HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 2501-4019CITY OF PALO ALTO
Finance Committee
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, March 04, 2025
Agenda Item
2.Recommend City Council Adopt Planning and Development Services Cost of Services
Study and Proposed Municipal Fee Adjustments Supplemental Report, Staff Presentation
Finance Committee
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: ACTION ITEMS
Lead Department: Planning and Development Services
Meeting Date: March 4, 2025
Report #:2501-4019
TITLE
Recommend City Council Adopt Planning and Development Services Cost of Services Study and
Proposed Municipal Fee Adjustments
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Finance Committee recommend that the City Council amend the
Planning and Development Services municipal fees as outlined in Attachment B as part of the
FY26 budget and municipal fee schedule, informed by the findings of the Cost of Services Study
(Attachment C).
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report presents the findings of the Planning and Development Services Cost of Services
Study, conducted by Matrix Consulting Group, and recommends municipal fee adjustments to
achieve cost recovery of City services related to planning entitlements and permitting. The study
evaluates the actual costs of providing development-related services, including Building,
Planning, Fire Prevention, and Public Works, and identifies areas where fees are misaligned with
service demands.
Key recommendations include refining valuation-based fees for commercial and multi-family
projects, adjusting discretionary planning fees to reduce General Fund impacts, and updating fire
prevention and hazardous materials permitting fees to better reflect staff time and regulatory
requirements. Additionally, the Technology Surcharge is recommended for an increase to cover
rising costs of digital permitting and cybersecurity, while extending the Development Services
Reserve Fund Policy will help stabilize revenue fluctuations and maintain long-term service
continuity.
The proposed adjustments align fees with actual service costs while considering policy-driven
subsidies for minor residential improvements, sustainability initiatives, and community-benefit
projects. The study finds that Building (97% cost recovery) and Public Works (84% cost recovery)
fees are near full recovery, while Planning (71% cost recovery) and Fire Prevention (72% cost
recovery) potentially impacting the General Fund to a greater degree. Where fees are increasing
noticeably, the Finance Committee may consider phased implementation strategies to ease
financial impacts, particularly for small businesses and housing-related projects. If approved, new
fees will take effect 60 days after City Council adoption.
BACKGROUND
▪Building Permits – Ensuring compliance with State and local codes.
▪Planning Applications – Zoning approvals, conditional use permits, and variances.
▪Fire Prevention Inspections – Ensuring compliance to fire codes.
▪Public Works Permits – Encroachments, grading, and street improvements.
Cost Recovery Level Policy
1 categorizes fees into three recovery
levels:
2 and Development Services3. Those
studies led to fee revisions to address misalignments. In 2022, the City engaged Matrix Consulting
Group (Matrix) for another study, which identified under-recovery in several areas, particularly
Current Planning and Fire Prevention. However, fee adjustments were postponed due to
economic uncertainty following the pandemic and the City’s efforts in 2023 focusing on the Fire
Prevention program’s organization operations without updating such fees.
1 City Council, May 18, 2015; Agenda Item #6, SR#5735,
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/1/agendas-minutes-reports/reports/city-manager-reports-
cmrs/year-archive/2015/5735.pdf
2 City Council, March 28, 2016; Agenda Item #7, SR#6638,
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/1/agendas-minutes-reports/reports/city-manager-reports-
cmrs/year-archive/2016/id6638.pdf
3 City Council, December 12, 2016; Agenda Item #22, SR#7525,
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/1/agendas-minutes-reports/reports/city-manager-reports-
cmrs/year-archive/2016/id-7525-ccm-121216.pdf
▪Certain fees will remain under-recovered, requiring continued General Fund subsidies.
▪Service levels in other General Fund supported programs may decline if permit revenue
shortfalls persist.
▪Staffing reductions may be needed to balance expenses with costs and may result in
permitting and inspection service delays.
▪Potential risk of overcharging for services that require less staff time due to improved
efficiencies or workflow changes.
Implementing the proposed fee adjustments will better align the services provided by the City’s
planning and permitting operations to actual costs. The City Council may consider phased
increases to minimize larger fee increases while maintaining service quality.
