You should contact the Planning Department when you want to find out what improvements or land use can occur on a particular property. Zoning regulates setbacks, height or construction requirements as well as the type of business.
What is the zoning of my property?
You can obtain zoning information in this website on the Land Use Map (PDF), if you know the street address or cross streets. Additionally, you can contact the Planning Department at (619) 336-4310.
What can I build on my property?
Please contact the Planning Department to obtain the zoning of your property. The Land Use Code will determine what may be built in each zone.
I want to build a room addition. What are my setbacks?
You must know the zoning designation of your property in order to determine the setback information. You can obtain zoning information on the Land Use Map (PDF), in this website if you know the street address or cross streets. Zoning information is also available by contacting the Planning Department at (619) 336-4310. If you know your zoning designation you can view the setbacks online using the Land Use Code.
Do I need a permit to build a wall or fence? What is the height limit for a fence or wall?
The Planning Department reviews all plans for walls and fences. Building permits are required for any fence or wall that are taller than 72 inches (six feet). Building permit applications are available through the Building Department. The maximum height permitted for a residential fence or wall is generally 6 feet; however, this depends on the location of the wall on the property. Please contact the Planning Department at (619) 336-4310 or check Land Use Code to obtain specific information on block walls and fences.
Can I have a business in my home?
In certain circumstances a home occupation may be approved. Please contact the Planning Department at (619) 336-4310 to determine requirements and to apply for a Home Occupation Permit. You may obtain additional information from Land Use Code Section 18.12.090.
Can I build a granny flat/second unit on my residential lot?
Second units or granny flats, otherwise known as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU), are generally allowed in most single-family residential zones within the City. A discussion with Planning Department counter staff can verify your property’s zoning and potential for an ADU.
What is a Variance?
A variance is an authorization issued for a particular parcel by the Planning Commission to allow a property owner to deviate from development standards (e.g. parking, setbacks) set forth in the zoning regulations. In order to be approved, the variance request must meet several State-mandated findings.
If a discretionary approval, such as a Conditional Use Permit, Tentative Subdivision Map is needed, how long is the process?
Each process is different, but may take from 2 or 3 months or even up to year or more. Please contact the Planning Department for additional information. The discretionary application packet can be found here (PDF).
What is the parking requirement for my business?
The parking requirements differ depending on the type of the use. Specific parking requirements are available in Land Use Code.
Where can I find the Assessors Parcel Number (APN) for my property?
If you know the property's address you can either call the Planning Department at (619) 336-4310 or the San Diego County Assessors Office.
Where can I find fee information for permits or services?
Information on fees collected for a building permit can be determined at the Building counter or call (619) 336-4210.
How do I determine where my property lines are?
A licensed surveyor completing a survey of your property can determine the location of your property lines. The City has plans that show your lot dimensions; however, you cannot determine the exact location of your lot lines without a survey of the property. The City does not recommend any specific surveyor or survey company.
Where can I get a copy of "as-built" plans of my building or property?
You may contact the Building Division at (619) 336-4210 to find out if we have a set of plans.
Do I need a sign permit for all signs?
Yes. Some sign permits can be issued over the counter by the Planning Department. All others require a building permit from the Building Department. Over the counter permits available at the Planning Department include:
Painted Wall Sign Permits,
Sign Reface Permits, and
Banner Permits
Do I need a permit to reface my sign?
Yes. Planning Department approval is required and can be obtained over the counter.
I would like to obtain a temporary banner permit for my business. What is the process?
You will need to fill out a temporary banner permit application and submit the application with the filing fee of to the Planning Division at (619) 336-4310.
