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1. How can I change contractors?

To change contractor, you will need to provide a letter from the contractor stating they ARE RELIEVING themselves of the job, and at what point the construction was left at.  New permits will need to be issued under the new contractor.   

We will need the new contractor to sign with a validated electronic signature on the third page of the application, indicating their CSLB and current City of Ventura business license . A Letter of Authorization is required to be signed on behalf of  the company if the person signing is not on the CSLB’s Personnel List. This needs to be on the company letterhead and signed by a person on the CSLB Personnel List.   

IMPORTANT NOTE: We require ALL documents to have a wet signature or signed using Adobe Sign or DocuSign. Please sign your documents using one of the allowed signature methods and resubmit.

2. Do I have to hire a contractor to perform the work after receiving a Building Permit?

No, you do not have to hire a contractor for residential permits. Many homeowners do their own minor residential upgrades. However, if you do, please make sure your contractor has a City of Ventura business license and a State Contractor’s license.  

3. Who can obtain permits for commercial projects?

Contractors may obtain permits based on their license classification. For detailed information regarding the Contractors State Licensing Board’s license classifications see the Description of Classifications Booklet at Contractors State License Board (CSLB) website. 

4. Does my project require an engineer?

An accurate, detailed set of plans, specifications, and supporting documents is required for most construction projects. Hiring a California-licensed engineer or land surveyor will provide specialized knowledge regarding the principles of engineering, building code requirements, and local conditions including wind loads, snow loads, and earthquake activity. 

Additionally, a licensed engineer may be required to provide design, analysis, and evaluation of complex soil conditions, grading, foundation/site work, retaining walls, hydrology, structural elements, and mechanical or electrical systems. The resulting plans, specifications, and supporting documents are required to be signed and sealed (stamped) by the engineer. It is your decision as to which engineer you employ. The Board of Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists (BPELSG) can assist in verifying if an engineer is properly licensed and if any complaints or disciplinary action has been taken against them. For more information, the BPELSG can be contacted at (866) 780-5370 or via their website.