Redwood City Building Department | Permits, Inspections & Official Contact

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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 Redwood City, California, you will need a building permit from the City of Redwood City 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 Redwood City, what the fees are in 2026, and how to use the eTRAKiT online permitting portal for faster processing and tracking.

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.

Redwood City Building Department Contact Information 2026

  • Address: 1017 Middlefield Road, Redwood City, CA 94063
  • Phone: (650) 780-7350
  • Email: building@redwoodcity.org
  • Hours: Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (permit counter and inspection scheduling hours may vary)

Official Page: Redwood City Building Division

1017 Middlefield Road, Redwood City, CA 94063

Official Portal: Redwood City eTRAKiT Online Permitting Portal

  1. Go to the eTRAKiT 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 Redwood City 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 eTRAKiT online permitting portal and create or log into your account.
  2. Start a new application and choose the right permit type for your project.
  3. Enter the full project address and your best estimate of the total construction valuation.
  4. Upload all required drawings, site plans, specifications, and supporting documents (PDF format preferred).
  5. Pay the required plan review deposit and submit the complete application.
  6. Check your account regularly and reply quickly to any requests for additional information or corrections during review.
  7. Once approved, pay the final permit fees and display the permit at the job site before any work begins.
  8. Schedule inspections through the eTRAKiT portal.

Redwood City Building Permit Fees 2026

  • Official Fee Schedule (Effective January 1, 2026): Download the latest Building Division Fee Schedule from the city website.
  • Fees are based on the type, size, complexity, and valuation of the project using current California Building Code tables and local rates.
  • Plan review deposit is typically 50-65% of the total estimated fee and is paid at the time of submittal (non-refundable in many cases).
  • Separate fees apply for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and other trade permits.
  • Additional charges include re-inspection fees, revision fees, and technology surcharges.
  • 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 eTRAKiT
  • Detailed construction drawings and specifications (PDF format)
  • 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 engineering calculations

How to Schedule Inspections in Redwood City

Schedule inspections through the eTRAKiT portal. Requests made before the daily cutoff are typically scheduled for the next business day. Have your approved plans and the permit card ready when the inspector arrives. Re-inspection fees may apply for failed or missed inspections.

Contractor Registration & Owner-Builder

Contractors must be properly licensed and can create a Contractor account in eTRAKiT. 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

  • Use the eTRAKiT portal (etrakit.redwoodcity.org) for online applications, document uploads, fee payments, and inspection scheduling — it is the fastest and most convenient method.
  • Submit complete and clearly labeled drawings the first time to avoid delays in plan review and extra revision fees.
  • Pay the non-refundable plan review deposit at the time of submittal; the remaining balance is due when the permit is issued.
  • Call (650) 780-7350 during business hours for questions or status checks.
  • Review the latest Fee Schedule (effective January 1, 2026) before submitting to budget accurately for base fees, plan check, and trade permits.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I search for existing building permits in Redwood City?

Use the eTRAKiT portal by property address or permit number.

How to apply for a Redwood City building permit?

Create an account on the eTRAKiT portal, select the right permit type, upload your drawings and documents, pay the plan review deposit, and submit electronically.

What are the Redwood City building permit fees in 2026?

Fees are based on the type, size, complexity, and valuation of the project. Plan check is typically 65% of the building permit fee. Download the latest Fee Schedule (effective January 1, 2026) from the city website.

Can I pull my own permit as an owner-builder in Redwood City?

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 Redwood City?

Simple projects can be approved relatively quickly once submitted. More complicated jobs usually take between two and four weeks depending on completeness and current workload.

Official Resources

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

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