Express Permit Service is available effective February 1, 2025 to currently registered and licensed contractors. To register with the City of Novato Building Division email [email protected] and include your City of Novato Business License number, CSLB license with applicable classification[s] and Worker’s Compensation Insurance information with carrier name, policy number and policy expiration date. An email with access to the Express Permits web portal and a temporary password will be provided.


If you cannot log in to the eTrakit portal due to an expired CSLB license, expired City of Novato Business license, expired worker’s compensation insurance or receive a notification of an invalid login or password, email [email protected] for assistance.


Overview of Express Permit Service


Express Permit Services is available for minor residential projects. [Note: Commercial and Multi-Family Projects do not qualify for Express Permit Service.] Below are residential projects that qualify for Express Permit Service:

Residential Water Heater Replacement Like for Like with no location change
* Tank to Tank
* Tankless to Tankless
Residential HVAC Like for Like Replacement with no location change
* Furnace to Furnace
* Ductwork
* AC to AC
Residential Electrical Panel Replacement with no location change and install Meets CEC 110.26 & PG&E Bulletin TD-7001M-B010
* Sub Panel
* Main Panel
Residential Reroof Replacement with no change to roof pitch
* Roofs with existing Solar installed do not qualify for Express Permits
Residential Window/Door Replacement with no change in size, location or operating style

Standard Building Permit
A Standard Building Permit will need to be obtained for projects that do not qualify for Express Permits. To apply for a Standard Building Permit, email completed Building Division forms, documents and plans [if applicable] to [email protected]. Visit our website to review submittal requirements and information to apply for a Standard Building Permit.

Solar Contractors, if applying for a Solar Auto Issue Permit, you are required to have the SolarAPP+ Approval ID number, SolarAPP+ checklist and Manufacturer’s Specifications.  If the Solar project does not qualify for SolarAPP+, email completed/signed building forms, plans and specifications to [email protected].

Building Permit Records - City of Novato’s current building permit records [2000 to present] can be viewed from this location using search tools. You do not need to log in or create an account to search permit history. To view building permit records prior to 2000, schedule an appointment at the self-serve Records KIOSK. Use the on-line appointment scheduler to schedule, reschedule or cancel an existing Records KIOSK appointment.