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1. What are setbacks?

The term setback means the required distance separating a building, structure, or other designated item from a property line. Setback regulations for buildings are included in the Zoning Ordinance under Section 8.36.040 and setbacks regulations for accessory structures are included in the Zoning Ordinance under Chapter 8.40. Zoning Ordinance

2. Do I need a permit to build an arbor or patio cover?

Yes, you do need planning approval and a permit to install or build an arbor or patio cover. Zoning regulations for arbors and patio covers are located in the Zoning Ordinance under Chapter 8.40. Zoning Ordinance

3. How tall can my fence be?

Fence height depends on the location of the fence. In most cases the height limit is six feet from grade. Fence regulations are in the Zoning Ordinance under Chapter 8.72. Zoning Ordinance

4. Do I need to obtain City approval for a room addition?

A site development review is required for all residential room additions which are 500 square feet in size or larger. A site development review is also required for all projects where 50% or more of the exterior walls of a house will be demolished (torn down). To gain approval, any proposed addition must meet development standards, which include setback and lot coverage requirements. Homeowners are encouraged to contact the Planning Division at (925) 833-6610 early in their planning process to determine the appropriate development standards for their property.

5. What is a zone reclassification and when do I need one?

Each parcel within the City of Dublin has a zone classification. The allowable uses on each parcel, as well as the appropriate development standards, are determined by that parcel's zone classification. In certain cases, the City Council may authorize a zone reclassification, provided that the proposed zone is consistent with the General Plan. To institute a zone reclassification, an application must be filed with the Planning Division.

6. What is a variance and when do I need one?

In rare cases, property owners can be granted an exception or variance from a development standard, such as setback requirements or coverage limitations. A variance can only be granted for relief from a particular development standard. A variance can never be granted to allow land uses prohibited by the property's zone classification.

7. What is a use permit and when do I need one?

Certain land uses have the potential to negatively impact adjoining parcels, unless certain conditions are imposed. In those cases, conditions are imposed by use permits to ensure compatibility of land uses. Typically, these conditions limit the types of activity allowed on the parcel and limit the hours of operation. A use permit can be revoked if the property owner fails to honor the conditions of approval of the permit.

8. What is a flood zone?

Each parcel within the United States has a flood zone designation as determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). A parcel's flood zone designation predicts the likelihood of the parcel enduring flood damage over 100 to 500 year periods. The Planning Division can provide flood zone information to interested property owners. For more information, you can contact the National Flood Insurance Program at (800) 638-6620.

9. I heard rumors about a big new condo development proposed for my neighborhood. How can I get more information?

People who wish to develop property within the City of Dublin must first file for an entitlement application with the Community Development Department. For large developments like this, and even many smaller projects, notice regarding the hearing date for consideration of the project will be sent to property owners within a 300-foot radius of the subject property. In addition, notices of upcoming cases are published in the Public Notice section of the Tri-Valley Herald 10 days prior to any Administrative or Planning Commission public hearing.

Questions regarding the status of pending projects should be addressed to the Planning Division:
Community Development Department
100 Civic Plaza
Dublin, CA 94568

For more information, please call (925) 833-6610.

10. What is an Environmental Impact Report (EIR)?

The City of Dublin prepares EIRs for those projects that may have significant adverse environmental effects and recommends ways in which potential problems can either be reduced or eliminated (mitigated).

11. What is the General Plan? How is it used and what does it mean?

The General Plan is a long-range guide for the physical development of the City of Dublin, setting forth environmental, social, and land use goals of the City with regards to future development. The Dublin General Plan is comprised of a statement of Goals and Policies and elements which address the following topics: Land Use, Circulation, Housing, Noise, Open Space, Safety, Scenic Highways, Recreation, Conservation, Public Services, Public Buildings, Social, and Forestry. The General Plan is periodically revised to assure that it reflects current attitudes, desires, and goals of the community.

General Plan

12. What is the City's expected population at build-out?

Dublin's population is expected to reach 76,000 upon build-out of the current General Plan which is estimated to occur around 2030.

13. How does the City actually work to protect Dublin's heritage trees?

In 1999, the City Council adopted an ordinance protecting all large oak, bay, cypress, maple, redwood, buckeye, and sycamore trees from indiscriminate cutting and removal. In doing so, the ordinance requires that property owners apply for and obtain a permit from the City before any heritage tree can be destroyed or removed. The removal of hazardous heritage trees or portions thereof must be approved by the City. However, the removal of healthy heritage trees is only approved in conjunction with a permit by the City for new construction under circumstances which justify such action. For new developments, an architect or designer must make every effort to design a project in order to minimize or eliminate the need to impact or remove healthy heritage trees.

Heritage Tree Ordinance Regulations Brochure

14. There is a heritage tree by my business that concerns me - what can I do to protect myself, my family, and my customers?

The City of Dublin shares your concern. Anytime you observe a change in the condition of your heritage tree, you should call a qualified tree consultant to evaluate the tree. The Community Development Department Planning Division has a list of consultants qualified to perform this service.

Some tree changes are imperceptible and no one can fully guard against unforeseen problems. However, there are signs that everyone can watch for -- for example, a tree leaning badly in one direction; roots lifting out of the ground; cracks or splits in large branches; limbs that appear to have no live tissue while other portions of the tree appear healthy; a general decline in the appearance and the overall vigor of the tree; and wells or depressions around the tree allowing water to stand of long periods of time. Staff members are available during normal working hours to answer general questions and process heritage tree applications. During normal working hours call (925) 833-6610.

15. Do I need a permit to improve my property?

A site development review may be required for exterior improvements to both residential and non-residential properties. Please contact the Planning Division at (925) 833-6610 to determine if your project needs a site development review. You can also refer to Chapter 8.104, Site Development Review, of the Zoning Ordinance. Interior and exterior improvements may also require a permit from the Building and Safety Division. To determine if your project requires approval from the Building and Safety Division, please contact (925) 833-6620. Zoning Ordinance