San Francisco Exterior, Deck, and Fence Permit Guide

San Francisco over-the-counter exterior permits cover windows, doors, reroofing, siding, deck and stair repairs, decks, roof decks, and fences that meet listed conditions.

Permit takeaway

San Francisco says exterior residential projects such as windows, exterior doors, garage doors, reroofing, minor dry rot repairs, siding, decks, stairs, roof decks, and fences may qualify for over-the-counter review.

Zoning and placement

Decks and roof decks must meet Planning setback requirements, and fences over front-yard or side/rear-yard thresholds can require plans and permit review.

Building and trade review

Shorter fences may not require a permit, but fences taller than six feet in side or rear yards or taller than three feet in front yards are listed in the OTC exterior project guidance.

Call before applying when

Call before applying if the project changes window or door locations, repairs more than 50 percent of a deck or stairs, adds a deck, changes exterior finishes visible from the street, or builds a taller fence.

Documents to prepare

• Exterior project forms
• Plans if required
• Planning setback information
• Photos or drawings for visible exterior changes

Inspection planning

• Check OTC eligibility
• Prepare forms and plans
• Submit at the Permit Center
• Schedule required inspections
• Keep approved plans available

Official sources

• San Francisco Exterior Residential OTC Permit
• San Francisco Building Permit Plans

This guide is a planning summary. Always verify the current requirements with the local office before starting work.