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1. How do I get a permit?

• Submit all necessary documents via email to buildingtech@townofmammothlakes.ca.gov.
• Provide all necessary documentation upon initial submittal.
• Pay fees when prompted and sign the permit document.
• Receive permit packet from the TOML Building Division when it has been processed and is ready for pickup.

2. Is it a difficult process?

• No.   However, difficulties may arise if communication with the Building Division breaks down.  Be sure to contact the Building Division with all permitting questions, no matter how seemingly insignificant.
• email is typically the best means of communication since there is a trackable trail of information: buildingtech@townofmammothlakes.ca.gov.
• We are also available by phone: 760-965-3632.

3. How long does it take?

• Time frame depends upon a number of factors:
  • Scope of work
    • Minor electrical, mechanical, plumbing, roofing, siding, window, woodstove, and other permits don’t require a review and can be issued within an expedited time frame (issuance is determined by existing work load and other factors).
      • (ex: FAU replacements, sub panel replacements, etc.)
    • Work that requires plan review can take significantly longer.
      • Initial plan review takes 10-14 business days, whereas successive reviews typically take 5-7 business days.
      • The number and length of plan reviews are highly dependent upon the applicant's ability to respond accurately and adequately to the reviewers comment(s).  Failure to address specific review comments will significantly delay the review process.
      • A new Single-Family Residence can take anywhere from 6 months to more than a year to get through plan review.
      • A deck repair review typically takes approximately 2-6 weeks to be reviewed and issued.

4. Do I need more than one permit?

• Most single permits can encompass multiple scopes; however, there are cases where it is more cost-effective to pull more than one permit.
• If you have questions about your submittal, the Building Division staff is always available to help.

5. How many forms do I need to fill out?

• The Permit Application form (here) is required for all submittals.
• In conjunction with the application form, see the list below for additional requirements:
  • Any change in square footage (e.g., new construction, additions, etc.) will also require our Project Information document (here).
  • Woodstove replacements/installations require our Flue Certification form (here) as well as manufacturer’s minimum clearances to combustibles (see the manual for your appliance).
  • Reroof and siding projects require our Reroof and Siding form (here).
  • Propane service changes require a site plan document (here).
  • Spa Installations have many special requirements.  Our checklist can be downloaded (here).
  • EV Charging stations require our EV Permit form (here).
  • Some projects (site welding, high-load projects, soil concerns, etc.) require the Special Inspection Form (here).
  • Different scopes may have other forms (not listed here) required for submittal.  For all projects, please contact the Building Division if you have any questions.

6. What other documents are required for submittal?

• All new construction will require plans, structural calculations, and possibly other documents.  These documents can be obtained by contacting a design professional and should be submitted in conjunction with the permit application.
• Since all projects are unique, it is impossible to list every document needed for submittal.   Working with a design professional, especially on larger projects, typically ensures that you will be able to provide a complete, comprehensive submittal.  See the Applications and Forms page for a sample of job types and submittal requirements.
• As always, reaching out to the Building Division with questions is a good choice: (760) 965-3632
  email communication is often best: buildingtech@townofmammothlakes.ca.gov

7. Can I submit my application even if I don’t have the other required documents prepared yet?

• No.  It is the policy of the TOML Building Division to only accept complete submittals.  All necessary documents should be submitted together so as to avoid confusion and delay in processing your application.

8. What kind of work doesn’t need a permit?

• California Building Code section 105.2 describes what work is exempt from a permit.  Our document is available (here).

9. What are the Town’s sensor requirements?

• Our Smoke, CO, LPG sensor document explains these requirements in detail (here).

10. What is the difference between Building Code and Town Municipal Code?

• California State Codes govern the entire building landscape throughout the state.
• Town of Mammoth Lakes Municipal Codes have been adopted to reflect the requirements necessary to maintain building safety within the limits of the Town.

11. Who can sign for the permit?

• Contractors with a current California State License so long as their license is the correct type for the scope of work that the job entails (see examples below).
  • A contractor with a C10 Electrical License can only sign for permits with a limited scope for electrical work.
  • A general contractor with a B License can perform general contracting but cannot sign for permits of limited scope, such as plumbing only, electrical only, etc. where the limited work is governed by a separate specialty license.  Per code, general contractors must engage in at least two specialties (framing and carpentry excluded) within the same job in order to legally perform specialty work.
• Property Owners so long as they sign and submit the Owner/Builder Declaration

12. If I sign the permit online, does that mean I have an issued permit?

• No.  The permit is only issued if it is also signed by the Building Official or a Representative Agent thereof.
• The permit document without ALL signatures is not a valid/issued building permit.

13. I received an email saying my permit was ready. Who can pick up the permit?

• So long as the permit has been signed by either a properly licensed contractor or the property owner, anyone can pick up an issued permit packet.

14. If the contractors tell me they have a permit, what should I do?

• Ask to see a copy of the permit document, and ensure that there are signatures by both the contractor or owner AND an agent representing the Building Official.
• You can always contact the Building Division to find out the current state of a permit or if one exists for that project.

15. If the owners tell me they have a permit, what should I do?

• Ask to see a copy of the permit and inspection record, and ensure that there are signatures by both the contractor or owner AND an agent representing the Building Official on the permit document.
• You can always contact the Building Division to find out the current state of a permit or if one exists for that project.

16. I have a handyman business. Can I pull a permit?

• Yes, if you have a current, valid California State Contractor’s License.
• If you are not a licensed contractor, then you cannot sign the permit document.
• Only property owners or Contractors with current California State licenses may sign for the permit.
• If the permit has been issued (signed, paid for, etc.), anyone can pick up the permit packet (permit document, inspection card, plans, etc.)

17. I was told I need Fire and/or Water approvals. How do I get them?

• You will need to reach out to these agencies directly and follow their requirements for obtaining their permits/approvals:

  1. MAMMOTH LAKES FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
     https://mlfd.ca.gov/prevention/plans-submittal-review/
      Mike McCarthy
      (760) 924-9002
     mmccarthy@mlfd.ca.gov
     jcompton@mlfd.ca.gov
     prevention@mlfd.ca.gov

   

  1. MAMMOTH COMMUNITY WATER DISTRICT
      Kristina Roberts - Permit Official and Inspections
      Office: (760) 934-2596, Ext. 223
     permits@mcwd.dst.ca.us
• The building permit will not be issued until proof of these agencies’ approvals have been submitted to the TOML Building Division.

18. Do permits/applications expire?

Yes.

• Permit applications expire after 180 days.
• Issued permits are valid for 3 years so long as they remain active: work/inspections performed no more than 1 year apart.