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The Planning & Building Department oversees the regulations for the City's growth and development. Through 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.
Planning & Building's Response to Shelter in Place OrderNOTICE: In accordance with the Alameda County Health Officer's April 29, 2020 shelter in place order, the Planning & Building Department permit counters remain closed, though residential and commercial construction, inspections and code enforcement services have resumed consistent with the county order.
California's Building Standards Code has changed. Changes to the codes affect all new building permit applications submitted on or after January 1st, 2020. Read our summaries online to be sure you are up to speed on the latest code updates!
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.
Planning and Building Department Organizational Chart
