Apply for a Zoning Clearance Permit

If your business is in the City of Oakland, even if it is an office in your home, you'll need to get a Zoning Clearance Permit.

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.

What to Do

Zoning Clearance Requirements

How to Apply

  1. Step One: Apply Online

    Apply through our Online Permit Center (no need to login or register)

  2. Step Two: Application Review

    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.

Need to Know

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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