Davis Building Permits and Resale Inspection Guide for Sellers

Last updated November 13, 2026. Reviewed by the Cash Home Buyers CA team. Information comes from the City of Davis Building Division page; sources are listed at the end.

Davis has a Resale Program that requires residential properties to go through either a resale inspection or a self-certification before a sale, which is unusual among California cities. If you are selling a Davis house, this guide covers the program and how the city handles building permits.

Davis Building Division at a glance

What is the Davis Resale Program?

The city says the Resale Program exists to make sure residential units meet minimum building codes and health, fire and safety regulations. Properties with one, two or three units go through a resale inspection, and others can use self-certification.

Per the city, the owner or representative must submit a completed resale application and fees no later than fifteen working days before close of escrow, transfer of title or the end of any inspection period in the sale agreement. A written report is issued within five working days of the inspection.

Fees listed by the city are $516 for a single-family residence, $619 for a duplex, $723 for a triplex and $95 for self-certification. The Resale Report remains valid until it is validated or for 18 months from the inspection date.

If there is a sale in that window, either the seller completes the work and obtains the validated certificate, or the buyer agrees to complete the report and obtain it within 90 days of close of escrow.

Before close, the seller must give the buyer the report and the city’s brochure.

How does the Davis permit process work?

The Building Division reviews and issues all permit types, and any project can be submitted electronically. After you apply, staff contact you with timelines, extra documents and fees. Applications are reviewed in the order received. Inspections are scheduled by an automated phone line at 530-757-5658 before 3:30 p.m. the business day prior, by text message, or by email to cddweb@cityofdavis.org.

How permits and the Resale Report affect selling in Davis

The Resale Certificate is valid for 18 months from the last resale inspection or until the property is altered without a required permit, so unpermitted work can undo it. Items on the report either get completed by the seller or taken over by the buyer.

A cash buyer who agrees to take the property as it is can often handle that obligation, but confirm the specifics with the city and your escrow officer.

California Disclosure Rules Alongside the Davis Resale Process

Davis adds a city resale inspection step, but California’s statewide rules still apply. Under Civil Code 1102 and following, most sellers of one-to-four-unit homes must deliver a Transfer Disclosure Statement that asks about additions and alterations made without permits, known defects and agency notices. The city’s resale report does not replace that form, so a seller handles both.

Why Unpermitted Work Matters More in Davis

Because the Resale Certificate can be undone when a property is altered without a required permit, unpermitted work can create trouble twice: at the city’s resale inspection and again with a buyer’s inspector or lender. Keep plans, receipts and contractor names together, and start the resale application early so any items on the report have time to be addressed or negotiated.

A cash buyer can purchase as-is, which can simplify a sale when the report lists work you would rather not do before closing. If you are unsure which items you must complete and which can be handled by the buyer, a real estate attorney can advise.

How to sell a house in Davis with permit or resale issues

1. Start the resale application early. The city requires it at least fifteen working days before close.
2. Read the report. Note what must be done by the seller and what the buyer can take on.
3. Compare options. Complete the work, negotiate a credit, or sell as-is to a cash buyer.
4. Disclose honestly. A cash offer does not change what you must disclose.

We buy Davis houses as they are. Read how selling a house as-is in Davis works, or see our Davis cash-offer process.

Questions about the resale process? Call (424) 435-2326 or request a cash offer. There is no cost and no obligation.

Davis building permits and resale FAQ

Does Davis require an inspection before I sell?

Yes, for residential properties. The city’s Resale Program requires either a resale inspection (one to three units) or self-certification.

How much is the Davis resale inspection?

The city lists $516 for a single-family residence, $619 for a duplex, $723 for a triplex and $95 for self-certification.

How long is a Davis Resale Report valid?

Until validated, or 18 months from the inspection date.

How long does a Davis building permit take?

The city says typical processing runs 20 to 35 business days from submittal.

Do I still need a Transfer Disclosure Statement in Davis?

Yes. The city’s resale process does not replace California’s Transfer Disclosure Statement, which asks about unpermitted work, known defects and agency notices.

Can unpermitted work affect my Davis Resale Certificate?

It can. The certificate is valid until the property is altered without a required permit, so unpermitted work can undo it.

Sources

• City of Davis: Building Division

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees and rules change; confirm requirements with the City of Davis.