Who issues the permit for my address?
San Francisco runs an online reroofing permit for licensed C-39 contractors, while each San Mateo County city issues its own permits and the county handles unincorporated areas.
| Where the home is | How the permit works | Fee | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco | Online on PermitSF, only for licensed C-39 contractors and only when no plans or structural work (framing, decking or sheathing) are needed; otherwise an over-the-counter building permit | $514 and up for single-family homes and duplexes, $714 and up for other buildings; includes the street-space fee | SF.gov: apply for a reroofing permit |
| San Mateo County cities | Each city's building department issues reroof permits | Set by each city | Your city's building department |
| Unincorporated San Mateo County | County building department | Set by the county | County building department |
What does the permit cost?
San Francisco's reroofing permit starts at $514 for single-family homes and duplexes and $714 for other buildings, and the street-space fee is included. Peninsula cities set their own fees.
Who applies for it, me or the roofer?
Usually the licensed roofer pulls the permit and includes the fee in the bid. Ask for the permit number before work starts, and keep the finaled permit with your house records.
What inspections should I expect?
Most jurisdictions inspect once the old roofing is off or during the work, and again at the end. Ask your roofer which inspections your city requires and make sure the final is signed off.
Do energy and fire rules apply to my reroof?
Possibly both. California's Energy Code has cool-roof requirements for some steep-slope reroofs that replace more than half the roof, depending on climate zone (California Energy Commission, BayREN guide). San Francisco's reroofing permit asks about cool roofs for commercial buildings replacing more than half the roof area or 2,000 square feet. For homes, the Energy Code rule depends on climate zone, so ask your roofer to confirm for your address. In a very high fire hazard severity zone, state law requires a Class A roof when more than half the roof is replaced; see our Class A guide.
Why does the permit matter later?
A finaled permit is proof of the roof's age and that it passed inspection, which insurers and buyers often ask for. It also helps when you need to show an insurer when the roof was replaced.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to replace my roof in SF and the Peninsula?
Yes, in practice. Your city's building department, or the county for unincorporated areas, issues reroof permits in San Francisco and San Mateo County. Your roofer usually applies.
How much is a reroof permit in SF and the Peninsula?
In San Francisco, a reroofing permit is $514 and up for single-family homes and duplexes and $714 and up for other buildings, including the street-space fee. Peninsula cities set their own fees.
Who pulls the permit?
Usually the licensed roofing contractor, who includes the fee in the bid. Ask for the permit number before work starts.
Why keep the permit records?
A finaled permit proves when the roof was replaced and that it passed inspection, which insurers and buyers often ask about.
Sources
- SF.gov: apply for a reroofing permit
- California Energy Commission: 2022 cool roofs, single-family
- BayREN: residential roofing and the Energy Code
- California Health and Safety Code 13132.7
Sources reviewed November 11, 2026. Figures are published estimates and official fees, not quotes. Confirm prices, permits and requirements with your contractor and building department. This page is general information, not legal or insurance advice.