer. Fees of $500,000 or more must use check or wire transfer.

  1. Login to POP and click Pay Fees from the home page.
  2. Your records will display on the screen. Click on the record for which you'd like to make a payment. In the Action column, click Pay Fees Due.
  3. Review the fees and click Pay Fees to pay by credit/debit card or e-check (bank account number and routing number).
  4. Complete the billing and payment information.
    • Make sure the name matches what is on the card or bank account. Refunds are made only to the exact billing name and address listed during payment.
  5. Click Pay. A confirmation screen will appear.
  6. Click Print/View Receipt to print a hard copy of your receipt.
    • The same receipt will also be emailed to the email address provided in the Payment Details.
Can I pay without being connected to the permit?

Yes, you can pay fees even if your account is not connected to the permit.

How can I pay my permit fees if I prefer to pay in person?

You may pay in person by credit/debit card, check, or cash.

Can I pay permit-related fees by check?

Yes, you may pay fees by check in person or by mail.

What fees can be paid by wire transfers?

To pay by wire transfer, contact the department that invoiced the fees. Provide the permit number in your request.
Important! Wire transfers sent without prior coordination will be rejected.

Can you estimate what my Building permit or application-related fees are going to be?

Yes. Email your request to permitcenter@santaclaraca.gov with project details (e.g., residential or non-residential, square footage, use/occupancy, and valuation). The Permit Center will respond with an estimate.

Why can't I see how much I owe?

If a permit application was just submitted, staff will need time to review and calculate fees. Once invoiced, the fees will be visible in POP.

For Building permits, what are the order of fees to be paid?

Plan check fees must be paid before the application and drawings will be reviewed. Permit issuance fees and other applicable fees will be assessed after the review.

Can I get a refund for a project that was canceled?

Some fees can be refunded, but certain fees such as plan check fees (Building), technology fees (Building and Planning), and transaction fees cannot.

Please fill out the Permit Cancellation/Request for Refund form and send it to permitcenter@santaclaraca.gov.

What is the difference between a Regular Building Permit and a Simple Building Permit?

Simple Building Permits are only for very limited residential projects, such as like-for-like residential projects for single-family homes, duplexes, and ADUs only. These projects may include residential re-roof, residential HVAC, residential water heater, and residential sewer or water. Not all projects may be eligible for Simple Permits.

  • Townhomes, apartment complexes, and condos are not eligible.
  • Projects in historic areas are not eligible.
  • Projects that have active code enforcement cases or any kind of Parcel Condition are not eligible.

If your project is not eligible or you are unsure, use the Regular Building Permit type.

Can we expedite review turnaround times?

We cannot expedite review turnaround times for residential projects. Expedited lead times are dependent on project type and the assigned plan checkers' availability. Overtime plan review is limited to only building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing trade reviews and does not apply to other departments. Customers must review and email the completed Overtime Plan Review Request form to permitcenter@santaclaraca.gov to request this service.

How do you renew a Building permit?

Permits are only valid for 365 days from the date of issuance or the last passed inspection. If a permit expires before all work is completed, a new permit application must be submitted and approved before work can continue or begin again. An extension may be given to an active permit for up to 365 days at the discretion of the Building Official. Permit extensions can only be given once, and permits associated with code violation cases may not be extended. Please upload the completed Building Permit Extension Request (PDF) to the Permitting Online Portal.

How far in advance can I schedule an inspection?

Inspections may be scheduled up to 10 business days in advance.

How do I schedule a Building inspection?

You can schedule, cancel, and check the status of building inspections online in the Permitting Online Portal (POP).

Note: To schedule inspections online, your user account must be connected to the BLD permit. Unless you are the original applicant, you must contact a City staff member to request your POP account be connected. Please email building@santaclaraca.gov or call 408-615-2440 for assistance. Please have your building permit number (e.g., BLD2013-01234, BLD23-01234) and inspection types ready.

  1. Log in to your Permitting Online Portal account.
  2. Click on the Schedule Inspections icon on the home page or from the top navigation.
  3. Select Building.
  4. Click the BLD Record Number.
  5. Click on the Record Info tab and select Inspections in the dropdown.
  6. In the Inspections Upcoming section, click on theSchedule or Request an Inspection button.
  7. From the Inspection Category drop-down menu at the top of the screen, choose the Inspection Category.
  8. Select the inspection type from the list. Click Continue.
  9. Select an available date. Available dates will appear in blue. Inspections may be scheduled up to 10 business days in advance.
  10. Select a time frame.
  11. Click Continue.
  12. Review the information on the Location and Contact screen. If correct, click Continue. If incorrect, click Change Contact and select an existing contact or specify a different contact for this inspection only.
  13. Review the confirmation screen. Click Include Additional Notes for Your Inspector to add optional comments.

    14. Note: Inspections must be canceled or rescheduled before 2:00 p.m. on the business day prior to the scheduled inspection to avoid re-inspection fees.

  14. Click Finish when done.
Where does your scheduled inspection show up in your building record?

The inspection date and time will appear in the Upcoming section of the building record.

