California's Title 24 building code is among the strictest in the nation. The good news: most cosmetic and minor repair work — painting, flooring under 750 sq ft, replacing fixtures — does not require a permit. The bad news: anything structural, electrical above 100 amps, or plumbing past the fixture stop typically does.
Los Angeles County and San Francisco have the most aggressive enforcement. Unpermitted work discovered during a sale can tank your closing or trigger retroactive fees of $1,500+.
When you book through HandyMandyMan, your contractor will tell you upfront whether your job needs a permit and can pull it on your behalf in most CA cities.
Pro tip: always ask for the permit number before final payment is released from escrow. It protects your resale value.