Millbrae, CA Building Permits Guide
Millbrae, CA building permit timeline: Plan review takes 2 to 180 days depending on project type. Expedited review is not currently offered.
Building permit review in Millbrae, CA typically takes between 2 and 180 days depending on project type and complexity. The city does not currently offer expedited plan review. Here is what you need to know about permit timelines, costs, and the review process in Millbrae.
Millbrae Plan Review Timeline
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Time to review first submittal:
- For projects that require prepared and submitted plans, the initial review period is 15 business days. Staff will route plans to relevant City departments for review and comments. If corrections or additional information are needed, you will receive electronic correspondence within this period.
- For smaller projects, such as simple bath or kitchen remodels reviewed and issued electronically, the review period is typically 2 to 5 business days, depending on staff availability.
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Time to review subsequent submittals:
- If plans require corrections and are resubmitted, the review period for subsequent plan checks is also up to 15 business days from the time the corrected drawings are resubmitted.
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Other time-related details:
- For projects that do not require prepared plans (e.g., re-roofs, electrical service upgrades, furnace/water heater replacements, window replacements), permits are usually issued in 1–2 business days.
- Permit applications are deemed abandoned after 180 days unless an extension is granted.
- No express guarantee or expedited process is mentioned for standard plan checks beyond the stated timelines.
Last verified: June 2025 | Source: Millbrae Building Department
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What Building Permits Do You Need in Millbrae?
Millbrae requires permits for most construction activity. The type of permit depends on your project scope.
Commercial Permits
- New commercial construction: full plan review with the longest timeline
- Tenant improvements and interior buildouts: plan review for structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical changes
- Change of use: required when converting building use (for example, retail to restaurant)
- Shell and core: separate from tenant improvement permits
Residential Permits
- New home construction: full plan review including structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing
- Additions and remodels: required when modifying structure or adding square footage
- Decks, pools, fences: separate permits with typically faster review
Trade Permits
Individual trade permits are typically required for electrical, plumbing, mechanical (HVAC), and fire sprinkler work.
How the Millbrae Permit Review Process Works
Step 1: Application Submission
Submit your permit application through the Millbrae building department. Applications are reviewed for completeness before being assigned to a plan reviewer.
Step 2: Plan Review
The city reviews your submitted plans for building code compliance, structural integrity, fire safety, energy code, and ADA accessibility. Commercial projects are reviewed by multiple departments at the same time.
Step 3: Corrections and Resubmittal
If the city issues correction comments, you will need to revise your plans and resubmit. Each correction cycle adds another review period. Most commercial projects go through 2 to 3 correction cycles.
Step 4: Permit Issuance
Once all review departments approve your plans, the building permit is issued. Schedule inspections as work progresses.
Note: These timelines reflect general review periods. Large or complex projects may take longer. Request a quote from Permit Place for a project-specific estimate, or get an instant due diligence report from PermitNow.io.
Millbrae Building Permit Costs
Permit fees in Millbrae vary based on project type and valuation.
Commercial
- Tenant improvements: $500 to $5,000+
- New commercial construction: $2,000 to $25,000+ (based on valuation)
- Plan review fee: typically 50-65% of the building permit fee
Residential
- Small projects (decks, pools, fences): $50 to $300
- Home additions and remodels: $200 to $2,000+
- New home construction: $1,000 to $10,000+ (based on valuation)
For a detailed permit cost breakdown specific to your project, get a free due diligence report from PermitNow.io.
Trade Permits
- Electrical: $50 to $500
- Plumbing: $50 to $500
- Mechanical: $50 to $500
Fee ranges are estimates. Actual fees depend on project valuation and scope. Contact the Millbrae building department or Permit Place for exact costs.
Millbrae Building Department
Millbrae Building Department
- Website: ci.millbrae.ca.us/176/Building-Division
- City Website: ci.millbrae.ca.us
Frequently Asked Questions About Millbrae Building Permits
How long does it take to get a building permit in Millbrae?
Plan review in Millbrae, CA takes 2 to 180 days for the initial review cycle. Projects that receive correction comments will need additional review cycles, each adding time to the total. Most commercial projects go through at least two review cycles before approval.
Does Millbrae offer expedited permit review?
Millbrae does not currently offer a formal expedited review program. However, submitting complete, code-compliant plans on the first attempt is the best way to reduce total review time. Permit Place helps ensure your application is complete before submission.
Do I need a permit for a tenant improvement in Millbrae?
Yes. Most interior buildouts in Millbrae that involve structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, or HVAC modifications require a building permit. Simple cosmetic changes (paint, flooring, non-structural work) typically do not require a permit.
How much does a building permit cost in Millbrae?
Permit fees in Millbrae are calculated based on project valuation and type. Commercial projects typically pay $500 to $25,000+ in total permit and plan review fees. The exact cost depends on project scope, square footage, and any additional trade permits required.
Can a permit expediter help with my Millbrae project?
Yes. Permit Place expedites building permits in Millbrae and 600+ other jurisdictions. We handle everything from application preparation through plan review, corrections, and permit issuance. Our clients typically get permits faster because we submit complete applications that reduce correction cycles.
What building permits do I need in Millbrae, CA?
Most construction in Millbrae requires a building permit. This includes new construction, tenant improvements, change of use, additions, and major renovations. Separate trade permits for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and fire protection are also typically required. For a project-specific permit requirements report, use PermitNow.io.
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