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The County of San Luis Obispo Planning and Building is accepting On-Line Building Permit Applications. Applying for a permit electronically does not guarantee expedited processing.
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After Issuance Permit Submittal Procedure:
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This service is to verify an existing address within the unincorporated areas of San Luis Obispo County.
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The County of San Luis Obispo Planning and Building is accepting On-Line Building Permit Applications. Applying for a permit electronically does not guarantee expedited processing.
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After Issuance Permit Submittal Procedure:
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Regulations contained in Title 19 of the San Luis Obispo County Code exempt certain agricultural accessory buildings from the necessity of having a building permit. In order to qualify for the exemption, a proposed agricultural accessory building must meet the definition of such buildings contained in Section 202 of the 2016 California Building Code, as well as the specific criteria in Section 19.02.020(f)1.19:a-q of the County’s Building and Construction Ordinance. Approval of an exempt agricultural building only entitles the use itself; separate permits may also be required for any construction or grading activities. Please following the steps to apply for an agricultural exempt building.
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The County of San Luis Obispo Planning and Building is accepting On-Line Building Permit Applications. Applying for a permit electronically does not guarantee expedited processing.
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After Issuance Permit Submittal Procedure:
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In order for agricultural grading to be exempt from a grading permit, please read the following steps to determine if the proposed grading qualifies, and how to apply.
An Agriculture Grading Form and Site Plan must be approved by the County prior to commencement of any grading activities, for verification that exemption criteria are met.
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The County of San Luis Obispo Planning and Building is accepting On-Line Building Permit Applications. Applying for a permit electronically does not guarantee expedited processing.
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After Issuance Permit Submittal Procedure:
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In order for agricultural grading to be exempt from a grading permit, please read the following steps to determine if the proposed grading qualifies, and how to apply.
An Agriculture Grading Form and Site Plan must be approved by the County prior to commencement of any grading activities, for verification that exemption criteria are met.
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The County of San Luis Obispo Planning and Building is accepting On-Line Building Permit Applications. Applying for a permit electronically does not guarantee expedited processing.
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After Issuance Permit Submittal Procedure:
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In order for agricultural grading to be exempt from a grading permit, please read the following steps to determine if the proposed grading qualifies, and how to apply.
An Agriculture Grading Form and Site Plan must be approved by the County prior to commencement of any grading activities, for verification that exemption criteria are met.
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The County of San Luis Obispo Planning and Building is accepting On-Line Building Permit Applications. Applying for a permit electronically does not guarantee expedited processing.
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The raising or keeping of animals as either an incidental or principal use shall comply with the requirements of the Inland Ordinance or Coastal Zone Land Use Ordinance below.
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An applicant may elect to use the Alternative Review Program for certain agricultural grading. This process allows an applicant to obtain technical assistance, inspection, and sign-off by either the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) or the Resource Conservation District (RCD). Please read on to learn more.
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The County of San Luis Obispo Department of Planning and Building provides the local building industry with the Special Inspection Program. Use of the program is mandatory when any special inspection is required on a project. The program provides a complete overview of the requirements for owners, design professionals, special inspectors, contractors, the building official, and all staff involved.
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This service describes the different types of camping requiring a permit and the site requirements for each, the County's enforcement approach to unpermitted camping on private property, and frequently asked questions.
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An applicant may elect to use the Alternative Review Program for certain agricultural grading. This process allows an applicant to obtain technical assistance, inspection, and sign-off by either the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) or the Resource Conservation District (RCD). Please read on to learn more.
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The County of San Luis Obispo Department of Planning and Building provides the local building industry with the Structural Observation Program. Use of the program is mandatory when any structural observation is required on a project. The program provides a complete overview of the requirements for owners, design professionals, special inspectors, contractors, the building official, and all staff involved.
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Cannabis, Commercial New Structure, Commercial Addition/Alteration, and Tenant Improvement, will require the following naming conventions.
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An applicant may elect to use the Alternative Review Program for certain agricultural grading. This process allows an applicant to obtain technical assistance, inspection, and sign-off by either the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) or the Resource Conservation District (RCD). Please read on to learn more.
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Cannabis, Commercial New Structure, Commercial Addition/Alteration, and Tenant Improvement, will require the following naming conventions.
