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Alternate Methods and Materials

Apply to submit requests to use alternate materials, design or construction methods or a proposed code modification for your project. All changes, modifications or alterations to the approved plans and specifications during construction must be reviewed and approved by the City of San Diego prior to being incorporated into the construction documents.

Plan Your Project

What You Should Know

The Building Official may consider the use of any alternate material, design, or construction method if the Building Official determines the following:

  • That the proposed alternate material, design or construction method is satisfactory and would comply with the intent of the regulations in the San Diego Fire Code and the Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Residential Building, Green Building and Existing Building Regulations of the San Diego Municipal Code.
  • That the proposed alternate material, design, or construction method is at least equivalent to the standards prescribed in the applicable regulation in terms of suitability, quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability, safety and sanitation.
  • That sufficient evidence has been submitted to substantiate any claims that may be made regarding the use of any proposed alternate material, design, or construction method.
  • Please review Information Bulletin 151 for additional information.

Fees

Exemptions

  • No exemptions apply.

Compliant Outdoor Expansion

Apply for a Permit

Step 1

Review PDF icon User Guide – Apply for a Standalone Permit

Step 2

Read the PDF icon requirements for PDF file uploads.

Not following the PDF requirements will delay project review and approval.

Step 3

Obtain or complete the following documents:

Step 4

Apply for a Permit

You will be required to upload the completed document from Step 3.

Permits & Inspections