Development Services
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Book a Virtual Counter Appointment
If you need help getting started to plan, permit or build a project in the City of San Diego, the Development Services Department (DSD) is here to help. For detailed reviews and responses, or for written determinations, DSD provides a Preliminary Review service. For more information on this service, please review Information Bulletin 513.
You can now book free virtual counter appointments to get direct assistance from a DSD representative, who will be able to answer questions about the City of San Diego building and development requirements.
You can schedule a virtual counter appointment during normal business hours, choosing from available meeting times and services. All appointments are conducted using Microsoft Teams.
We look forward to serving you and using new tools and technology at #DigitalDSD, a proactive initiative to modernize all workplace systems and cost-effectively leverage technology to increase productivity and improve service delivery to customers.
Preparing for a Virtual Meeting
Before your appointment, remember to:
- Have a computer, tablet or smartphone with internet access.
- As the virtual counter appointments will be conducted using Microsoft Teams, please familiarize yourself with this virtual meeting platform. Download Microsoft Teams
- The use of webcams during the virtual counter appointment is optional.
- During the virtual counter appointment, DSD representatives can share their computer screen.
- Be prepared to share your computer screen and electronic project documents during the virtual counter appointment in Microsoft Teams.
- You will not be able to email files before, during or after meetings.
- Organize and plan for your virtual counter appointment, have an agenda, and be prepared with all your questions in advance.
Appointment Types
Engineering / Right-of-Way Permits
For customers that need assistance with grading, drainage or a public-improvement projects in the public right-of-way including:
- curb, gutter or sidewalk replacements;
- retaining walls three feet or less in height;
- repair or replacement of driveways;
- sidewalk underdrains;
- utilities such as water, sewer, gas and electric lines; and
- encroachments.
If you have questions about a specific project number, please contact the individual reviewer(s) directly.
30 minutes
Historic - 1st Contact Assistance
For customers who are considering historic designations, preservation of a property, building or other structure, or need assistance with a potential historical issue.
If you have questions about a specific project number, please contact the individual reviewer(s) directly.
30 minutes
ADUs, Signs & Zoning
For general information on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), signs and zoning regulations. This service is recommended prior to submitting construction permits or to receive clarification on specific regulations.
- ADUs and Junior ADUs - Outside the Coastal Overlay Zone
- Signs – Commercial businesses and places
- Zoning – Base Zone Development Regulations
Outside of the Coastal Overlay Zone, Community Plan Implementation Overlay Zone (CPIOZ) or a Specific Plan; maximum height limits, floor area ratio, setback requirements or allowable uses.
View specific zones, overlay zones and other property information. If you have questions about a specific project number, please contact the individual reviewer(s) directly.
30 minutes
Planning & Land Development
For general information on zoning, land use and development regulations.
The “Planning” appointment type will handle all other “zoning, land use and development regulations” inquiries not handled by Zoning including questions related to a Planned District Ordinance, Affordable Housing, ADUs, Junior ADUs, Parking Standards TPA, discretionary permits, Coastal Overlay Zone, environmentally sensitive lands, specific plans, Community Plan Implementation Overlay Zones, etc.
View specific zones, overlay zones and other property information. If you have questions about a specific project number, please contact the individual reviewer(s) directly.
30 minutes
Downtown Development
For customers seeking information on or who have development review questions about projects located within the Downtown Community Plan area only.
If you have questions about a specific project number, please contact the individual reviewer(s) directly.
30 minutes
Records Review (In-Person Appointment)
For customers who need to review archived building plans or records.
45 minutes in-person at the City Operations Building
Traffic Control
For customers who are planning to close traffic lanes, sidewalks, parking areas and parking meters; process traffic control and dumpster permits for construction; want to apply for a Temporary Outdoor Business Operations permit, or who have questions about traffic control in the City’s right-of-way.
If you have questions about a specific project number, please contact the individual reviewer(s) directly.
30 minutes