Fire Damage Repair/Rebuild Assistance
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This information will help provide a pathway for replacement and repair of any previously permitted structure(s) that may have been damaged by recent fires.
- Schedule Appointment with Land Use staff for complete property review and permit process discussion: https://building.rctlma.org/appointments
- Land Use assistance – Email: [email protected] - Phone No. 951-955-1800
Create Fire Damage Assessment permit – BHR (Hourly inspection)
- APPLY Online - https://rctlma.org/how-apply-0
- Useful Links and Resources
- https://building.rctlma.org/fees - Fees
- https://building.rctlma.org/forms - Forms and Handouts
Fees Estimate
Assuming 1800 sq. ft. home
| Fee | Replacement | New Construction |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Fee Deposit * | $5,353.56 | $5,353.56 |
| School District Fees | - | $9,900.00 |
| Fire Department Fees * | $2,000.00 | $2,000.00 |
| Environmental Health Fees * | $2,000.00 | $2,000.00 |
| Mitigation Fee – WTUMF | - | $12,380.00 |
| Mitigation Fee – DIF | - | $3,150.00 |
| Mitigation Fee – WMSHCP | - | $4,358.00 |
| Utilities Connect Fee ** | - | $60,000.00 |
| Total | $9,353.56 | $99,141.56 |
This will only apply to previously permitted structures or structures built prior to 1962. Water meter upgrade may be required depending on fire sprinkler system design. If the reconstructed home is larger than the existing one, additional fees may apply.
*This is an estimate and will depend on the scope of work.
**Varies, depends on the utility company, please check with your utilities.
FAQs
Q: How do I obtain a permit to replace my home?
A: You start by filling out a permit application at https://rctlma.org/how-apply-0. Prior to filling out this permit application, it’s advisable that you or your design professional visit the 9th floor at 4080 Lemon Street, in Riverside to discuss your plans for reconstruction and to answer any questions that you have.
Q: What codes do I have to comply with?
A: You are required by state law to comply with codes in effect at the time of applying for a permit. Currently, the state codes in effect are the California Residential Code 2022.
Q: How long does the building plan review take?
A: Generally, around 10 working days after your plans clear Land Use and you pay the deposit for the Building Department. Review times for other departments may vary and you are advised to check with each department on their fees, requirements and review times.
Q: What fees are due
A: If your structure was previously permitted or constructed prior to 1962, many of the fees required for a new building will not apply to you. However, if your structure was built after 1962 without a permit, then development fees will apply.
Q: Do I need fire sprinklers?
A: Yes. The current state building code requires fire sprinklers in all new residential buildings.
Q: Will I be required to have solar panels
A: It will be based on your Energy report requirements (CF1R).
Q: What approvals and clearance do I need prior to getting my permit
A: In additional to land use and building plan check review, you will need to submit for review and clearances from the Fire Marshal's Office and the Health Department (both on the 10th floor at 4080 Lemon Street in Riverside), as well as the Transportation Department on the 8th floor.
Q: What if I have unpermitted structures on my property that survived the fire?
A: All structures must be legalized. You will need to include those structures in your plans and permit application.
Q: What type of roofing material will I be required to have?
A: Roofing materials need to be class A. This includes tile, metal roof, some asphalt shingles and some torch down roofs.
Q: Can I have exposed wood in my rebuilt structure?
A: Generally, no. Wood siding, exposed 2x wood eaves are not allowed in high fire hazard areas. Also, the underside of projection and decks need to comply with this requirement.
Q: Once I have the permit, what inspections will I need?
A: Visit Inspections on the Building & Safety website and pick what type you are building. There is a detailed list for the type you need.
Q: Can I use the existing concrete slab and foundation that survived the fire?
A: You will need a letter from an Engineer certifying that slab and foundation is still structurally sound and can be reused. The letter must include the method of verification.
Q: Does my structural have to comply with CRC chapter 7A?
A: Yes, as your structural is located in High Fire Zone. Chapter 7A of the building code regulates structures in high fire hazard areas and places restrictions on roofing materials, type of glazing, exterior finish materials.
Q: What types of windows do I need?
A: All glazing in high fire hazard area is required to be dual with at least one pane tempered.
Q: Will I need grading plans?
A: Grading plans are not required unless you will be doing additional grading to your site.
Q: How can I access the Building department online service to find that status on my permit and the submit plans?
Go to rctlma.org, then online services, and that page takes you to all links. You will need to create an account.
Q: Do I submit my building plan in paper or electronically?
A: Building plans must be submitted electronically through our PLUS system.
Q: When does my permit expire?
A: Permits expire either one year from date of issuance or 180 days from last inspection.
Q: Will I need a soils report?
A: A soils report is not required if you use the minimum values prescribed in the building code.
Q: When does my permit application/building plan check expire?
A: The permit application has a validity of one year so the applicant can obtain Building & Safety department approval along with clearing all prior to issuance clearances. Once the permit is issued, the applicant will have one year to complete the dwelling construction. After any inspection is approved, the permit will automatically extend for 6 months.
Q: What if I have multiple structures on the site?
A: Each structure will have to have its own permit application; however, they can be combined in the same blueprint or plans.
Q: Do I need an architect or engineer for my plans?
A: An architect or engineer is generally required for the structural design; however a non-licensed designer can provide the architectural/non-structural design, and a licensed engineer is still required for the structural design.