Mission Statement

The Los Banos Building Department provides services to assure that the buildings constructed in the City of Los Banos are build to the standards of the current Building Standards as defined in the building codes and construction standards adopted by the City of Los Banos. Thus giving the citizens of Los Banos the best possible buildings.

The Building Department is directed by Fire Chief Chet Guintini and all building inspection services are contracted out under his direction. The department is available by phone at 827-7000, during normal business days from 8am to 5pm. You may also e-mail at bldclerk@losbanos.org.

Background

The regulation of building construction is not a new phenomenon. It in fact is traced back in history to over 4,000 years ago. Today the United States is covered by a network of modern building regulations ranging from fire and structural safety to health, security, and conservation of energy.

The State of California along with local governments have enacted and adopted numerous building and building related code in order to protect your life, health, and property. Likewise state law requires the City, as the local jurisdiction, to provide comprehensive building code enforcement services, including plan reviews and site inspections.

The building department uses building permits to manage building inspections and related applicable fees. These are required to insure that the project is in compliance with applicable building and regulations. This codes and regulations are based upon past construction and are to insure that safe and proper building practices are adhered to.

Many projects besides new construction projects and major remodeling require building permits. These include the new installations that are listed in the table in this section. In general, building permits are required whenever a building or structure is constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved or demolished. There are some minor projects that are exempt, and no permits are required. Call the Building Department at City Hall, (209)827-7000, before you start any work to see if your project requires a permit. Checking with staff first can save you time, money, and penalty fees.

In addition your Los Banos City building official provides many service all of which benefit the public:

• Education
• Technical Support
• Plan review
• On-site construction inspections
• Energy code compliance
• Earthquake, hurricanes, tornado, flooding, and other natural disaster awareness/preparedness
• Floor plan management
• Technical support concerning barrier-free access
• Approval of alternative methods and materials
• Public information including records and data
• Budget management
• Coordination of the permit process with other departments and government agencies

The City has adopted the 1994 edition of the following codes: Uniform Building; Abatement of Dangerous Buildings; Uniform Plumbing; Uniform Mechanical; Uniform Fire (including 1995 amendments); Uniform Signs; and Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub. The City also has adopted the 1993 National Electronic Code, the State Historical Building Code, and a program for un-reinforced masonry buildings.

Encroachment Permits

Encroachment Permits are required for any alterations of improvements to facilities with in the city's right-of-way. This right-of-way includes the sidewalks, driveway approaches, curbs, butters, alleys, and streets. An Encroachment Permit insures that any work performed is completed to the City of Los Banos standard for such work and improvements.



Encroachment Permits are restricted to licensed contractors only. The code also limits the use of the city's right-of-way to prohibiting the stockpiling nor the storing of building materials, construction dumpster's, dirt, gravel, nor any other construction debris or materials.

Applications for the Encroachments Permits are obtained from, filed, and paid for at the Building Department's Counter in City Hall on J Street. Fees for a permit are calculated Table No. 1-A of Chapter One on the Uniformed Building Code.

The Inspections of Encroachment Permits are preformed by the Public Works Department. A detailed diagram or a set of engineered plans is required to accompany the permit applications. For minor modifications, a detailed diagram is sufficient. On larger projects a set of engineering plans will be required. Should you have any questions regarding your project, please telephone the City's Public Works Department at 209-827-7056.

Encroachment Permits are Required for:

• Sidewalks
• Curb Drains
• Driveway Approach Modifications
• Water Service
• Sewer Service
• Traffic Control Devices
• Curb and Gutter Work
• Street Excavations
• Modifications to Sewer System
• Modifications to Water System
• Modifications to Storm Drain System
• Monitoring Wells

Charts:

Electrical Permits Chart
Plumbing Permits Chart
Mechanical Permits Chart
Structural Building Permits Chart

Permits

Application for Building Permit  
Application for Re-roofing Permit  

FAQs:

Inspection Frequently Asked Questions