Questions We Hear The Most:

Do I need to make an appointment to submit an application or can I drop it off?
Applications cannot be dropped off. They must be submitted in person at the permit desk, Monday-Friday between 8:30 and 11:30 am. 

How long will it take before I receive my permit?
Permit processing can take a minimum of thirty (30) days. 

What do I need to submit with my application?
A minimum of: 
    • (2) sets of plans for building permit application submittal; 
    • (4) sets of plans for encroachment permit application submittal; 
    • Payment of fees (fee amount will be based upon the valuation of the work).

What are the plan requirements?
The plans must include:
• A wet-stamp and signature on each page by a licensed engineer;
• A minimum of 11x17 sheets (plans must be large enough for reviewer to easily decipher the work). 
*If submitting plans for the Ferry Building or Pier 39, a wet-stamp and signature from the master tenant must be included as well.

What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept:
• All major credit/debit cards
• Checks (payable to the Port of San Francisco).

How do I schedule an inspection?
Building Permits: Fill out the Inspection Request form: sfport.com>Business>Permit Services>Building Inspection Request

How can I check the status of my building permit application?
You can check the status of your application by going to our web page, going to Business, Permit Services, and selecting Citizen Access to Building Permit Services or by clicking the link: https://aca.accela.com/sfport/Welcome.aspx

*You will need to reference the building or encroachment application number in order to process your request. 

What is a Facility Identification Number (FIN)?

A Facility Identification Number (FIN) is specific to a leasehold area and owner’s name, and is used to identify and record all permit files. 

How are Facility Identification Numbers created?

Facility Identification Numbers are created using:

1.Owner Information

2.Location

3.Facility Number

4.Facility Type

i)Pier (generally perpendicular to land; pier number required for search)

ii)Wharf (generally parallel to land; no facility number required for search)

iii)Seawall (land lots that used to be water, some building/structures on seawalls may also use a street address)

iv)Street Names (some building/structures with street addresses may use seawall numbers only.

Examples:

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  How can I locate my Facility Identification Number (FIN)?

Facility Identification Number (FIN) can be found on the Maps link located at Permit Services on the Port’s Website at http://www.sfport.com/maps

What should I do if my scope of work will require occupying parking meters?

Street Parking Spaces require a No Stopping Sign placard issued by the Port Real Estate Division.  Information and Application available online at http://sfport.com/parking

 (This is a separate process and Application handled by Port Real Estate Revenue – instructions printed on application.)

What should I do if my scope of work will require lane closures?

Street and/or traffic lane closures require a STP (Special Traffic Permit) from SFMTA (Municipal Transit Agency) and subject to SFMTA Regulations - information available at http://www.sfmta.com/services/streets-sidewalks/apply-street-closure  and http://www.sfdpw.org/index.aspx?page=1502