The County classifies a Home Addition (including normal additions and construction of attached patio covers, balconies and other structures attached to the dwelling) as a form of expansion, which is defined as increasing the area or volume occupied by or devoted to a use, increasing the living space or occupant capacity of a structure. The following are not considered to be expansion: the addition of unenclosed porches, patio covers and the like; one enclosed addition of not more than 30 square feet to a dwelling; and the addition of detached accessory structures not for human habitation as accessory to a dwelling.
To determine the type of planning permit required for a proposed expansion, you must determine if your project site is located in a coastal or non-coastal area.
Expansions (also known as building additions) are permitted on all residentially zoned parcels in the non-coastal area. Note: Expansions are also permitted on legal, non-conforming parcels, which meet the setbacks and lot coverage requirements. However, if your project site is located in the coastal zone, the proposed unit must also conform to the development standards listed in Section Sec. 8174-4 of the Coastal Zoning Ordinance.
- Expansions, which are located in the non-coastal zone and meet the requirements in the Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance, require the issuance of a Zoning Clearance. Please fill out a Zoning Clearance Application and bring this with a set of site plans (include one set of 8.5”x11” reductions), floor plans, and elevation drawings to the Planning Public Counter at the County Government Center. To obtain the exact fee for a Zoning Clearance for an expansion at your project site, please contact a planner at the Planning Public Counter at (805) 654-2488 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
- Expansions, which are located in the coastal zone and meet the requirements in the Coastal Zoning Ordinance, require the issuance of a Coastal Planned Development Permit (or a modification to an existing permit) by the Planning Director (unless it is in an exempt area*), following environmental review and notification to neighbors. To obtain the necessary application materials and information about the approval process and fees for Coastal expansions, please contact a planner at the Planning Public Counter at (805) 654-2488.
- Sec. 8106-5.15 of the Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance
- See Sec. 8174-4 of the Coastal Zoning Ordinance
- *See Sec. 8174-5 of the Coastal Zoning Ordinance for Exempt Areas