Kitchen layout redesign in Mountain View, CA

Common rearrangements

Swapping the range and sink walls, turning a U-shape into an L with an island, moving the refrigerator out of a corner, or adding a pantry wall where a breakfast table used to stand.

What the City wants to see

Mountain View's kitchen permit application asks for an 11-by-17-inch plan showing the existing and proposed kitchen, plus electrical load calculations. Exterior changes, such as a new window, go to the Planning Division before the building submittal.

Electrical layout rules

The City requires at least two 20-amp small-appliance circuits for countertop outlets, an outlet at each counter space 12 inches or wider, and no point along the counter wall more than 2 feet from an outlet. Disposals, microwaves and dishwashers each need a dedicated circuit.

Design vocabulary

Work triangle: the path between sink, range and refrigerator. Landing area: counter space beside an appliance. Clearance: open floor in front of cabinets or appliances. Zone: an area set up for one task, such as prep or cleanup. Rough-in: plumbing and wiring installed before the walls close.

Permits in Mountain View

Mountain View requires a building permit, issued before construction starts, for any kitchen remodel that replaces the cabinets. Replacing countertops or refacing the existing cabinets does not need one.
Depending on the scope, separate electrical or plumbing permits may apply, and replacing a range hood that vents outdoors needs a mechanical permit. The application includes an 11-by-17-inch plan of the existing and proposed kitchen and an electrical load calculation.
If the remodel changes the outside of the house, the Planning Division reviews it before the building submittal. The City lists about 5 business days to receive a permit for a like-for-like replacement and 2 to 3 months for a renovation that removes walls.

City of Mountain View Building Division · 500 Castro Street, (650) 903-6313

Common questions

Is it worth moving the sink?

It depends on how much the move improves daily use. Relocating the sink adds drain, vent and supply work plus a permit, so compare bids with and without it.

Do I need an architect for a new kitchen layout?

Not always. Mountain View accepts kitchen plans stamped by the designer, architect, contractor or homeowner who prepared them. Structural changes may also need an engineer.