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.
Find permits and fees needed for your project, get your plans approved, or research property records.
→ Submit your project plans* to permitinfo@oaklandca.gov or, if over 20MB, via our Digital Inbox
* READ: Electronic Submission Guidelines and Digital Inbox Instruction Guide
* NOTE: Your application is "submitted" ONLY after materials are received AND all fees have been paid.
→ Learn more at our Planning & Building Permits main page.
→ Learn more at our Planning Code & Zoning main page.
Find out what code requirements must be met to ensure your building is safe and habitable.
→ 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 more at our Major Development Projects main page.
→ See our complete Planning Commission & Committee Meetings main page.
On December 15, 2020, Oakland City Council voted to adopt legislation requiring all newly-constructed buildings to be all-electric, except for attached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
The City of Oakland’s Planning & Building Department launched a new application called, Oakland Building Inspection Request, making it easier for customers to schedule building inspections.
The City is waiving fees and streamlined the permitting process for use of sidewalk space and parking areas for businesses to expand while complying with revised Alameda County shelter-in-place order
In accordance with the revised Emergency Order No. 3 of the City of Oakland, Design Review Committee meetings will be held on a virtual platform.
In accordance with the revised Emergency Order No. 3 of the City of Oakland, Planning Commission meetings will be held on a virtual platform. Click Here to View: Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Pending Approval on February 3, 2021
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
