DBI Boiler Permit to Operate (large water heaters and boilers): San Francisco restaurant guide
SF Department of Building Inspection — Plumbing Inspection Division
What it is
An annual DBI Permit to Operate for boilers or tankless water heaters over 200,000 BTU, or storage water heaters over 120 gallons (single or combined); backflow certification is required first when the boiler has an assembly.
When a restaurant needs it
Installing or replacing a boiler or large water heater above the thresholds (common for full-service kitchens with high hot-water demand).
How to apply
A C-4 boiler contractor applies online for immediate approval, or submit the Permit to Operate Boiler application to DBI Plumbing Inspection (49 South Van Ness, Suite 400).
Documents you’ll need
- Permit to Operate Boiler application
- Boiler/water heater specs (BTU, gallons)
- Backflow prevention assembly certification
Good to know
The installation itself is on the plumbing/mechanical permit; the PTO is the separate operating permit. Questions: 628-652-3400.
Official source
DBI — apply for a boiler Permit to Operate
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.