Before submitting a Planning application

• STEP 1: Verify the Zoning District of the property using MapSantaClara.
STEP 2: Verify whether the property is a Historic Resource Inventory (HRI) or within 200 feet of an HRI using the HRI Map.
• STEP 3: Reference the Zoning Code for compliance.
• STEP 4: Consult with the City's Department of Public Works (Land & Property Development) for information regarding public easements.
• STEP 5: Read through the Application Checklists that include the submittal requirements for your application type.
• STEP 6: Review the Application Fee (PDF) requirements based on your application type.
• STEP 7: Contact the Planning Division if you have any questions. You can also schedule an in-person or virtual appointment.

Note: Submit detailed plans electronically through the Permitting Online Portal (POP). The plan set may include site plans, architectural drawings, traffic studies, environmental impact assessments, etc. They should be submitted in a single, searchable PDF file, 8.5x11 in size.

To submit a Planning application

• Create an account on the Permitting Online Portal.
• Review the POP User Guide (PDF) for instructions on how to register and use the portal.
• Upload your required submittal materials, plan sets, and application to POP.
• Application fees can be paid through POP.

After submitting an application

• Planning staff will review applications submitted through the online portal to determine if correct information has been provided/uploaded and to apply required fees generally within 10 business days of the submittal.
• Once the application has been reviewed, you’ll receive an email letting you know that the application fees are ready to be paid.

Planning application review process

Entitlements/permits have different process workflows. Consult the development review process for more information.

• STEP 1: Once the fees have been paid, your application will be assigned to a planner, and a review of your application will begin.
• STEP 2: Planning staff:
  • Reviews submitted application and materials.
  • Meets with applicant (if necessary).
  • References General Plan and Zoning Code to ensure compliance.
  • Identifies potential issues with the application and/or permit, working with the applicant to resolve any issues.
  • Schedules applicable board/commission/Council meetings (if applicable).
• STEP 3: Public hearing (if applicable)
• STEP 4: Application/permit decision made

Before submitting a Planning Zoning Clearance application

• STEP 1: Verify the zoning district of the property using MapSantaClara.
• STEP 2: Verify whether the property is a Historic Resource Inventory (HRI) or within 200 feet of an HRI using the HRI Map.
• STEP 3: Reference the General Plan and Zoning Code for compliance.
• STEP 4: Consult with the City's Department of Public Works (Land & Property Development) for information regarding public easements for outdoor dining permits, wireless telecommunications facilities, reverse vending facilities, and vehicle service station conversions.
• STEP 5: Read through the Zoning Clearance Application Checklists that include the submittal requirements for your application type.
• STEP 6: Review the Application Fee (PDF) requirements based on your application type.
• STEP 7: Contact the Planning Division if you have any questions. You can also schedule an in-person or virtual appointment.

Note: Plan sets are submitted electronically through the Permitting Online Portal. They should be submitted in a single, searchable PDF file, 8.5x11 in size.

To submit a Planning Zoning Clearance application

• Create an account on the Permitting Online Portal (POP)
• Review the POP User Guide
• When creating a new Planning record, choose Zoning Clearance
• Upload your required plan materials and application to the online portal
• Application Fees can be paid through the POP

After submitting an application

• Planning staff will review applications submitted through POP to determine if all required information has been provided/uploaded and necessary fees applied generally within five business days of the submittal.
• Once the application has been reviewed, you will receive an email letting you know that the application fees are ready to be paid.

Planning Zoning Clearance application review process

Zoning Clearances are streamlined applications. Consult the minor project flowchart for more information.

• STEP 1: Once the fees have been paid, your application will be assigned to a planner. and review of your application will begin.
• STEP 2: Planning staff:
• Reviews submitted application and materials.
• Meets with applicant (if necessary).
• References General Plan, Zoning Code, etc. to ensure compliance.
• Identifies potential issues with the application and/or permit, working with the applicant to resolve any issues.
• STEP 3: Zoning clearance decision made by Director or designee.

Planning Preliminary Application, or Pre-Application, is a service that provides applicants with an early analysis of how City codes, policies and development review processes may apply to a prospective project. Submitting a Pre-Application is not considered a formal development application and doesn’t promise project approval, but it can help applicants address issues and prepare accurate plans for the formal review process. Pre-Application fees apply.

