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Expedited Plan Review

Expedited Plan Review Services are available for eligible Residential Single-Family and Commercial/Tenant Improvement (TI) Projects. It is designed to significantly reduce plan review time for faster permit issuance through collaborative, hybrid meetings between the project design team and the City. This coordinated approach enables design and code compliance issues to be resolved in real-time, allowing for timely, practical, and innovative solutions.

How Much Does It Cost?

The expedited plan review fee is an additional 50% of the regular plan review fee as outlined in the City of Santa Clara Municipal Fee Schedule (PDF). There is no additional plan review fee for projects submitted under the City's Pre-Approved ADU Plan program. The expedited plan review fee is in addition to all other applicable fees. 

Eligibility Criteria

Appointments must be confirmed at least one week in advance and are only offered on Wednesdays from 9 – 10:30 a.m. or 10:30 – 12 p.m., and Thursdays from 1 – 2:30 p.m. or 2:30 – 4 p.m.

Electronic Review — No hard copies. Reviews will be performed electronically only.

Eligible projects are those that can be reasonably reviewed within a scheduled 90-minute meeting. The following criteria outline the scope of work that qualifies and the eligibility requirements.

  • Additions and Remodels to One-Story Single-Family Residences
    Must not involve major structural modifications and must meet the following size limitations:
    • First-story additions must be less than 500 sq. ft.
    • Remodels must be 750 sq. ft. or less
    • Combined addition and remodel must not exceed 1000 sq. ft., with the addition portion being less than 500 sq. ft.

  • Pre-Approved Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

  • Detached Accessory Buildings or Structures
    Such as tool sheds, storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses:
    • Must be less than 500 sq. ft.
    • Structures under 120 sq. ft. do not require a building permit.

Ineligible Projects

The property is NOT eligible if it meets any of the following conditions:

  • is listed on the City's Historic Resources Inventory (PDF)
  • is located within Flood Zones A, AE, AH, or AO (refer to the Flood Hazard Zone Map)
  • has any active code case or code violation
  • is located within an easement that prohibits construction
    Note: If an easement exists, it must be clearly identified on the site plan. Easements are typically noted in your property’s title report, which can be obtained from a title company. Tract and parcel maps available through the County Surveyor Record Index may also show easements, though they may be less accurate than a title report.

Process Overview

Use the following steps to guide you through the process:

1. Review the Eligibility Criteria
2. Submit the Building Application
3. Wait for Confirmation
4. Attend the Scheduled Meeting
Last Updated:
01-13-2026