The Building and Code Enforcement Services Division is responsible for reviewing plans, issuing building permits, and performing field inspections to ensure compliance with local and state mandated regulations related to building construction, maintenance, rehabilitation, and accessibility. The Division partners with the Ukiah Police Department for code enforcement activities and to ensure building safety. The primary goal of Building Services is to provide quality services to the community in a manner that is comprehensive, efficient, knowledgeable, and helpful to the public. Building Services is staffed by the Building Official and Development Permit Coordinator. Further assistance related to the planning of your construction project is available on the Apps & Handouts, and More Help tabs below.
2022 California Building Code
2022 California Residential Code
2022 California Electrical Code
2022 California Mechanical Code
2022 California Plumbing Code
2022 California Fire Code
2022 California Green Building Standards Code
2022 California Energy Code
Seismic Design Category: D and E
Wind Speed: 110 mph
Exposure: B or C
Snow Load: No snow load unless above 1,300 foot elevation
60 minute rainfall: 1.5 inches
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Call for appointment: 707-467-5786
Rapid Review is designed to expedite the building permit process for small residential projects. Although most small residential building projects still require plans, Rapid Review allows an internal plan review process be completed by multiple City departments in the same afternoon. City staff from the Departments of Public Works, Electric, Fire, and Community Development- Planning and Building Services, will be available to meet with homeowners and contractors during Rapid Review.
By having all City departments available one day for review and completing the review internally, the reviewing timeline is shortened considerably. This allows builders and homeowners to more quickly secure building permits and start their projects.
In order to ensure the highest level of service, appointments are required. Please call us at 707-467-5786 to schedule one. Handouts are also available for kitchen, bathroom, and utility service upgrade projects in the Apps & Handouts section of this page.
Over-the-counter permits are permits that can be issued without the need for plan review. Some types of over-the-counter permits are: re-roofs; water heater, furnace and A/C replacements/repairs; electrical service panel upgrades, and other miscellaneous repairs.
Yes. The City of Ukiah offers expedited building permits for small residential roof-top solar energy systems. All photovoltaic systems require pre-approval before submitting for a building permit. Contact the Building department for a Solar Program Guide Book.
The submittal requirements for a residential building permit are included in our Residential Building Permit Submittal Documents. The submittal requirements for a commercial building permits are included in out Commercial Building Permit Submittal Requirements Documents. Both documents may be obtained at via the link provided or you may pick one up during regular business hours.
The submittal requirements, including the number of plans, for a residential building permit are included in our Residential Building Permit Submittal Documents handout. The submittal requirements, including the number of plans, for a commercial building permits are included in our Commercial Building Permit Submittal Documents handout. Both documents may be obtained via the links provided or you may pick one up during regular business hours.
Plan check can take 10-15 business days to complete the process.
The cost of the permit depends on the type and size of the project. Fees are calculated based on the total valuation of the project, as well as the amount of plumbing, mechanical, and electrical work associated with the project. The Building Valuation Data table includes valuation information based on occupancy type and square footage.
The required inspections are listed on your copy of the permit. All work must be inspected before it is covered up. For example, we must inspect the footing/foundation after it is excavated: installation of steel reinforcement before concrete is poured. A minimum of 48 hours notice is required prior to each inspection. Inspections can be requested by calling 707-463-6739.
Building inspections may be scheduled or canceled by calling our inspection line at 707-463-6739. Inspections must be requested 24 hours in advance.
Yes, a building permit is required. The permit can be issued over the counter and only takes a few minutes. The cost of the permit is based on the valuation of the work, including material and labor costs.
If it is a plug cord connected spa/ hot tub, the only permit required is for any new electrical work needed to operate the spa/hot tub. If it is a hardwired electrical connection spa/hot tub, permits are required for the spa, electrical, work and plumbing work.
Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling and do not serve the exit door required by Section R311.4 do not require a building permit.
Yes, dry rot repair requires a permit. It takes only a few minutes to complete the permit application and state in writing the scope of work. Most of the time a copy of the termite report is adequate. The permit fee is based on the valuation of the work, including material and labor.
Yes, window replacement requires a permit even if you are not changing the opening size. The permit can be issued over the counter and only takes a few minutes. Just bring in a floor plan of your home drawn on 8 1/2″ x 11″ paper showing the location of the windows being replaced.
If the fence is 7 feet or less in height, a building permit is not required. However, fences are required to comply with specific height and locational requirements which are determined by the zoning of the parcel. The zoning of the parcel may be determined by viewing the Zoning Map and the setbacks may be determined by a Planner, but in general rear and side yard fences are less-restrictive.
Fences taller than 7 feet require approval of a Use Permit. After Use Permit approval, building permit and plans drawn by a California licensed Architect or Engineer with supporting calculations are required. Remember that even though the fence does not require a building permit, there are height and setback requirements which vary depending on the zoning of the property. The height and setbacks requirements are identified in the zoning ordinance and depend on the zoning of the parcel. For more clarification call Planning Services at 707-463-6203.
Lot-to-lot drainage is a civil matter and Building Services is not involved. Landscaping and minor grading for landscaping does not require a permit.