Preliminary Applications are reserved for SB 9 or SB 330 projects, multi-family residential, mixed-use, or non-residential projects. Do not submit a Preliminary Application for a single-family residence.

• STEP 1: Verify the zoning district of the property using MapSantaClara.
• STEP 2: Verify whether the property is a Historic Resource Inventory (HRI) or within 200 feet of an HRI using the HRI Map.
• STEP 3: Reference the General Plan and Zoning Code for compliance.
• STEP 4: Consult with the City's Department of Public Works (Land & Property Development) for information regarding public easements.
• STEP 5: Read through the Application Checklists that include the submittal requirements for your application type.
• STEP 6: Review the Application Fee (PDF) requirements based on your application type.
• STEP 7: Contact the Planning Division if you have any questions. You can also schedule an in-person or virtual appointment.

Note: Submit detailed plans electronically through the Permitting Online Portal (POP). The plan set may include site plans, architectural drawings, traffic studies, environmental impact assessments, etc. They should be submitted in a single, searchable PDF file, 8.5x11 in size.

• Architectural Review (Multi-family, Mixed-Use & Commercial) (PDF)
• Architectural Review (Single-Family & Duplex) (PDF)
• Changes to An Approved Project (Amendment) (PDF)
• Conditional Use Permits and Minor Use Permits (PDF)
• Lot Line Adjustments (PDF)
• Mills Act Contracts (PDF)
• Minor Modifications (PDF)
• Mobile Food Vendors (Private Property) (PDF)
• Off-Site Parking Permits (PDF)
• Preliminary Applications (PDF)
• Significant Property Alterations (PDF)
• Signs & Comprehensive Sign Programs (PDF)
• Subdivisions (Tentative Parcel & Tentative Maps) (PDF)
• Temporary Signs (PDF)
• Temporary Use Permits (PDF)
• Time Extensions (PDF)
• Tree Removal Permit (Planning) (PDF)
• Variance (PDF)
• Zoning Verification Letters (PDF)
• Zoning Clearances
  • Accessory Uses (not mobile food vendors) (PDF)
  • Business Licenses and Home Occupation (PDF)
  • Wireless Telecommunication Facilities (PDF)
  • Outdoor Dining (fewer than 24 seats) (PDF)
  • Reverse Vending Facilities (PDF)
  • Tasting Incidental to Retail (PDF)
  • Vehicle Service Station Conversion (PDF)

Additional Application Checklists:

• Project Clearance Committee Submittal Checklist (PDF)
• Climate Action Plan Compliance Checklist (PDF)

• Planning Application Fees (PDF)

Includes submittal fees based on application type from Planning and other City Departments related to Planning applications. Some of the fees listed may be invoiced later if determined necessary during the planning review process.

• Other City Permits and Fees (PDF)
Includes fees that may be relevant at different stages of a project. Other than the Planning fee schedule, the other City permit fees listed are not assessed at the Planning application submittal stage.

Architectural Review

Architectural Review is required for projects that involve demolition and construction of a new single-family dwelling or remodels and additions to existing single-family dwellings. Before submitting an application for a single-family remodel and/or addition, prepare an Application Package as instructed:

• Verify Zoning of the property using MapSantaClara.
• Find Zoning standards for your zoning district in the Zoning Code (PDF).
• Reference the Santa Clara City Code Chapter 18.10 for single-family zoning standards.
• If applicable, refer to the Architectural Review Process (Development Review Hearing).
• Consult the Single-Family Residential Design Guidelines (PDF) for best design practices.
• Prepare an Application Package with submittal materials as requested in the Single-Family/Duplex Architectural Review Application Checklist (PDF).

Streamlined Two-Unit and Urban Lot Splits (SB 9)

Some two-unit projects may be eligible for ministerial review (without discretionary review or a hearing). Before submitting an SB 9 application, read the following resources:

• Verify your zoning district on MapSantaClara.
• SB 9 Overview (PDF)
• Zoning Code chapters for single-family zoning districts: R1-6L and R1-8L, and Chapter 18.24: Two Unit Dwelling Residential Development and Urban Lot Splits (PDF)
• SB 9 Project Eligibility Checklist (PDF)
• SB 9 Owner Affidavit (PDF)

SB 9 projects not eligible for ministerial review will require Architectural Review approval. Refer to the Architectural Review Process.

