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Planning and development applications in California

Planning and development applications.

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In California, 58 county departments and 1 city government publish 61 official links for this service. Reviewed requirements cover availability notices (28), documents (17), processing time (4) and appointments (1). 42 counties have a page for it below.

Before you start · 2 things to check
  • Start with the jurisdiction of the property. County permit offices may serve only unincorporated areas.
  • Use the official map and confirm project requirements with the planning or building office.

1 guide with reviewed service links · Contra Costa

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California58 counties
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U.S. Census boundaries via U.S. Atlas · 2017 edition, simplified for display.

County government · Contra Costa

Contra Costa County Planning

County Planning reviews projects only in unincorporated Contra Costa County. Incorporated cities and towns retain their own planning agencies; Building contracts do not change Planning authority.

Contra Costa Planning application routes (opens in a new tab)Official instructions

Read the distinct Minor, General and email application routes. This Planning service is restricted to county jurisdiction and does not inherit the Building guide’s five contract cities.

Service area: County Planning reviews projects only in unincorporated Contra Costa County. Incorporated cities and towns retain their own planning agencies; Building contracts do not change Planning authority. Area details & sources

Minor Planning applications: ePermit and listed project categories

Minor applications are submitted through the ePermit Center and are often processed administratively, unless a public hearing is requested. Minor Applications are used for Home Occupation Permits or Property Use Verifications, Substandard Sized Lot Design Reviews, and Kensington Design Reviews.

Official information checked October 26, 2026 · Details & sources

General Planning application review and project-dependent timing

Most planning permits are submitted as a General Application because they require additional review by a planner. The time to process a project varies significantly depending on the complexity. These projects often require significant backup documentation. Some projects may require a public hearing.

Official information checked October 26, 2026 · Details & sources

Source checked October 26, 2026

Contra Costa County · Contra Costa County planning application instructions and forms (opens in a new tab)

Planning Applications | Contra Costa County, CA Official Website — service-planning-application-06013

There are three types of processes for submitting applications, with different submittal requirements:

Saved evidence: 0b7562afb2b71b88 · Agent source review

Full guide, contact details & sources →

Planning and development applications by county