New Building Permit Pre-Application

As of January 13, 2025, a new Building Permit Pre-Application is available in the City's online permitting system, Accela Citizen Access (ACA).

This new Building-specific pre-application integrates the application into the online process, eliminating the need for a separate Building Permit Application PDF as part of the submittal package.

If you are having trouble with the online application or have questions about this new process, please email pdsdata@cityofpaloalto.org.

What's Changing?

Step 1.New "Building Permit Pre-Application"

Applicants will see two Pre-Application types to select. For Building Permit applications, select the new "Building Permit Pre-Application" record type.

The other pre-application type is for Planning Entitlements, Fire permits, and Public Works permits and should not be selected.

Step 2.New Application Details Section

This new section collects information on the project's scope of work.

A "Detailed Description" is required and you must select at least one "Type of Work". Depending on the Type of Work selected, additional questions may appear below and are required to be completed.

Step 3.Other Sections Remain the Same

The project address, applicant, licensed professional, and documents sections will remain identical to the old version of the pre-application.

Prior to the issuance of your building permit, a project coordinator may reach out to you for a signature on an system generated PDF application for acknowledgements and declarations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I submit the wrong Pre-Application Type?

Applicants may be required to submit a new Building Permit Pre-Application.

The other Pre-Application type is specific to Planning, Fire, and Public Works and does not collect the information required for a Building Permit application. Please contact the assigned staff on your pre-application for further guidance.

Development Services Hours

Monday-Thursday: 8:30 AM-4:30 PM

Friday: 8:00 AM-4:30 PM (Virtual Only)

Closed Daily from 12:30 PM-1:30 PM

Phone

To reach a Building Project Coordinator, call (650) 329-2496 and select option 1.

For building permit questions, please email building@cityofpaloalto.org.

Technical Issues?

If you are having OPS logon issues or technical difficulties, please email pdsdata@cityofpaloalto.org.

Accela Citizen Access Portal