City of Encinitas
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Customer Self Service
We are now accepting all Planning, Building, Engineering, Fire, and Special Event permit applications online through our Customer Self Service (CSS) portal. Registration is required.
All applications are processed electronically and paper submittals will no longer be accepted.
- Save fillable forms to your desktop or device, then complete.
- Log in and apply online through CSS
Questions? View a list of city departments with contact information.
Effective July 1, 2026, Planning and Engineering fees were adjusted by 3.8%, reflecting the annual Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase, pursuant to City Council Resolutions 2026-52 and 2026-53. Additionally, outdoor dining right-of-way usage fees were increased in accordance with City Council Resolution 2026-54. The fee adjustments can be found here.
On May 20, 2026, the Encinitas City Council approved an increase in Development Impact Fees (Resolution No. 2026-34) following a Citywide Development Impact Fee Study. A detailed look at the new fees, including a 5% Administrative Fee, can be found in the May 20, 2026 City Council Agenda Report. The new fee structure will go into effect on July 20th, 2026.
Forms & Applications by Department/Topic
Accessibility Permit Application
Required for Title 24 Accessibility (State regulations designed to comply with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and State statutes). Commercial & Mixed Use Only.
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) or Permit-Ready Accessory Dwelling Unit (PRADU) Permit Application
Required for construction of attached or detached residential dwelling units, which are secondary to a primary single-family dwelling and require their own separate stand alone permit.
Addition Permit Application
Required for the extension or increase of floor area or height of a building or structure.
Alteration & Repair Permit Application
Required for any construction, renovation or repair of an existing structure, other than an addition.
Building Permit Document Submission Standards
Guide for document standards for the building permit application process.
Certifications Required
Certification forms required for building permits.
Demolition Permit Application
Required for removal of a structure or portion of a structure.
Energy Efficiency Permit Application
Required when applying to install a Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System (including Roof-Mounted, Ground Mounted, and Solar Roof Tiles), Solar Battery Storage, Electric Vehicle Charging Station(s). (separate permit required for each)
Legalize Unpermitted ADUs and JADUs
Assembly Bill 2533 was signed into law. This bill prohibits a local agency from denying a permit for an unpermitted ADU or JADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, unless the local agency makes a finding that correcting a violation is necessary to address a substandard condition.
MEP Trade Permit Application
A mechanical, electrical, and/or plumbing permit is required when installing, altering or completing a change in a residential or non-residential structure. These are simple, stand-alone permits not attached to a larger building project.
New Construction Definition FAQ
Frequently asked questions regarding the City's definition of new construction.
New Construction Permit Application
Required for construction of new dwelling units (i.e., Single Family Residence, Duplex, Condominium, Apartment, Commercial or Mixed Used Structure).
On Demand Residential Water Heater Permit Guidelines
This handout is attached to the on-demand permit to inform applicants and installers of the primary code requirements for like-for-like residential water heater replacement. It is not an application checklist, approval form, or substitute for the adopted codes, local amendments, equipment listing, manufacturer instructions, or inspection authority.
Pool Permit Application
Required for construction of a pool, in-ground spa, or pond, greater than 18 inches in depth (separate permit required for hardscape, fire pit, BBQ, gazebo, etc.)
Request for Reasonable Accommodation
Form to request reasonable accommodations in housing for persons with disabilities.
Re-Roof Permit Application
Required to replace roofing material on an existing structure.
Retaining Wall Permit Application
Required to construct a wall over four feet in height from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, or if holding surcharge.
Revisions/Deferred Submittal to Approved Plans
Sign Permit Application
Required for any permanent sign - wall, freestanding, blade, monument, directional or site.
Temporary or Accessory Structure Permit Application
Required for construction of a temporary or accessory building or structure (examples include garages, patio covers, decks, ramps) Does not include Accessory Dwelling Units.
Tenant Improvement Permit Application
Required for any construction or renovation of an existing structure, other than repair or addition. Commercial & Mixed Use only.
Business Registration Application
Required for any person or entity which conducts business within the City of Encinitas.
