The permit applicant is responsible for ensuring all work is complete and ready for inspection. Reinspections will only be conducted after corrections have been made. Inspectors may adjust the sequence below if site conditions allow without affecting safety or design standards.

Foundation Inspection
After footing excavations are complete, with forms and reinforcing steel in place. Underground plumbing must pass a 10-foot water test, anchors must be set, and grounding electrodes (UFER) installed.

Concrete Slab Inspection
Once grading, vapor barrier, sand, and reinforcement are in place. All piping and conduit must be protected before concrete is poured.

Roof Sheathing Inspection
After roof sheathing is nailed per approved plans, and before roofing materials are applied or loaded. Contractor must provide safe ladder access.

Wall Sheathing Inspection
Exterior shear panels must be nailed and hardware (bolting, strapping, shear transfer) installed before exterior finishes are applied.

Framing Inspection
After framing is complete and roofing materials are loaded. Rough plumbing, sprinklers, mechanical, and electrical must be installed and tested. Windows and exterior doors must be flashed. Lath nailing may be inspected during or after.

Insulation Inspection
After insulation, caulking, and sealing are complete, and windows are installed and labeled.

Drywall Nailing Inspection
After drywall or interior lath is fastened, but before finishing. Exterior lath nailing must be approved.

Sewer and Water Service Connection
After piping is installed and tested, but before it is covered.

Gas Piping Test
After gas piping is installed but before fixtures or appliances are connected. Requires an air/CO₂ pressure test (10 psi for 15 minutes with no drop; welded piping or high-pressure lines: 60 psi for 30 minutes with no drop).

Final Inspection
When the structure is ready for occupancy. Must include: drainage complete, address posted, plumbing/electrical fixtures installed and operable, insulation certificate posted, debris removed, and finishes complete. A subcontractor list must also be submitted, with all subcontractors holding a valid City business license.

• Apply for a business license here

The City of Palm Desert has implemented a Virtual Inspection Program to provide more options of service to the public for only eligible Residential and Commercial permits. The Virtual Inspections will require photographs in lieu of in-person inspections and may require a video inspection, (only if the inspector deems necessary). These handouts provide the requirements for inspection photos.

The information provided on this page is only a guide. Projects may need a more detailed in-person or virtual inspection than what is listed. If you have questions concerning specific methods of construction, products, or inspections, please consult with your Inspector of Record, or the Division of Building and Safety at (760) 776-6420. A phone call could help you avoid the possibility of costly replacement of either defective or unapproved materials.

Virtual Inspection Requirements

• A valid permit for the proposed work
• The following relevant checklists should be completed:
  • Residential HVAC Replacement Checklist
  • Water Heater Replacement Checklist
  • Residential Window and Door Replacement Checklist
  • Residential Sewer Connection Checklist
  • Residential Re-roof Checklist
  • Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Form

Photograph Requirements

• All photos taken shall be clear and they shall have sufficient brightness to see the items to be inspected.
• All photos shall be a minimum of 4 megapixels in size or larger and the photos shall be attached and/or uploaded at full sized All photographs are date and time stamped

Virtual Inspection Scheduling

• Documents and photographs shall be submitted through your Clariti account
• Once a virtual inspection is submitted, the application and photos will be reviewed within 5-7 business days. The inspector will update your Clariti account with any follow up questions, corrections, or an approval
• The permit approval in your Clariti account will serve as your record of final inspection
• A standard job card will not be issued

If a Video Inspection is Required

• An Inspector will contact you for a video only if it is needed.

Fire Marshal Services help protect life, property, and the community by reducing fire risks and ensuring compliance with fire and life safety regulations. In Palm Desert, the Fire Marshal works in coordination with the Riverside County Fire Department to promote fire prevention through inspections, plan reviews, investigations, and public education.

These services play a critical role in supporting safe development, business operations, and special events throughout the city.

What the Fire Marshal Does

• Conducts fire and life safety inspections of commercial and multi-family properties
• Reviews building and construction plans for fire code compliance
• Issues permits related to fire safety and hazardous materials
• Investigates fire incidents when necessary
• Supports community education and fire prevention efforts
• Reviews and approves special events for fire and life safety requirements

How to Contact Fire Marshal Services

Palm Desert City Hall
73510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260

Office: 760-776-6388
Email: crodriguez@palmdesert.gov

For additional information about Fire Marshal Services and related programs, visit the Riverside County Fire Department Fire Marshal webpage.