Building Permits

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View daily inspection times, results and corrections HERE

How to Submit for a Plan Check

Owner/Builder Permits

Contractor Permits

Mobile Home Inspections

Apply for an El Cajon Business License

How To Submit For A Plan Check

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The Project Assistance Center Online (PACO) is the method to submit for plan check. PACO can be accessed at this link:

www.elcajon.gov/PACO

New PACO Log-In Procedure as of 4/15/2024

In order to submit an online application you must first register an account with the Project Assistance Center Online, or PACO. Instructions for registering for an account can be found here:

PACO Account Registration Instructions

Submittals shall be in electronic format via PACO website. Please complete and upload the permit application and any additional forms that may be required based on the complexity and scope of your project into the PACO portal. Typical forms that may be required include the Certification of Easements, energy efficiency documentation, hazardous materials questionnaire, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long will it take for my plan check to be completed?

Time periods vary depending on workloads but a typical plan check submittal will take about three to four weeks.

Will you contact me when the plan check is done?

Yes, you will be contacted by email when the plan check is complete.

What do I do once the plan check is done?

You can log in to your account with the Project Assistance Center Online (PACO) and view corrections to your plans on the site.

How long will recheck take?

Typically, a recheck takes about one to two weeks.

Owner/Builder Permits

If you are the property owner, Building Safety can issue you a permit to do work on your own property. In order to obtain an owner/builder permit you will need the following documentation:

Owner/Building declaration form completed and signed
A permit application with job description
Identification as the property owner

Contractor Permits

If you are a licensed contractor, the Building Safety can issue a permit to the contractor or contractor’s agent. In order to obtain a permit as a contractor you will need the following documentation.

A permit application with project description
A workers' compensation certificate
Contractors State License information
A current City of El Cajon business license

Reroofs you will need a reroof application
New meters or meter upgrades will need documentation of approved location from SDG&E

Click here for a complete list of forms

Frequently Asked Questions:

How much will the permit cost?

The fee structure in use by the City is updated on a periodic basis. For an estimate of fees you may call the general information line of Building Safety and get an estimate of the fee for your particular project.

What do I do once I have my permit?

Once your permit is obtained you may begin your project. Required inspections will be listed on the inspection sheet of your permit. Do not cover any aspect of construction (underground, wall framing, etc.) until you have obtained a passing inspection.

What percentage of construction and demolition waste am I required to divert from the landfill?

You are required to divert 65% of construction and demolition waste from the landfill. Visit the Construction and Demolition page for more information.

Mobile Home Inspections

build_intro_new 2_clip_image009 Building Safety conducts inspections of new mobile home installations, accessory structures for mobile homes, and state mandated mobile home park inspections.

To apply for a mobile home installation permit submit a permit application, a mobile home installation application, and two copies of the mobile home installation instructions (specific to your mobile home) to the Building Safety Division. For accessory structures include a permit application, mobile home accessory structures form, and two copies of your plans or standard plan approval (please be advised that the park manager’s signature is required on the mobile home installation application and the mobile home accessories form). Changes to the interior of the mobile home are permitted through the State Department of Housing and Community Development.

Your mobile home park may receive inspections on a periodic basis in order to verify compliance with state regulations related to mobile home parks. If your park is scheduled for an inspection, you will receive notification from the park manager of the time and date of the inspection.