SPDR Permit Application: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Determine Applicable Standards & Guidelines

Use the Land Use Information Look Up App to determine:

• Applicable zoning standards (e.g., zoning district, overlay zone, etc.) 
• If a Design Review District applies
• If a Planned Unit Development applies

Based on your project type, determine which design guidelines apply:

• Single-unit Dwelling & Duplex 
• Multi-Unit Dwelling 
• Infill Housing Standards (Two or More Units) 
• Commercial 
• Industrial

For historic districts and landmarks, visit Historic Preservation for additional requirements.

Step 2: Prepare Project Plans

Design your project in a manner that conforms to applicable standards and guidelines.

Step 3: Submit Application

All applications are submitted online via the Public Permit Portal.

Visit Planning Permit Submittal Service webpage for instructions.

Step 4: Application Review

Submitted applications are first assigned to a city planner and reviewed as follows:

• Completeness – Do the plans provide information for all applicable standards? 
• Compliance – Do the plans comply with applicable standards? 
• CEQA – Is the project exempt or subject to comprehensive review?
• Staff Recommendation – To review authority who makes the decision.

Keep your application on track by:

• Identifying all standards applicable to your project 
• Submitting all required information 
• Retain qualified professionals to prepare your documents (e.g., plans, study)

Step 5: Decision

Applications are decided as follows:

• Staff-level SPDR approved without public notice or hearing 
• Director- and Commission-level SPDR approved at public notice and hearing

All SPDR applications are subject to a 10-day reconsideration or appeal period.

Step 6: Building Permit

After the 10-day reconsideration or appeal period lapses, submit a building permit application to the Building Division.

Visit the Electronic Plan Check webpage for instructions.