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START HERE: Find out if your project requires a permit.
How do I know if I need a Building Permit?
How do I obtain a Grading Permit?
How do I obtain a Septic Repair Permit or a Renewable Energy Permit?
After identifying that a permit is required, please follow the steps below to submit a permit application electronically.
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Cannabis, Commercial New Structure, Commercial Addition/Alteration, and Tenant Improvement, will require the following naming conventions.
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The process for obtaining a grading permit for grading that was done without a permit ("as-built") is the same as the process for obtaining a normal minor grading permit or major grading permit. However, as-built grading permits may incur violation fees in addition to grading permit fees. If an as-built grading permit is issued, the area subject to the as-built grading permit must be excavated and soil removed and/or replaced, as directed by a licensed engineer. This allows the engineer to evaluate the grading and ensure that it meets all county requirements. Additionally, mitigation measures may have to be performed, if the as-built grading permit is also subject to a land use permit.
If an as-built grading permit cannot be issued, the property may need to be partially or completely restored to its original state.
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An accessory dwelling unit (ADU), also known as a "secondary unit" or a "granny flat", is a residential unit that can be added to a lot with an existing single-family home or multi-family dwellings.
The County offers two types of ADU applications: Standard and Pre-Reviewed.
Click on either option for further information and instructions on how to apply.
ADUs are excluded within the Cambria Community Services District boundary and within the Los Osos Groundwater Basin boundary and/or within the Los Osos Groundwater Basin Plan Area.
Click here to view excluded areas on a map
The County's Coastal ADU Ordinance may be found here: 23.080.169 - Residential Accessory Dwelling Units (S-8-P)
The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below may help answer further questions.
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The process for obtaining a grading permit for grading that was done without a permit ("as-built") is the same as the process for obtaining a normal minor grading permit or major grading permit. However, as-built grading permits may incur violation fees in addition to grading permit fees. If an as-built grading permit is issued, the area subject to the as-built grading permit must be excavated and soil removed and/or replaced, as directed by a licensed engineer. This allows the engineer to evaluate the grading and ensure that it meets all county requirements. Additionally, mitigation measures may have to be performed, if the as-built grading permit is also subject to a land use permit.
If an as-built grading permit cannot be issued, the property may need to be partially or completely restored to its original state.
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The California Coastal Commission is the ultimate permit authority in the Coastal Zone of San Luis Obispo County. In other words, the County can issue development permits in the Coastal Zone, but the Coastal Commission has the ultimate say in how the County's Local Coastal Program (Title 23) is interpreted. Strong coordination between Department of Planning & Building staff and Coastal Commission staff ultimately benefits applicants, as they often need to obtain initial permit authority ("retained jurisdiction") from the Coastal Commission as part of the development permit process.
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A building permit is required if you plan to construct, enlarge, alter, move, replace, repair, improve, convert, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure. A building permit is also needed if you plan to build a retaining wall taller than 4 feet from the bottom of the footing.
A grading permit is needed if you plan to move more than 50 cubic yards of dirt. Please read about the differences between a minor grading permit and major grading permit before applying.
Please follow the steps below to submit a building permit or grading permit application electronically.
If you need to repair your septic, or apply for solar, please follow the steps found in Septic Repair Permit and Renewable Energy Permits.
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Permits for Commercial Demolition, will require the following naming conventions:
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How to schedule a Building Inspection.
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Permits for Commercial Demolition, will require the following naming conventions:
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The County of San Luis Obispo, through adoption of various ordinances, has determined that certain commercial cannabis activities may have an impact on the area in which they are located. These types of uses require the approval of a land use permit, which sets conditions for the use's establishment and operation. Approval of a land use permit only entitles the use itself; separate permits or licenses may also be required including any proposed construction or grading activities.
It is recommended that applicants contact the following agencies during the application process:
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Permits for Commercial Demolition, will require the following naming conventions:
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A certificate of compliance or conditional certificate of compliance is used to establish a legal record officially recognizing that a parcel was legally created, in compliance with the rules and regulations that were applicable at the time of its creation and current case law. Determinations for certificates of compliance are made by Department of Planning & Building staff.
