Building Requirements

Before you:

install a new door or window (COA and BP Required)
re-roof (BP Required)
build a fence over 6’h (BP Required)
build a driveway gate or front side yard fence (COA and BP Required)
stucco over your siding or replace your siding (COA and BP Required)
alter your porch (COA and BP Required)
construct an addition (COA and BP Required)
change any exterior feature (except painting) (COA and BP Required)

You must get a building permit (BP) from the City of Pasadena’s Permit Center at 175 N. Garfield Ave or apply online: Apply for Permit – Planning & Community Development Department (cityofpasadena.net).

Since your house is in a Landmark District, any work you do to the exterior may require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) from the City. This COA ensures that any changes to your house comply with the design standards for historic districts in Pasadena and the BH Conservation Plan. Applications for Certificates of Appropriateness are available at the City’s Permit Center.

As the property owner, you are responsible for obtaining all required permits. This includes work being handled by a contractor. So, make sure your contractor has obtained all necessary permits before work begins.

Please contact the City regarding building permits at 626-744-4200 and Certificate of Appropriateness at 626-744-6646 or email: dhpquestions@cityofpasadena.net

Permit Center – Planning & Community Development Department (cityofpasadena.net)

Public Counter Hours
Monday – Thursday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Fridays 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Telephone Hours
Fridays 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Monday – Thursday 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.