Please contact the Building Division at 707-467-5786; buildingdivision@cityofukiah.com. Make sure to provide the address of the property in question since permits are identified by address.
Monday – Friday
8:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Main Line: (707) 467-5786
Rapid ReviewTues & Thur
8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Appointment Required
Call 707-467-5786 to schedule appointment.
Monday – Thursday
8:00 a.m. – noon
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Inspection Line: (707) 463-6739
Please see the Public Service Announcement for additional information.
Main Line
(707) 467-5786
Inspection line
(707) 463-6739
Buildingdivision@cityofukiah.com
Community Development Technician II
(707) 463-6268
igrieve@cityofukiah.com
Code Enforcement Inspector II
(707) 467-5715
sconnell@cityofukiah.com
Chief Building Official
Chief Code Enforcement Officer
Fire Code Official
(707) 467-5718
mkeizer@cityofukiah.com
© Copyright City of Ukiah 2012-2022. All Rights Reserved, 300 Seminary Avenue, Ukiah, California 95482, Phone 707-463-6200
Greening Your Home and Business
In today’s era of escalating energy costs and climate change, making energy efficiency improvements to your home or business is a top priority. You can secure immediate cost savings by lowering your overall energy usage, which also reduces your carbon emission footprint. You can also save money in the areas of waste reduction, equipment use, transportation, and building design. We’ve gathered 21 green business tips that you can implement quickly and easily in your own business.
Here are some additional information links:
Water-Efficiency, Treatment, and Storm Water Improvements
Wastewater Treatment Plant
The City of Ukiah has made significant investments to build conservation into the structure of our operations. A critical component of our structural conservation has been our state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant. This plant has allowed us to reduce overall water use, reduce discharges to the river, and enhance the supply of sustainable, reliable water resources. The treatment plant also relies on LED lighting and Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) motors, which greatly increase energy efficiency.
Ukiah secured a grant from the State Water Resources Control Board to cover about a third of the cost of the recycled water system and secured another grant from CalRecycle to filter storm water before it is discharged to the river.
Learn more about the wastewater treatment plant.
Converting Water Fixtures
As the City modernizes its buildings, we are replacing traditional toilets and sink faucets with low flow fixtures, significantly reducing the amount of water used in our facilities.
Using Recycled Water for Outdoor Irrigation
The City is using recycled water at the Ukiah Sports Complex, at Oak Manor Elementary, and Oak Manor Park, keeping our fields and parks green while also promoting responsible and sustainable use of our water resources; additional expansion of the recycled water program is underway. Learn more about the Recycled Water Project.
Reducing Vehicle Miles Traveled
Creating a community that is walkable and bikeable not only improves our quality of life, but also reduces our dependence on vehicles. Ukiah has adopted Complete Streets principles, which facilitate safe, comfortable travel for all users (pedestrians, bicyclists, vehicles) in advance of the requirements. For future development, the City is adopting policies that reduce sprawl by encouraging affordable housing near economic and civic centers.
Bike Lanes
There are currently approximately 11.2 miles of class II bike lanes in the City of Ukiah. The City is in the design process and intends to expand the distance of bike lanes to 3.8 miles, which will be a total of approximately 15 miles.
Expanding the Great Redwood Trail – Ukiah
With broad public support, the City has been very active in developing the Great Redwood Trail within the City limits. The existing 2 miles of class I multi-purpose pathways provides a safe and efficient corridor for bicycle and pedestrian traffic to access major employment centers, services, shopping, residential areas, and the future Mendocino County Courthouse, as well as connectivity to other bicycle routes throughout the City. The fourth phase of this trail will add an additional mile and complete the trail within the City limits from north to south. Learn more about the trail.
Our Electric Utility
The City of Ukiah provides electricity to customers through its municipally owned utility, a department of the City of Ukiah. Ukiah’s electric utility is part of the Northern California Power Agency (NCPA). This consortium of municipally-owned power companies maintains its own power-generating capabilities, which provides access to renewable resources and helps avoid the open market pricing volatility. In California, municipal utilities represent 30% of electricity use throughout California. Compared to other municipal users, the City of Ukiah is at the head of the pack with its green energy portfolio. Ukiah’s power mix consists of various renewable sources of energy, including geothermal and hydroelectric. In 2021, these sources accounted for over 38% of Ukiah’s energy use, exceeding California’s requirement for clean power. Ukiah’s carbon free resource mix, including large hydro, pushes Ukiah’s resource balance to almost 50%. Each year, Ukiah increases our renewable portfolio and has various solar projects planned for behind-the-meter generation.
Learn more about the Electric Utility as well as few simple things you can do at your home and at work to reduce your own energy costs.
Parks and Recreation
Ukiah’s parks and open spaces reflect the natural beauty of the Ukiah Valley, while also remaining eco-friendly and sustainable. Our parks are 100% pesticide free and are increasingly populated with native and low-water plants. Additionally, Ukiah is among the first cities in California to reuse mulch generated at our parks.
The City secured an Urban Greening Grant from the California Natural Resources Agency, which is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative that puts billions of Cap-and-Trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment. This $1.78 million grant was awarded in 2017 and used to support the build-out of the Rail Trail.