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Permits for Commercial Foundation Only, will require the following naming conventions.
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Many actions taken by the Department of Planning and Building staff, Building Official may be appealed. Actions by the Planning Department Hearing Officer, Subdivision Review Board, or Planning Commission, to approve or deny a permit application, may be appealed by the applicant or member of the public. In the Coastal Zone, many actions can also be appealed to the California Coastal Commission.
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Permits for Commercial Foundation Only, will require the following naming conventions.
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The process to apply for a zoning clearance to rent an entire house for less than 30 days in the Coastal Zone.
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Permits for Commercial Foundation Only, will require the following naming conventions.
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Business License Zoning Clearance process for a:
- Bed & Breakfast - renting a bedroom short-term in a rural area
- Commercial Retail or Service
- Homestay - renting a bedroom short-term in an urban area
- Industrial Operation
- Restaurant
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Permits for Commercial Grading, will require the following naming conventions.
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A Conditional Use Permit, and Coastal Development Plan, is a discretionary permit, acted on by the Planning Commission, allowing a specific land use. Approval of a land use permit only entitles the use itself; separate permits may also be required for any construction or grading activities.
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Permits for Commercial Grading, will require the following naming conventions.
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If you would like to request to waive the requirements for construction of curb, gutter, and sidewalk, please follow the process here. Waivers are acted on by County Engineering and County Planning staff.
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Permits for Commercial Grading, will require the following naming conventions.
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Obtaining a land use permit or grading permit can take a substantial amount of time, and sometimes, work must occur immediately in order to address an emergency situation. In these cases, the County can issue an emergency permit to authorize work to occur immediately. Then, within sixty (60) days, it will be necessary to follow-up by applying for the land use permit or grading permit that would ordinarily be required in a non-emergency situation.
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Permits for Commercial Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing, will require the following naming conventions.
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Department of Planning & Building staff reviews of all discretionary projects to identify, analyze, mitigate, and disclose their potential environmental impacts. This review process is conducted under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and when necessary, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and results in an environmental determination being made for the project.
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Permits for Commercial Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing, will require the following naming conventions.
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Express Permits are available to be submitted online by a California Licensed Contractor. Express Permits include projects that are normally quicker to repair or install. For example: water heater replacement, air conditioning or heating unit replacement, drain repair, lighting, electrical panel replacement, etc.
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Permits for Commercial Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing, will require the following naming conventions.
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The Department of Planning & Building administers the County's General Plan through evaluating all land use applications for consistency with the General Plan, producing annual progress reports, and processing amendments to the General Plan.
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Permits for Commercial Onsite Wastewater Treatment System, will require the following naming conventions.
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Geologic reports are required for most projects requiring a building permit within a designated Geologic Study Area (GSA). GSAs include areas of seismic, landslide, liquefaction, erosion, and stability hazards.
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Permits for Commercial Onsite Wastewater Treatment System, will require the following naming conventions.
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Geologic reports are required for most projects requiring a building permit within a designated Geologic Study Area (GSA). GSAs include areas of seismic, landslide, liquefaction, erosion, and stability hazards.
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Permits for Commercial Onsite Wastewater Treatment System, will require the following naming conventions.
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The County of San Luis Obispo has adopted a Growth Management Ordinance that meters the number of residential dwelling units that can be built in the unincorporated areas of the county during any one fiscal year (July 1st - June 30th). Based on a growth rate of 2.3%, a total of 1,107 dwelling units can be built in in the unincorporated areas of the county during fiscal year 2017-2018. In order to secure the opportunity to build one of these units, a request called an "allocation" is required.
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Permits for Commercial Photovoltaic Systems, will require the following naming conventions.
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This page is to guide you through the process of figuring out the Zoning (i.e. Land Use Category) of a parcel and the possible allowable land uses and permit requirements.
A parcel has an Assessor Parcel Number (APN), and this is how the County identifies the location of a property. A property can have multiple parcels, and therefore, multiple parcel numbers.
The steps provide an overview on how to discover the Zoning of a parcel and possible allowable land uses and land use permit requirements.
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Permits for Commercial Photovoltaic Systems, will require the following naming conventions.
