Community Development Department

BUILDING HEALTHIER, HAPPIER COMMUNITIES

The Community Development Department encompasses Planning, Building, Housing, and Code Enforcement in Petaluma, with the aim of helping the City reach its housing goals while also achieving climate resiliency and a sustainable future. Together, these departments ensure that new development in our city, whether commercial or residential, follow the rules and regulations set by our local, state, and federal governments, and meet the needs and aspirations of our community. Among other responsibilities, Community Development staff make sure that new and existing buildings meet our safety guidelines, consider whether projects fit within the City's guiding documents like the General Plan, and find new ways to create housing options across all income levels. Learn more about how we provide our community with these services and about the City’s planning process.

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Brian Oh, Petaluma's first Director of Community Development since 2009, comes to the city after serving as Sonoma County’s comprehensive planning manager. There, he oversaw initiatives like the completion of the Sonoma Developmental Center Specific Plan, the regulation of short-term rentals and updates to the county’s General Plan.

The Community Development team looks forward to working with our community to implement your vision for the future of Petaluma.

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Building

The Building Department oversees all local building construction and alteration projects to make sure buildings and structures are safe, accessible, energy efficient, and built according to all state and local building codes.

Planning

The City's Planning Department reviews proposals, provides environmental reviews, and covers long-range planning by facilitating community efforts to craft a vision for Petaluma's future.

Housing

Petaluma's Housing Department oversees the creation of low-income housing, manages the grants that help fund projects that aid low-income residents, and works with local nonprofit partners to create and manage the local housing projects and programs.

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Code Enforcement

The Code Enforcement Division works with other City employees to enforce the City’s Municipal Code, Zoning Ordinance, and Adopted Building and Safety Codes. The codes enforced deal primarily with public nuisances, zoning and land use regulations, and health and safety violations.

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