What is My Zoning?

You can access this information in a variety of ways.

1. You can use the Interactive City Map. This map allows you to search for you property by address of APN to determine your Zoning, General Plan Land Use designation, any overlay districts, and other helpful information.
2. You can also download the city-wide PDF zoning map.

Once you have determined your zoning, access the Municipal Code Title 17 Zoning to find development standards, allowed uses, and other information relating to your zoning.

For more information on zoning, visit the Zoning Information page.

What is a Conditional Use Permit and do I need one?

Use permits provide an opportunity to review the location, site development or conduct of certain land uses, activities and structural features that generally have a distinct impact on the area in which they are located or are capable of creating special problems for bordering properties unless given careful attention. Use permits are discretionary and may be granted or denied by the Planning Commission under the provisions of the City's Zoning Ordinance. A use permit is valid only for the property for which it was issued. Use permits do not transfer from one property to another. If the Planning Commission grants a use permit, it may attach any conditions to the use permit that are deemed necessary to achieve the purposes of the City's Zoning Ordinance, and that also promote the general health, safety and public welfare of the City.

A use permit is required for Alcoholic Beverage Sales, Drive-Thru Establishments, and Animal Kennels, for example, in all zoning districts. To determine if you need to obtain a use permit, you need to determine you zoning and access the City's Zoning Ordinance.

What is an Administrative Permit?

Permits for a specified land use, building or structure that is issued as a ministerial function, rather than at the City’s discretion. Examples include home occupations, second dwelling units, temporary uses, cottage food operations, farmers markets, and large family daycares.

What is a Variance?

When the strict and literal enforcement of the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance results in unreasonable and unnecessary hardships, or in results inconsistent with the general purposes of the Zoning Ordinance, the Planning Commission has the authority to grant variances that are in harmony with the purposes of Zoning Ordinance. The sole purpose of any variance shall be to prevent discrimination and undue hardship, and no variance shall be granted that would provide a special privilege not shared by other property in the same vicinity. A variance shall not permit any land use that is not allowed in the applicable zoning district.

How do I Start a Home-Based Business?

Home-based businesses require a business license and a home occupation permit that must be approved by the Planning Division. This process ensures that neighborhoods are protected from the impacts of commercial activities. To learn more about starting a home-based business, visit the Home Occupation page.

Do I need a permit for an Accessory Structure?

Residential accessory structures include shade structures, gazebos, covered patios and detached garages. An accessory building is a subordinate building, the use of which is clearly incidental and secondary to that of the main building on the same site. If an accessory structure exceeds 120 square feet in floor area, a building permit is required. Regardless of the size, permits are always required for any electrical, plumbing, or mechanical (heating, cooling, etc.) improvements made. For more information about accessory structures, read Section 17.12.090 of the OMC

You must obtain a permit prior to constructing an Second Dwelling Unit.

Can I Install a Manufactured Home on my Property?

The first step in determining if you can install a manufactured home on your property is to know your zoning. Manufactured homes are not permitted in R-3, R-4, and RP residential zones. Oroville Municipal Code Chapter 15.36 outlines Mobile and Manufactured Home Installation Standards within the City, which includes criteria for roof pitch, eaves, appearance, and age limitations. The Mobile and Manufactured Home Installation Standards can be downloaded here. Keep in mind that any manufactured home must meet these minimum standards in order to be approved for installation. Additional development standards, including off-street parking and covered parking, also apply to manufactured homes.

Do I need a Permit to Build a Fence?

If you build a fence over 7 feet tall, a building permit is required. Generally, you can build a fence up to 7 feet tall along your rear and side property lines when not adjoining a street. Fences within the front yard setback are allowed up to a maximum of 42 inches. If you are constructing a fence over 42 inches within the front yard setback, the fence shall be set back at least 5 feet from any property line that abuts a public street. This 5 foot setback area must be landscaped and maintained in accordance with the requirements of Section 17.12.050 of the OMC. No fence shall obstruct the required sight distance area for an intersection. In addition, electric, barbed, or razor wire fences are prohibited in any residential district that has a lot area smaller than 20,000 square feet.

To help you understand the City's fence regulations, the Planning Division has prepared an informational graphic showing typical fence requirements. Download the graphic here. 

Please note that the requirements are different for corner parcels and that the sidewalk edge may not be the property line. If you have a corner parcel or other unique parcel, and are unsure of where you may construct a fence, contact the Planning Division. See Municipal Code Section 17.12.020 for more details regarding fences and walls. Before you start digging, call 811 to have underground utility lines marked.

What are the City's Regulations for Signs?

Sign regulations vary by property and zoning. The City's sign regulations can be found in Chapter 17.20 of the Oroville Municipal Code. Generally a sign permit is required for new or replacement signs.

How long will it take for my project to get approved?

The timeframe it takes for your project to get approved depends on the complexity and completeness of your application. For a general idea of the timeline and steps your project may take prior to approval, the Planning Division has flowcharts available on the Applications and Permits for certain permit applications. Keep in mind that these flowcharts do not include the building permit process.