It shall be unlawful for any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done within the city without a building permit being first obtained therefor from the City Clerk, after approval by the Chief Building Official or his or her duly authorized assistant. The application for such permit shall be made and the permit obtained before work is commenced upon any building or structure or the foundation thereof, or before the removal of any building begins.