HomeReplacementWindows.net

Do I need building permits to replace my windows?

I live in a tract home made in the late 40's early 50's. all of the windows are single pane the wood framings are rotted and they are in need of replacement. Some of the windows are made from floor to ceiling in which case I might have to stucko the remainder of the outside walls when I replace the big ones with the regular sized windows. I am told by friends and some contractors that I don't need a permit to replace the windows since I am not doing any major renovations that effects the floor plan or square footage of my home. Is this true? By the wayI live in Orange County , California.

Public Comments

1. No, not at all


2. True.

   Replacing your windows, even if you replace them w/ different sized windows, or french doors, or sliders, or whatever, is considered a 'repair,' not 'building.'

   So long as the basic footprint of your home isn't changing due to this repair, you don't need a building permit.

   Check out the orange County, CA 'Planning & Development Services' web site at http://www.ocplanning.net/.

   Hope this helps,

       TX Griff



3. There is an old saying that goes, An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In this instance the prevention could come in not paying a hefty fine to your local minacipality for not securing the proper permits. I would recomend finding out first, if permits are needed, from the local code enforcement. This then could be your , so to speek, "pound of cure".


4. no


5. No you don't.