About Permits
A permit constitutes permission to maintain, store, use, or handle materials; conduct processes which produce conditions hazardous to life or property; or install equipment used in connection with such activities. The authority to require and issue permits is found in Article 1 of the California Fire Code.
Some permits constitute authority for a continuing process, such as to operate a place of public assembly or the use, handling, and storage of flammable liquids. These activities require the renewal of the permit on an annual basis. Other permits are for 1-time operations such as the alteration or addition to a fire suppression or fire sprinkler system, the use of a temporary membrane structure (tents and canopies), or the installation of liquefied petroleum gas tanks.
Construction Permits
When the scope of work on a building involves the construction of that building, such as the addition or moving of walls, the installation of rack storage in a warehouse, or the addition of a ventilation system, the permit process begins with the City of Poway’s Development Services Department - Building Division.