What does “Withdrawn” mean on a building permit?

The applicant withdrew the permit application. On Accela portals (San Diego, San Bernardino), 'Withdrawn' specifically means the applicant chose to pull the application — as opposed to the city denying or cancelling it. It is a terminal, closed status driven by the applicant's own decision.

What should you do when a permit shows “Withdrawn”?

No action is needed unless you want to pursue the project again, in which case you would file a new application. If your permit shows 'Withdrawn' and you did not intend to withdraw it, contact the building department immediately to investigate.