Planning & Building Records Requests
The Planning & Building Department Records Unit can help you request building and permit records, submit subpoenas, and apply for re-roofing certificates, insulation certificates, and 3-R reports. Learn more about these services below.
Request Public Records
You can request and view public records from the City under the City of Oakland's Sunshine Ordinance and the State of California's Brown Act.
A Report of Residential Record (3-R Report) shows the permit history for a residential property.
Fees
The cost depends on when the property was built. Processing takes about 2 months.
- 1/1/2015 to present - $2119.30
- 1/1/1998 to 12/31/2014 - $2876.19
- 12/31/1997 or earlier - $3330.33
Requirements
A 3-R Report is only provided to the property owner or someone authorized by the owner. You must provide proof of ownership, such as a recorded property deed, with your request.
After you apply, staff will review your request and send you a record number. Use this number to make your payment. Please allow 15 business days for staff to review your application.
Application Forms
View or Request Copies of Building Plans
If you need to view or obtain copies of building plans for a property, follow the steps below.
Step 1 - Submit a Public Records Request
Submit a Public Records Request online. Go to the NextRequest webpage and click "Make Request." Describe the building plans you want to view and select "Planning & Building" from the department list.
Stop! Please wait for staff to contact you before continuing to Step 2.
Step 2 - Staff Follow-Up
Wait for staff to contact you. If your building plans are available, staff will help you schedule a viewing appointment or request copies.
Forms Required for Copies
To receive copies, complete and sign the following forms:
The Planning & Building Department accepts subpoenas only for Planning and Building records and matters. You can submit a subpoena by mail or in person. Payments can be made by phone.
Payment Options
Pay in Person
Schedule an appointment here
Pay by Phone
Call 510-238-4774. We accept Visa & Mastercard. The maximum payment is $20,000 per permit.
Pay by Mail
Make your check payable to City of Oakland and mail it to:
City of Oakland - Planning & Building
Attention: Cashier Station
250 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, 2nd Floor
Oakland, CA 94612
Fees
- Depositions: $275
- Records $15
Include a check payable to City of Oakland when you serve the subpoena.
If you have questions, email PBDSubpoena@oaklandca.gov.
Request Re-Roofing and Insulation Certificates
Building contractors and property owners can apply for a certificate for re-roofing or insulation projects. These certificates are valid for 180 days after they are issued. After the work is complete, fill out and sign the certificate, then upload it to the ACCELA portal. The certificate is issued instantly after you upload the completed form. This confirms that your project meets safety and building code requirements
Find Permit Forms & Project Requirements
Use the links below to find Planning & Building forms or visit the Projects Directory to learn about permit requirements for common projects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I submit a Public Records Request?
Submit a Public Record Request online. Access NextRequest Webpage!
Q: How much does a Residential Building Records (3-R Report) cost?
The cost of a 3-R Report depends on when the property was built:
- 1/1/2015 to present - $2,119.30
- 1/1/1998 to 12/31/2014 - $2,876.19
- 12/31/1997 or earlier - $3,330.33
Processing can take up to two months.
Q: When can I schedule a plan viewing appointment?
Start by submitting a Public Record Request online. On the Next Request Website click, "Make Request." Describe the building plans you want to view and select "Planning & Building" from the department list. Staff will contact you after they locate the plans to help you schedule a viewing appointment.
Q: What records are available in the Online Permit Center?
You can view general Building, Code Enforcement & Planning records after 1987 by visiting our Online Permit Center (no login required).