New Home Construction in Millbrae, CA
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Building New in Millbrae
Ground floor vs. second floor: in Millbrae, ground-floor additions are reviewed by staff, usually within about a week, and a fully compliant ground-floor job can often get a building permit within about a month. All non-ground-floor changes need Design Review by the Planning Commission, with a study session, then a public hearing; notice goes to owners within 300 feet, the Commission meets on the first and third Mondays, and there is a 10-day appeal period. Plan on 2 to 3 months to reach approval.
R-1 limits: 55% floor area ratio, 50% lot coverage, 30 feet with a 3:12 or steeper roof (25 feet for flatter roofs), setbacks of 20 feet front, 5 feet sides and 10 feet rear, with upper floors set back another 10 feet at the front and sides. Areas sloped over 30% are excluded from net lot area.
Construction in Progress
Ask us about recent new-home and rebuild projects during your consultation.
Requirements
- Protected trees under the 2024 tree ordinance need a removal permit and replanting; include landscape plans with the building permit.
- Synthetic turf is not allowed.
- School fee receipts from both districts before permit.
Sewer lateral: added plumbing fixtures or work on 25% or more of the structure starts with an Engineering determination and a video inspection of the sewer lateral.
Before final: a Waste Management Plan final summary showing 65% diversion must be approved before the final inspection can be scheduled. Construction hours: 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays and holidays.
621 Magnolia Avenue, Millbrae, CA 94030
Building (650) 259-2330 · Planning (650) 259-2341 · Engineering (650) 259-2339
All building permits go through the City’s online portal (eProcess360); paper applications are not accepted. Inspections are scheduled by email to the Permit Technician or at (650) 259-2330, at least a day ahead. Posted counter and inspection hours vary between City pages, so call ahead.
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Other Millbrae services: ADUs · Bathrooms · Kitchens · Additions · Millbrae overview
Same service nearby: Burlingame · San Bruno · Hillsborough
See our custom home builder page.
Millbrae New Home Construction FAQ
Does a new two-story home need Planning Commission review?
Yes, Design Review with a study session and public hearing.
How tall can a new home be?
30 feet with a 3:12 or steeper roof.
Is synthetic turf allowed?
No.
When does the Planning Commission meet?
The first and third Mondays.