Frequently Asked Questions

If you are planning to construct a new building, alter an existing building or change the use of a business you may need a planning permit. Common projects that may require planning approval include:

• Construct a new building
• Increase the size or change the exterior appearance of your home or business
• Construct tenant improvements
• Install a sign
• Install a new use or change an existing use

You should contact a city planner to determine what, if any, planning approvals may be necessary for your project. You can speak to a planner at the Planning and Building counter in City Hall or call 650-616-7074 to make an appointment.

The specific zoning district for every property can be found on the San Bruno Zoning Map. Please contact the Planning Division to confirm the zoning of your property at 650-616-7074.

Starting a new business is an exciting yet complex venture. The City of San Bruno would like to assist you through this process. Each business need is different and not all processes will apply to everyone. Establishing the business may require a number of reviews, completed forms and approvals from not only the City, but from other governmental agencies including the County, State and Federal governments.

Please review the City's booklet, "Starting a Business in San Bruno" to help guide you throughout the process. You and your business are important to us. If you have any questions, we encourage you to give us a call at 650-616-7074.

A fence may be up to six feet in height in the back yard and side yard (to the rear of the required front yard) of any dwelling. An additional two feet of lattice may be placed on top of a fence or wall, so that the height does not exceed eight feet.

In the front yard of any dwelling, a fence may not exceed three feet in height.

A fence may not be installed within 25-feet of the street corner of a corner lot. The Community Development Director may allow such a fence if it would not create a solid visual barrier or safety hazard within the immediate area. In no case shall a fence, hedge, wall or screen exceed three feet in height when situated within twenty five feet of street corner or corner lot.

A Variance is a permit that allows a landowner to construct a building or open a business without having to comply with the standards required of other landowners in the same zone. In rare instances, the Planning Commission may find that because of special circumstances of the property, such as size, shape, topography, location, or surroundings, the strict application of the zoning ordinance will deprive the property owner of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity and under similar zone.

The classic example involves a residential lot that is identical in size and shape to surrounding lots, but suffers from the presence of a large, immovable boulder. In this case, a variance waiving ordinary setback requirements may permit the landowner to build a house. However, economic hardship cannot form the basis for a variance.