The California Architect and Engineer Practice Act stipulates that you must hire an engineer or architect for the planning and design of certain construction projects. However, if your plans do not call for any special structural components, you, a contractor or a designer may draft and submit plans to the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI).You are permitted to take this route for the remodeling or new construction of a single-family wooden structure that does not exceed two stories in height and spans no more than 25 feet between weight-bearing walls.

Though you are under no legal obligation to do so, if you are undertaking a unique renovation or a complex project, you might still want to hire an architect or an engineer. In fact, employing a licensed professional could actually save you money long-term. And, of course, in San Francisco, seismic safety should always be of paramount concern.

• For more details on what you may or may not do according to the California Architect and Engineer Practice Act, visit the Information Counter of the DBI, 1660 Mission Street, First Floor, San Francisco. You can also consult the DBI Web site directly or call (415) 558-6088.
  
  
• In addition, it's advisable to take a look at the Guide for Consumers... What You Should Know Before You Hire a Professional Engineer or Land Surveyor, produced by the California Board of Registration, Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. To obtain a free copy by mail, call (916) 263-2222.
  
  
• The California Board of Architectural Examiners also offers an online version of the Consumer's Guide to Hiring an Architect. To get a free copy by mail, call (916) 445-3394.
  
  
• Finally, for history about some of San Francisco's most famous architects, visit San Francisco Architectural Heritage online.