Check the reviewed permit path.

San Diego

Plumbing/Gas permit or Simple No-Plan eligibility check for water heater replacement

City of San Diego DSD says a Plumbing/Gas Permit is required for alteration, addition, or replacement of a plumbing system or portion of a plumbing system, and its Simple Permit materials list water heater replacements except tankless types as a Simple No-Plan Plumbing/Gas item for eligible properties. Water heater projects should confirm the City of San Diego authority and whether the scope involves tankless equipment, gas, electrical, heat pump conversion, venting, relocation, structural work, historic review, or other plan-required conditions.