Q: If I don't see a service available on this resource page, is it still available?
A: Currently the planning department is prioritizing services deemed emergency services for those businesses that must provide continuous service during the City's stay at home mandate. This site aggregates many of those services, particularly those available in digital-first and virtual ways. The City continues to accept new building permits through its website and make all existing digital services available. Please know that new requests for non-emergency projects will be on hold until at least June 15.
Q: What businesses are determined as providing essential services?
A: Per the City Ordinance issued on March 15 -- essential services include child care facilities, medical facilities and hospitals, grocery stores, gas stations, pharmacies, other businesses providing key services to ensure the continuous operations of those businesses (plumbing, heating/cooling, electrical, construction, maintenance). For a full list of the types businesses that the city has determined to provide essential services see here.
Q: I called the planning department phone number and no one answered?
A: Our commitment is to ensure we can provide our customers the best possible service. Our team is working remotely in accordance with the City's stay at home ordinance. We have staff monitoring all voicemail boxes routinely and commit to returning all calls within 24 hours. As listed on this page, our modified hours are 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For faster service our customers are encouraged to use the following email: CityPlanning@cityofname.gov. This email is monitored by multiple staff members and our commitment is to respond to all emails the same day.