Considering an addition to your home? Wondering if you need a Planning Permit for a new building on your property? Have a quick question about your planning permit application?
Our Planning Customer Service Team consists of rotating Planning Division staff. We can help!
Option 1: Get free informational services
Are you in the beginning stages of your project? Do you have a quick or general question? Get help from us at no cost.
Walk-in Service
You can get help right away at our public service counter during business hours – no appointment needed. Walk-in service is on a first-come, first-serve basis. It’s important to note that you need to submit your Planning Permit Application in person. You can do this during walk-in service.
Phone Service
We also provide general information over the phone. When you call during regular business hours, your call is assigned to the team member on duty. The Team Member will return your call within 24 to 48 hours.
Call Us at: 415-473-6269. Dial 711 for CA Relay.
Visit Us at:
Community Development Agency
Planning Division
3501 Civic Center Drive, Suite 308
San Rafael, CA 94903
Hours
Monday to Thursday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
If you are not able to contact the Planning Division by phone or in person due to a disability, you may request an accommodation by calling 415-473-4381 (Voice), Dial 711 for CA Relay, or by emailing the Disability Access program. Copies of documents are available in alternative formats upon request.
Option 2: Request paid informational services
Do you have lots of questions that need a deeper dive with our team? We provide additional services for your needs that go beyond a walk-in session. Here are the different services and when you might want to use one.
To request a fee-based service like a Planning Consultation, you'll need to submit a Planning Information Request Form.
| Service Type | Cost | Service Provided |
|---|---|---|
| Planning Information Packet | $326 |
Use this service to get a summary of a property's permit history and copies of final Planning Permit decisions. Anyone can apply. |
| Planning Consultation | $383 |
This service pays for:
Use this service to:
Anyone can apply. |
| Pre-application | starting at $3,096 |
Use this service for larger projects like subdivisions or housing projects. It provides:
This service requires property owner authorization. |
| Pre-submittal Plan Review | $139 |
Use this service for:
A limited virtual meeting may be requested to review your submittal instead of in-person. Anyone can apply. |
| General Planning Services Account | starting at $1,249 |
Use this service to:
Anyone can apply. |
How to submit a Planning Information Request
- Download and fill out the form.
-
Mail it or bring it in person to:
Community Development Agency
Planning Division
3501 Civic Center Drive, Suite 308
San Rafael, CA 94903Hours
Monday to Thursday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Pay the fee by cash or check when you submit the form. If you mail the form in without payment, staff will call you to arrange a payment.