Multi-Unit Residence (3-4 Units)

Regular Design Review (DR) is required for the construction of three or more new primary dwelling units, other than an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), or projects seeking ministerial by-right approvals under Objective Design Standards (ODS). In addition to other possible required approvals, the project must obtain Design Review approval from the Bureau of Planning prior to submitting for Building Permits. Building Permits and permits for all related Mechanical, Electrical or Plumbing (MEP) work within the building must be obtained before any construction work begins.

Please note that separate permits will also be required from the Oakland Department of Transportation, Oakland Fire Department, and Oakland Public Works depending on the scope of the project.

1. Contractors who are licensed by the State of California with a classification appropriate for the work that will be performed and have a current Business Tax Certificate.
2. Owners of a building or their legal representative.

The following 1 to 4 family housing and mixed-use projects are now eligible for faster "Ministerial" Design Review using Objective Design Standards!

• Single-Family Homes, Duplexes, Triplexes, and Fourplexes
• Townhomes and other 1-4 unit housing projects
• Additions or conversions to an existing building that alter the exterior building envelope to create new dwelling units. If a project creates additional units that are entirely within an existing building, the project will go through Small Project Design Review instead (see Planning Code Section 17.136.030).

Additional Requirements: All applications for Design Review involving the creation of one or more new dwelling units with a project area footprint slope that exceeds 20% shall use an architect licensed by the State of California. In addition, for Ministerial Design Review projects of 1-4 units, you are not required to give notice of intention to apply for Ministerial Design Review to nearby properties.

IMPORTANT NOTE: To be eligible for faster Ministerial Design Review, your project must NOT require a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), variance, Planned Unit Development (PUD), or Development Agreement. Otherwise, your project must go through Regular (Discretionary) Design Review. In addition, your project must not fall into one of the project categories listed in 17.136.038.A.5 that are not eligible for Ministerial Design Review.

For details, see the Applicability section in the 1 to 4 Family or Mixed-Use Project Objective Design Standards Guide and Checklist(PDF, 2MB). For guidance on applying for your project, see below.