Permit Information

If you do not find what you need or need more information, please contact the Planning Division at (510) 494-4455 or choose from other permit types by visiting the City's Permits webpage.

How to Apply for a Planning Permit

Step 1: Identify which application(s) you need to submit.

If you need help determining the correct application type, please refer to the informational handouts below, call the Zoning Information Line at (510) 494-4455, or send an email. 

Step 2: Complete the Universal Planning Application.

The Universal Planning Application is required for all submittals. All applicants must complete the fillable pages of the application (pages 1-6).

Step 3: Assemble required submittal items.

The Universal Planning Application details the submittal requirements for all Planning application types and provides links to the required submittal items. Find your application type on page 7 to identify the materials needed, including any supplemental checklists or stand-alone applications. You can find corresponding submittal requirement descriptions and links on pages 8-12. You must certify that the application is complete on any supplemental checklist or stand-alone application that you submit.

Step 4: Submit application and deposit to the City.

Applications must be submitted electronically using the City's Citizen Access portal. Instructions on how to submit can be found on the City’s Online Permits webpage. Once you submit, staff will follow up with instructions for the payment of deposits and fees. Required deposit amounts can be found on page 2 of the Universal Planning Application.

Concurrent Review

Some projects are permitted to submit for concurrent review for both a planning permit (Ministerial Design Review) and building permit. Common projects that qualify for concurrent review include new accessory dwelling units, single-story additions to single-family homes (regardless of size), industrial/commercial tenant improvements, and industrial/commercial site improvements. To find out if your specific project is eligible for concurrent review, contact Planning by email or by calling 510-494-4455.

To submit a concurrent review application, you must submit the following:

• Completed Universal Planning Application with all required Planning submittal items for “Ministerial Design Review” (reference Universal Application, page 7)
• Completed Building Permit Application with all required submittal items for a building permit
• Request for Concurrent Processing

Informational Worksheets (Coming Soon!)

Please contact the Zoning Information Line at (510) 494-4455 or by email with any questions about a specific permit type.

Useful Links

The links below are found within the electronic copy of the Universal Planning Application and are repeated here for your convenience. Please refer to the Application to determine whether a certain document is a submittal requirement for your application type.