Development Services

Home Owners

Most residential construction requires a building permit. The City of Turlock urges all homeowners to obtain the necessary permits for any construction or remodeling of their homes. In the future, should you decide to sell your home, all construction/remodeling and improvements that have been performed will need to be verified by a real estate agent or new buyer by using the permits issued by the City. This can be quite an inconvenience and costly should you have to take time to get permits for illegal construction, when it’s much easier to do it right the first time.

This section will provide tips on home remodeling and other construction projects as well as, learning why construction permits are needed and how to obtain them. We will also have a series of upcoming homeowners’ workshops and instruction of how to utilize the easy-to-use permit center.

Home Construction

Many of these permits can be easily obtained at our Permit Center located in the first floor of City Hall or the forms can be obtained on line.

Find your zoning and what is allowed.

Companion or Granny Units
Driveways and Sidewalks
Patios
Swimming Pools
ReRoofing
HVAC
Construction Tips for Homeowners

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to building a garden or storage shed in my back yard?

Yes, any structure 120 square feet or larger will need a building permit. If the structure is smaller than 120sf, yet has plumbing or electrical, you will also need a permit. Also please be sure to contact the City of Turlock Planning Division for setback requirements.

Do I need a permit to re-roof my home? If so, what do I need to know?

Yes, you will need a permit. You will need to know the number of squares, the Pitch of your roof and what roofing materials are replacing it with. We also have a flyer for homeowners who are doing their own work. This is an over the counter process that when the proper information is provided, usually only takes a few minutes. If you are using a licensed roofing contractor, they will most likely obtain a re-roof permit. However, it is always a good idea to make sure one has been obtained.

Do I need a permit to change my electrical panel or perform electrical work on my home?

Yes. Please take a moment to contact one of our professionals to assist you in obtaining a permit for any electrical work.

Do I need a building permit to build a pool?

Yes. Above ground pools 5,000 gals or more and all in ground pools require a building permit. You will need a licensed engineer to provide you with two (2) sets of structural engineering details and calculations as well as three (3) sets of plans of the pool layout. Please contact our office for more details necessary to apply for a pool permit.

Do I have to have a permit to build a patio onto my home?

Yes….A covered patio attached to the home will need three (3) sets of construction drawings to include, site plan, foundation plan, roof framing plan, building section and details. Electrical, if applicable. Any detached patio cover over 120 sq ft will also need above mentioned plans. A detached covered patio under 120 sq ft DOES NOT require a building permit, but be sure to call the Bldg & Community Planning programs before you construct it to ensure safe installation and that you meet setback requirements.