Planning & Building

General Plan & Neighborhood Plans

General and Neighborhood Plans play an essential role in shaping the development and growth of Oakland.

Environment & Sustainability

Environmental reports play a key role in green building projects, ensuring sustainability, energy efficiency, and reduced environmental impact through CEQA and EIR processes.

Oakland’s historic landmarks and districts showcase over 170 years of rich heritage. Learn about the city's preservation efforts, guidelines for maintaining historic properties, and how you can be involved in protecting its architectural treasures.

Permit Process Overview

Want to build something or start a business in Oakland? The Planning & Building Department (PBD) helps make sure everything is safe and follows the rules. Learn how to get the right permits, get your plans approved, or get help from our expert planners.

Planning & Zoning

Learn more about the City of Oakland's Planning Code, Zoning information and maps, the General Plan and related Elements, and neighborhood plans and policy projects.

Code Enforcement Services

The mission of Code Enforcement Services is to help create safe and healthy living and working spaces while improving the quality of life for all people in Oakland.

Building & Inspections

Planning and Building inspections ensure the safety for all Oaklanders.

Your Commercial Projects & Permits

From single-family homes to major developments, we handle a variety of commercial projects and permits, including housing, tree removal, solar energy systems, and more. Let us guide you through the permitting process for your next project.

Your Residential Projects & Permits

We manage a wide range of residential projects and permits, from new homes and renovations to ADUs, tiny homes, and more. Whether building or remodeling, we offer expert services for all your residential permitting needs.

How-To Permit Videos

The video tutorials below offer step-by-step instructions for common processes and procedures used in the Planning & Building Department.

Major Development Projects

Learn more about major development projects in the City of Oakland, view our interactive city map, and keep up-to-date about major project developments.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission promotes the orderly growth and development of the City through studies, decisions on development proposals, policy recommendations to the City Council, and related activities.

Landmarks Preservation Advisory Board (LPAB)

The Landmarks Preservation Advisory Board identifies historic landmarks in Oakland, conducts design review hearings on historic properties, and advises the Planning Commission and City Council on preservation.