San José coordinates development review through its Development Services Permit Center, which connects Building, Planning, Fire, and Public Works services. Building permits, permit history, inspections, payments, and many online applications are handled through SJPermits, while SJePlans is used for electronic plan review involving Building, Planning, Fire, and Public Works.
Planning approval may be required separately from a building permit. San José’s Zoning Ordinance regulates permitted uses and development standards such as setbacks and building height, while Planned Development zoning can impose site-specific standards. Planning permits are also used for new development, changes in land use, subdivisions, signs, tree removal, and alterations affecting historic properties.
Tree regulation is a notable part of San José’s permitting landscape. A permit can be required to remove heritage trees, ordinance-size trees, street trees, and trees of any size on many multifamily, commercial, industrial, or mixed-use properties. Street trees are handled through the Department of Transportation, while private-property tree removal is generally reviewed through Planning.
Historic properties and public-right-of-way work can add further review. Exterior changes to designated City Landmarks and properties within City Historic Districts can require a Historic Preservation Permit or adjustment. Public Works separately issues encroachment and improvement permits for work affecting streets, sidewalks, utilities, and other public infrastructure. Applicants can begin with the Development Services Permit Center to identify the approvals needed for a project.