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Planning FAQs
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Planning FAQs

Find answers to common questions about zoning, permits, development applications, and Planning Department services.

 

  • Zoning and Property Information

     

    • How do I find the zoning for a property?

      • Use the City’s interactive Zoning Map to search by address or parcel. Because some properties are governed by a specific plan or other special regulations, contact the Planning Department to confirm the applicable requirements before designing or submitting a project.

        View the Interactive Zoning Map

         

    • What uses are allowed on my property?

      • Allowed uses depend on the property’s zoning district, specific plan, and any previous approvals or conditions. Contact the Planning Department with the property address and a description of the proposed use.

       

    • What are the setbacks, height, parking, and development requirements for my property?

      • Development standards vary by zoning district and project type. Review the applicable Development Code or specific plan and confirm the requirements with Planning staff before preparing plans.

       

    • How can I obtain written confirmation of a property’s zoning or permitted use?

  • Planning Applications

     

    • Do I need Planning approval for my project?

      • Planning approval may be required for new construction, exterior modifications, changes of use, signs, temporary activities, home occupations, and other development. Contact Planning before submitting construction plans or beginning work.

         

    • How do I apply for a Planning permit?

       

    • Do I need an account to use the online portal?

      • An account is not required to search public records. You must create an account to submit an application, upload documents, pay fees, or manage your records.

       

    • What documents are required with my application?

      • Requirements depend on the application type. The portal will provide a customized filing checklist. Applications generally require completed forms, plans, supporting documents, and applicable fees.

        View Applications and Resources

       

    • How do I check the status of an application?

      • Log in to Citizen Portal Access, open My Records, select the record number, and choose Record/Permit Status under Record Information. Additionally, to check the status of Development Plan, Subdivision and Conditional Use Permit applications, he interactive Planning Projects map can also be used to confirm the status.

        Open Citizen Portal Access

        View the Planning Projects Map

       

    • How do I submit revised plans or corrections?

      • Open the applicable record in Citizen Portal Access and upload the requested documents through Digital Projects. Documents generally cannot be uploaded while the project is in an active review cycle.

       

    • How long does Planning review take?

      • Review times depend on the project type, completeness of the application, required environmental review, number of reviewing departments, and how quickly corrections are submitted. Staff can provide general timing after reviewing the project scope.

       

    • How do I pay Planning fees?

      • Fees may be paid through the City’s authorized online payment system or in person. The City does not request permit payments by wire transfer or through payment links sent by email. Contact the City if you receive a suspicious payment request.

        View the Planning Fee Schedule
        Open the Online Payment Portal

         

  • Common Project Types

     

    • Do I need approval for a business at a new location?

      • Yes. Planning reviews proposed businesses for compliance with zoning, parking, operational, and land-use requirements. Approval of a business license does not authorize construction or other work requiring separate permits.

         

    • Do I need a permit for a sign?
    • Do I need a permit for a temporary event or activity?

      • A Temporary Use Permit may be required for outdoor events, sales, displays, temporary structures, model-home complexes, and similar short-term activities. Apply early to allow time for departmental review.

        View Temporary Use Permit Application Form

         

    • Can I operate a business from my home?

      • Certain home-based businesses may require Home Occupation approval and must comply with applicable operational standards. Contact Planning before applying for a business license.

       

    • Where can I find information about accessory dwelling units?

      • The City provides information about Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units, including planning standards and the permit process. Applicants should consult Planning and Engineering before preparing construction plans.

        View Accessory Dwelling Unit Information

         

  • Projects and Public Hearings

     

    • How can I find development projects near my property?

      • Use the Planning Projects Map to view projects that are approved or under review. Available information may include the project description, location, and current status.

        View the Planning Projects Map

         

    • How will I know if a project requires a public hearing?

      • Projects requiring a public hearing are noticed according to applicable City and State requirements. Notices identify the project, hearing date, reviewing authority, and instructions for submitting comments.

         

    • How can I comment on a proposed project?

      • Written comments may be submitted to the assigned planner before the decision or hearing. Comments may also be provided at a scheduled public hearing in accordance with the meeting procedures.

         

  • Department Responsibilities

     

    • What is the difference between Planning and Building?

      • Planning reviews land use, zoning, site design, signs, and development standards. Building reviews construction plans, building codes, issues building permits, and performs inspections. Some projects require approval from both departments. 

         

    • When should I contact Engineering?

      • Contact Engineering for questions concerning easements, public improvements, rights-of-way, grading, and water or sewer utility requirements.

        Phone: (909) 395-2036
        Email: EngCounter@ontarioca.gov
        Address: 303 East B Street, Ontario, CA 91764

         

  • Contact Planning
    • For general questions, contact the City of Ontario Planning Department:
      • Phone: (909) 395-2036
        Email: PlanningCounter@ontarioca.gov
        Address: 303 East B Street, Ontario, CA 91764
      • Hours: Monday–Thursday: 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m., Friday: 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

      • The Planning Department is closed every Monday from 9:00–10:00 a.m. and the fourth Wednesday of each month from 9:00–11:00 a.m. for staff training.

         

Information provided in these FAQs is general guidance. Property-specific requirements may vary based on zoning, applicable plans, prior approvals, and project details.