Home › Do I need a permit to replace an AC or furnace in California?
Do I need a permit to replace an AC or furnace in California?
Source: California HVAC Help (californiahvachelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 2, 2026.
| City | Rule | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | Same size and type A/C replacement is an express permit, no plan check. | (source: City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety) checked November 2, 2026 |
| San Diego | Mechanical Permit required for any HVAC install, alteration, replacement or repair unless exempt. | (source: City of San Diego Development Services) checked November 2, 2026 |
| San Jose | Electrical permit required; mechanical or plumbing permit may also be needed. | (source: City of San Jose Development Services Permit Center) checked November 2, 2026 |
| San Francisco | C20 contractor, or owner of a stand-alone single-family home. | (source: City and County of San Francisco) checked November 2, 2026 |
| Sacramento | Minor permit online; average total cost $225.00. | (source: City of Sacramento Community Development) checked November 2, 2026 |
| Fresno | Fastest review level, up to 3 business days; same day express permits in person (2023 booklet). | (source: City of Fresno Planning and Development) checked November 2, 2026 |
| Long Beach | Online mechanical permit; plot plan and CF1R required. | (source: City of Long Beach Building and Safety) checked November 2, 2026 |
| Oakland | Permit required; portable units and small parts exempt. | (source: City of Oakland Planning and Building) checked November 2, 2026 |
Because HVAC replacement needs a permit, the under $1,000 handyman exemption does not apply. Use a licensed C-20 contractor, or pull an owner-builder permit. (source: California Legislature)
On this site: Do I need a permit to replace an AC or furnace in California? · California energy code testing for AC changeouts · Mini-split permits in California · HVAC permit costs in California cities · HVAC work that needs no permit in California cities · Can I do my own HVAC work in California? · When does a California contractor need a license? · California home improvement contract and payment rules · How to check a California contractor and complain · Cities · FAQ · Sources
Sources
- City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS): Express Permits (No Plan Check Required), P/GI 2026-003, revised 06-10-2026 (PDF) (checked November 2, 2026)
- City of San Diego Development Services: Mechanical Permit (checked November 2, 2026)
- City of San Jose Development Services Permit Center: Air Conditioning, Heating and Fireplaces (updated 04/07/2026) (checked November 2, 2026)
- City and County of San Francisco: Apply for a plumbing and mechanical permit (checked November 2, 2026)
- City of Sacramento Community Development: Average Total Cost for Common Residential Minor Permits (checked November 2, 2026)
- City of Fresno Planning and Development: Building and Safety Services booklet (2023, PDF) (checked November 2, 2026)
- City of Long Beach Building and Safety: Online Permitting (checked November 2, 2026)
- City of Oakland Planning and Building: Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) Permits (checked November 2, 2026)
- California Legislature (California Legislative Information): Business and Professions Code 7048 (minor work exemption) (checked November 2, 2026)
Last updated: