Tenant Improvement

Construction Work Inside a BuildingA "Tenant Improvement" is defined as a business occupying a commercial space and may include changes in the character or use of a building. If a business is relocating, or if any electrical work, including light fixture changes, mechanical, heating, or plumbing work, structural and/or non-structural work is proposed within an existing or new tenant space, a review of the proposed work and a permit will be required.

A project to add or change out light fixtures requires a permit and State of California energy code (Title 24) documentation.

Structural revisions shall be accompanied by a California-licensed engineer or architect's design documentation. Results of design calculations shall be incorporated into plans.

A Tenant Improvement permit requires the review and written approval by all Town agencies and additional alternate agencies. To get started, download the Commercial/Tenant Improvement Approval Checklist (PDF).

The proposed installation of a New Sign (PDF) typically requires a building permit and Planning Division approval prior to its installation. Changing out of an existing sign in a pre-approved sign plan may not require a permit, please contact Town staff for requirements. A sign installation may be included in the tenant improvement permit or may be obtained via a separate permit.

Construction work performed as part of a tenant improvement project shall meet State of California accessibility requirements and plans shall demonstrate full compliance. The building department's review and inspection of the project will include verification of compliance with the state requirements. Designers, builders, and business owners are also responsible for compliance with Federal Accessibility Requirements (ADA) (PDF).

A business owner proposing to occupy an existing space may be exempt from permit requirements if no construction work is proposed.

Please contact the Building Division at 530-582-7821 if there are any questions regarding permit requirements.