San Mateo County’s AC Installation Permit Nightmare: New 2025 Requirements Adding Months to Projects

If you’re planning an air conditioning installation in San Mateo County, brace yourself for what many contractors are calling a “permit nightmare.” On November 19, 2024, the County of San Mateo adopted local amendments to the California Energy Code, with the new reach code effective August 29, 2025, creating unprecedented challenges for HVAC installations that are leaving homeowners waiting months longer than expected for their cooling systems.

The New Energy Performance Reach Code Changes Everything

This latest version focuses specifically on enhancing energy performance as compared to the 2022 Energy Code. The reach code aims to strengthen local building energy standards to reduce energy use and carbon emissions in new buildings. These stricter requirements mean that the reach code sets a stricter requirement for energy use and emissions in new buildings, including the “EDR1” metric for single-family homes and “Source Energy” for all other building types.

For homeowners, this translates to significantly more complex permit applications, additional documentation requirements, and extended review periods that can add 2-4 months to AC installation projects.

Understanding San Mateo County’s Permit Process

HVAC permits are accepted online for residential applications, covering furnace, AC, heat pumps, boilers, factory built fireplaces, and decorative gas appliances. However, some permits may require additional review by the Planning Department prior to issuance, which is where many projects encounter delays.

The length of time it takes to process a permit depends on the type of permit you are applying for and your property’s location. If your property is within an area that is subject to certain discretionary planning permits, such as Design Review, Coastal Development, or similar planning permits, your processing time will increase. The volume of permits in process and the complexity of your project can also affect processing time.

Multiple Permits May Be Required

The complexity increases when multiple permits are needed. If you need both permits, you must get the planning permit before applying for the building permit. If a planning permit is required, it must be processed before applying for a building permit. For projects requiring multiple permits (e.g., Design Review Permit and Coastal Development Permit), use the highest of the estimated times for each required permit.

The permit review process involves multiple departments. Staff refers the complete application to other reviewers, which may include Planning, Public Works, Fire, Civil/Drainage, and Geotechnical to ensure the project complies with their requirements. The plan check agencies generally must complete their reviews within 30 days of receiving the permit application.

How Eco Air Cooling and Heating Navigates These Challenges

Recognizing these permit challenges, Eco Air Cooling and Heating LLC is your local HVAC company, offering honest, straightforward solutions to keep your home comfortable. We’re known for prompt service and lasting results. The company has adapted its approach to help San Mateo County residents navigate the increasingly complex permit landscape.

ECO AIR COOLING-HEATING & DUCT is the leading provider of high-quality HVAC services in San Mateo County, CA. Our dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction has made us the go-to choice for residents seeking reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly heating, cooling, and duct services.

When you need professional AC Installation San Mateo County CA, Eco Air Cooling and Heating understands the permit requirements and works proactively to minimize delays. The company prides itself on delivering superior HVAC services with a strong focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. Their mission is to provide tailored HVAC solutions that not only meet but exceed expectations, leveraging the latest technology and adhering to industry best practices.

What Homeowners Can Expect

Review times can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of your project. Permit approvals can take time, especially for larger projects. Begin the application process as early as possible to avoid delays.

The company’s commitment to transparency is evident in their approach: Know your total cost before we start—no hidden charges or surprise fees. We arrive within your appointment window and alert you of any delays.

Planning Ahead is Critical

With the new 2025 requirements, planning ahead has become more crucial than ever. Working with a licensed contractor familiar with San Mateo County’s permitting requirements can streamline the process and help ensure compliance. Typically, the contractor you hire for your HVAC project pulls the permit. It’s best to have the contractor pull the permit because they are familiar with the process and city inspections.

The consequences of not obtaining proper permits can be severe. Undertaking renovations without the necessary permits can lead to significant consequences, including fines, project delays, or difficulties when selling your home. Unpermitted work may need to be demolished or brought up to code at your expense.

Moving Forward

While San Mateo County’s new energy performance requirements are creating longer timelines for AC installations, they’re also driving the adoption of more efficient, environmentally friendly cooling systems. Homeowners who work with experienced contractors like Eco Air Cooling and Heating can navigate these challenges while ensuring their installations meet all current and future requirements.

The key to success in this new regulatory environment is early planning, choosing the right contractor, and understanding that while the process may take longer, the result will be a more efficient, compliant cooling system that meets San Mateo County’s progressive energy standards.