Apply for a Permit
Welcome to the Development Services Online Permitting Process!
The Planning & Development Services Department strives to improve the permitting application process, reduce application review timelines, and increase communications with our customers. We encourage you to book an appointment through the link below for any questions about out permitting process.
Apply for a Permit
The City of Palo Alto uses an online permitting portal called Accela Citizen Access (ACA). All permit submittals shall be submitted through this portal.
Filing for a permit will only take a few easy steps. Please select from the permit type options below, or, if you don't know what permit you need, contact our staff via phone or email:
5/28/2025: Building Inspection Services – Temporary Impact: Building inspection appointment availability is limited through July. Appointment wait times may extend up to 3 days, and our team is actively working to increase appointment slots when possible. We appreciate your patience and understanding and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
5/28/2025: Fire Plan Review – Temporary Impact: Due to current Fire plan review staffing challenges, applicants may experience delays in fire plan review turnaround times through June. Thank you for your patience. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Book an Appointment
|
Book an Appointment
|
|
Not sure where to start? Do you have a questions regarding our our permitting process? Book an in-person or virtual appointment with our staff. An appointment is highly encouraged for those visiting the Development Center in-person to help you in a timely manner.
|
|
If you are unable to schedule an appointment using the button above, please call (650) 329-2496 and we can help schedule one for you.
How was your experience?
Tell us how we are doing! The City is continually trying to improve services. If you are interested in providing feedback, please complete this quick Development Services Survey or the Building Inspection Survey. Comments and suggestions are also welcome via email to PDSDirector@paloalto.gov.