Home Occupation Regulations
Regulations for conducting a business at a residence.
Citizen's Complaint Form
To report violations of Municipal Code within the City.
Covid 19 - Temporary Commercial Use Permit Application
The City of Encinitas has taken steps to assist local houses of worship and fitness-oriented businesses in dealing with COVID-19.
Covid 19 - Temporary Use/Encroachment Permit Application
The City of Encinitas has taken steps to assist local businesses in dealing with COVID-19.
City Tree PROW Permit Application
Required for the removal, trimming, or any other modification of a City Tree.
Construction PROW Permit Application
Required for the installation, repair, and/or replacement of standard works in the public right-of-way or a public easement.
Encinitas Survey Control Network Datasheets
Survey Control Network - drawings, descriptions & photos.
Encinitas Survey Control Network Maps
Maps of Survey Control Network.
Encinitas Survey Monument Viewer
Web application to locate survey monuments and benchmarks.
Encroachment Beach PROW Permit Application
Required for work requiring beach access and/or temporary beach encroachment, which may include work such as the construction of seawalls, tree trimming, bluff maintenance, or bluff stabilization.
Encroachment Permanent PROW Permit Application
Required to allow the encroachment of non-standard works into the public right-of-way or a public easement. For CONSTRUCTION in the right-of-way, see “Construction PROW Permit" above.
Encroachment Temporary PROW Permit Application - Required for any object proposed to be placed within a public right-of-way or easement on a temporary basis. For CONSTRUCTION in the right-of-way, see “Construction PROW Permit" above.
Engineering Design Manual
Guide to the public and professionals in the submittal of required material to the Engineering Department for the processing of Engineering permits, grading plans, subdivision maps and parcel maps, drainage designs, sewer designs and water designs.
Stormwater BMP Design Manual
City Council approved 2023 Stormwater Best Management Practice (BMP) Design Manual,
Chapter 7 of the Engineering Design Manual.
Public Road Standards
City Council approved Public Road Standards and requirements.
Engineering Fees
Fees associated with Engineering permit applications and processes.
Engineering Plan Index Viewer
This interactive map app will allow you to identify, view, and print plans and drawings associated with a particular location.
Final Map and Final Parcel Map Application
Required to process a Final Subdivision Map or Parcel Map.
General Financial Information
Acceptable forms of posted surety, security obligation agreements & terms of release.
Grading Permit Application
A Grading permit is required for any earth movement, clearing and grubbing, remedial earthwork, drainage modification, and for the creation of new impervious surface areas, unless the work is exempt as per Municipal Code Section 23.24.
Grading Plan Title Sheet (DWG)
City standard grading plan title sheet and notes for private development projects.
Hardscape/Drainage Permit
Required for new AND/OR removed and replaced hardscape over 500sf.
Haul Route Permit Application
Required for hauling dirt, debris or materials within the City of Encinitas and out of the City of Encinitas.
Newsrack PROW Permit Application
Required when placing a newsrack within the public right-of-way.
Public Improvement Permit Application
A Public Improvement permit is required for any improvements within the existing or proposed public right-of-way, such as street or sewer improvements.
Public Improvement Plan Title Sheet (DWG)
City standard public improvement plan title sheet and notes for private development projects.
Sewer Lateral PROW Permit Application
Required when adding, replacing, or modifying a sewer connection to an existing main.
Sidewalk Cafe Permit Application
Required when any sidewalk or outdoor dining will occur within the public right-of-way.
Sidewalk Vending Permit Application
Required when food or merchandise is proposed for sale from a vending receptacle (such as pushcart or stand) or from one’s person, upon a public sidewalk or other pedestrian path.
Stormwater Intake Form
To be provided with all new development to determine if the project requires permanent BMPs.
Traffic Control PROW Permit Application
Required for any work within a City street that may impact or in any way alter the flow of vehicular, bicycle, or pedestrian traffic.
Transportation Permit Application
Required to apply for a Truck Permit.
Trench Cut Moratorium
Required to request a moratorium waiver in accordance with the City of Encinitas Resolution 2019-95.