ANALYSIS
Methodology
The study used an activity-based costing approach, a standard methodology that calculates the
full cost of service delivery based on:
▪Staff time, operating expenses, and department overhead.
▪Historical permit volume trends.
▪Indirect costs such as administration, IT, and facilities.
▪Regional benchmarking to assess cost recovery and competitiveness.
Fee Structures
PDS fees recover the cost of permit processing and inspections, ensuring applicants cover service
costs rather than impacting the General Fund. Fees fall into three primary categories:
▪Flat Fees: Fixed rates for services with predictable service requirements like minor
permits.
▪Valuation-Based Fees: Used for building permits, scaling with project valuation to reflect
size and complexity.
▪Deposit-Based Fees: Applied to complex applications requiring extended staff time,
reconciled based on actual work performed.
Flat fees provide cost certainty for applicants and are structured to recover staff time for
straightforward plan reviews and inspections. Valuation-based fees ensure larger projects
contribute proportionally to staff workload. The study also evaluates cost alignment for
commercial and multi-family projects to ensure fees accurately reflect service demands, with
proposed refinements discussed later in this report.
While the study calculates full cost recovery in accordance with the Cost Recovery Level Policy,
the City Council retains discretion to adjust fees based on policy priorities. In the past, the Council
has subsidized the planning fees associated with childcare facilities to reduce costs for
establishing those uses. The Finance Committee is encouraged to consider other subsidies to
achieve regulatory compliance with certain minor trade permits, advance carbon reduction goals,
or reduce costs related to housing development.
Implications of Valuation-Based Methodology Changes
Impact on Key Stakeholder Groups
▪Homeowners and Small-Scale Residential Projects – Minor home improvement fees
remain stable.
▪Commercial Developers and Large-Scale Projects – Expanded valuation tiers ensure larger
developments contribute proportionally without overpaying, preventing undue financial
strain on major projects.
▪Small Businesses and Tenant Improvements – Minimal fee increases ensure affordability
while maintaining full cost recovery.
▪Affordable and Multi-Family Housing Developers – New valuation tiers create more
predictable costs, making project financing and feasibility clearer, benefiting affordable
housing initiatives.
▪Community Service Providers (e.g., childcare centers, affordable housing projects,
sustainability projects) – Reduced fees remain for projects that align with accessibility and
environmental goals.
Effect on Program Area Fees
Proposed updates improve cost recovery across all program areas while keeping fees fair and
service-aligned.
▪Building (97% cost recovery) – Valuation tier refinements create a more equitable fee
structure, ensuring better alignment between revenue and staff workload.
▪Current Planning (71% cost recovery) – Increased fees for discretionary entitlements
reduce General Fund subsidies while better reflecting staff effort for review-intensive
applications.
▪Fire Prevention (72% cost recovery) – Adjustments to fire plan check and hazardous
materials permitting fees ensure high-risk occupancies contribute proportionally while
maintaining public safety.
▪Public Works (84% cost recovery) – Encroachment and stormwater compliance fees are
updated to reflect actual staff review time, particularly for undergrounding and green
infrastructure projects.
Encouraging Housing Development
▪A tiered valuation-based structure for multi-family projects improves cost predictability,
allowing developers to budget more accurately.
▪Lower preliminary project review fees encourage early-stage engagement, reducing
costly delays and resubmittals in later permitting phases.
▪Targeted subsidies remain for affordable housing projects, reinforcing local and state
housing mandates while ensuring cost recovery stability.
consider this balance when discussing potential subsidies to support housing and economic
development.
Table 1: Cost Recovery Level by Service Area
Service Area Annual Revenue Annual Expense Deficit Cost Recovery %
Building $13.0M $13.3M ($0.3M)97%
Current Planning $1.8M $2.6M ($0.7M)71%
Public Works $0.7M $0.8M ($0.1M)84%
Fire Prevention4 $3.6M $5.0M ($1.4M)72%
4 Includes development-related fire services such as plan reviews, inspections, and hazardous materials oversight
conducted under County authority. Other Fire Department services such as fire suppression and emergency medical
services are funded separately and are not part of this analysis.
been adjusted downward to better align with actual service costs. These changes ensure that
applicants pay only for the services they use, making the system more equitable while
maintaining high-quality service and reducing the burden on the City’s General Fund.
