Burlingame has one of the more straightforward residential permit processes on the Peninsula. The Building Division is responsive, plan check timelines are reasonable, and inspectors are generally consistent. But there are a few Burlingame-specific things worth knowing before you submit an application.
What requires a permit in Burlingame
- Any structural work (load-bearing wall removal, framing changes, additions)
- Any plumbing relocation
- Any electrical that requires opening walls or adding circuits
- HVAC equipment changes
- Roofing replacement
- Window replacement (in most cases — verify with the city)
- Decks over 30" above grade
- Fences over 6 feet
- Pools and spas
- Solar installations
Plan check timelines (2026)
- Over-the-counter (cosmetic with no structural): 1–3 days
- Standard residential: 3–5 weeks first round
- Additions or new construction: 5–8 weeks first round
- Design Review required: add 6–10 weeks
What triggers Design Review
Burlingame's Hillside Area and several conservation districts (Easton Addition, Burlingame Park) often trigger Design Review for:
- Additions over a certain square footage
- Changes to the front elevation
- Roof line changes
- Removal of significant trees
- Hillside lot work
If your property is in one of these zones, plan for an extra 2–3 months in the permit timeline and budget $3,000–$8,000 in additional design and review fees.
Common Burlingame permit gotchas
1. Setback enforcement
Burlingame is strict about side and rear setbacks. Even minor cantilevered features (chimney chases, bay windows) can be denied if they extend into the setback. Verify before designing.
2. Heritage trees
Burlingame's Heritage Tree Ordinance protects oaks, redwoods, and other native species above certain trunk diameters. Removing or even significantly pruning one without a permit triggers fines. If you have trees on or near your work area, get a tree report before applying.
3. Drainage requirements
New impervious surface (driveways, patios, additions) triggers a drainage plan in most cases. For larger additions, expect a stormwater requirement that often needs a small infiltration system.
4. Title 24 on the whole envelope
When you pull permits for a substantial addition or remodel, Burlingame will require the whole-house envelope to meet current Title 24 energy code. That sometimes means upgrades to insulation, windows, or HVAC throughout the home.
Typical fees for a Burlingame residential remodel
- Kitchen remodel (no structural): $1,500–$3,000 in permit + plan check
- Bathroom remodel: $1,000–$2,200
- Single-story addition (~500 sq ft): $6,000–$10,000
- Detached ADU: $5,000–$9,000
Working on a Burlingame project? See our Burlingame remodeling page or reach out for a free consultation — we handle the entire permit process as part of every project.
Planning a Bay Area remodel?
High Touch Consulting & Development is a licensed general contractor serving the San Francisco Peninsula and Silicon Valley. We provide free on-site consultations and fixed-scope written proposals.
