Forgot to mention that this was an add on to my existing furnace and central heat.

San Diego is a stickler for permits, but not sure about adding on to existing AC units.

We remodeled a home there a couple years ago, and many permits were pulled by our contractors. We didn't do one thing to the AC units.

San Diego is a stickler for permits, but not sure about adding on to existing AC units.

We remodeled a home there a couple years ago, and many permits were pulled by our contractors. We didn't do one thing to the AC units.

Thanks for the input desertdance.

If it's required by law and licensed contractors don't pull the proper permits, do they jeopardize their license?

The fact that 4 of the 5 contractors i received bids from were willing to do the job without permits makes me believe it's optional?

"If it's required by law and licensed contractors don't pull the proper permits, do they jeopardize their license?"

Unlikely. But you may be jeopardizing your insurance coverage!