▪Valuation-Based Fee Structure Changes: The City’s existing valuation-based model for
commercial and multi-family projects does not accurately capture the complexity of plan
review and inspections, particularly for large-scale developments. The study recommends
expanding valuation tiers up to $50 million and reverting to a base fee plus multiplier
model to ensure larger, more complex projects contribute proportionally, while smaller
developments are not overburdened.
▪Plan Check Fees: Plan review fees will continue to be calculated as a percentage of the
building permit fee. However, the study recommends refining the structure to ensure fees
more accurately reflect the level of review effort required. For single-family residential
projects, plan check fees will be incorporated within a square footage-based fee
structure, while commercial and multi-family projects will follow an adjusted valuation-
based tier system. These refinements will improve alignment between plan review effort
and project complexity while maintaining consistency with industry standards.
▪Square Footage-Based Fees for Single-Family Residential: The study recommends
converting valuation-based permit fees for single-family residential projects to a square
footage-based structure. This approach ensures fees scale more predictably with project
size, reflecting actual plan check and inspection efforts rather than relying on construction
cost estimates.
▪Instant Building Permits: The City has expanded the instant permit program to expedite
approvals for simple residential projects such as kitchen and bathroom remodels and
single-family equipment replacements (e.g., heat pumps, water heaters). These permits
streamline the approval process by eliminating plan review requirements for qualifying
projects, reducing staff time and applicant costs while maintaining compliance with safety
standards.
▪Inspection Fees: Some projects require multiple site visits due to compliance corrections,
leading to under-recovery of costs. The study recommends increased fees for repeat
inspections, ensuring that additional site visits reflect actual staff time spent on
enforcement and compliance.
These modernized fee structures ensure more accurate cost recovery, eliminate inefficiencies,
and improve transparency while maintaining Palo Alto’s competitiveness within the region.
Planning Fees
The Planning Division ensures that private development aligns with the City’s long-term vision,
land use policies, and environmental sustainability goals. The division oversees zoning
administration, historic preservation, and entitlement processing for projects requiring
discretionary approval.
The study found that Current Planning fees would recover only 71% of costs, resulting in an
annual $0.7 million shortfall. The largest funding gaps stem from discretionary review
applications, where the staff time required exceeds the fees collected.
Key adjustments include:
▪Discretionary Review Fees: The cost of processing minor Architectural Review Board
(ARB) applications, Variances, and Conditional Use Permits (CUPs) exceeds current fee
levels due to increasing project complexity, legal analysis, and expanded public
engagement requirements. While major ARB projects are cost-recovered through
deposit-based accounts, smaller ARB applications require additional fee adjustments to
align with staff effort.
▪Pre-Application Consultation Fees: The study recommends a new cost-recovery model for
early project consultations, ensuring that applicants cover the staff time spent advising
on project feasibility before submitting a formal application. Additionally, the new
structure will align with the Housing Element program goal of providing 120 minutes of
cost-free time for homebuilders.
▪Long-Range Planning and Policy Fees: These services provide broad public benefits and
have historically been partially subsidized through the General Fund. Aside from the
Comprehensive Plan Maintenance Fee discussed later in this report, no other significant
long-range planning fees are currently collected, and the study does not propose major
changes.
These adjustments aim to reduce the General Fund subsidy while maintaining fairness for
applicants. Higher fees for discretionary reviews and pre-application consultations ensure that
applicants cover the costs of individualized service, while long-range planning efforts remain
partially subsidized to support broader community benefits.
Fire Prevention Fees
The Fire Prevention Division ensures that new developments meet fire and life safety standards
through fire plan checks, hazardous materials inspections, and site safety assessments. Unlike
Fire Suppression and Emergency Medical Services, which provide emergency response, Fire
Prevention focuses on proactive safety measures, code compliance, and risk mitigation.