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The process to apply for a zoning clearance to run a business from your home that falls under the following categories:
- Home Distributor (e.g. cosmetics)
- Home Handcraft (e.g. pottery, jewelry)
- Home Office
- Personal Service (e.g. music lessons)
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Permits for Commercial Photovoltaic Systems, will require the following naming conventions.
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Many actions taken by the Department of Planning and Building staff, Building Official may be appealed. Actions by the Planning Department Hearing Officer, Subdivision Review Board, or Planning Commission, to approve or deny a permit application, may be appealed by the applicant or member of the public.
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This form can be used to add California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) information to an existing PermitSLO (aka Customer Self-Service (CSS) account. You will receive an email verifying your request has been submitted. Please allow 2-3 business days for processing.
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The process to apply for a zoning clearance to renting an entire house for less than 30 days in the Inland Area of the County.
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This form can be used to add California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) information to an existing PermitSLO (aka Customer Self-Service (CSS) account. You will receive an email verifying your request has been submitted. Please allow 2-3 business days for processing.
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Amendment to Previously Approved Land Use Permit. The Department of Planning & Building processes land use entitlements, including amendments to previously approved land use permits.
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Learn more about environmental terms, such as California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Categorical Exemption.
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A Project Modification Application may be used for minor modifications to a previously approved land use permit that meet the following three criteria in County Code Section 22.64.050 or 23.02.038.
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One popular venture is to rent your scenic barns or fields out for rustic wedding ceremonies and receptions. However, doing so requires the property to meet certain standards, and obtain the correct permit. This service describes how event venues are reviewed.
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Initial approval of Land Use Permits and Subdivisions is valid for 24 months (two years). Time Extensions of ONE (1) year may be requested based on the type of project (for example: Minor Use or Conditional Use Permits, and Parcel or Tract Maps).
Click here for a comprehensive table outlining the eligibility and applicable hearing body or approval processes for various types of Land Use Permits and Subdivisions.
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The Department of Planning and Building updates fees every fiscal year. Please visit the Fee Schedule folder to look at the current and past fee schedules.
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For direct link to the application portal, click here: PermitSLO
OR learn more about Permit SLO:
PermitSLO is the County of San Luis Obispo's online permitting system for a number of permit and plan applications. The County has created this limited online portal with the public in mind, making it available and accessible 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Use the PermitSLO portal to:
- Create an Account
- Apply for a Permit or Plan
- Upload an Attachment
- Look Up Fees/Pay Fees
- Check Status of a Permit or Plan (account holder or guest option)
- Resubmittal Process
- Schedule an Inspection or Re-inspection
Continue reading below to discover how to use the PermitSLO Portal, or if you have any questions, check the FAQs at the end of this page to help trouble-shoot the most common issues.
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The Department of Planning and Building updates fees every fiscal year. Please visit the Fee Schedule folder to look at the current and past fee schedules.
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A discretionary application that alters the property lines between four or fewer existing adjoining parcels, taking land from one parcel and adding it to an adjacent parcel without increasing the number of parcels. A lot line adjustment is acted on by either the Hearing Officer or the Subdivision Review Board.
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Standards for fencing and screening are established to protect certain uses from intrusion, to protect the public from uses that may be hazardous, and to increase compatibility between different land uses by visual screening. Fencing is the enclosure of an area by the materials identified in the following ordinances. Screening is the enclosure of an area by a visual barrier, which may include open or solid fencing, as specified in the following ordinances chapters.
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A grading permit is typically needed when a project will change the topography of a property through removing and/or depositing more than 50 cubic yards of soil. Major grading typically involve 5,000 cubic yards of earthwork, or more, or earthwork proposed on terrain with slopes that are 10 percent or greater at any point.
Grading is regulated because it can cause serious problems when not done properly. Staff in the Department of Planning & Building review applications to ensure that they comply with applicable codes and ordinances before issuing a grading permit.
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Answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the building permit process.
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A grading permit is typically needed when a project will change the topography of a property through removing and/or depositing more than 50 cubic yards of soil. Major grading typically involve 5,000 cubic yards of earthwork, or more, or earthwork proposed on terrain with slopes that are 10 percent or greater at any point.
Grading is regulated because it can cause serious problems when not done properly. Staff in the Department of Planning & Building review applications to ensure that they comply with applicable codes and ordinances before issuing a grading permit.
