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.
The City has extended the comment period on the Draft Enviro Impact Report for the Waterfront Ballpark District Project through April 27, 2021 at 4 p.m.
Public review and comment period open through April 12
The Planning & Building Department launched an enhanced online permit portal offering users more choices among application types and services. These updates help to create a more comprehensive way for the community to submit applications for services 24/7, at the applicant’s convenience.
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 her for: Planning Commission Minutes Pending Approval at April 21, 2021
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.
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