Architectural Review

• Verify the zoning of the property using MapSantaClara.
• Reference the General Plan and Zoning Code for compliance.
• Refer to Architectural Review (Development Review Hearing). Consult the Community Design Guidelines for best design practices.
• Include submittal materials as requested in Multi-Family/Mixed-Use and Commercial Architectural Review Application Checklist (PDF).

Streamlined Multi-Family Projects (SB 423 & SB 330)

Before submitting SB 423 (2023) and SB 330 (2019) applications through the City’s Permitting Online Portal, review the following information:

• SB 423 Streamlined Ministerial Project Eligibility Checklist and Processing Procedures (PDF)
• SB 330: Housing Crisis Act of 2019 - Preliminary Application Form (PDF)
• SB 330 Application Timeline Flowchart (PDF)

Note that SB 423 replaces SB 35 (2017). Note that SB 8 (2021) extends the provisions of SB 330 until Jan 1, 2030.

Ministerial Small Lot Subdivisions (SB 684 / SB 1123)

Senate Bill 684 (SB 684) went into effect on July 1, 2024, and SB 1123 amended SB 684 and went into effect on July 1, 2025. The bills require local jurisdictions to provide a ministerial review process for subdivision and housing developments on residential lots that meet the law's eligibility requirements.

SB 684 / SB 1123 create an approval process for up to ten housing units on qualified lots that are:

1. Zoned multi-family or single-family
2. No more than five acres or is vacant and is 1.5 acres or less, and
3. Substantially surrounded by qualified urban uses. The bill does not allow for discretionary review for housing development projects and subdivisions that meet certain criteria.

A local ordinance to adopt and implement SB 684 / SB 1123 is not required and has not been adopted. Instead, the City of Santa Clara is implementing state law directly and will use local forms to collect information from applicants for review. SB 684 bill's full text can be found on the California Legislative Information website. SB 1123 bill's full text can be found on the California Legislative Information website.

In accordance with SB 684 / SB 1123, the City shall determine within 60 days of a complete application whether the application qualifies and is approved.

• Complete and submit the SB 684 & SB 1123 Eligibility Checklist (PDF) with your application at the Permitting Online Portal.

Architectural Review

Before submitting an application for a non-residential and/or mixed-use project, prepare an Application Package as instructed below.

• Verify Zoning of the property using MapSantaClara.
• Reference the General Plan and Zoning Code (PDF) for compliance.
• Refer to Architectural Review - Development Review Hearing Process Flowchart (PDF). Consult the Community Design Guidelines for best design practices.
• Prepare an Application Package as instructed in the Multi-Family/Mixed-Use and Commercial Architectural Review Application Checklist (PDF).

ADUs — Ministerial

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) or Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADU) projects can be submitted as a Building Permit, except for new attached second-story ADUs on a single-story residence, which would require an Architectural Review.

For more information, the ADU and JADU Handout includes the regulations for ADUs.

ADUs — Not Ministerial

ADUs not meeting the criteria for ministerial approval must receive an Architectural Review approval. Before submitting an application for an ADU that is subject to Architectural Review, prepare an Application Package as instructed:

• Verify Zoning of the property using MapSantaClara.
• Find Zoning standards for your zoning district in the Zoning Code (PDF).
• Reference the Santa Clara City Code Chapter 18.60.20 for ADU standards.
• Refer to the ADU and JADU Handout (PDF).
• If applicable, refer to the Architectural Review Process (Development Review Hearing).
• Consult the Single-Family Residential Design Guidelines (PDF) for best design practices.
• Prepare an Application Package with submittal materials as requested in the Single-Family/Duplex Architectural Review Application Checklist (PDF).

• Appeals from the Development Review Hearing are made to the Planning Commission (for single-family residential projects) or the City Council (for projects other than single-family residential projects) and will be placed on a subsequent agenda.
• Appeals from the Planning Commission are made to the City Council and will be placed on a subsequent agenda.
• Refer to the Appeals Process Flowchart (PDF).
• Apply for appeals through the Permitting Online Portal. Filing an appeal requires you to submit the completed Planning Appeal Form (PDF) (when requested to submit an Application Checklist in the Permitting Online Portal) and pay a fee.

