Every three years, the State adopts new building model codes to establish uniform standards for construction and maintenance. Changes to the model code affect all new building permit applications submitted on or after January 1st, 2023. California Administrative Code Section 1-507 Fee Collection was amended to remove the check-only payment method and added instructions for submitted payment and forms by mail (check) or email (electronic payment platform), and let fee payers know that they may only use the approved electronic payment platform, and that there is information regarding the platform on CBSC’s website.
To be compliant, Community Planning & Building must now offer to receive electronic (online) payments through the City’s website for permits and fees. Credit card and debit card processing fees for online payments is 3.5% with our current permit management software. At this time, the City’s Fee Schedule authorizes only 2.5% of charged amount for Use of Credit Card/Debit Card. As this increase only applies to online payments made to the Community Planning & Building Department, it is recommended that the City’s Fee Schedule be amended to reflect the 3.5% of charges amount for Use of Credit Card/Debit Card and establish the 3.5% of charges amount for electronic (online) payments through the City’s website.
Although the City has hired Revenue and Cost Specialists, LLC (“RCS”) to prepare a cost of services study, the master fee schedule with any modification, additions and/or changes to fees will be brought forward separately as part of the FY 23/24 Operating Budget discussion and approval. This fee is being brought forward due to the January 1, 2023 implementation.