At the direction of the City Council, the City of Ukiah Paths, Open Space and Creeks Commission prepared a document establishing the policies and procedures for the City crews and other agencies and organizations to follow when performing creek maintenance and garbage and rubbish removal. Learn more.
In partnership with the Community Foundation of Mendocino County and the ReLeaf program, the Parks team has set a goal of planting 50 trees per year. An emphasis on planting trees that provide street shade will expand the benefit of the City’s urban forest.
Environmentally Friendly Land Use Policies
Ukiah is planning for a sustainable future through the implementation of environmentally friendly land use policies, modeled in part on the principles of New Urbanism. Such principles promote walkable blocks and streets, infill housing development, the siting of commercial businesses closer to residential areas, reducing vehicle miles traveled and reliance on the automobile, and accessible public spaces.
The City is in the process of updating its General Plan. Included in the proposed 2040 General Plan are new policies prioritizing complete streets, the development and implementation of a Climate Action Plan, preservation of agricultural lands and open space, and other climate friendly policies and goals. Additionally, Ukiah has created a Green Building Toolkit to actively promote energy efficiency upgrades for homeowners and contractors.
Increasing Recycling and Reducing Organic Waste
By 2024 all California municipalities will be required to combine food/organic waste with green waste. The City of Ukiah is well ahead of the state requirement, having implemented this requirement in 2016. Additionally, Ukiah runs a very successful recycling program that increased waste diversion rates from about 50% to 68% in the last 12 years. This local recycling rate now far exceeds the state requirement of 50% and supports local jobs at a state-of-the-art recycling facility in Ukiah that serves Lake, Humboldt and Mendocino Counties.
Transition to Cloud Computing
Our Information Technology team has been working hard to move our computer systems onto the cloud to reduce our reliance on energy intensive servers, which require batteries, battery backup systems, and climate controls. This also helps improve cybersecurity protections.
Our Hybrid Fleet and Clean Equipment
Well ahead of state goals, the City of Ukiah is replacing gas and diesel-powered vehicles and equipment with hybrid vehicles and Tier 4, California Air Resources Board compliant equipment. Ukiah Police have deployed an electric vehicle and all City vehicles that travel out of town are certified hybrid vehicles.
Ukiah has always been forward-looking with regard to electric vehicles. We have had electric vehicle (EV) charging stations since the 1980’s. Currently, the City has public EV charging at the public parking lot on Oak and Standley Streets.
The City has also invested heavily in retiring outdated diesel equipment and replace generators, mowers, and tractors and other equipment used by public works and parks maintenance teams with vehicles that are compliant with new emission requirements from the California Air Resources Control Board.
Lighting Upgrades at City Facilities
City facilities have transitioned to energy efficient LED lighting, which are estimated to consume 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than traditional incandescent lighting. These changes resulted in significant cost savings for the city.
The facilities that have made this conversion include the Ukiah Valley Conference Center, the Grace Hudson Museum, City Hall, the Water Treatment Facility, and more.
Storm Drains and Your Home
As stormwater or runoff flows over driveways, lawns, and sidewalks, it picks up debris, chemicals, dirt, and other pollutants. This water can then flow into our storm drain system and ultimately damage our rivers and surrounding environment. Polluted runoff is the nation’s greatest threat to clean water, so we must all do our part to keep our storm drain system healthy.
Here are a few simple tips to help keep our storm drains healthy:
Protecting Our Emissions Savings by Preventing Fires
A single fire can wipe out years’ worth of carbon emissions savings. As a result of proactive actions, wise allocation of resources, and a strong network of collaboration, the Ukiah Valley is more prepared than ever to protect our region from the increasing threat of wildfires. We are looking out at the hillsides and open spaces, putting in fire breaks, undergrounding power lines, and clearing fuel. We also swapped out the fire-fighting foam for non-toxic alternatives that are free from the PFAS and PFOS chemicals.
We have also streamlined how our fire response teams are structured to ensure full funding, adequate resources, and available equipment.
Ukiah Valley Fire District Annexation
In November 2021, the Ukiah Valley Fire Protection District increased its service territory to include the City of Ukiah within its boundaries, creating a unified district that serves the entire Ukiah Valley. This annexation of service territory resolved a funding discrepancy, establishing an additional $900,000 to $1 million in annual revenue necessary to meet the growing needs of our region. This has included:
Converting to Solar Energy
To reduce our reliance on the electrical grid, the City of Ukiah has identified city buildings ideal for solar installation. To date, the City has installed 40 Photovoltaic (Solar) panels at the Civic Center, saving the City approximately $26,061 and reducing our carbon footprint by 42.6 metric ton over 17 years.
Additionally, the water re-circulation system that heats the Ukiah Municipal Swimming Pool is 100% solar powered.
The City continues to pursue funding opportunities to outfit additional municipal facilities with solar. The City is currently involved with adding 123 kW of solar system at Anton Stadium parking lot. This solar system will help reduce our carbon footprint by approximately 62 metric ton yearly. We have also implemented automation for heating and cooling of City facilities to reduce power use during peak times.
