Over-the-Counter Residential MEP Permit Pilot Program

Step 1.Does my project qualify? 

Eligible projects include residential standalone electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits for equipment or systems associated with single-family structures and individual units within multi-family structures. Projects with multiple components are not standalone permits and therefore do not qualify. Sample projects and their submittal requirements checklists are linked below:

• Roof Mounted Photovoltaic (PV) System up to 38.4 kW Installation, Reinstallation, Repair, or Replacement(PDF, 269KB)
• Energy Storage Systems (ESS) up to 38.4 kWh Installation or Replacement(PDF, 273KB)
• Electrical Vehicle Charging System (EVCS) Installation or Replacement Up to 60-amp Breaker and 50-amp Charger(PDF, 265KB)
• Water Heater Replacements(PDF, 205KB)
• Mechanical System Installation or Replacements(PDF, 205KB)
• Electrical Service Replacements up to 225 Amps(PDF, 204KB)
• Temporary Electric Service(PDF, 172KB)
• Electrical System Alteration or Repair (No transformer upgrade or meter relocation)(PDF, 197KB)
• Gas System Alteration or Repair(PDF, 197KB)
• Sewer/Waste System Alteration or Repair(PDF, 197KB)
• Water System Alteration or Repair(PDF, 197KB)

Step 2.Register or Login to ACA

Register - Create an Account in our User Portal, Accela Citizen Access (ACA)

Accela Citizen Access Portal

Having issues creating an account? Follow this guide to register/create an account on the ACA Portal.

If you are having technical difficulties with your account, please email pdsdata@paloalto.gov. 

Step 3.Submit a Pre-Application

All required documents must be uploaded through the ACA Portal. Before a formal review, all applications are assessed for completeness and accuracy to ensure the project is ready for plan check. 

1. Click on the Pre-Applications tab
2. Click on the Create Pre-Application 
3. Fill out the information on the Pre-Application prompts
4. Submit and make note of your Pre-Application number (e.g., XXAPP-XXXXX)

Use this guide to for step-by-step instructions to upload your submittal documents: Uploading Your Submittal Documents

For additional guidance on the online permitting portal, review the ACA User Guide.

Step 4.Dedicated Staff Support

The assigned project coordinator will review the submittal for eligibility and completeness within 1 business day.

• If the project is eligible, the coordinator will inform the applicant if there are outstanding documents. Once the pre-application is deemed complete, the coordinator will reach out to schedule a virtual or in-person one-hour OTC pilot program appointment.
• If the project is not eligible or if the applicant chooses not to participate in the pilot program, they can opt for the standard permit review process

Step 5.What to Expect at the OTC Appointment

During the appointment, all relevant City staff will be available to review the project documents. If the documents are approved, the coordinator will issue the permit the same day. If it is not approved, the coordinator will provide written comments, outline the next steps for re-submittal, and schedule a follow up appointment.

To ensure a smooth review meeting, an applicant may include the project architect/engineer/designer and the contractor at the appointment.