▪Hazardous Materials Permitting Fees: Increased State and Federal safety regulations have
expanded the scope of hazardous materials reviews, requiring more staff time and
technical expertise. The study recommends a tiered fee structure to ensure that higher-
risk occupancies contribute proportionally to fire safety costs.
▪Life Safety Inspection Fees: Many inspections require multiple site visits, coordination
with building inspectors, and extensive documentation. The study recommends adjusting
fees to reflect actual staff time spent, particularly for repeat inspections due to non-
compliance.
▪Fire Protection System Plan Check Fees: The study found that fire sprinkler and alarm plan
reviews have become more complex, particularly for high-rise and mixed-use
developments. Fee adjustments will ensure these projects cover the costs associated with
their increased review time.
▪Multi-Visit Fire Inspection Fees: Compliance corrections often require multiple site visits,
leading to under-recovery of costs. The study recommends updating inspection fees to
reflect actual staff time required for follow-up visits.
review. These additions have been necessary to manage more complex regulatory requirements
and development activity.
▪Encroachment Permit Fees: The City does not fully recover costs for staff time spent
reviewing encroachment permits, especially those requiring coordination with external
agencies. The study recommends adjusting these fees to reflect actual review effort and
regulatory complexity.
▪Stormwater Compliance and Green Infrastructure Fees: New state-mandated stormwater
and green infrastructure regulations require detailed technical reviews, increasing staff
workload. The study recommends introducing a separate fee category to cover these
additional compliance costs.
▪Urban Forestry and Tree Removal Fees: Enforcing tree protection policies requires
extensive review time, particularly for heritage trees and environmentally sensitive sites.
The study recommends adjusting tree preservation and removal permit fees to fully
recover processing costs.
▪Introducing an administrative cost recovery fee to support interdepartmental
coordination. This fee will be assessed automatically based on permit type to reflect
shared service costs but will not replace direct time tracking where required for cost
reconciliation.
▪Updating technology fees to reflect ongoing system upgrades and maintenance.
▪Adjusting public engagement fees to capture staff time for hearings, community
meetings, and noticing requirements.
These changes will improve cost recovery and ensure applicants contribute fairly to shared
service costs while maintaining accountability for staff time allocation.
▪Increasing the fee from 0.133% to 0.136% of building valuation to reflect actual costs.
▪Maintaining a valuation-based structure to ensure fees are proportionate to project size
and impact.
▪Keeping fees below regional benchmarks, as Palo Alto’s full-cost fee remains lower than
Mountain View (0.26%) and Sunnyvale (0.15%).
▪Software and Digital Tools – Includes licensing fees for Accela, GIS systems, reporting
databases, inspection applications, and electronic document review.
▪Hardware and Mobile Devices – Covers inspector tablets, workstations, and infrastructure
upgrades to maintain efficient field inspections and digital plan review.
▪System Maintenance and IT Support – Encompasses IT staffing, application maintenance,
and software updates necessary for secure and reliable digital permitting operations.
▪Increasing the fee from the current 2–3% to 5% of permit fees, ensuring proportional cost
recovery based on project size and software utilization.
▪Separating the Technology Fee as a distinct line item in the fee schedule for improved
transparency.
▪Aligning with regional best practices, as a comparative survey shows nearby cities charge
between 3% and 5% of permit fees, with Sunnyvale also at 5%.
The updated 5% rate ensures that larger projects, which require more digital storage, plan
review, and permitting system resources, contribute equitably to technology infrastructure costs.
This approach prevents underfunding while keeping the City’s fee structure competitive with
neighboring jurisdictions.
Development Services Reserve Fund
Development activity fluctuates with economic cycles, making it essential to maintain a
Development Services Reserve Fund to stabilize permitting and inspection services. This reserve,
currently at $2.2 million, allows the City to sustain staffing levels, prevent backlogs, and maintain
service continuity even during economic downturns. During the pandemic, reserve funds were
used to offset revenue losses, ensuring stable staffing and operations.