Utility PROW Permit Application
Required when public right-of-way work will occur on existing or proposed utilities.
Fire Construction Permits
A Fire Construction permit is required for installation or modification to any equipment specified under California Fire Code Section 105.7, including, but not limited to, battery systems, compressed gas systems, and equipment used to store, dispense, or transport flammable and combustible liquids.
Fire Defensible Space Inspection
This inspection is only required for properties that are within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
Fire Protection Systems Permits
A permit is required per CFC Section 105 for the installation of or modification to any fire protection system.
Tent or Canopy Permit Application
Required for Tents or Canopies that exceed 400 square feet.
CAP Checklist - Multifamily
Required to be included with building permit submittals for multifamily residential construction, including mixed-use, alterations, and additions.
CAP Checklist - Nonresidential
Required to be included with building permit submittals for nonresidential construction, including alterations, and additions.
CAP Checklist - Single Family Residential
Required to be included with building permit submittals for single family residential construction, including alterations, and additions.
Construction & Demolition Waste Management Plan
Required for all projects. Must recycle at least 65% of project generated waste.
Electric Vehicle Charging Station Permit Application
Information and guidelines to help applicants through a streamlined permitting process for installing Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS).
Electric Readiness of Multifamily Central Hot Water Systems
This document is intended to provide guidance for compliance with the electric readiness provisions of the Encinitas Municipal Code Section 23.12.080. It may be updated from time-to-time.
Electric-Ready Design Guide
If an exception is granted, refer to this guide to provide for electric capacity for future retrofit of all-electric equipment.
Encinitas Energy Efficiency and Green Building Requirements: Introduction (Part 1)
Check out this comprehensive video which provides an overview of the City’s local energy efficiency and green building codes. This is the first of a three-part video series designed to guide you through the requirements and how to demonstrate your project’s compliance.
Energy Efficiency and Green Building Guidelines
Fact Sheet - New Construction
Overview of all-electric requirements for all new buildings.
Fact Sheet - Electric Vehicle Charging
Overview of electric vehicle charging regulations.
Fact Sheet - Multifamily Energy Efficiency
Overview of requirements for existing multifamily residential energy efficiency measures.
Fact Sheet - Non-Residential Energy Efficiency
Overview of requirements for existing non-residential energy efficiency measures.
Fact Sheet - Non-Residential Solar PV Fact Sheet
Overview of requirements for new and existing non-residential solar requirements.
Fact Sheet - Residential Energy Efficiency
Overview of requirements for existing single family residential energy efficiency measures.
Gray Water Irrigation Systems Permit Application
Information and regulations regarding gray water systems.
Green Building Incentive Program
Information and registration for the City’s green building program.
Heat Pump Water Heater Application
Required when installing or altering a Heat Pump Water Heater in a residential or non-residential structure. Applications which have acknowledged compliance with all applicable code requirements by completing the One Day Heat Pump Water Heater Checklist will have permits issued within 24 hours of the time of application.
Solar Domestic Water Heating Permit Application
Required for rooftop solar domestic water heating project 30 kWth or less.
Solar Photovoltaic Permit Application
Required for Solar Photovoltaic Rooftop Installation.
Solar Pool Heating Permit Application
Required for rooftop solar pool heating project 30 kWth or less.
Affordable Housing Impact Fee for Residential Care Facilities
Residential Care Projects of Seven or More Units/Beds. The established fee is $20 per square-foot of floor area as listed in City Council Resolution 2021-78 which specifies the fee shall be adjusted administratively annual based on the percent change in the most current Engineering News Record Construction Cost Index. The current established fee, effective July 1, 2026, is $24.83 per square-foot of floor area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Housing Development Tracking Form - Multifamily
Submit the appropriate form prior to issuance of a building permit.
Housing Development Tracking Form - Single Family or ADU
Submit the appropriate form prior to issuance of a building permit.
Housing Supplement and Tenant Income Forms - (En Español)
Required for all new housing development.
