Kitchen addition in Morgan Hill, CA

Bump-out or addition

A bump-out adds a few feet along one wall, often enough for a longer counter, a breakfast nook or a pantry. A full addition can move the kitchen to a new space entirely. Both need a foundation and a roof tied into the house.

Zoning and plan review

Adding floor area is checked against the zoning code: setbacks from property lines, lot coverage and height. It goes through plan review with structural drawings, which takes longer than a remodel inside the existing walls. Ask the permit office which review applies before design is final.

Inside the new space

The new walls need insulation that meets California's energy code, and plumbing, gas and electrical extended from the house. The kitchen design and the addition are best planned together.

Permits in Morgan Hill

The City lists residential kitchen and bathroom remodels under its Simple Plan Check, which means the plans need Building Division review only, not a separate planning approval.
The City requires a permit for any alteration or repair of an existing building, so moving plumbing, adding circuits, changing a gas line or opening a wall all go through the Building Division.
If you are unsure whether your scope needs a permit, the Building Division answers that question directly.

City of Morgan Hill Building Division · 17575 Peak Ave, (408) 778-6480

Common questions

Is a bump-out cheaper than a full addition?

Usually, because it is smaller, but it still needs a foundation, framing and roofing. Compare written bids for both options.

Does a kitchen addition need a permit?

Yes. Adding floor area needs a building permit with plan review and a zoning check.