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A detached accessory garage shall not occupy more than 1,000 square feet in area per dwelling unit, unless authorized by a Minor Use Permit, and is subject to the following ordinances:
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A map number is required prior to the submission of an application for a tentative tract map, parcel map, lot line adjustment, certificate of compliance (conditional or unconditional), voluntary merger, or public lot.
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This glossary is provided to give general definitions for some of the terms commonly used in the planning process. Additional terms are defined in the county's general plan, Area Plans, Land Use Ordinance, Real Property Division Ordinance, Building and Construction Ordinance, and other related documents.
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A Minor Use Permit is a discretionary permit, acted on by a hearing officer on behalf of the Director of Planning & Building, allowing a specific land use. Approval of a land use permit only entitles the use itself; separate permits may also be required for any construction or grading activities.
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A guide that defines grading.
Grading User Guide
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San Luis Obispo County encourages public participation in all phases of the environmental review process. Anyone who has questions about a project or any part of the process is invited to contact the Planning Department to discuss your concerns. If your questions cannot be answered to your satisfaction over the phone, the Environmental Coordinator or a representative will meet with you to address your questions.
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A guesthouse (sleeping/home office facilities without indoor connection to the living area of a principal residence) may be established as a use accessory to a residence as follows.
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The process of dividing real property into four or fewer lots for the purposes of sale, lease or financing (including condominiums). State law requires approval and recordation of a map showing the division before sale, lease or financing of a new parcel can legally occur. Parcel maps are acted on by the Subdivision Review Board.
A land division occurs when a parcel of land is divided into two or more parcels, each of which can be sold and owned independently of the others. The Department of Planning & Building processes land division applications for subdivision entitlements according to the provisions of the state Subdivision Map Act and the County Real Property Division Ordinance.
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This page is to provide links to where height limit standards are located in County Ordinances, Planning Area Standards, and Map Conditions.
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The Department of Planning & Building is required to track the long-term operation and maintenance of post-construction stormwater control measures installed within the County’s Stormwater Management Area. The Central Coast Post-Construction Requirements order the County to establish operation and maintenance plans with private stormwater system owners. The Department records plans that comply with the Requirements, which document the existence of all structures and require maintenance and operation in perpetuity by any future owners.
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An accessory dwelling unit (ADU), also known as a "secondary unit" or a "granny flat", is a residential unit that can be added to a lot with an existing single-family home or multi-family dwellings.
The County offers two types of ADU applications: Standard and Pre-Reviewed.
Click on either option for further information and instructions on how to apply.
The County's ADU Ordinance may be found here: Code Section 22.30.470 – Residential – Accessory Dwellings
The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below may help answer further questions.
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The Department of Planning & Building is required to track the long-term operation and maintenance of post-construction stormwater control measures installed within the County’s Stormwater Management Area. The Central Coast Post-Construction Requirements order the County to establish operation and maintenance plans with private stormwater system owners. The Department records plans that comply with the Requirements, which document the existence of all structures and require maintenance and operation in perpetuity by any future owners.
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Land use permits require either a discretionary or a ministerial decision. The following land use entitlements can be processed with a land use permit application:
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This service is to request addresses for a Parcel Map, Tract Map, or Urban Lot Split within the unincorporated areas of San Luis Obispo County.
NOTE: All other addressable structures will be addressed after a construction permit is applied for.
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The Local Agency Management Program (LAMP) develops minimum standards for the treatment and disposal of sewage through onsite wastewater treatment systems. The LAMP is the culmination of the actions required by Assembly Bill 885 and the State Water Resources Control Board to develop regulations and standards for onsite wastewater treatment systems. The County of San Luis Obispo LAMP is designed to protect surface water and groundwater from contamination while providing flexibility in design criteria in consideration of local conditions.
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Pre-application meetings are coordinated by the Department of Planning and Building to assist members of the public with understanding regulations that are applicable to a specific development project, permitting and development processes for a specific development project or for the resolution of a Notice of Violation from the Code Enforcement Division.
