Special Permit
The special permit procedure is a discretionary review process to consider certain residential and accessory uses that require compliance with use-specific and special permit findings.
Checklist [updated 2021 September 8]
Helpful Links for some checklist items
- Site Plans
- Exterior Elevations
- Floor Plans
- Assessor's Parcel Map
- Copy of Current Recorded Grant Deed
- Petition for Exemption from Environmental Assessment and Applicable Fees Form
- Evidence Showing Legal Creation of Lot
- Well Information Questionnaire
- Hazardous Substance Sites Questionnaire
- Acknowledgements and Agreements Form
Plans must be legibly drawn to an appropriate scale, sheet size 18”x 24” minimum to 24”x36” maximum. Plans (site plan, floor plan, elevation) shall be stapled as sets, and folded to 9 x 12 inch size. When additional applications are concurrently being filed (e.g., building site approval, grading permit), submittal items need not be duplicated.
Additional Information and Materials that May be Required
Geologic Report (2 copy, plus pdf)
Consult with County Geologist prior to filing application to determine whether a geologic report will be required. Submittal must include one wet-signed paper document and one electronic document in Adobe pdf format (on CD or DVD). An additional fee is required for geologic report review. See also geologic hazards page.
Septic System Plan
If a septic system is proposed, the site must be field-evaluated by a Department of Environmental Health (DEH) representative. One copy of the site plan should be stamped and signed by the DEH representative. See also DEH site.
Mailing Labels (1 set)
Required if subject property is located within 300 feet of the exterior boundary of Santa Clara County.
Williamson Act Compatible Use Determination
Required if subject parcel is under a Williamson Act contract. It is strongly suggested that this determination be applied for and resolved prior to special permit application submittal. An additional fee is required.
Santa Clara Valley Habitat Plan-Coverage Screening Form
If the subject property is located within the Habitat Plan Permit Area, submit a completed Coverage Screening Form. The Coverage Screening Form will assist in determining if the proposed project is classified as a “covered project” under the Plan. If the project is identified as a “covered project” per the Screening Form, submit the Fees and Conditions Worksheet with the application.
