County of Santa Cruz Planning & Zoning — Local services in Santa Cruz

Our Planning Department is famous for bad service. When we built a house for our family 32 years ago the inspector asserted that the door into our garage was an exit door and subject to many expensive modifications. The front door into the house is 8 feet away from the door in question, so why would anyone try to exit through the garage? Now it is water heater permits ($300). Our current inspector could not identify an owner's manual. I showed one to him while looking for our permit and he gave us a Notice of Correction with point 2 being "Supply owner's manual"! As I recall from when our house was final inspected, the inspector asserted our furnace could not be installed horizontally so I had to bring the manual to an appointment in his office. I showed him the text saying horizontal installation was acceptable, but I think he is still sore that there weren't hundred dollar bills...

Going to ANY planning department is like going to the dentist (sorry dentists!), you do it because it's necessary. The Counties planning counter is ok in my limited experience (mostly pulling simple over-the-counter electrical permits). The planners I've dealt with have been friendly and helpful unless you go in with an attitude. I've heard horror stories about more complicated permits, and I wouldn't recommend Harry Homeowner go down with plans he drew up on the kitchen table thinking it'll be a one...

Miguel at the reception desk was very helpful. He was able to connect me with the persons that were able to resolve my issues. Miguel is very knowledgeable about the department and knows who can help you. The individuals I spoke to were knowledgeable and very patient with me and helped me...