THE FOLLOWING WORK DOES NOT REQUIRE A BUILDING PERMIT: Fully detached accessory buildings to single-family dwellings less than 1,000 square feet. Agricultural Buildings. Manufactured and industrialized housing (mobile homes and modular homes).
Skipping a building permit for renovations in California can bring a load of headaches: Fines and Fees: The state can hit you with hefty fines, often $500 or more per day of violation. Project Delays: The local building department might halt work until you get a permit and inspections are done.
Construction permits can usually be issued within two months of submittal if the application and plans are complete, and the applicant responds promptly to all requests for additional information.