Zoning Applications

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The Zoning Code requires various permits to allow certain uses, development, and exceptions. This review is to ensure proposals are consistent with City policies, zoning requirements, and design guidelines. To get started, please review the information below.

Consult a planner. It is important to submit a complete application for the City to process your project as quickly as possible. Please consult with planning staff at (949) 361-6197 or planning@san-clemente.org for guidance on the review process, what permits are required, what to submit, or how to format required materials.

Submit an application. Click this link for list of zoning permits, the required level of review,timeframes, and which permits may be submitted online. Click this link to submit an application online. You also may submit applications by email at planning@san-clemente.org or at the public counter after consulting with a planner.

Application review. After your submittal is complete, a planner will be assigned to review your project. They will be your point of contact throughout the review process.

Application Types

Staff Level Decisions

The Zoning Code gives staff authority to make decisions on the following:

Available for electronic online submittal (at this link)

Accessory Dwelling Unit prescreening (this is required following Coastal Commission approval, for sites in the Coastal Zone, and prior to building permit submittal).
Administrative Development Permits.
Administrative Sign Permits.
In-concept Coastal Reviews.
Lot Line Adjustments.
Mural Permits.
Portable Sign Permits.
Temporary Banner Sign Permits.
Temporary Use Permits (includes nonresidential special events on private property).
Parklet Dining Permits.
Small Cell Applications.
Wireless Facility Modifications (that are eligible for FCC Streamlining).

Submittal by email or at public counter

At this time, the following applications may be received by email at planning@san-clemente.org or at the public counter after consulting with a planner.

City Antenna Permit
City Planner zoning interpretations.
Landscape plan detailed reviews.
Preliminary applications.
Reasonable accommodation requests.
Short-term lodging zoning permits.
Zoning verification letter.
Zoning research and legal reviews.

Public Hearing Decisions

The following are types of zoning permits that require a public hearing.

Cultural Heritage Permit
Conditional Use Permit
Demolition of Historic Properties
Designation of Historic Resources and Landmarks
Development Agreements
Development Permit
Discretionary Sign Permit
General Plan Amendment
Historic Property Preservation (Mills Act) Agreements
Interpretations, Major
Minor Conditional Use Permit
Minor Exception Permit
Short-term Apartment Rental
Specific Plans, New
Specific Plan Amendment
Tentative Parcel Map
Tentative Tract Maps
Variance
Waiver of Development Standards for Historic Resources and Landmarks
Zoning Amendment