Building Permits
Building Division Transition to Electronic Permit Submittals
The Building Division is modernizing its permit application process to provide faster, more efficient service to residents, contractors, architects, engineers, and design professionals.
To ensure a smooth transition, the Building Division will implement electronic permit submittals in two phases.
Phase 1 – Current Permit Submittal Process
Through August 31, 2026
During Phase 1, the Building Division has two ways in which you can submit your permit, online or in-person.
Online Permit Applications
Applicants requesting a permit for residential, commercial, or industrial projects may submit electronically through the City's Online Portal. Solar shall be submitted through SolarAPP+ only.
Online Permit Portal:
https://aca-prod.accela.com/martinez
In-Person Permit Applications
All permit types may continue to be submitted in person at City Hall during normal business hours.
Plan check and permit fees will be determined at the time of application.
Please Note:
Do not submit permit applications to the Building Division email address. The email account is intended for general inquiries only, and permit applications submitted via email will not be accepted.
Phase 2 – Full Electronic Permit Submittals
Effective September 1, 2026
Beginning September 1, 2026, the Building Division will transition to a fully electronic permit application process.
All new building permit applications—including residential, commercial, and industrial projects—must be submitted electronically through the City's Online Portal. Solar shall continue to be submitted through SolarAPP+ only.
Paper permit applications and paper plan sets will no longer be accepted unless an exception is granted by the Chief Building Official due to exceptional circumstances.
Benefits of Electronic Permit Submittals
Switching to electronic permits streamlines processes for applicants and the community:
- Convenient, 24/7 Access – Submit applications, upload plans, and resubmit revised documents from anywhere, at any time, without visiting City Hall.
- Faster, More Efficient Processing – Electronic workflows and electronic plan review reduce handling time, streamline the review process, and make it easier for applicants and reviewers to coordinate.
- Greater Transparency and Collaboration – Track the status of your permit application online and improve coordination among applicants, City staff, and outside agencies.
- Sustainable, Accessible Electronic Records – Reduce paper use and costs while maintaining permanent electronic records that are easier to access throughout the life of the project.
A handout on the electronic permit process may be downloaded here.
Need Assistance?
The Building Division understands that transitioning to electronic permitting is a significant change for some customers. Building Division staff will be available to assist applicants with navigating the Online Portal and answering questions regarding the electronic submittal process.
Phone: (925) 372-3515
Permit Center Hours:
Monday – Friday
8:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to providing a more efficient and convenient permitting experience for our community.
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