Navigating San Francisco’s Permit Process for Commercial Window Replacements

• 11 Jun 2025

Replacing San Francisco commercial windows is not just a matter of how they look or function—it is also a matter of complying with the city’s strict building codes and permits process. If you’re replacing them for energy efficiency, appearance, or damage, getting the correct permits is necessary to remain compliant and to prevent delays or penalties.

Here at Best Offer Glass, we’ve assisted numerous businesses in navigating San Francisco’s commercial window installation permit process. Below are the most significant steps, ranging from being aware of city regulations to applying and monitoring the review process.

Why Do You Require A Permit To Replace Commercial Windows?

San Francisco City and County, through the Department of Building Inspection (DBI), mandates permits for most building work, including window replacement, especially for commercial buildings. This is for safety, building code, structural strength, and historical preservation compliance purposes, as and when required.

Even though you’re installing new windows of the exact dimensions and type, you typically will need a permit. Commercial properties have different fire safety and zoning regulations than residential dwellings.

Step 1: Research City Ordinances Regarding Replacing Business Windows

Before seeking a permit, you should know what San Francisco needs for commercial window installations. The main regulations are:

1. Energy Efficiency Standards

Commercial windows must comply with the California Energy Code (Title 24) requirements. This involves the U-factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), and visible transmittance requirements.

2. Fire and Safety Codes

Buildings that are close to each other might need fire-rated windows. Windows on walls that are fire-resistant must follow specific building rules.

3. Historical Preservation

If your business property is in a historic neighbourhood or is a known historic landmark, you will need to submit additional documents to the San Francisco Planning Department. Any substitutions must appear identical to the original plan.

4. Accessibility Requirements

When window work alters access paths or egress, ADA compliance can be verified at the permitting stage.

Step 2: How to Obtain a Permit

Obtaining a permit to install new commercial windows in San Francisco is a step-by-step procedure. The specifics may vary depending on the job’s complexity. Here is a simple overview:

A. Create an Online Permit Application

Visit San Francisco Permit Center and begin your permit via the Digital Permit Submission (DBI’s Permit Center Online). Register, choose the proper project category, and start the application.

B. Prepare Documents Required

You likely have to forward these documents:

• Site plan and elevation drawings
• Detailed scope of work
• Manufacturer information for windows
• Energy code compliance reports (Title 24)
• Snapshots of present conditions
• Historical analysis (if needed)

C. Identify Permit Type

Most over-the-counter commercial window replacements require an Over-the-Counter (OTC) permit if there are no structural changes involved. However, if the window openings are being extended, relocated, or altered, you might require a full Plan Review permit, which involves multiple city departments.

Step 3: Licence Application Submittal

Once your documents are ready, you will publish them online and pay a one-time fee. For most business window applications, the cost typically ranges between $250 and $1,000, depending on the value and size.

Best Offer Glass Tip: Write down everything. Incomplete applications are one of the primary causes of delays in permit processing.

After you’ve submitted your application, you’ll be provided with a tracking number and be assigned a permit technician or reviewer, who may call for clarification or additional documents.

Step 4: Training on the Permit Review Process

The permit review process can take 3 days to several weeks. This will depend on the complexity of your project, the thoroughness of your documentation, and whether you require approval from other departments.

A. Plan Review

For projects requiring a plan review, we will review your application by:

• DBI (Department of Building Inspection) for building code compliance
• Department of Planning for zoning and historic regulations
• Fire Department for fire safety and exit concerns
• Public Works if windows affect a sidewalk or public area.

B. Corrections and Resubmission

If any department requests modifications, you will be notified via the online portal. You must respond to every change item and upload revised documents for continued review.

C. Issuing Permits

Once you have obtained all the permissions and paid all the charges, you will be issued your official permit. You must post this permit at the work site for the entire duration the work is performed.

Final Inspection and Compliance

When your window replacement is complete, DBI will be required to conduct a final inspection to close the permit. An inspector will verify the installation against the approved plans and ensure it conforms to all applicable codes.

Best Offer Glass Tip: Have your inspection done as soon as the work is finished, and have the installer on hand to answer technical questions.

Why Do You Require Best Offer Glass?

Navigating San Francisco’s permitting process can be challenging, especially for business owners. We make window replacement easy for you at Best Offer Glass by navigating permits, paperwork, and regulations from start to finish.

What We Offer:

Permit-ready architectural details and specifications

• Address the city agencies directly.
• Energy-efficient window choices
• Certified installers trained under the SF building code
• Transparent pricing with no hidden charges.

We are highly regarded throughout the Bay Area for dependable service, code-compliant products, and budget-friendly project management. This is why we are the number one choice for commercial window installations in San Francisco.

Window replacement in San Francisco’s commercial high-rises is more than glass. It’s about meeting energy, safety, and design regulations and navigating a tricky permitting process. When replacing windows in a store, office building, or multi-use complex, obtaining the correct permits is crucial for remaining compliant with the law and completing your project on schedule.

Need assistance getting started? Contact Best Offer Glass today for a consultation or a no-obligation quote. Let’s replace your business windows the proper way—legally and professionally.

Also read: Expert Guide to Double Hung Window Glass Replacement