Any building or structure that is erected, constructed, enlarged, altered repaired, moved, improved, removed, converted, or demolished requires a Building Permit prior to any work being started. There are some exemptions from permit requirements.' It is always best to call or stop by the Building & Safety Division and check before any work is started.

There are a number of reasons why you should obtain a permit, but first and foremost, for the safety of you and yours within your property.

If your project requires the submittal of plans, a Building & Safety plans examiner will review the plans to verify the project will comply with local building and zoning codes. Once approved, a permit can be issued and construction can commence. From beginning to end, a building inspector will inspect and verify that the work is being done in conformance with the approved plans and building codes.

In addition to the above, there are legal and financial liabilities that you could face if you weren't to get a permit. Work without a permit is illegal and could pose serious complications for you when trying to sell your house. Any fire and homeowner's insurance you have may be invalidated if you do work without a permit.

Fences and non-retaining masonry walls not over 2 feet in height, measured from finished grade to the top of the wall, do not require a permit. Retaining walls not over 2 feet in height, measured from finished grade to the top of the wall (unless supporting a surcharge/slope) do not require a permit. All other fences and walls require a building permit.

Fence or wall heights may vary depending on the location on the property and the location within the City. It is best to call or stop by the Planning Division for that information.

One story detached accessory buildings used as tool or storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses are exempt from Building Permits if the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet. The shed still must comply with the Indio Municipal Code setback requirements. It is best to call or stop by the Planning Division for that information.

The Desert Contractors' Association can make recommendations for licensed contractors. Their phone number is (760) 200-9202. Before hiring a contractor, check the Contractors State License Board's website to ensure you are working with a licensed contractor.

The City Clerk has public record documents available.

During Pacific Standard Time (early November to mid-March)

• Monday - Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Sunday and Government Code holidays: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

During Pacific Daylight Time (mid-March to early November)

• Monday - Friday: 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Saturday: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Sunday and Government Code holidays: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Not really, however, Building & Safety views a room with a closet as a bedroom. If a room is used for sleeping purposes, that room must have natural light and ventilation and an operable window that provides emergency ingress/egress to a yard or public way.

No, the intent for a garage is to park vehicles.

Smoke detectors are not required to be interconnected if you aren't making any modifications to your home. Section R314 of the 2019 California Residential Code covers this topic in detail.

Any door that forms part of the pool barrier (opens to the pool or spa area) is required to have an alarm that meets UL 2017. In short, the alarm is required to sound for at least 30 seconds within 7 seconds of the door opening. The sound is required to be at least 85 decibels at 10 from the alarm.

No, these types of requirements are for public swimming pools and spas and not for private residential pools and spas.

Most questions regarding business licenses should be addressed to our Finance Department. You can also visit our Business License page for more information.

Yes, you do need a business license for both short and long term rentals. Please go to our Short & Long Term Rentals page for more information.