Building Department
Mission Statement
The Los Banos Building Department provides services to assure that the buildings constructed in the City of Los Banos are built to the standards of the current Building Standards as defined in the building codes and construction standards adopted by the City of Los Banos, thus giving the citizens of Los Banos the best possible buildings.
The Building Department runs under the direction of Fire Chief Paul Tualla, and all building inspection services are contracted out under his direction. The Department is available by phone at (209) 827-7000 ext. 1300 or email at losbanosbldg@csgengr.com Monday thru Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Background
The regulation of building construction is not a new phenomenon. It is, in fact, traced back in history to over 4,000 years ago. Today, the United States is covered by a network of modern building regulations ranging from fire and structural safety to health, security, and conservation of energy.
The State of California, along with local governments, have enacted and adopted numerous building and fire related codes in order to protect your life, health, and property. Likewise, state law requires the City, as the local jurisdiction, to provide comprehensive building code enforcement services, including plan reviews and site inspections.
The Building Department uses building permits to manage building inspections and related applicable fees. These are required to ensure that the project is in compliance with applicable building and fire regulations. These codes and regulations are based upon past construction and are to ensure that safe and proper building practices are adhered to.
Many projects besides new construction projects and major remodeling require building permits. These include the new installations that are listed in the table in this section. In general, building permits are required whenever a building or structure is constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, or demolished. There are some minor projects that are exempt and no permits are required. Call the Building Department at City Hall at (209) 827-7000 ext. 1300 or email at losbanosbldg@csgengr.com before you start any work to see if your project requires a permit. Checking with staff first can save you time, money, and penalty fees.
In addition, your Los Banos Building Official provides many services and all of which benefit the public:
- Education
- Technical Support
- Plan review
- On-site construction inspections
- Energy code compliance
- Earthquake, hurricanes, tornado, flooding, and other natural disaster awareness/preparedness
- Floor plan management
- Technical support concerning barrier-free access
- Approval of alternative methods and materials
- Public information including records and data
- Budget management
- Coordination of the permit process with other departments and government agencies