Inclusionary Housing In-Lieu Fee
Residential Development Projects of six or fewer units. The established fee is $20 per square-foot of floor area as listed in City Council Resolution 2021-77 which specifies the fee shall be adjusted administratively annual based on the percent change in the most current Engineering News Record Construction Cost Index. The current established fee, effective July 1, 2026, is $24.83 per square-foot of floor area.
Request for Reasonable Accommodation
Form to request reasonable accommodations in housing for persons with disabilities.
Residential Rehabilitation Program Application - (En Español)
Program to assist low income households with home repairs. For more information, or if you would like to request a fillable version of the application, please contact: (760) 943-2293
cschubert@encinitasca.gov
mholcombe@encinitasca.gov
Recreational Vehicle Parking Permit Application
Required for parking any trailer, camper trailer, boat and trailer, cab-over camper/truck camper, motor home, or similar vehicle on a public street.
Activity Assistance Application
Financial assistance for eligible Encinitas youth and seniors enrolling in programs offered through the Encinitas Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department.
Athletic Field Allocation Use Policy
Athletic Field Use Application
Field use permits are required for use of City athletic fields. Review the policy before submitting your application.
Commercial Use Permit Application
Annual permits are required for commercial use of public recreational property.
Indoor Rental Application
Required to reserve a room at the Community/Senior Center and Library.
Naming of City Land Facilities & Amenities Form
Request to name or change name of City land, facilities and amenities.
Outdoor Facility Use Application
Required for groups of 25 or more.
Special Event Information Guide
Required for groups of 25 or more.
50 Percent Rule
Policy summary related to Coastal Development Permit requirements, and the removal of more than 50 percent of the exterior walls of an existing single-family home.
AB 130 Supplement Application
AB 130 [Public Resources Code §21080.66.] includes an exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for certain urban infill development projects. The exemption provides a complete exemption from CEQA for all aspects of a qualifying “housing development project”. Applicants intending to use AB 130 infill housing exemption must fill out this supplemental application to demonstrate eligibility prior to a project being deemed complete.
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) Guide
Regulations for accessory units (aka second units or “granny flats”).
Affordable Housing Impact Fee for Residential Care Facilities
Residential Care Projects of Seven or More Units/Beds. The established fee is $20 per square-foot of floor area as listed in City Council Resolution 2021-78 which specifies the fee shall be adjusted administratively annual based on the percent change in the most current Engineering News Record Construction Cost Index. The current established fee, effective July 1, 2026, is $24.83 per square-foot of floor area.
Inclusionary Housing In-Lieu Fee
Residential Development Projects of six or fewer units. The established fee is $20 per square-foot of floor area as listed in City Council Resolution 2021-77 which specifies the fee shall be adjusted administratively annual based on the percent change in the most current Engineering News Record Construction Cost Index. The current established fee, effective July 1, 2026, is $24.83 per square-foot of floor area.
Affordable Housing Plan - Six or Fewer Units
An Affordable Housing Plan is required for residential developments of six or fewer units and expansions and additions of 500 square feet or greater.
Agricultural Permit Application
For staff-level application reviews (appointment required).
Alcoholic Beverage Sales and Public Convenience or Necessity Application Supplement
Alcohol Service Establishment - Existing Application Supplement
Required for all applications for modification of existing alcohol service establishments.
Alcohol Service Establishment - New Application Supplement
Required for all applications for new alcohol service establishments.
Applicant’s Guide to Setbacks
Information and examples for application of setback requirements.
Application for Environmental Initial Study (AEIS)
For projects that require environmental review.
Attic Policy Handout
Policy that defines the parameters of a qualifying attic for purposes of identifying when the attic space is considered a story for zoning purposes.
Campaign Signs FAQ
Frequently asked questions regarding campaigns signs.
Cannabis Businesses (CSS)
Registration and application materials for retail and non-retail cannabis businesses.
CAP Checklist - Multifamily
Required to be included with building permit submittals for multifamily residential construction, including mixed-use, alterations, and additions.
CAP Checklist - Nonresidential
Required to be included with building permit submittals for nonresidential construction, including alterations, and additions.
