Home Additions in San Ramon, CA
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How San Ramon Reviews Additions
San Ramon’s design review rules (Zoning Ordinance §D6-22) look at whether an addition fits the existing house. For minor additions, staff check during building plan check that the roof, materials, colors and windows match and that massing and height are appropriate. New construction and major changes may require an Architectural Review Application, and the Zoning Administrator decides the path, sometimes referring a project to the Architectural Review Board. Dougherty Valley has its own zoning standards and design guidelines under the Dougherty Valley Specific Plan.
Addition Work
Outside Agencies for an Addition
Fire district: the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District requires a fire submittal for any change to a home that already has fire sprinklers, and for a home without sprinklers only when square footage is added. Plans go through the district’s GeoCivix portal, with a typical turnaround of about 21 days.
School fees: new homes and additions over 500 sq ft pay San Ramon Valley Unified School District fees. The City completes a Certificate of Compliance, you pay the district by appointment at (925) 552-2944, then return to the City for the permit.
- A grading permit is needed for 50 cubic yards or more.
- Work in the public right-of-way needs an encroachment permit.
- Native oaks 6 inches or more in diameter, measured 54 inches above ground, need a removal permit on a single-family lot.
- In areas covered by the Dougherty Valley or Northwest Geologic Hazard Abatement Districts, the districts monitor and repair landslides.
Where to Start
7000 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon, CA 94583 · City Hall (925) 973-2500
Planning (925) 973-2560 · Building & Safety (925) 973-2580
Walk-in service 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; appointments 1 to 5 p.m. Applications go through the City’s Citizen Self Service (CSS) portal. Choose the permit type carefully, because it cannot be changed after you submit.
Inspections are requested through the CSS portal or at (925) 973-2580, Option 1. Inspectors take calls 7:30 to 8 a.m.
Explore More
Other San Ramon services: ADUs · Bathrooms · Kitchens · New Homes · San Ramon overview
Same service nearby: Danville · Dublin · Alamo
See home additions and second stories.
San Ramon Home Additions FAQ
Does an addition need architectural review in San Ramon?
Minor additions are reviewed by staff during plan check. Major changes may need an Architectural Review Application.
Are school fees due on an addition?
Additions over 500 sq ft pay San Ramon Valley Unified School District fees before the permit is issued.
Will the fire district review my addition?
Yes, whenever square footage is added.
Are oak trees protected?
Native oaks 6 inches or more in diameter need a removal permit.