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The Local Agency Management Program (LAMP) develops minimum standards for the treatment and disposal of sewage through onsite wastewater treatment systems. The LAMP is the culmination of the actions required by Assembly Bill 885 and the State Water Resources Control Board to develop regulations and standards for onsite wastewater treatment systems. The County of San Luis Obispo LAMP is designed to protect surface water and groundwater from contamination while providing flexibility in design criteria in consideration of local conditions.
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Pre-application meetings are coordinated by the Department of Planning and Building to assist members of the public with understanding regulations that are applicable to a specific development project, permitting and development processes for a specific development project or for the resolution of a Notice of Violation from the Code Enforcement Division.
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To obtain a permit for building, grading or subdividing real estate in California, a parcel must be legal. At the time an application for land development approval or certificate of compliance is submitted, the applicant must present proof that the lot was created legally. This page describes the types of documents that satisfy this requirement.
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This service provides a step by step process to submit your waste and recycling receipts for approval.
Beginning January 1, 2017, new “Cal Green” Building Codes requires all structures to recycle 65% of the waste generated by construction and demo. In addition, San Luis Obispo Green Building Ordinance requires you to recycle 75% of the waste from all projects.
Before you receive a County permit you must tell the County how you will handle the project’s waste.
Once the project has reached completion, submit your waste and recycling receipts for approval 7 days before you need the Final Building Inspector sign-off. Submittals are taken in the order received, so try to be sure everything is provided, or delays could result.
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Learn about factors that determine the minimum size for lots created through new land divisions in each land use category. Procedures and additional standards for dividing land are in Title 21. By refining the parcel size ranges set in the Land Use Element for each land use category, these standards determine site specific minimum parcel sizes for new parcels that are consistent with the General Plan.
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A building permit is required for the installation of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems and Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations for all residential and commercial buildings. According to County of San Luis Obispo Building and Construction Ordinance Title 19 (Section 19.09.016), these permits will go through an expedited process.
Solar Photovoltaic System Permit
Review the Solar Photovoltaic checklist and submittal requirements
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Permit
Review the Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Permit checklist and submittal requirements
Permit applications that meet checklist requirements will be administratively approved through the Building Division. The EVCS project review is limited to health and safety requirements found under local, state and federal law.
For expedited plan review and inspection process please verify your project complies with all applicable code provisions with the Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment Inspection Checklist.
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Movable tiny houses are not allowed to be used outside of approved campgrounds or recreational vehicle parks in the unincorporated areas of San Luis Obispo County, as they do not comply with building codes. However, tiny houses built on permanent foundation are allowed, and are subject to obtaining County building permits.
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Road abandonments are processed by the Public Works Department. An individual seeking the abandonment and discontinuance of a public road may inquire about the road abandonment process by emailing [email protected] or calling Public Works at 805-781-5252.
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The PermitSLO Portal allows the public to interact with the EnerGov permit tracking and land management system. Through PermitSLO you have the ability to look up permit details, pay fees, and schedule building inspections. The systems also allows licensed contractors to apply for specific types of construction permits.
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A road name is required for any road that provides access to more than one lot, or to one lot with more than two buildings or more than four houses. Road names must be approved before a final building inspection is completed. Existing roads can be named or renamed through petition of a majority of the property owners located on the road.
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PROCESSING FEE NOTICE: Effective November 9th, 2020, a 2.35% convenience fee ($1.49 minimum) will be added to all credit card transactions and a $1.49 flat rate convenience fee will be added to all e-checks for processing.
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A road name is required for any road that provides access to more than one lot, or to one lot with more than two buildings or more than four houses. Road names must be approved before a final subdivision map is recorded. Existing roads can be named or renamed through petition of a majority of the property owners located on the road.
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PROCESSING FEE NOTICE: Effective November 9th, 2020, a 2.35% convenience fee ($1.49 minimum) will be added to all credit card transactions and a $1.49 flat rate convenience fee will be added to all e-checks for processing.
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If your septic system needs to be repaired, you will need to submit for a permit to correct the onsite wastewater system.
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Learn more about permit terms, such as Coastal Development Plan, Discretionary Permit, and General Plan Amendment.
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Site Plan Review is required by this Title for projects more intensive than those requiring a Zoning Clearance. There is no Site Plan Review in the Coastal Zone. Approval of a land use permit only entitles the use itself; separate permits may also be required for any construction or grading activities.