CAP Checklist - Single Family
Required to be included with building permit submittals for single family residential construction, including alterations, and additions.
CDP Requirements for Residential Remodels
Information on CDP requirements for residential remodels and additions.
Certificate of Compliance
Information on the Certificate of Compliance process.
Citizen’s Participation Plan Handout
Detailed instructions for preparing a Citizen’s Participation Plan.
Concurrent Processing Guide
Guidelines for allowing concurrent processing associated with active discretionary permits.
Concurrent Processing Hold Harmless
Hold harmless form to allow for concurrent processing prior to the submittal of grading permit or building with active discretionary permits.
Condominium Conversion
Information on converting existing residential units to condominiums.
Condominium Conversion and Parcel Map Waivers Application Supplement
The purpose of this handout is to summarize the procedures and submittal requirements for a condominium conversion/parcel map waiver.
Density Bonus FAQ
Information regarding density bonus.
Design Review Application Supplement
Determination of Legal Parcel
Guidelines used for determining if a parcel of land is legal.
Discretionary and Building Permit Title Sheet
Title sheet template with cad file for discretionary projects and/or building permits.
Encinitas Register of Historic Places Application
To request property be placed on local register.
Facility Availability Form: Fire
For subdivisions, submit to Fire Department, then with map application.
Facility Availability Form: School
For subdivisions, submit to School District(s), then with map application.
Facility Availability Form: Sewer
For subdivisions, submit to Sewer District, then with map application.
Facility Availability Form: Water
For subdivisions, submit to Water District, then with map application.
Final/Parcel Map Fee Form
Submit with fee to Planning Department prior to filing final/parcel map.
Height Certification Form
Licensed Land Surveyor to complete to verify building height.
Heritage Tree Nomination Form
Complete and submit to nominate a tree for Heritage Tree status.
Historic Resource Supplement
To be used for all historic resources and/or projects involving structures 50 years or older.
Housing Development Tracking Form - Multifamily
Submit prior to building permit issuance.
Housing Development Tracking Form - Single Family or ADU
Submit prior to building permit issuance.
Housing Supplement and Tenant Income Forms - (En Español)
Required for all new housing development.
Invasive Plant Policy
Information on the City's invasive plant policy.
Landscape Certificate of Completion
This certificate shall be filled out by the landscape designer of record for the project within 10 days after installation.
Landscape Documentation Package Checklist
Submit as required prior to construction permit issuance.
Lot Line Adjustment
Information on the lot line (boundary) adjustment process.
Wireless Permit Application - New Facilities
Wireless application checklist and requirements for new wireless facilities or non-qualifying 6409(a) wireless facilities.
Mills Act Handout
Information on the City’s Mills Act Program for historical structures.
Net Acreage Calculator
This calculator is intended to implement Residential Development Standard EMC 30.16.010(B)(2). See also the definition of ‘net acreage’ in EMC 30.04.010.
Overlay Zones Application Supplement
Parking Study and Valet Parking Plan Application Supplement
Parkland Acquisition and Improvements Fees
Parks and Recreation development impact fees (administered by the Planning Division).
Permanent Sign Application
Submit for monument signs and sign programs (appointment required).
Planning Application
For staff-level and Planning Commission application reviews (appointment required).
Planning Application - Intake Process
Guide to the Planning application intake process.
Planning Application Processing Fees
Administrative, discretionary and building plan check application fees.
Planning Application, Preliminary (SB330)
Application to apply for a SB330 application to establish development standards, fees, and the ordinances for a housing development project.
Residential Fences and Walls
Information and standards for residential fences and walls.
Residential Height Regulations
The City's height regulations and how to apply them.
Revisions and Deferred Submittals to Plans
Submit when making revisions to existing project.
SB 35 Supplemental Application
Required to submit prior to a full submittal to determine eligibility.
SB 9 Application Supplement
Submit with Planning Application for a SB 9 Two Unit Residential Development or Urban Lot Split.
SB 9 Two-Unit Residential Development and/or Urban Lot Split
SB 9 FAQ and Additional Information for Two-Unit Residential Development and/or Urban Lot Splits.