How do I reschedule or cancel an inspection?

  • To reschedule an inspection: Go to the record number. Click on the Record Info tab and select Inspections in the dropdown. In the Inspections Upcoming section, click Actions and select Reschedule. Repeat the scheduling steps.
  • To cancel an inspection: Go to the record number, click on the Record Info tab and select Inspectionsin the dropdown. In the Inspections Upcoming section, click Actions and select Cancel. Then click Cancel Inspection.
  • Reschedule or cancel inspections before 2:00 p.m. the business day before the inspection.
    • For changes requested after the deadline, customers must contact the office staff directly by phone at 408-615-2440 or come in person.
      The Permit Center is located at 1500 Warburton Avenue, Santa Clara, CA 95050.
      Hours are Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
    • Same-day or late cancellations may result in reinspection fees.

How do I schedule for overtime inspections?

If you need an inspection outside normal business hours, overtime (OT) inspections may be requested. This service requires approval from the Inspection Manager and includes additional fees.Please complete the OT Inspection Application (PDF) and email it to building@santaclaraca.gov to request this service.

When are time windows for inspections available on the Permitting Online Portal?

Please check your email or the Permitting Online Portal after 7:45 a.m. on the day of your inspection to get your two-hour time window for your inspector's arrival.

  • Time windows will not be available until the day of the inspection.
  • You or someone familiar with the project must be at the job site during these two hours with a permit card and a full set of City-approved plans printed in color. You can view or print your permit and approved drawings from the Permitting Online Portal using your permit number. Reschedule or cancel inspections before 2:00 p.m. the business day before the inspection.

For changes requested after the deadline:

  • Call 408-615-2440
  • Or visit the Permit Center in person at 1500 Warburton Avenue, Santa Clara, CA 95050.
  • Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

IMPORTANT! Same-day or late cancellations may result in reinspection fees.

When can final inspections be scheduled?

All final inspections must be scheduled on the same day.

Important: Your building permit may also have conditions from other departments that will prevent the Building Division from passing your final inspections. Please confirm with the appropriate department before scheduling final inspections. Conditions may include, but are not limited to fire conditions, land and property development conditions, street conditions, or water conditions:

Santa Clara Fire Department
Fire conditions (e.g., closing fire permits, Fire Building Inspections)
Phone: 408-615-4970
Email: crrd@santaclaraca.gov

Department of Public Works
Land & Property Development Division (e.g., encroachment permits, agreements)
Phone: 408-615-3000
Email: engineering@santaclaraca.gov

Maintenance & Operations Division - Street conditions (e.g., Green Halo requirements)
Phone: 408-615-3080
Email: street@santaclaraca.gov

Water & Sewer Utilities
Water conditions (e.g., stormwater final inspections)
Phone: 408-615-2000
Email: water@santaclaraca.gov

Permit Center
Submit final affidavits from your Special Testing Agency or Engineer of Record through the Permitting Online Portal.
Phone: 408-615-2420
Email: permitcenter@santaclaraca.gov

Can I make an appointment with a Planner?

Santa Clara City Hall (1500 Warburton Avenue) is open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. The Planning Counter at the Permit Center is closed on Thursdays from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. for staff meetings. The City encourages scheduling virtual appointments for services. Additional information can be found on the Permit Center webpage.

What do I need to do before submitting a Planning application?

A Planning Preliminary Application, or Pre-Application, is a service that provides applicants with an early analysis of how City codes, policies and development review processes may apply to a prospective project. Submitting a Pre-Application is not considered a formal development application and doesn't promise project approval, but it can help applicants address issues and prepare accurate plans for the formal review process. Pre-Application fees apply.

Pre-Applications are reserved for SB 9 and SB 330 projects, multi-family residential, mixed-use, or non-residential projects. Do not submit a Pre-Application for a single-family residence.

  1. Verify the Zoning District of the property using the City's Zoning Map.
  2. Verify whether the property is on the Historic Resource Inventory (HRI) or within 200 feet of an HRI using the Historic Resources Map.
  3. Reference the General Plan and Zoning Code for compliance.
  4. Consult with the Public Works Engineering Department (Land & Property Development Division) about public easements.
  5. Read the Application Checklists for your application type.
  6. Review the applicable Application Fee Schedule (PDF).
  7. Contact the Planning Division with questions. Schedule an in-person or virtual appointment if needed.

Note: Submit detailed plans electronically through the Permitting Online Portal (POP). The plan set may include site plans, architectural drawings, traffic studies, environmental impact assessments, etc.

They should be submitted in a single, searchable PDF file, 8.5x11 in size.

What happens after submitting a Planning application?
Where can I find information on fence requirements?

Refer to the Residential Fence Handout (PDF) for regulations on where fences can be built on R1-6L, R1-8L, and R2 zoned parcels.

Who do I contact if there is an "Engineering Hold" on my Building permit?

Contact Public Works Engineering by phone or by e-mail.

Can we expedite review turnaround times?

The Santa Clara Fire Department offers Overtime plan review for Building permits if a Fire review is required, but you must request it on a separate web form.