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The County offers a Pre-Reviewed ADU Program where Residential Single-Family customers choose from County reviewed architectural and structural plans, with a selection of design styles. This program allows for a more cost-effective and streamlined process.
Though these plans are free, customers will still need to hire an engineer or architect for additional site-specific items, and review the Pre-Reviewed ADU Checklist.
These Pre-Reviewed ADU plans cannot be modified.
Pre-reviewed ADU customers must submit the below inquiry to allow County Planning Staff to conduct an initial review of the parcel. Planning staff will respond with an email indicating if there are any unforeseen restrictions to the parcel.
Pre-Reviewed Designs
Click each option below to view floorplans and perspective views.
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The Department of Planning & Building administers state and federal pollution prevention policies for stormwater runoff, verifying that appropriate stormwater permits and plans are in place prior to the commencement of construction. Department staff is available to support applicants with determining which permits and plans are required and will oversee implementation of appropriate pollution control practices during construction.
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Property owners with a single-family residence may be eligible to build an accessory dwelling unit on their property using plans that have been pre-reviewed by the County of San Luis Obispo.
PLEASE NOTE: The plans cannot be modified. You will also need to go through the County permit process prior to beginning construction. This process will be expedited because the plans are pre-reviewed.
If you are interested, complete the following steps:
- Complete the inquiry form below.
- Planning staff will respond with an email confirming zoning requirements.
- Review the Pre-Reviewed ADU Checklist and gather the necessary information.
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The Department of Planning & Building administers state and federal pollution prevention policies for stormwater runoff, verifying that appropriate stormwater permits and plans are in place prior to the commencement of construction. Department staff is available to support applicants with determining which permits and plans are required and will oversee implementation of appropriate pollution control practices during construction.
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Amendment to Previously Approved Subdivision. The Department of Planning & Building processes subdivision entitlements, including amendments, according to the provisions of the state Subdivision Map Act and the County Real Property Division Ordinance.
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Initial approval of Land Use Permits and Subdivisions is valid for 24 months (two years). Time Extensions of ONE (1) year may be requested based on the type of project (for example: Minor Use or Conditional Use Permits, and Parcel or Tract Maps).
Click here for a comprehensive table outlining the eligibility and applicable hearing body or approval processes for various types of Land Use Permits and Subdivisions.
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Permits for Residential Demolition, will require the following naming conventions:
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The Department of Planning and Building reviews land use permit applications for the use of any structure or land for events for consistency with County Code Section 22.30.610 or 23.08.248. Temporary Events require a Minor Use Permit, unless the property has less than two public access points, a Conditional Use Permit is required to waive this standard. If you would like to apply for a land use permit for Temporary Events, please follow the process here. Approval of a land use permit only entitles the use itself; separate permits may also be required for any construction or grading activities.
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Here you will find the required file naming conventions.
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The process of dividing real property into more than four lots for the purposes of sale, lease or financing (including condominiums). State law requires approval and recordation of a map showing the division before sale, lease or financing of a new parcel can legally occur. Tract maps are acted on by the Planning Commission.
A land division occurs when a parcel of land is divided into two or more parcels, each of which can be sold and owned independently of the others. The Department of Planning & Building processes land division applications for subdivision entitlements according to the provisions of the state Subdivision Map Act and the County Real Property Division Ordinance.
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The number of dwelling units that may be established on a site that complies with Inland Area Minimum Site Area (Title 22) and Coastal Zone Minimum Site Area (Title 23), is based upon the land use category (i.e. Zoning) applied to the site by the Land Use Element. Learn about what determines the maximum number of single- or multi-family units that may be allowed.
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The Department of Planning & Building issues tree removal permits in accordance with county regulations, which differ in the inland and coastal portions of the county. Some areas have additional regulations regarding the removal of trees. Anyone wishing to remove a tree on their property should first contact department staff to determine what regulations apply to their property.
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Permits for Residential Foundation Only, will require the following naming conventions.
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In accordance with California Assembly Bill 52 (AB 52), the Department of Planning & Building consults with Native American tribes regarding any project that is not exempt from environmental review. This consultation provides the most effective way for the Department to determine if a project could result in significant environmental impacts to tribal cultural resources.