The study found that reserve contributions have not kept pace with revenue volatility,
particularly after pandemic-related slowdowns. To maintain financial stability, the study
recommends:
▪Renewing the Reserve Fund Policy through June 30, 2030, clearly defining its purpose,
funding goals, and usage guidelines.
▪Maintaining a funding target of 25% (three months of operating costs), collected over five
years to align with historical revenue trends.
▪Retaining the reserve surcharge at 5% and listing it as a separate fee line item for greater
transparency, similar to the Technology and Comprehensive Plan Maintenance Fees.
These adjustments ensure that the City can absorb economic fluctuations without impacting
service delivery, making reserve funding more predictable and transparent for both applicants
and internal stakeholders.
Comparative Survey
To evaluate Palo Alto’s fee structure, Matrix conducted a comparative survey of Menlo Park,
Mountain View, San Jose, Santa Clara, and Sunnyvale—jurisdictions with similar development
activity and regulatory frameworks. However, direct comparisons require careful consideration
of local policies, subsidy levels, and the recency of each jurisdiction’s fee study.
Key factors influencing fee comparisons include:
▪Subsidies: Some cities offset fees with General Fund support, particularly for Planning and
Fire Prevention services. Palo Alto, for example, maintains historically subsidized Planning
fees, which results in lower cost recovery compared to peer cities.
▪Last Fee Study Completion: Santa Clara (FY 23-24) is the only surveyed city to have
conducted a recent fee study. Other jurisdictions—Menlo Park (FY 17-18), San Jose (FY
17-18), Sunnyvale (FY 16-17), and Mountain View (FY 09-10, currently in progress)—have
not reassessed cost recovery in several years, meaning their fees may not reflect current
service costs.
▪Local Conditions and Community Expectations: Each city tailors its fees to align with
development priorities, staffing costs, and administrative structures.
While comparative surveys provide useful context, they do not fully account for differences in
cost structures, service levels, or policy objectives, making them a secondary decision-making
tool rather than a strict pricing benchmark.
Key comparative fee examples:
I. New Single-Family Home
o Current fee: $12,993 | Actual Cost: $11,705 | Regional Avg.: $11,227
o Palo Alto’s fee is slightly above the regional average but remains competitive given
the complexity of review and permitting requirements.
o San Jose ($13,905) and Santa Clara ($13,102) charge higher fees, while Menlo Park
($9,929), Mountain View ($8,454), and Sunnyvale ($10,746) charge lower fees.
o No major structural fee changes are proposed, as fees already align with cost
recovery and regional norms.
Figure 2: Comparative Survey, New Single-Family Home
II. Business Tenant Improvement
o Current fee: $18,395 | Actual Cost: $16,144 | Regional Avg.: $11,733
o Palo Alto’s fee exceeds the regional average, though Menlo Park ($5,076) lowers
the average due to a square footage-based model. Excluding Menlo Park, the
regional average ($13,398) is closer to Palo Alto’s actual cost.
o San Jose, Santa Clara, and Sunnyvale charge fees closer to $13,000–$14,000.
o The study recommends adjusting valuation tiers to better align fees with actual
review effort, ensuring larger projects pay proportionally without overburdening
smaller-scale improvements.
Figure 3: Comparative Survey, Business Tenant Improvement
III. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
o Current fee: $6,115 | Actual Cost: $6,329 | Regional Avg.: $3,728
o Palo Alto’s fee is higher than regional norms, as Sunnyvale ($6,000) is the only
comparable jurisdiction, indicating a high likelihood of subsidy utilization.
o Menlo Park, San Jose, and Santa Clara use a square footage-based fee, while Palo
Alto, Sunnyvale, and Mountain View charge fees based on valuation.
These comparisons support targeted adjustments to maintain cost recovery, regional
competitiveness, and policy alignment while ensuring fees reflect the actual cost of service
delivery.
Fee Subsidies
As the City seeks to balance cost recovery with broader policy goals, staff requests the Finance
Committee provide direction on potential targeted fee reductions in key areas that support
community priorities. Based on prior Council policy, subsidies could be applied based on cost
recovery percentages identified earlier in this report to advance City objectives related to
childcare access, regulatory compliance, carbon reduction, and housing affordability.
