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Frequently Asked Questions

If an old structure burns down, can it be rebuilt?
Structures with allowed uses that conform to the standards of the zone classification may be rebuilt with a building permit from the Building Inspection Division. In the coastal zone, a Coastal Development Permit from the Current Planning Division may also be required to rebuild. All state and local standards for sewage disposal must also be met when a structure is rebuilt. Structures destroyed by fire must be rebuilt within two years.

Nonconforming structures or uses may also be rebuilt in certain situations. For example, single family homes in commercial zones may be rebuilt with a building permit. However, rebuilding commercial structures in residential zones would only be allowed if the new structure is the same size as the old structure. Minor exceptions may be allowed with a Special Permit from the Current Planning Division.

Show All Answers

1. What is an assessor’s parcel number?
2. How do I find out if my parcel is the city or in the county?
3. What is a zoning classification?
4. What development does zoning allow?
5. What is a land use designation?
6. What is a combining zone?
7. What are building setbacks?
8. What is the minimum parcel size?
9. What permits are required to build, rebuild or remodel a house?
10. What’s the difference between building in the coastal zone and the inland areas?
11. How do I research if a property is in the coastal zone?
12. Can I place a manufactured home on my property?
13. Are accessory dwelling units allowed on a property?
14. How tall can a fence be built?
15. Are horses, chickens, goats or other domesticated animals allowed in residential zones?
16. Can I remove trees from a property?
17. Can a person live in a travel trailer on a property?
18. How do I determine if a lot was legally created?
19. Are there any easements that affect a property?
20. Is my property subject to flooding?
21. What is a nonconforming structure or use?
22. If an old structure burns down, can it be rebuilt?
23. Can a house be remodeled if it does not meet the required setbacks?
24. Can a parcel be subdivided?
25. What is the basic process for getting a building permit?
26. What is the basic process for getting a planning permit?
27. What are typical fees for a planning permit?
28. How do I get help applying for a planning permit?
29. I’m thinking about buying a property. How can I research more about it?
30. How do I research which zones allow a particular use?
31. What is the difference between a principally permitted use and a conditionally permitted use?
32. What is the process for annexing a parcel into a city?
33. Does the county enforce covenants, conditions, or restrictions in subdivisions?
34. Click here to return to the Planning and Building Department