Frequently Asked Questions

Most additions, remodels, and SB 9 lot split projects take 8–16 weeks from application to permit issuance. New custom home and ground-up construction projects usually take 4–8 months depending on complexity, city review times, and whether additional entitlements are required. We typically cut the timeline by 30–60% compared to DIY applications because we know how to avoid common delays and respond quickly to plan check comments.

We specialize in residential additions, remodels, SB 9 lot split, new custom home, and ground-up construction projects throughout the Bay Area. Our team also handles ADUs, commercial entitlements, subdivisions, and full-scale development projects. From simple kitchen remodels to complex multi-unit developments and custom home builds, we've got you covered with our comprehensive permitting expertise.

If you already have your own architect or civil engineers, that's great — we're happy to coordinate with your existing team throughout the permitting process. If you don't have the full design team in place, we can refer you to trusted architects, structural engineers, and residential designers we've worked with for years. Ultimately, the choice of consultants is yours, and we'll work seamlessly with whoever you select to get your project approved.

Our fees cover our permitting services only — they do not include city fees, which are paid separately to the city or county. City fees vary significantly by jurisdiction and project type, so we provide detailed cost breakdowns during your consultation.

• • Additions & remodels: $2,500–$4,500 (city fees additional, vary by city)
• • SB 9 Lot Split: $5,000–$10,000 (city fees additional, vary significantly by city and scope)
• • New custom home / ground-up construction: 1.5%–3% of total project costs (city fees additional, vary by city)

Exact pricing is provided after your free consultation and detailed project review. We'll provide a clear breakdown of both our fees and estimated city fees for your specific project and jurisdiction.

An SB 9 lot split in Contra Costa County typically costs $5,000–$10,000 in permitting fees, plus additional city fees that vary significantly by jurisdiction. Cities like Walnut Creek, Concord, Pleasant Hill, and Martinez each have different fee schedules, processing times, and specific requirements. We provide detailed cost breakdowns during your free consultation so you know exactly what to expect before getting started with your SB 9 project.

For most additions and remodels in the Bay Area, you will need stamped drawings from a licensed architect or designer to submit with your permit application. The complexity of your addition determines whether you need a full architect or can work with a residential designer — smaller projects like bedroom additions may only require a designer, while complex remodels often need full architectural plans. We can recommend trusted professionals or work with your existing design team to ensure your plans meet all city requirements and get approved quickly.

Yes — under California's SB 9 law, you can legally split one residential lot into two separate parcels and build up to two units on each (totaling 4 units). This represents a significant opportunity for property owners looking to maximize their land's potential. We handle the full planning, entitlements, parcel map surveys, and construction permits for SB 9 lot split projects from start to finish.

Entitlements are the legal rights to develop or use land — they include zoning approvals, use permits, variances, and subdivision maps that must be obtained before construction can legally begin. Building permits, on the other hand, authorize specific construction work and ensure your plans comply with all building codes, structural requirements, and safety standards. Many projects require both, especially subdivisions, new custom homes, and ground-up construction projects where zoning adjustments or lot splits are needed before building can commence.

Yes — we manage every aspect of the permit application process, including preparing and submitting all required documents, responding to plan check comments, and coordinating with city plan reviewers. We handle all communications with the building department so you never have to deal with the city directly or navigate complicated permit systems. Once your permit is approved, we pull the final building permit and ensure you have everything needed to begin construction legally.

Yes — property subdivisions are possible through several mechanisms depending on your goals: parcel maps for simple lot splits, lot line adjustments to reconfigure property boundaries, tract maps for larger developments, or condominium conversions for multi-unit projects. The specific process depends on your local jurisdiction and zoning, as each city has different requirements. We handle the entire subdivisions process from initial feasibility analysis and entitlement applications through final map approval and building permits.

No — starting construction before obtaining a valid building permit is illegal and can result in significant fines, stop-work orders, and complications with your homeowner's insurance. The city can require you to tear out unpermitted work or deny your permit application altogether if work has already begun. We ensure your permit is fully issued before any construction work starts, so you can proceed with confidence and full legal protection.

New custom home and ground-up construction projects typically take 4–8 months for permitting alone, depending on the city, project complexity, and whether additional entitlements are required. This timeline includes plan check review, structural engineering approval, environmental clearances, and any necessary zoning variances. Our expertise in navigating these processes helps minimize delays, and we typically cut the timeline by 30–60% compared to DIY applications — keeping your project on track from design to groundbreaking.

We serve all over the Bay Area with a strong focus in Contra Costa County (including Walnut Creek, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Martinez, and Danville), South Bay (San Jose, Cupertino, Sunnyvale), and the Tri-Valley region (Dublin, Pleasanton, Livermore). Our team has extensive experience working with most Bay Area cities and counties, so we know the specific requirements and contacts in each jurisdiction to get your project approved efficiently.

We are confident in our ability to get your permit approved, which is why we guarantee we will continue working at no extra charge until your permit is issued — that's our commitment to you. This guarantee applies as long as you provide timely responses to any requests for information or documents needed for your application. We don't offer refunds because we invest significant expertise and effort into every project, but you only pay when your permit is successfully in hand.

Getting started is easy — simply click the button below to schedule your free 15-minute consultation. We'll review your project details, give you an estimated timeline and exact price, and answer any questions you have about the permitting process. There's no obligation, and you'll walk away with a clear understanding of what it takes to get your project approved and built.