Supporting Childcare Providers
Promoting Electrification and Carbon Reduction Goals
Reducing Fees for ADUs to Expand Housing Options
Minor Residential Improvements
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
Projected financial impacts include:
▪Reducing potential General Fund impacts for inadequate cost recovery .
▪Maintaining General Fund support for long-range planning and public-benefit programs.
▪Ensuring stable staffing levels to prevent processing delays.
▪Ongoing revenue monitoring, with updates provided to policymakers.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
ATTACHMENTS
APPROVED BY:
Building Current Fee* Actual Cost Difference
Building Permit Fees
Base Fee for All Standalone Permits 155.67 277.45 121.77
Commercial Interior Non-Structural Demolition 242.43 455.58 213.14
Demolition 674.31 1,085.71 411.40
Construction & Demolition (C&D)
Commercial and Multi-Family Projects greater than or equal to $25,000.00 in Valuation 412.27 470.20 57.93
Single Family and Two Family Projects greater than $25,000.00 and less than $75,000.00 in Valuations 220.81 470.20 249.39
Single Family and Two Family Projects greater than $75,000.00 in Valuation 283.47 503.04 219.56
Electrical Permits
Electrical Service - New or Replacement: 400 amp and Greater 745.54 871.32 125.78
Electrical Service - New or Replacement: Less than 400 amp 496.98 564.65 67.67
Generator: Multi-Family / Commercial 598.35 1,318.04 719.68
Generator: Single-Family 598.35 713.56 115.20
Electrical Permits - Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations
Multi-Family / Commercial (Level 1 and 2): 1-6 Stations 482.53 3,930.21 3,447.68
Multi-Family / Commercial (Level 1 and 2): Each addl 6 stations 90.53 1,030.52 939.99
Multi-Family / Commercial (Level 3 and 4): 1-6 Stations 576.59 3,930.21 3,353.62
Multi-Family / Commercial (Level 3 and 4): Each addl 6 stations 113.34 1,030.52 917.18
Single-Family (Level 1 and 2) 208.70 1,205.31 996.60
Single-Family (Level 3) 317.22 1,387.31 1,070.09
Electrical Permits - Photovoltaic Systems (PV)
Multi-Family / Commercial System (10kW or less) 755.20 1,761.29 1,006.10
Multi-Family / Commercial System (11kW-49kW) 1,013.46 2,374.64 1,361.18
Multi-Family Commercial System (50kW or greater) 755.20 3,154.61 2,399.41
Single-Family Systems (10kW or less) 349.79 1,345.55 995.76
Single-Family Systems (greater than 10kW) 223.16 1,697.89 1,474.73
General & Miscellaneous Fees
Address Change - Each additional 254.82 91.21 (163.61)
Address Change - First address change 683.93 364.82 (319.11)
Awnings (Groups of 5): Multi-Family / Commercial 94.05 1,318.04 1,223.99
Awnings (Groups of 5): Single-Family 94.05 713.56 619.50
Bathroom Remodel: Multi-Family (Direct Replacement, Non-Structural) 377.53 753.39 375.85
Bathroom Remodel: Single/Multi-Family (Other) 377.53 911.15 533.62
Bathroom Remodel: Single-Family (Direct Replacement Non-Structural) 377.53 595.62 218.09
Building Reinspection Fee: Multi-Family Residential and Commercial (up to 30 minute inspection) 184.60 148.90 (35.69)
Building Reinspection Fee: Single-Family: Primary Inspection Type (1 hour) 190.58 297.81 107.22
Building Reinspection Fee: Single-Family: Secondary Inspection Type (30 minutes) 102.51 148.90 46.39
Doors, windows and skylights (Group of 10) - Non-Structural: Multi-Family/Commercial 189.42 795.35 605.93
Doors, windows and skylights (Group of 10) - Non-Structural: Single Family 189.42 467.70 278.28
Doors, windows and skylights (Group of 5) - Structural: Multi-Family/Commercial 377.53 795.35 417.82