Home Occupations

Business use in a dwelling unit needs a Home Occupation application and Zoning Clearance.

• Refer to SCCC Chapter 18.60.120 of the Zoning Code for more information.
• Refer to and submit the Business License - Home Occupancy Application Checklist (PDF)
• Complete the Home Occupations Regulations Acknowledgement Form (PDF).
• Submit a Planning Application through the Permitting Online Portal with project description and completed Home Occupations Regulation Acknowledgement Form.
• Make your fee payment in the Permitting Online Portal.
• Planning staff will process and provide Zoning Clearance for the business license.

Business License - Zoning Clearance

If you need a Zoning Clearance for a Business License, submit a Planning Application through Permitting Online Portal and provide the following information:

• Business License Number
• Business Address
• Business Name
• Business Type and Description
• Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) form (if applicable)
• Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) form (if applicable)
• Business License - Home Occupancy Application Checklist (PDF)
• Property Owner Authorization form (PDF)
• Zoning - Get your zoning information from MapSantaClara.

A development or new land use allowed through an Architectural Review, Conditional Use Permit, Minor Modification, Minor Use Permit, Reasonable Accommodation, Temporary Use Permit, Variance, or an approved Planned Development zoned project must comply with the approved drawings and plans, and any conditions of approval set by the Review Authority or Chapter 18.128.080.

Request Desired Changes In Writing. An applicant must request changes in writing and provide appropriate supporting materials with an explanation of the reason(s) for the change(s).

Type of Changes Allowed. Requested changes may involve changes to one or more conditions set by the Review Authority or actual changes to the operation, use, or physical characteristics of the project (e.g., hours of operation, expansion of a use) as originally proposed by the applicant or approved by the Review Authority.

Approved by Review Authority First. Changes must be approved by the Review Authority before being made. Requests should take place either before or after the construction or establishment, and operation of the approved use.

Minor changes may be approved by the Community Development Director, while major changes require Review Authority approval according to Chapter 18.128.080(C), (D) and (E).

Before submitting an application for changes to an approved project, prepare an Application Package as instructed in the Changes to an Approved Project Application Checklist (PDF).

• Examples of a Conditional Use Permit include: auto sales car lots, private schools, bars, etc.
• Examples of a Minor Use Permit in residential zones include: residential care facilities, rooming or boarding houses and live-work facilities.

• Verify Zoning of the property using MapSantaClara.
• Reference the General Plan and Zoning Code (PDF) for compliance.
• Chapter 18.114 Conditional and Minor Use Permits.
• Prepare an Application Package with submittal materials as requested in the Conditional Use and Minor Use Permit Application Checklist (PDF).

For specific regulations and requirements for wireless telecommunications facilities, see Zoning Code: Chapter 18.66 - Wireless Telecommunications Facilities.

Temporary Use Permits

• Consult the Zoning Code (PDF).
• Reference Santa Clara City Code Chapter 18.122
• Prepare an Application Package as instructed in the Temporary Use Permits Application Checklist (PDF).

• Please contact planning@santaclaraca.gov for information on submittal requirements.
• Prepare an Application Package with submittal materials as requested.

• Learn about Santa Clara's historic preservation efforts, such as historic property projects and permitting processes. For more information, read the Summary of Historic Preservation Regulations and Processes (PDF).
• Find out about a tax incentive program for historic properties and how to apply for a Mills Act Contract. Refer to the Mills Act Application Checklist (PDF) and submit required materials.

Mobile food vendors can operate in Commercial, Mixed-Use, Office and Industrial zoning districts. Longer durations are permitted only with a Zoning Clearance or Minor Use Permit.

Check MapSantaClara to see what the zoning of the property you are interested in is.

• No permit is needed when operating for less than two hours (Any allowed district).
• Zoning clearance (Accessory Use) is required when operating more than two hours, but less than four hours.
• Minor Use Permit is required when operating more than four hours or if the location is within 100 feet of a residential zone.

Consult the Santa Clara City Code Chapter 18.60.280 for specific regulations for mobile food vendors.

When submitting for a Zoning Clearance or a Minor Use Permit for mobile food vendors on private property through the Permitting Online Portal, submit the Property Authorization Form (PDF) and the Zoning Verification Letter Application Checklist (PDF).

