San Francisco roofing permits and rules
Source: California Roofing Help (californiaroofinghelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 2, 2026.
Roofing permits in San Francisco
San Francisco requires a permit before installing, repairing or removing roofing material (see exemptions in Building Code Section 106A.2 item 13). A licensed C-39 contractor must apply for a reroofing permit online. Cost starts at $514 and up for single-family homes and duplexes, and $714 and up for other building types, with additional fees depending on the project. (source: City and County of San Francisco)
You can get a reroofing permit online only if the work does not require plans and does not replace structural components such as framing or decking. Work that needs plans or structural replacement needs an over-the-counter building permit. For streamlined online service, register an AUTH number on PermitSF at least two business days in advance. (source: City and County of San Francisco)
Statewide rules that apply here
Roofing contractors are licensed by CSLB in the C-39 Roofing classification. A C-39 contractor installs products and repairs surfaces that seal, waterproof and weatherproof structures, using materials such as asphaltum, pitch, tar, felt, metal roofing systems, shakes, shingles, roof tile, slate and other membrane materials. (source: Contractors State License Board)
The contractor license law does not apply to work under $1,000 in total (labor, materials and everything else) that is casual, minor or inconsequential and does not need a building permit. The exemption is lost if the job is split up to get under $1,000, if the person advertises as a contractor, or if they employ anyone to help (B&P 7048). AB 2622, approved in September 2024, raised this limit from $500 to $1,000, and the section was amended again effective January 1, 2026. (source: California Legislature) (source: California Legislature)
See permits in other cities, doing your own work and checking a license.
Other cities: Los Angeles · San Diego · San Jose · San Francisco · Sacramento · Fresno · Long Beach · Oakland
On this site: Do I need a permit to replace a roof in California? · When does a California roofer need a C-39 license? · Hiring a roofer after a California wildfire or declared disaster · California roof insurance claim deadlines · California roofing contract and payment rules · How to check a California roofer and complain · Can I reroof my own house in California? · Roofing permit costs in California cities · Cool roof and fire-zone roofing rules in California cities · Where to complain about a California roofer · Cities · FAQ · Sources
Sources
- City and County of San Francisco: Apply for a reroofing permit (checked November 2, 2026)
- Contractors State License Board (CSLB): C-39 Roofing Contractor classification (checked November 2, 2026)
- California Legislature (California Legislative Information): Business and Professions Code 7048 (minor work exemption) (checked November 2, 2026)
- California Legislature (California Legislative Information): Assembly Bill 2622 (2024), Chapter 240: Contractors: exemptions (checked November 2, 2026)
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