The Building Division ensures new construction is built in a manner that satisfies the health and safety regulations set forth by the California Building Code and the El Cerrito Municipal Code.

The Building Division staff assists residents, business owners, residential contractors, and commercial developers with construction related issues through face to face meetings at the counter and field, Building Code interpretations, plan review, issuance of building permits upon approval of plans, inspection of construction, as well as code enforcement actions. In addition, the staff works with landlords and tenants to implement the Rental Inspection Program to ensure that the city's rental housing stock is safe and sanitary as defined in the El Cerrito Municipal Code.