What is Planning?
The Planning Division is responsible for articulating and implementing the
community's vision of the City's natural and built environment as outlined in
the General Plan and the various specific plans.
Planners review entitlement (Variance, Site Plan Permit, etc.) submittals and
ensure that proposals meet City codes. Planners also review administrative
permits for signs and landscaping. Planners are also responsible for
processing environmental documents, ensuring the compatibility of proposed
projects with existing development, promoting historic preservation, preparing long range policy documents and
updating the City's General Plan and Zoning Ordinance.
To find out more information about the Planning profession,
visit the American Planning Association
website.
When do I need to contact the Planning Division?
As a homeowner, you should contact the Planning or Building Division if
you intend to add a room, or build a wall, shed, pool, patio cover or similar
improvement. There may be setback, height or construction requirements that will
affect your proposed design. Furthermore, most projects require a building
permit. It is helpful to contact the City before finalizing any improvement
plans, to identify any specific requirements, processes or fees. Many homeowner
improvements can be reviewed and approved at the public counter of the Community
Development Department.
As a business owner, if you are looking to relocate your business within
the City, or if you are establishing a new business in the community, contact
Planning and Building to determine if the use is permitted and if the site or
structure is adequate for your business in accordance with City regulations and
the Uniform Building Code. It is wise to contact the City before you buy or
lease a property/building, to identify any specific requirements, processes or
fees. Older buildings may need to be improved and brought up to current codes
and regulations. Depending upon the use, site conditions, and proposed site or
structural enhancements, an administrative or discretionary review may be
required.
As a developer, if you are looking to build a new structure or provide a
major renovation to an existing site or structure, contact the Planning Division
early in your design process to: a) ensure the site is appropriate for the
proposed use; b) identify design/development standards; and c) determine the
appropriate application process.
When are we open?
The Community Development Department is staffed from 7:30 AM to
5:30 PM Monday to Thursday and 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM alternating Fridays.
Click here for a Map
NOTE! As of 7/1/2006 counters will be closed from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM
Click here for more information about days and hours of operation.
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Telephone:
949-361-6184
FAX:
949-366-4750
Postal and street address: 910
Calle Negocio, Ste. 100, San Clemente, CA 92673