Requesting a Refund of Development Fees

Building & Safety Permit Fee Refunds 
For Building, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Plan Check fees 

 
Building and Safety Division 

If you have overpaid a fee, paid for the wrong permit, or your project has been canceled, you may be eligible for a refund per Santa Monica Municipal Code (SMMC) § 8.08.080(e). 

Refund Eligibility & Requirements 
To ensure your request is reviewed quickly, please verify the following criteria before submitting your application: 

• One-Year Deadline: All applications for a refund must be made in writing within one year of the fee payment. Requests submitted after one year will be denied per SMMC § 8.08.080(e). 

• Authorization: The Division authorizes refunds for fees that were erroneously paid or collected, or when paid for services not provided. 

• Partial Services: If work has already begun, the refund amount is determined based on the proportion of the service not yet performed. 

Because refund requests require a formal audit of City records and financial accounts, we ask that you please follow the submission steps below. Providing a complete and correctly formatted application package is the best way to ensure your request is reviewed quickly. 

Submission Requirements 

To move your request into the review phase, please ensure your submittal includes the following: 

1. Direct Proof of Payment (PDF Only): Please attach a PDF copy of your City receipt, canceled check, or bank/CC statement. We are unable to verify the transaction without this document. 

2. Accurate Record Number: Please use the Permit/Record Number (e.g., 26BLD-xxxx) found on the first line of your City invoice or receipt. 

3. Digital PDF Format: To ensure legibility and help us audit your file quickly, please complete the fillable PDF form and submit it electronically. 

How to Submit 

1. Prepare the Application 

• Download: Request for Refund of Development Fees. 

• Fill and Sign: Please complete the form digitally. Digital signatures are accepted and preferred. 

2. Format the Proof of Payment 

• Please attach your receipt or statement as a PDF. 

• Privacy Note: You may redact sensitive account information, provided your Name, the Date, and the Amount remain visible for our team to verify. 

3. Name the File and Email 

• File Name: Please rename your file to: Permit Number (Project Address). 

• Example: 26BLD-xxxx (123 Ocean).pdf 

• Email Subject: Permit Number - Refund Request 

• Example: 26BLD-xxxx REFUND REQUEST 

• Send to:  311@santamonica.gov. Attention Alicia

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