Community Planning & Building
Community Planning & Building
The Community Planning and Building Department includes the Planning, Building, and Code Compliance Divisions and is responsible for preserving community character while fostering a vibrant community and a high quality of life for its residents, businesses, and visitors.
Strategic Plan
The Community Planning and Building Department completed a departmental Strategic Plan in June 2019. The Plan identifies the Values, Vision, and Mission of the Department as well as Goals and Objectives to guide the Department over the next 3 years.
Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
City Hall is now open to the general public in a limited manner. Community Planning and Building is open for walk-ins between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. File reviews cannot be accomodated on a walk-in basis and now require that an appointment be scheduled. We continue to encourage applicants to submit electronically through our website.
Outdoor Seating in the Public Way
Local Guidance on Outdoor Dining – Orange Tier – updated April 6, 2021
Local Guidance on Outdoor Dining - Red Tier – updated March 23, 2020
Temporary Encroachment Permit Application for Outdoor Seating in the Public Way
Standard Conditions of Approval
Design Review Application for Outdoor Seating on Private Property
Current Orders & Directives
Building Safety Division
The Building Safety Division is responsible for permitting and inspection of construction projects within the City. The Carmel Municipal Code in Title 15 adopts the codes enumerated in the CA Code of Regulations, Title 24; including the CA Administrative, Building, Plumbing, Electrical, Mechanical, Energy, and Green Building Standards Codes.
Code Compliance Division
Carmel-by-the-Sea is internationally recognized as a unique small coastal community with a distinctive residential village character. The Code Compliance Division ensures compliance with the Carmel Municipal Code and provides public education and outreach on existing laws as well as resolving code violations.
Planning Division
The Planning Division processes current development applications, maintains the General Plan and Local Coastal Program, and ensures that capital programs, zoning and other activities of the City are consistent with the goals and policies of the General Plan.