Frequently Asked Questions

Is the San Mateo Municipal Code online?

I want to add on to my single-family home. What do I do now?

  • Review Zoning Chapter 27.18 of city code (set backs, floor area ratio calculation, height limitations and much more)
  • If interested in a 2nd story addition review Single Family Dwelling Design Review and the Single Family Dwelling Guidebook.
  • Contact Planning Staff at (650) 522-7212 for more detailed information.

Is my location properly zoned for business?

  • A planner can confirm the zoning of the particular parcel, the permitted uses in that district, and whether adequate parking exists for the proposed use.
  • Contact Planning Staff at (650) 522-7212 for more detailed information.

What parking requirements are there for businesses?

Do I need a permit to hang a sign?

  • Yes. Please review the Sign Ordinance frequently asked question page for more information.
  • A sign permit may be obtained through the Building Division.
  • Contact the Building Division at (650) 522-7172 for information on the permitting process.

Can a jurisdiction implement local historic preservation regulations that are more or less restrictive than federal and state legislation?

  • Yes, a city can develop its own local historic preservation codes and requirements to be as restrictive or permissive as desired, independent of state/federal designations or regulations. 

 Will a city’s local historic preservation regulations change a project’s environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)?

  • No, a local historical preservation program would not remove or change the CEQA process as it pertains to registered (or eligible) historical resources. Properties that meet the definition of a historical resource (eligible or designated) under state/federal regulations would be subject to environmental review and impact assessment, regardless of local historic preservation regulations.

How are invoices sent by the City?

All invoices are issued directly by the City. The City does not request payment through unofficial emails (only via email addresses ending in “@cityofsanmateo.org”), links, or third parties. If you receive a suspicious payment request, do not respond and contact Planning at planning@cityofsanmateo.org to confirm its legitimacy.