SB 9 Urban Lot Split and Two Unit Development Application Supplement
Application supplement and submittal checklist for SB-9 urban lot splits and two-unit developments.
SB 684 and SB 1123 Supplement Application
Sign Information
Information on sign allowances, requirements and regulations.
Staff Advisory Committee
Information on the City’s Staff Advisory Committee.
Staff Advisory Committee Request Form
Request form required to schedule an appointment for a Staff Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting.
Substantial Conformance Application Supplement
Temporary Parking Lot Tent Regulations
Zoning requirements for temporary tents and canopies.
Temporary Sign/Banner Application (CSS)
Submit for temporary sign and banner permits.
Tentative Map Application Supplement
Requirements for tentative map applications.
Time Extensions Application Supplement
Urban Agriculture FAQ
Information on urban agriculture regulations.
Urban Lot Split Owner Occupancy Affidavit
Affidavit of intent of owner-occupancy.
Use Permit Application Supplement
Instructions for preparing a use permit statement of justification.
USPS Quick Reference Postal Requirements
Requirements for providing access to USPS personnel (provided by USPS).
Variance Application Supplement
Instructions for preparing a variance statement of justification.
Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet
Submit as required with Landscape Documentation Package.
Wireless Facilities Permit Application - Small Cell
Wireless application checklist and requirements for qualifying small cell wireless facilities.
Wireless Permit Application - 6409(a) Wireless Facility
Wireless application checklist and requirements for qualifying 6409(a) co-location wireless facilities.
Wireless Permit Application Supplement - 6409(a) Wireless Facility
Wireless application supplemental evaluation of requirements for qualifying 6409(a) co-location wireless facilities.
Wireless Permit Application Supplement - AB965 (Batched Wireless)
Wireless supplemental application for batched applications qualifying for AB965.
Zoning Designations
Descriptions of zoning designations in the City.
Zoning Summary - Commercial
Table of commercial zones and development standards (setbacks, etc.)
Zoning Summary - Residential
Table of residential zones and development standards (setbacks, etc.)
Alarm Permit Application
Required for any business or residence which utilizes an alarm system.
Amusement Establishment Permit Application
Required for any establishment which has five or more amusement devices such as pinball machines and arcade games.
Cannabis (Retail and Non-retail)
Registration and application materials for retail and non-retail cannabis businesses.
Entertainment Establishment Permit Application
Required for any establishment which conducts performances such as any act, play, review, song, show, concert or exhibition.
Firearms Dealer Permit Application
Required for any person or entity which facilitates the sale, lease, or transfer of firearms.
Junk Dealer, Auto Wrecking & Vehicle Storage Permit Application
Required for any entity which operates a junk yard, auto wrecking or storage yard.
Public Bingo Game License Application
Required for any entity which conducts public bingo games.
Public Dance Permit Application
Required for any entity which conducts public dances; additional permits may be required.
Secondhand Dealer Permit Application
Required for any establishment which conducts business as a pawnbroker or secondhand dealer.
Short Term Rental Enforcement FAQ
Short Term Rental Permit Application
Required for any entity which rents a single-family home or duplex for 30 consecutive days or less.
Solicitor - Charitable Permit Application
Required for any entity which requests contributions or sells services or goods for a charitable purpose.
Solicitor - Non Charitable Permit Application
Required for any entity which offers services or goods for sale door-to-door or in a public place.
Solicitor – Seasonal Permit Application
Required for any entity which offers services or goods on a seasonal basis.
Taxi Company Permit Application
Required for any taxi company which operates within the City of Encinitas.
Address Request
To request an address for a property be assigned or changed.
Appeal Request Form
To appeal a final determination by a board, committee, commission, or department, subordinate to the City Council.
Building Plan Copying
Laws, process and forms for obtaining copies of building plans and related documents.
Public Records Request
To request a City public record.
Service Request Application
Submit for minor research and service requests (zoning letters, etc.)
SDWD Schedule of Fees
List of fees associated with the San Dieguito Water District.
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