The Planning & Building Department oversees regulations for the City's growth and development. By reviewing project plans, enforcing local ordinances, developing neighborhood plans, and responding to public concerns, we work to create a built environment that supports the health and welfare of all Oaklanders.
Learn about Oakland's new Housing Element — the City's blueprint to ensure housing for all by 2031! Hear views from local leaders and community members, and send us your feedback on the plan.
The City of Oakland welcomes you back to 250 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, our One-Stop Permit Center! We've combined the counter services of the Planning & Building Department, Oakland Fire Department, and Department of Transportation to provide for a "one-stop shop" experience. Most services are by-appointment-only. Please visit our Permit Center Reopening webpage for full details on hours of operation, scheduling your appointments, and services offered.
Ask questions, find the permits you'll need, and get started on your project today!
→ Learn more at our Planning & Building Permits main page.
Find property, building and permit records or schedule an appointment to view project plans for a property
Learn more about the City's General Plan and what zoning rules apply to your neighborhood or project.
→ Learn more at our Planning Code & Zoning main page.
Find out what requirements must be met to ensure your building is safe, habitable and accessible.
→ Learn more at our Building Codes main page.
Report a private property code violation and learn about Oakland's noise and blight ordinances.
→ Learn more at our Code Enforcement Services main page.
Learn about Oakland's major development projects, environmental review, and approval processes.
→ Learn more about other projects and development at our Major Development Projects page.
Attend a Planning Commission or related committee meeting and review upcoming agendas.
→ See our complete Planning Commission & Committee Meetings main page.
Review reports on progress toward making our built environment healthy and safe for all Oaklanders.
Recognition of Oakland’s pro-housing policies and practices will give the City an advantage in future state funding applications.
The City of Oakland has released the 2023-2031 Housing Element Public Hearing Draft. This revised draft of the Housing Element addresses community feedback received from June 2022 to mid-October 2022 and fulfills requirements for compliance with state law.
The City of Oakland has published preliminary draft proposals to implement several zoning reforms identified in the draft Housing Element's Housing Action Plan.
Director
Director Gilchrist has 35 years of experience as a planner and designer. He was director of place-based planning in New Orleans where he focused on the city's design and development strategy. He was previously a senior associate at AECOM in Atlanta and planning director in Birmingham, Alabama.
Main Offices & Permit Counters
Planning and Building Department Organizational Chart
