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.
Ask questions, find the permits you'll need, and get started on your project today!
→ 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.
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 at our Major Development Projects main 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.
City of Oakland pursues innovative approach to consultant assistance, partnering with both a Community Consultant Team and Technical Consultant Team.
Check out the first video in a series of videos about the Plan, the process, and the progress
The CWS project, a proposed 170,765 square-foot state-of-the-art recycling facility on property located at 2308 Wake Avenue, was unanimously approved by the City Council on July 20, 2021.
In accordance with the revised Emergency Order No. 3 of the City of Oakland, Planning Commission 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 her for: Minutes for approval at the October 6, 2021 Planning Commission Meeting
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
