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Permit Sonoma › Divisions › Engineering & Construction › Building › Bear (Bare) Minimum Program
Building Division

Bear (Bare) Minimum Program

The Bear (Bare) Minimum Program is a streamlined building permit pathway offered by Permit Sonoma that leverages pre-approved stock plans and minimal submittal requirements. It’s tailored for simple, repeatable projects that don't require extensive customization or complex engineering, ensuring faster reviews and quicker turnaround compared to standard permit processes.

program features

  • Pre‑approved stock plans: Standard templates for accessory buildings and structures
  • Minimal documentation: Only essential details are required
  • Focused code review: Based on pre-vetted, code-compliant designs
  • Accelerated processing: Reduced review time for eligible projects

Ideal Project Types

Best suited for simple, repetitive residential and accessory projects that require little engineering:

  • Sheds and other small structures
  • Carports and patio covers
  • Small decks and fences
  • Retaining walls 
  • Generators and electrical panels
  • Temporary housing

Benefits

⚡ Speed: Pre-approved designs and focused review streamline permit timelines.

🧩 Simplicity: Pre-built templates eliminate guesswork.

💰 Efficiency: Less documentation and quicker review means potential savings.

✅ Reliability: Stock plans are already compliant with code standards.

Process Overview

Getting Started:

  1. Choose your project type and download the corresponding stock plan (STK) package.
  2. Complete the template with project-specific site information.
  3. Save the updated plans.
  4. Upload via Permit Sonoma’s online portal. (Permits Online)

Request a Permit:

  1. Submit a building permit via the online portal.
  2. Pay the initial plan-check fee.
  3. Review for code compliance by Permit Sonoma divisions (Planning, Well & Septic, Code Enforcement, Building).
  4. Respond to any review comments posted in the Digital Plan Room (DPR).

    Once all reviews are complete:

    Plans are stamped “Reviewed for Code Compliance.”
    Project status updates to “Plan Check Approved”

  5. Pay final inspection and permit issuance fees.
  6. Receive your permit and begin construction.

Inspections
Once your Bear Minimum project is approved, the next step will be inspections.  Below is an overview of Permit Sonoma’s inspection process. Permit Sonoma follows the California Building Code requirements to what to inspect. It’s the permit holder’s responsibility to schedule inspections at each phase.

  • Foundation: after excavation, formwork, reinforcement, and UFER grounding are in place
  • Concrete Slab: before pouring, once in-slab plumbing, ducts, and piping are installed
  • Under-floor: after rough plumbing, mechanical, gas lines, and ductwork are ready
  • Shear/Roof Nailing:  post installation of roof and floor bracing
  • Close-in: once the structure is weatherproofed, with rough-in electrical, plumbing, and insulation in place
  • Drywall or Lath: after interior/exterior drywall or lath, before plaster/stucco is applied
  • Final: when the project is complete

Scheduling Inspections

Inspections can be scheduled via three convenient methods:

  • Online: through Permit Sonoma’s portal (“Record Info → Inspections → Schedule”)
  • Phone: automated line at (707) 565 3551 (options to schedule, cancel, or get ETA)
  • Mobile App: if available for your account

You'll need:

  • Permit number
  • Job address
  • Inspection type code
  • Contact information (name/phone)

Appointments are typically scheduled for the next business day, except for remote zones like Sea Ranch, which have scheduled days.

Got Questions?

Building Division
(707) 565‑3551 (options to schedule, cancel, or get ETA)
BuildingInspections@sonomacounty.gov 

Or visit the Building Standards Commission website.