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Permits for Residential Foundation Only, will require the following naming conventions.
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An Urban Lot Split is one component of SB-9 ATKINS, 2021-2022. The following is the process for how to apply for an Urban Lot Split. The first thing is to review the Urban Lot Split Eligibily Checklist to determine if a property meets minimum requirements before applying.
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Permits for Residential Grading, will require the following naming conventions.
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A discretionary permit, acted on by the Planning Commission, to modify requirements of an ordinance or area plan. A Variance cannot reduce the minimum parcel size or authorize uses that are not allowed by Table 2-2 of the Inland Land Use Ordinance or Table O of the Coastal Land Use Ordinance.
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Permits for Residential Grading, will require the following naming conventions.
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A Voluntary Merger is a process that results in the combination of two or more contiguous parcels which are held in common ownership into a single parcel.
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Permits for Residential Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing, will require the following naming conventions.
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The process to apply for a zoning clearance to rent an entire house for less than 30 days in Willaimson Act contracted land.
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Permits for Residential Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing, will require the following naming conventions.
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If you would like to apply for a land use permit for a Wireless Communication Facility, please follow the process here.
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Residential New Structure, Residential Addition/Alteration, and Plan Check Only, will require the following naming conventions.
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The Department of Planning and Building reviews applications for modifications to existing telecommunications facilities to ensure compliance with County Code Section 22.64.050 or 23.02.038, and Federal Communications Commission Rule Section 6409(a).
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Residential New Structure, Residential Addition/Alteration, and Plan Check Only, will require the following naming conventions.
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Permits for Residential Onsite Wastewater Treatement System, will require the following naming conventions.
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Permits for Residential Onsite Wastewater Treatement System, will require the following naming conventions.
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Permits for Residential Photovoltaic Systems, will require the following naming conventions.
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Permits for Residential Photovoltaic Systems, will require the following naming conventions.
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The Permit Center Lobby is open to facilitate scheduling appointments and for permit correction returns/pick-up. All permit applications submitted with hardcopy plans will be processed and issued in that format. We are not able to switch to electronic submittal after processing begins. If you have questions, please contact your designated plans examiner, land use technician, or their supervisor.
In-person appointments may be scheduled for Building Permit Intake, correction return/pick-up and issuance by calling 805-781-5600. Appointments are available Monday-Friday between the hours of 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM (Closed 12:00-1:30 PM).
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On September 16, 2021, the Governor approved Senate Bill No. 9 (SB-9) (ATKINS 2021-2022). The goal of this bill is to help combat the housing crisis by encouraging small-scale residential development on eligible lots (see "Eligible Lot Determination“ below) through streamlining the process for construction of up to two primary dwellings and/or subdivision of an existing lot.
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The Department of Planning & Building encourages property owners to regularly maintain their onsite wastewater treatment systems for optimal functioning. The Department provides forms for reporting the condition of systems and verifying system capacity for building expansions. This page also includes educational information and quick tips on the proper use of onsite wastewater treatment systems.
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The Department of Planning & Building encourages property owners to regularly maintain their onsite wastewater treatment systems for optimal functioning. The Department provides forms for reporting the condition of systems and verifying system capacity for building expansions. This page also includes educational information and quick tips on the proper use of onsite wastewater treatment systems.
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This page is to provide links to where locate setback standards are located in County Ordinances, Planning Area Standards, and Map Conditions.
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A one story detached residential accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet (11m 2 ) shall not require a permit, except for the following.
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For the Coastal Zone, there are two (2) different Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) or Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) options for single-family dwellings and two (2) different ADU options for multi-family dwellings. As you click on the type, further detail will be provided. Only one option may be used on any given parcel.
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For the Inland Area of the County, there are two (2) different Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) or Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) options for single-family dwellings and two (2) different ADU options for multi-family dwellings. As you click on the type, further detail will be provided. Only one option may be used on any given parcel.
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The following subdivision entitlements can be processed with a land division application:
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Swimming pools, including hot tubs, spas, and related equipment.
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Any accessory structure intended solely or primarily for engaging in artwork, crafts, light hand manufacturing, mechanical work, etc. is subject to the following ordinances:
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