If you’re planning a kitchen remodel in San Diego in 2025, understanding how permits work is one of the smartest moves you can make. Permit rules can feel confusing or bureaucratic, but they protect safety, ensure compliance, and help avoid headaches later—especially when reselling your home or dealing with municipal codes. In San Diego, there is a distinction between simpler “no-plan” permits (sometimes called “Simple Permits”) and full plan review permits. Knowing when each is appropriate—and when overstepping will trigger a requirement for full plans—is what separates a smooth remodel from a legal mess.
Kitchen Remodel Permits in San Diego 2025
Contractors like Sheiner Construction walk this line daily. Part of their value is that they know which remodel tasks demand full permits, which qualify for simplified routes, and how to structure a project accordingly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly when no-plan/simplified remodeling permits are allowed, when full plan review is required, and how Sheiner Construction manages these decisions to keep projects legal, efficient, and stress-free.
The following text in this article will be written by Sheiner Construction from San Diego, an award-winning remodeling contractor.
When a “No-Plan” or “Simple Permit” Works for Remodeling in San Diego?
Not every kitchen remodel requires a full set of architectural drawings and long review times. In San Diego, certain smaller updates qualify for what the city calls a “no-plan” or “simple permit.” As contractors, we see this route often when the scope of work doesn’t involve moving walls or making major changes to mechanical, plumbing, or electrical systems.
What qualifies as simple/“no-plan” work
A no-plan permit is designed for straightforward improvements. Think of it as covering projects where safety and structural integrity aren’t at risk. Painting, replacing cabinets in the same layout, swapping countertops, or updating light fixtures within existing wiring usually fall under this category. These permits are quicker to issue because they don’t require plan review from city engineers.
Common examples in kitchen remodels
In the kitchen, examples include replacing cabinetry without changing the footprint, installing new appliances in the same location, or upgrading finishes like flooring and backsplashes. Even small plumbing changes, such as switching out a sink or faucet, may qualify if the pipes aren’t being rerouted. We advise clients to think of “no-plan” permits as approvals for cosmetic and like-for-like updates.
Advantages and risks
The main advantage of a no-plan permit is speed and affordability. You can get approval quickly and move forward without lengthy design submissions. The risk, however, is in underestimating your project. If hidden issues come up—say, outdated wiring that must be replaced—what started as a simple permit could suddenly require full review. That’s why we carefully assess projects upfront to avoid surprises later.
When Full Remodeling Plans & Permits Are Required in San Diego?
Some kitchen remodels go beyond surface updates and require full remodeling plan review by the city. These projects involve structural work, significant mechanical changes, or compliance with California’s evolving energy codes. As contractors, we never gamble here—we always pull the right permits, because cutting corners only leads to bigger costs and headaches for homeowners down the road.
Structural changes & load-bearing walls
If your remodel involves knocking down or altering a wall, even partially, full plans are required. Load-bearing structures need engineering calculations to ensure safety, and the city won’t approve them without detailed drawings.
Plumbing, electrical, gas, and mechanical modifications
Major system changes always trigger full permits. Adding new gas lines, moving sinks or dishwashers, rewiring for modern appliances, or installing new HVAC ducts are all examples. These modifications affect safety, and inspectors need to verify they meet code.
Energy code, Title 24, and local compliance
In California, Title 24 energy regulations are strict. Kitchen remodels often require updates to lighting, ventilation, and insulation to meet these standards. Full plans document compliance and allow the city to approve the project legally.
Steps in the Full Remodel Plan Permit Application Process
When full plans are required, the process is more detailed but absolutely manageable with the right guidance. Here’s how we handle it for our clients:
Design & drawings (architect, engineer)
We begin with design professionals—either architects or engineers—to create accurate drawings. These include layouts, elevations, structural notes, and system updates.
Submission, reviews, and revisions
The drawings are submitted to the city for review. Depending on scope, multiple departments—planning, building, mechanical, and energy—may weigh in. Revisions are sometimes requested, and we coordinate these on behalf of the homeowner.
Inspections, approvals, and final sign-off
Once permits are approved, construction moves forward. Inspections happen at key milestones (framing, rough plumbing, electrical, etc.). Final sign-off is issued when everything passes, giving you a fully legal, documented remodel.
Remodel Cost, Time & Risks: No-Plan vs Full Permits in San Diego
We’re often asked: “Should I just go for a no-plan permit?” The answer depends entirely on scope, because both options come with trade-offs.
Fee structures & permit costs
No-plan permits are cheaper and faster. Full plans cost more because they require drawings, multiple reviews, and inspections. Still, the cost of a permit is minor compared to the fines or resale issues of doing work unpermitted.
Timeline differences & delays
Simple permits can be pulled in days. Full plan reviews may take weeks or months, depending on the workload at the city. That’s why we start the permit process early to keep projects on schedule.
Risks of unpermitted work or insufficient permits
Skipping permits is a mistake we never recommend. Unpermitted work can halt construction, cause insurance problems, and create big resale issues when disclosure is required. As your contractor, we take full responsibility to ensure every remodel is properly permitted and documented.
How Sheiner Construction Handles Permits (Contractor’s Best Practices)
At Sheiner Construction, we treat permitting as a core part of the remodeling process—not an afterthought. Here’s how we protect our clients:
Early permit strategy in quoting & design
From the very first estimate, we identify whether your project will require simple permits or full plans. This allows us to set realistic budgets and timelines.
Managing changes and addenda during construction
Remodels sometimes reveal surprises behind walls or under floors. When that happens, we handle permit addenda quickly, updating documents and keeping the city in the loop so your project stays compliant.
Communication with clients & taking responsibility
We believe homeowners should never feel lost in the permitting maze. We explain the steps clearly, manage the paperwork, and keep you updated. Most importantly, we take responsibility for compliance so you can enjoy the remodeling process without stress.
CONCLUSION
Kitchen remodels in San Diego can fall into two categories: simple “no-plan” permits for cosmetic updates, and full plan permits for structural or system changes. Both have their place, but knowing which applies to your project is critical. At Sheiner Construction, our job is to guide you through the process, make sure your remodel complies with all 2025 codes, and protect you from costly mistakes.
Whether you’re refreshing finishes or transforming your kitchen with a brand-new layout, permits are your safeguard. They protect your investment, your safety, and the long-term value of your home. And with us managing the process, you can focus on the exciting part—watching your dream kitchen come to life.
Who Are We?
At Sheiner Construction, we are a licensed remodeling contractor based in San Diego, dedicated to upgrading houses into homes that truly reflect our clients’ lifestyles. With years of hands-on experience, we specialize in kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, full-home makeovers, and ADU construction. What sets us apart is our commitment to honesty, craftsmanship, and communication. We believe every homeowner deserves a remodel that’s not only beautiful but also safe, compliant, and built to last.
Our reputation is backed by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, top rankings on trusted platforms, and the testimonials of homeowners who recommend us again and again. We don’t cut corners—we handle every detail, from permits and design coordination to the final walkthrough, with care and professionalism.
When you work with us, you’re not just hiring a contractor. You’re partnering with a team that treats your project as if it were our own home. Our goal is simple: deliver remodels that combine functionality, style, and long-term value—while making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
