Mountain View Building Department | Permits, Inspections & Official Contact

If you are planning any kind of construction, renovation, addition, deck, fence, roof replacement, pool, solar installation, or other building work in the City of Mountain View, California, you will need a building permit from the Mountain View Building Division (part of the Community Development Department).

Many homeowners and contractors search for clear answers about how to apply for a building permit in Mountain View, what the fees are in 2026, and how to use the ePermitsMV online portal for faster applications, plan uploads, fee payments, status tracking, and inspection scheduling.

This guide explains the entire process in simple language so you can understand what to do, what to expect, and how to avoid common problems that slow things down.

Whether you are a homeowner doing your own work or a contractor handling a larger job, the steps are the same and the goal is to get your permit approved smoothly and on time.

Mountain View Building Department Contact Information 2026

• Address: 500 Castro Street, First Floor, Mountain View, CA 94041 (City Hall)
• Phone: (650) 903-6313
• Email: building@mountainview.gov
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Public counter hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; appointments recommended)

Official Page: Mountain View Building Division

Mountain View Building Permit Search 2026

Official Portal: Mountain View ePermitsMV Portal (Avolve)

1. Go to the ePermitsMV portal (public search available).
2. Search by property address or permit number.
3. View the current status, approved plans, fees paid, and inspection history.

How to Apply for Mountain View Building Permits 2026

Here is the clear step-by-step process that most people follow to get their permit approved as smoothly as possible.

1. Go to the Mountain View ePermitsMV portal and create or log into your account.
2. Start a new application for the appropriate permit type (building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, fire protection, etc.).
3. Provide the full project address and detailed scope of work, including estimated valuation or contract price.
4. Upload all required drawings, site plans, specifications, and supporting documents.
5. Pay the required fees online (credit card with convenience fee, eCheck, or other methods) and submit the complete application.
6. Monitor your application status and respond promptly to any requests for additional information during review.
7. Once approved, display the permit visibly at the job site before any work begins.
8. Schedule inspections online through the portal or by calling (650) 903-6313.

Mountain View Building Permit Fees 2026

• Official Fee Schedule: Effective August 9, 2025 (2026 rates follow the same structure unless updated). Download the latest schedule from the city website.
• Fees are valuation-based with a 5% technology fee on the total permit cost. Plan check fees are typically 65% of the building permit fee, collected upfront.
• Payment methods include credit card (VISA/MasterCard with convenience fee), eCheck, hardcopy check, or wire transfer for large amounts.
• Separate fees apply for electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and fire protection permits.
• Re-inspection fees and other charges may apply. Work started without a permit can result in doubled fees plus possible fines or a Stop Work Order.

Required Documents Checklist

• Completed online permit application via ePermitsMV
• Detailed construction drawings and specifications
• Site plan showing existing structures and proposed work
• Proof of contractor license and insurance
• Owner-Builder documents if applicable
• Any required trade permit applications or supporting calculations

How to Schedule Inspections in Mountain View

Schedule building inspections online through the ePermitsMV portal. Fire protection inspections can be scheduled by calling (650) 903-6313 (Extension 0). Have your approved plans and the permit ready when the inspector arrives. Re-inspection fees may apply for failed or missed inspections.

Contractor Registration & Owner-Builder

Contractors must be properly licensed. Homeowners can apply as owner-builders but must take full responsibility for code compliance and job safety. The Building Division enforces the California Building Code with local amendments.

Local Insider Tips That Really Help

• All building and fire protection permits must be submitted electronically through the ePermitsMV portal — paper applications are not accepted.
• Submit complete and clearly labeled drawings the first time to avoid delays in plan review and extra revision fees.
• Pay the plan check fee (typically 65% of the total) at the time of submittal for faster review.
• Call (650) 903-6313 during business hours for questions or status checks. Schedule in-person appointments via the online system.
• Review the current fee schedule (effective August 9, 2025) before submitting to budget accurately, including the 5% technology fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I search for existing building permits in Mountain View?

Use the ePermitsMV portal by property address or permit number.

How to apply for a Mountain View building permit?

All applications must be submitted electronically through the ePermitsMV portal. Create an account, select the permit type, upload documents, and pay fees online.

What are the Mountain View building permit fees in 2026?

Fees are valuation-based with a 5% technology fee on the total permit cost. Plan check fees are typically 65% of the building permit fee, collected upfront. Download the latest schedule from the city website.

Can I pull my own permit as an owner-builder in Mountain View?

Yes. You can apply as an owner-builder, but you must take full responsibility for code compliance and job safety.

How long does it take to get a building permit in Mountain View?

Processing time depends on the completeness of your submission. Simple projects can move faster with complete online submittals.

Official Resources

• Mountain View ePermitsMV Portal
• Building Division Homepage
• Building Permit Fees (Effective August 9, 2025)
• Apply for Building Permits

Updated April 2026 using only official City of Mountain View sources. Use the ePermitsMV portal for faster submission and real-time tracking.