If a planning or zoning permit is required, it must be processed before applying for a building or construction permit. The Planning Section of the Planning and Building Department processes these permits.

Most planning and zoning permits require notification to surrounding owners or residents and often a public hearing before the county Zoning Hearing Officer, Planning Commission, or Board of Supervisors. In reviewing and processing your permit application, the assigned planner will generally complete the following steps:

  1. Initial Application Review - The planner reviews your project to determine whether your application is complete. During this stage, the planner discusses your project with a development review committee of senior staff members. The County generally has 30 days after receiving your application to notify you if you must provide any additional materials or information before your application can be processed.

  2. Preliminary Research - The planner determines whether your project conforms with the County's General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and other regulations and identifies what issues, if any, must be resolved before the application can proceed to a decision.

  3. Referral to Other Agencies - The planner lets other agencies and applicable homeowners associations or community groups know about your project and solicits their comments and recommendations regarding compliance with their requirements.

  4. Field Inspection - The planner verifies conditions on your project site, observes the surrounding land uses, and evaluates the potential impacts of your project.

  5. Environmental Review - This review ensures that your project complies with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act and evaluates its potential impact on the environment.

  6. Preparation of a Staff Report - The report informs Department management, the Zoning Hearing Officer or Planning Commission, the applicant, and others of the staff's findings, recommendations, and conditions of approval.

  7. Public Notification - State and local ordinances require that we notify surrounding owners or residents and the general public of most proposed projects and any required hearings.

  8. Public Hearing - If required, a public hearing allows the public to provide information, comments and suggestions on your project before the County makes a decision. Once a decision is made, usually at the conclusion of the public hearing, you and the public can appeal most planning and zoning permit decisions to a higher authority within a specified period. Staff or Zoning Hearing Officer decisions generally can be appealed to the Planning Commission. Planning Commission decisions, except those concerning a request for a Home Improvement Exception or a variance, can be appealed to the County Board of Supervisors.

What if I Can’t Find the Information Online?
Please feel free to contact our Planning information counter at (650) 363-1825, and we can assist you in getting the information you need.

Can I Schedule an Appointment with a Planner?
Planners are available for in-person and online appointments.