Important Notice
PAYMENT IS DUE at time of submittal. This Clearance covers Zoning Permits ONLY. Other permits such as Building, Fire, City Administrator, or Alameda County/State of California permits may be required prior to commencing your business. Contact the appropriate agency to determine if further permits are needed.
You don't need a Zoning Clearance Permit if your business is outside of the City or if your only business is being a rental property operator (landlord). You also don’t need a Zoning Clearance for operating a family daycare home, which is a facility that provides care, protection, and supervision for fourteen or fewer children, in the provider’s own home, for periods of less than 24 hours per day, while the parents or guardians are away.
The Zoning Clearance Permit means your business can operate at your chosen location. In some cases, before you get a Zoning Clearance your proposed business activity must also go through a special Conditional Use Permit process.
The Zoning Clearance is a one-time permit that is good as long as your business stays the same and in the same location. You will need the Zoning Clearance permit before applying for your business tax certificate.
Apply through our Online Permit Center (no need to login or register)
Once we receive your application, staff will review your documents for completeness. If we need further information, we will contact you. For the latest processing estimates, please see our Average Permit Processing Turnaround Times webpage.
If your business will be open to the public, be sure you are also following all applicable local, state and federal laws to ensure access for disabled persons.
The one-time Zoning Clearance Permit means your business can operate at your chosen location and is valid as long as your business operation stays the same and in the same location.
You can learn more about zoning permits by calling the Zoning Hotline at (510) 238-3911.
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