Kitchen remodel permits in San Jose
Published October 1, 2026 · Kitchen Renovation CA
Choose the cosmetic, minor, or major remodel path and prepare for application, fees, and inspections.
Start with a written list of changes
List cabinets, counters, appliances, wiring, plumbing, ventilation, walls, and windows separately. Keeping the kitchen layout does not automatically make all work exempt. The City of San Jose classifies work by the actual scope.
Cosmetic work versus trade work
City guidance identifies painting, cabinet resurfacing, flooring, and countertop replacement as cosmetic work not requiring a permit. Electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural changes still need separate review. Do not extend the cosmetic exemption to a complete kitchen remodel.
The minor-remodel pathway
A qualifying minor remodel involves replacement fixtures or appliances and new trade work without changing fixture locations or quantities. The city limits this path to kitchen or bathroom work without structural changes. Use the SJPermits wizard to confirm the appropriate application.
When the project becomes a major remodel
Changes to walls or windows, framing, or fixture location or quantity require the major-remodel review path. Plan the drawings and any needed engineering before ordering cabinets tied to new dimensions.
Fees, permit cards, and inspections
SJPermits shows eligible online permit fees during application. Broader work follows the applicable fee schedule; there is no universal kitchen permit charge. Keep the permit card, applicable plans, and equipment instructions on site. Rough work may need inspection before finishes conceal it.
What to bring to a site review
Bring the property address, photos, any existing plans, proposed appliance specifications, and a list of walls or fixtures you want to move. Agree on who prepares plans, applies, pays city fees, and coordinates inspections in the written scope.
Source reviewed October 1, 2026: City of San Jose: kitchen and bathroom minor remodels
Project-specific requirements, selections, and pricing are confirmed after site review.