The Planning Services Division staff guides the City’s orderly development by applying the current zoning codes, facilitating development, implementing community plans, and preserving historic resources. The Division is responsible for implementing the City’s Zoning Code, which regulates the types of land uses and buildings that can be located in each part of the City. As such, the Division reviews business licenses to ensure that each business is in the appropriate zone, processes conditional use permits for certain uses pursuant to the Zoning Code, and reviews (and processes as necessary) plans for constructing or modifying buildings and structures.

HOMES BUILT IN 1941 OR EARLIER
All homes built from 1941 or earlier will require a Certificate of Appropriateness application for any improvements such as additions, window change-outs, exterior modifications, etc.

WHITTIER BOULEVARD SPECIFIC PLAN
In the summer of 2005, the City Council approved the Whittier Boulevard Specific Plan as the zoning designation along the commercial portions of Whittier Boulevard. This zoning set forth five land-use districts: the Gateway Segment, Workplace District, Shopping Clusters, Commercial Expansion/Auto Sales Segment and Neighborhood Spine. The zoning clusters specific land uses into distinct districts. For example, within the Neighborhood Spine in east Whittier, multi-family housing is permitted along Whittier Boulevard. The Plan also includes street and landscape design enhancements to Whittier Boulevard. Plans for street lighting and median improvements along Whittier Boulevard are currently underway. These improvements will provide a significant enhancement to the Boulevard. Click here to view the Whittier Boulevard Specific Plan.

UPTOWN SPECIFIC PLAN
On November 10, 2008, the City Council unanimously adopted the Uptown Whittier Specific Plan which provides guidelines for well-designed new development. The Plan is expected to encourage investment and help to revitalize the area.

The specific plan changes land use regulation from traditional land use zoning to a form-based code. Form-based codes focus on the visual aspects of development; for example, how a proposed building fits with the existing buildings and street. Other concepts presented in the plan include: a “park once” parking strategy; wider sidewalks to provide for a more pedestrian friendly environment; and more residential housing so as to support the businesses and provide for a culture that promotes a sense of place.

The City looks forward to seeing the transformation of Uptown and the return of a thriving business district. To download the Draft Uptown Specific Plan click here.

RESIDENTIAL WALLS & FENCES

The City has amended the residential walls and fences provisions of the Municipal Code to establish a streamlined review process for front yard and street yard fences and walls, that includes over the counter approvals, when proposals are consistent with the pre-approved fence palette for front yards and street side yards. A process was also established that allows for design exceptions to be reviewed by the Planning Commission.

Planning Review:
Proposals for a new front yard fence and/or street side, side yard fence, wall, or retaining wall on a residentially zoned property will require the submittal of a Development Review Application to the Planning Division. The Planning review fee is $100.00.

Building Permit:
Proposals for a or reconstructed fence, wall, or retaining wall on a residentially zoned property will require a Building Permit. Building permits and inspections help ensure that fences and walls are located in the correct location. are the correct height, and are structurally sound. The Building Permit fee is based on project valuation, please contact the Building and Safety division for a fee estimation.