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.