The Building Division performs field inspections in order to ensure that the work under an issued building permit is being done according to the approved plans. To schedule an inspection, please submit your request online, or call our automated line, 442-339-2725, before 2 p.m. You may also send an email to bldginspections@carlsbadca.gov. Please note that we are committed to providing timely inspection services, typically within a 48-hour window.  In most cases the inspection will be scheduled for the next business day.

Today's building inspection schedule.

Carlsbad residents with qualifying residential home improvement projects can now get the required city inspections done using video technology from a smart phone or tablet instead of a building inspector conducting the inspection in person. The goal is to increase the efficiency of the inspection process while protecting public health due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. The following types of projects qualify for this new program:

• Correction items approved by the Inspector
• Drywall
• Utility trenching for electrical, water, gas, or sewer
• Exterior gas pressure tests
• Insulation
• Patio covers
• Others deemed appropriate by the Inspector
• 100 or 200-amp electric panel upgrades*
• EV charging stations*
• Plumbing re-pipe*
• Remodel finals*
• Rooftop solar of 10kW or smaller*
• Wall heater*
• Water heater*
• Water softener*

*Required to be done by the contractor of record. Please see the Video Inspection Process for further details.

To schedule a video inspection, go to the city's website and make your request online. Make sure to type in "video inspection request" for the "Type of Inspection" requested.

You can also email requests to bldginspections@carlsbadca.gov. Type in “video inspection request” in the subject line. In the body of your email, please include the following: permit number, project address, type of inspection, list which platform (i.e., FaceTime) , special notes/comments/questions.

Your inspector will contact you in the morning, between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., on the day of your inspection to arrange the details. This service is available Monday through Thursday. There is no additional fee for the video inspection. Data rates may apply.

Please call 442-339-2700 with questions. Video inspection requests will not be taken over the phone.

Engineering / Storm Water Compliance

The Construction Management & Inspection Department performs field inspection of all engineering permits, including grading, improvements, haul routes, traffic control, and any work in the city right-of-way. To schedule an inspection, please submit your request online (or call our automated line at 760-438-3891) prior to 2 p.m. the working day prior to your requested date. You may also send us an email to CMI@carlsbadca.gov. Inspections will be scheduled for the next business day unless otherwise stated.

*Please note that inspection requests for an Annual Permit must be submitted using the online form.

The City maintains an inventory of all privately owned treatment control best management practices (TCBMPs) and conducts stormwater compliance inspections of these structures on an annual basis. These compliance inspections include visual observation of the structure(s), evaluation of their functionality, and recommendations for corrective actions. For more information about this inspection, please visit the TCBMP Program page or email tcbmp@carlsbadca.gov.