What are the Commercial Mechanical & HVAC permit rules in California?

California enforces trade permit fee schedules determined by local AHJ building departments per county. General contractors and sub-trades must maintain active state licenses and bond filings ($10,000–$50,000).

Are sub-trade contractor surety bonds required in California?

Yes. Most California municipal building departments require trade contractors to file an active license bond prior to permit issuance.

❄️ STATEWIDE TRADE HUB (CA) 2 County Workstations

California Commercial Mechanical & HVAC Permit Guide

HVAC tonnage rates, ductwork submittals, rooftop replacements, and COMcheck forms. Compare municipal fee structures, plan check add-on rates, and contractor bond thresholds across California.

California Commercial Mechanical & HVAC County Workstations

Select a county building department to calculate exact trade permit fees & bond rules

Los Angeles County

LA County Dept of Public Works & LADBS

2026 Verified

Plan Review Rate: 45%

Tech Surcharge: 6%

Mandatory Surety Bond: $25,000

Open Los Angeles County Commercial Mechanical & HVAC Workstation →

Orange County

Orange County Public Works Building & Safety

2026 Verified

Plan Review Rate: 40%

Tech Surcharge: 4%

Mandatory Surety Bond: $25,000

Open Orange County Commercial Mechanical & HVAC Workstation →