• Prepare an application package with submittal materials as requested in the Off-Site Parking Permit Application Checklist (PDF).
• Complete the Off-Site Parking Cover Sheet (PDF).
• Review the Planning Fee Schedule (PDF). An additional planning fee is charged for stadium event parking north of Highway 101. This is an ongoing per event / per space fee that is collected to help recover additional public safety costs incurred for each event.
• Submit your application through the Permitting Online Portal.

Before submitting an application for a Permanent or Temporary Sign Permit or Comprehensive Sign Program:

• Verify Zoning of the property using MapSantaClara.
• Consult the Zoning Code (PDF):
  • Reference the SCCC Chapter 18.42 for Sign Regulations.
• For Temporary Sign Permits, complete and submit the Temporary Signs Application Checklist (PDF)
• For any parcel in which five or more signs are proposed that require a Sign Permit, the owner(s) must prepare and submit a Comprehensive Sign Program following the instructions in the Signs/Comprehensive Sign Program Application Checklist (PDF).

Any major alteration to a Historic Resources Inventory (HRI) property requires a Significant Property Alterations (SPA) permit. Before submitting an application:

• Verify Zoning of the property using MapSantaClara.
• Reference the General Plan and Zoning Code (PDF) for compliance with SCCC Chapter 18.130 Historic Preservation.
• Confirm whether the property is a HRI on the HRI Map.
• Prepare an Application Package with all materials and plan sets in a single, searchable PDF file. Submit required documentation and the SPA Application Checklist (PDF) through the Permitting Online Portal.

Before submitting an application for Subdivisions, Tentative Map, Tentative Parcel Map, and/or Lot Line Adjustment:

• Verify the Zoning of the property using MapSantaClara.
• Reference the General Plan and Santa Clara City Zoning Code Title 17: Development (Subdivisions) for compliance.
• For Tentative Subdivision Maps and Tentative Subdivision Parcel Maps, prepare an Application Package with submittal materials as requested in the Subdivisions Application Checklist (PDF).
• For Lot Line Adjustments, prepare an Application Package with materials to submit as requested in the Lot Line Adjustments Application Checklist (PDF).

• The Community Development Director may extend the entitlement’s effectiveness for two additional 12-month periods.
• The applicant must request a time extension in writing at least 30 days prior to the expiration of the entitlement, along with the filing fee (PDF).
• Time extensions beyond 24 months are described in Chapter 18.128.070 of the City’s Zoning Code.

Submit your time extension request with the required application checklist (PDF). 

Street Tree Removal

The Department of Public Works is responsible for the maintenance of street trees. Residents and contractors are not allowed to trim and remove City trees. Having a City street tree trimmed or removed by anyone other than City personnel is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, plus the cost of replacing the tree and any associated administrative costs. If a City street tree needs to be trimmed or removed, please fill out an online service request form or call the City's Public Works Department at 408-615-3080.

For more information about street tree removal requirements, please see the following resources:

• City Street Trees website
• Guidelines for City Street Tree Removal (PDF)
• Santa Clara City Code Chapter 12.35: Trees and Shrubs
• Application Checklist for Planning Permit Tree Removals (PDF)
• City Arborist Notes (PDF)

1. A drawing outlining the location of the tree(s) and proposed tree replacements
2. A written explanation of why the tree(s) should be removed
3. An arborist report from an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
4. Signature of the property owner and/or homeowner’s association (where applicable) with proof of a vote of the homeowner’s association
5. Photograph(s) of the tree(s)
6. Permit fee, where applicable
7. Other information deemed necessary by the Community Development Department to evaluate the tree removal request.

• Verify Zoning of the property using MapSantaClara
• Reference the Santa Clara City Code Chapter 18.124: Variances and Minor Modifications (PDF)
• For Variances, follow the Variance Application Checklist (PDF)
• For Minor Modifications, follow the Minor Modifications Application Checklist (PDF)

If you need a zoning verification letter, submit your request through the Permitting Online Portal and include the Zoning Verification Letter Application Checklist (PDF).

The zoning verification letter must be on City letterhead and include the requested property’s zoning, general plan land use designation, any related planning permits, and any active zoning violations.

Provide a written request as part of your application that may include additional zoning questions about the property.