The following are commonly referenced land use policies, regulations, and guidance that inform development in unincorporated San Mateo County. For guidance on specific permit types and requirements, please visit the Apply for a Permit page.
SB 684/SB 1123 – Small Lot Subdivision and Housing Development
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
Smaller units built on the same property as, or attached to, an existing primary residence.
Agritourism Application
Commercial secondary uses (education, visitors) to main agricultural operations.
Building Standards Code
Standards and regulations to ensure the health, safety, and amenity of occupants and the public in buildings.
Child Care Facilities Ordinance
Commercial Cannabis Ordinance and Licensing
County Ordinance Code
County Ordinance Code Update
County Title 10 Building Regulations
Farm Labor Housing Guidebook
Grading Regulations
Historic Resources Ordinance
Midcoast Design Standards
Poultry Ordinance
Senate Bill 9 (SB 9)
Short Term Rental Ordinance - Coastal Zone
Stormwater Pollution Prevention Ordinance
Subdivision Regulations
Tree Regulations
Trimming and Removing Heritage and Significant Trees (In Coastal Zone Only)
Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO)
Zoning Regulations
Policy Documents Colma BART Station Area Plan (1994)
Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP)
General Plan
Inclusionary Affordable Housing Ordinance
Local Coastal Program
North Fair Oaks Community Plan
North Fair Oaks Community Plan Review Project

California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)