Your Commercial Projects & Permits

From single and multi-family residences to major development projects, we handle a variety of commercial project entitlements, Zoning approvals, and related Building Permits. Let us guide you through the permitting process for your next project.

Single Family Home

New homes require Design Review and Building Permits.

Housing Projects Eligible for Faster, Streamlined Review

Most housing projects are now eligible for faster, streamlined review, from single family homes to multifamily buildings, along with affordable or mixed-income housing projects.

New Duplex

New duplexes require Design Review and a Building Permit.

Legalize Your Unpermitted Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) or Junior ADU

Learn how to legalize your unpermitted Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU).

Multi-Unit Residence (3-4 Units)

Multi-unit residences of 3-4 units or more require Design Review and Building Permits.

Urban Agriculture and Community Gardens

Community gardens and urban agriculture is permitted in most zones to support local food production.

Letter of Determination (Project Zoning Conformity)

Developers or business owners may seek to determine if a project meets Zoning regulations.

Creek Protection Permits

Creek Protection Permits may be obtained through Zoning Review.

Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing (MEP) Permits

All mechanical, electrical & plumbing work requires permits.

Telecom Facilities and Satellite Dishes

Telecom facilities and Satellite Dishes require review by both the Planning and Building Bureaus.

Conditional Use Permit (CUP)

A CUP may be required for new activities, special project requirements, and some new facilities.

Commercial Tenant Improvements Permit

Building Permits are required for all interior improvements, and Design Review may be required.

Lead-Based Paint Permits

A permit is required for projects that disturb lead paint.

Electric Vehicle Service Equipment & Charging Stations

Electrical Permits and Building Bureau review are required.

Sign Permits

New Business signs require a Zoning Permit and existing signs may require a Design Review.

Major Multi-Family Residential, Mixed-Use & Commercial Projects

Major multi-family residential, mixed-use or large-scale commercial projects require Planning entitlements and Building Permits.

Outdoor Dining & Retail in Parking Lots & Private Spaces

Outdoor dining & retail may occur in parking lots and private areas with approved plans and permits.

Grading Permits

Grading Permits are required if a slope or elevation changes from grading.

Zoning Clearance Permit

A Zoning Clearance Permit is needed to approve any proposed business activity in Oakland.

Bollards on Private Property

Installation of bollards on private property requires Planning Approval.

Cannabis Permit

Cultivators, delivery-only dispensaries, distributors, testing laboratories, manufacturers and transporters may apply for cannabis permits.

Fence Permits

Fences in front yards require Zoning Review and may require Planning and Building Permits.

Gates

Gates require Planning approval and may require Planning and Building Permits.

Sidewalk Café Permit

Sidewalk cafés are temporary, open-air seating areas that help create vibrant streets. Establishment of a sidewalk café is subject to approval by the Department of Transportation (DOT), zoning review, and the issuance of all required building permits.