3030 El Cajon Blvd
San Diego, CA 92104
Office visits by appointment.
Retroactive Permitting Services in San Diego
We bring unpermitted spaces into compliance, managing the retroactive permitting process with the City of San Diego from application to approval. This protects your asset's value and removes a major obstacle to financing, insurance, or sale.
City of San Diego Development Services Department requires appropriate permits to be obtained for all major construction projects to ensure that every building meets the zoning and safety standards and is safe for the occupants. Failure to obtain the necessary approvals may lead to code enforcement action that may result in fines, penalties, and even criminal prosecution.
Luckily, San Diego allows property owners to legalize their unpermitted construction by obtaining a retroactive building permit, which means you won't have to undo the work performed altogether. We at Ground Zero have been helping property owners in the city legalize their unpermitted constructions. Whether you have an ADU, room addition, loft addition, or second-story addition built on your property without required permits, we can provide you with the most economical and least invasive solution to bring it into compliance.
Legalize Unpermitted ADUs, Additions & Construction
Ignoring unpermitted construction can lead to severe consequences for property owners.
Property Value Impact
It can drastically reduce the resale value of your property.
Insurance Vulnerability
Unpermitted construction could not be covered by insurance in the event of damage.
Legal & Financial Penalties
You could face severe city fines, ongoing penalties, and even a civil suit.
Occupant Safety
It may create hidden, unsafe living conditions for the occupants.
Our Process to Correct and Resolve Unpermitted Construction
Bringing an unpermitted construction up to current codes can be complex. We work with you every step of the way to make it completely stress-free.
Site Visit
We visit your property to audit the type and scope of work done and determine exactly what permits are required.
Meet with DSD
If permit requirements are in question, we meet with the building department on your behalf to ensure compliance with zoning codes.
Drawing up Plans
We draft an impeccably accurate set of structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing plans to ensure zero unnecessary city revision cycles.
Application Submission
We submit the application and supporting documents to SDHC. Approval is typically secured in just a few weeks.
Scheduling Initial Inspection
We coordinate the city inspector's visit to examine foundations, framing, insulation, and HVAC to verify it matches the drawings.
Remedial Work
If any violations are flagged, our team assists you in performing targeted, corrective actions to meet current city codes efficiently.
Final Inspection & Sign-off
We schedule the final walkthrough. Once approved, the building department issues a formal Certificate of Occupancy for your construction.