New Home Construction in Palo Alto, CA
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Building New in Palo Alto
Two-story Objective Design Standards (effective February 14, 2025) apply to new two-story homes and second-story additions of 150 sq ft or more, unless you choose Individual Review. The second floor is capped at the larger of 35% of allowable floor area or 400 sq ft, and roof decks are not allowed. Under Individual Review, notice is mailed and posted to abutting, across-the-street and diagonal neighbors within 3 days, followed by a 21-day comment period; the Director’s decision becomes final after 14 days unless a hearing is requested.
Homes over 45 years old may need a historic resource evaluation before demolition, and the Historic Resources Board reviews listed properties.
Construction in Progress
Ask us about recent new-home and rebuild projects during your consultation.
New-Home Submittal Checklist
- Boundary and topographic survey, grading and drainage plan, geotechnical report.
- Deconstruction plans rather than simple demolition.
- Title 24 energy, CALGreen mandatory plus Tier 2 measures, and electric-ready construction with Palo Alto’s energy design points.
- T-1 tree protection sheet, stormwater pollution prevention plan and flood checklist.
- CPAU utilities application for electric, gas, water and wastewater.
- School fee receipt (PAUSD or LASD).
285 Hamilton Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94301 (next to City Hall at 250 Hamilton)
Building (650) 329-2496, Bu******@******to.gov · Planning (650) 329-2441
In-person counter Monday to Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.; Friday service is virtual. Applications and payments go through Accela Citizen Access (ACA). Inspections are requested in ACA or the Palo Alto Inspection Request app; finals by phone at (650) 329-2496, option 2.
Explore More
Other Palo Alto services: Bathrooms · Kitchens · Additions · Palo Alto ADU builder · Palo Alto overview
Same service nearby: Mountain View · Los Altos · Los Altos Hills
See our custom home builder page.
Palo Alto New Home Construction FAQ
Must new homes in Palo Alto be all-electric?
No. Enforcement was suspended in February 2024, but new homes must be electric-ready and meet energy design points.
Is deconstruction required?
Palo Alto requires deconstruction plans for new homes.
Can I build a basement in a flood zone?
The lowest floor must be at base flood elevation plus 1 foot, which effectively rules out basements.
Who issues permits?
The City of Palo Alto Development Center.