How to Prepare Residential Plans for Permit Submission: A Step-by-Step Guide

Submitting your residential plans to the building department doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re building a new home or remodeling an existing one, following a clear process can save you time, money, and frustration.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process for preparing a complete and code-compliant plan set, from early site research to final submittal.

Free Resource:

Download the Permit Submittal Checklist to follow along and track your progress.

[Download Checklist (PDF)]

Step 1: Gather Site Information

Before you start drawing, gather all relevant property data:

• Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN)
• Lot size, setbacks, and zoning restrictions
• Utility locations and easements
• Slope/topography (if applicable)
• Any HOA or community design requirements

Tip: Most of this info can be found on your county assessor’s website or planning department portal.

Step 2: Confirm Code Requirements

Building codes and design criteria vary by jurisdiction. You’ll need:

• Applicable building code version (e.g., 2021 IRC, CBC)
• Local zoning code and overlay zones (like flood or wildfire)
• Structural design criteria (wind, seismic zone, snow load)
• Energy requirements (e.g., Title 24 in California)

Step 3: Create a Drafting Plan Set

Start developing the actual drawings:

• Begin with the site plan, then floor plans, followed by elevations, sections, and details
• Incorporate basic structural layout
• Use correct drawing scale (commonly 1/4” = 1’-0” or 1/8” = 1’-0”)

Step 4: Coordinate with Consultants (if needed)

Depending on your project, you may need to work with:

• Structural Engineer (for calculations, foundation, framing)
• Energy Consultant (for Title 24 or HERS ratings)
• Surveyor (especially if property boundaries or slopes are critical)

Step 5: Complete Supporting Documents

Make sure your submittal includes:

• Application form (from the local building department)
• Permit fees (check fee schedule or get an estimate)
• Energy compliance documents
• Engineering calcs (if required)
• Soils report or topo survey (if applicable)

Step 6: Review and QA Your Plan Set

Before submitting, double-check:

• Every sheet is labeled, numbered, and referenced correctly
• North arrow, scale bars, and legends are included
• Key notes and code references are up to date
• Plans match across disciplines (floor plan matches electrical, etc.)

Bonus Tip: Ask someone else to review your set for errors—fresh eyes help.

Step 7: Submit to the Building Department

You can usually submit your plans in person or online. Be sure to:

• Follow the checklist from your specific city/county
• Submit the required number of copies (paper or digital)
• Pay initial plan check fees
• Track your application through the city portal (if available)

Final Thoughts

Submitting residential plans can feel complicated, but breaking it down into steps makes it manageable. Each plan set tells the story of your project—make sure it’s clear, complete, and code-compliant.