Phase 7: Permit Decision
The decision-maker approves, conditionally approves, or denies the discretionary planning permit.
What happens
Once application and environmental review are complete, the project is presented at a public hearing. Depending on your site’s zoning designation and the permitted-use matrix, the decision-maker may be the Planning Director, the Planning Commission, or the Board of Supervisors. Planning Director and Planning Commission decisions carry a 10-day appeal period before they take effect.
What you need
- Attendance at the public hearing for your project (the public is welcome)
- An understanding of the appeal process and any coastal appeals jurisdiction
Who’s involved
These County departments and districts typically take part in this phase:
Planning Director decisions are appealable to the Planning Commission; Commission decisions to the Board of Supervisors. Some coastal projects are appealable to the Coastal Commission.
Next step
Phase 8: Completing Your Project
Learn about the other permits you may need in addition to a discretionary planning permit.
Have a question about this phase?
The Planning Division can clarify requirements and connect you with the right reviewing department.