Inspection Guidelines

City of Palo Alto Guide Books are intended to help permit holders prepare for and pass inspections, providing a path to successful completion of all project types. By taking a systematic approach, we have attempted to provide a “comprehensive checklist” for many types of projects. Guide Books are not to be confused with Code Books (California Title 24). Guide Books reference state, local codes and adoptive ordinances, but do not supersede them. Guide Books are available for Commercial, Residential, Tenant Improvements, Electrical, Roofing and other types of projects. We welcome any feedback you may have to help us improve these resources. A copy of the applicable inspection guideline is available with each Building Permit. Additional copies may be purchased at the Development Center or you may download the individual checklists by clicking on the book icons below. Note The 2019 California Building Standards Code are in effect for permits submitted after January 1, 2020. 

Residential Inspection Guidelines  Tenant Improvement Inspection Guidelines  Commercial Inspection Guidelines
 Ordinances Inspection Guidelines(PDF, 6MB)  Roofing Inspection Guidelines  Green Building Inspection Guidelines
 Foundations Inspection Guidelines  Electrical Inspection Guidelines