Almanac note · Rules and licenses
San Mateo County planning starts with unincorporated areas
San Mateo County’s Current Planning Section handles land-use planning for unincorporated areas. The Planning and Building department regulates land use and development in those areas.
Start with the first question. Is the place inside a city, or in unincorporated county land? If it is county land, start with San Mateo County Planning and Building.
Official sources
Official source trail
Reviewed June 29, 2026
California Porch explains the path. The official source is still the place to confirm the current rule, fee, form, map, deadline, or office decision.
Use the official page before you spend money, file paperwork, rely on a deadline, or change a property.
Connected places
Where it fits on the map
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Related notes
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