Doors, windows and skylights (Group of 5) - Structural: Single-Family 377.53 713.56 336.02
Dryrot Repair/Replacement - Single Family: Non-Structural 94.05 455.58 361.53
Dryrot Repair/Replacement - Single Family: Structural 94.05 762.25 668.20
Electric Service and Safety Inspection 265.37 297.81 32.44
Extension of Building Permit or Building Permit Application 106.18 237.98 131.80
Green Building Special Inspector: Initial Review 574.46 376.22 (198.25)
Green Building Special Inspector: Renewal Update 286.53 188.11 (98.43)
Inspections and Investigations: Outside of Normal Business Hours (2 hour minimum) 499.47 343.39 (156.08)
Inspections and Investigations: Unclassified (2 hour minimum) 332.98 297.81 (35.17)
Kitchen Remodel: Multi-Family (Direct Replacement, Non-Structural) 283.47 753.39 469.91
Kitchen Remodel: Single/Multi-Family (Remodel, not direct replacement) 283.47 753.39 469.91
Kitchen Remodel: Single-Family (Direct Replacement, Non-Structural) 283.47 446.71 163.24
Progress & Partial Inspections (Up to 30 minutes inspection) 74.77 148.90 74.13
Reactivation of Expired Building Permit: Application 211.17 89.85 (121.31)
Reactivation of Expired Building Permit: Final Inspection Only 346.27 365.20 18.93
Reactivation of Expired Building Permit: Multiple Outstanding Inspections 0.50 0.50 -
Real Property Research Fee (1-hour minimum) 310.04 277.45 (32.60)
Request of Release of Building Plans and Documents 103.70 277.45 173.75
Re-Roof - Multi-Family / Commercial: Each additional 2,500 sf 93.44 297.81 204.37
Re-Roof - Multi-Family / Commercial: First 5,000 sf 377.53 1,233.21 855.67
Re-Roof - Single Family 377.53 537.72 160.19
Re-Roof-Single Family Overlay 94.05 297.81 203.76
Retaining Walls: Each additional 100 LF 62.79 207.87 145.08
Retaining Walls: First 100 LF 125.46 1,438.78 1,313.33
Siding Repair/Replacement (in-kind) 189.41 297.81 108.40
Sign Permit (Group of 5): Illuminated 156.85 750.02 593.17
Sign Permit (Group of 5): Monument 156.85 655.66 498.80
Sign Permit (Group of 5): Non-Illuminated 156.85 452.21 295.36
Stucco Repair/Replacement 283.47 297.81 14.34
Mechanical Permits
Boilers, Compressors, and Absorption Systems / Water Heaters 125.46 543.47 418.01
Furnace, Flue, and Associated Ducts 125.46 631.70 506.25
HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps, Air Handling Unit): Multi-Family / Commercial (Groups of 5): Direct replacements 63.96 901.50 837.55
ATTACHMENT AProposed Fee Listing
63.96 1,539.09 1,475.13 HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps, Air Handling Unit): Multi-Family / Commercial (Groups of 5): New - with curb
HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps, Air Handling Unit): Multi-Family / Commercial (Groups of 5): New - without curb 63.96 1,232.42 1,168.46
HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps, Air Handling Unit): Single-Family 63.96 713.56 649.60
Miscellaneous Permit - not otherwise listed 63.96 297.81 233.85
Process Piping System 62.79 455.58 392.78
Process Piping System - Hazardous 63.96 807.83 743.87
Swimming Pool Heater - Direct Replacement 74.77 488.68 413.91
Ventilation and Exhaust System - Single-Family / Multi-Family 63.96 455.58 391.62
Plan Review Fees
Additional Plan Review 258.19 315.53 57.35
Certified Access Specialist (CASp) Review/Consultation 496.99 595.62 98.63
Plumbing Permits
Backflow protective device 225.63 203.44 (22.19)
Building Sewer System - Direct Replacement 152.04 352.35 200.31
Gas Piping System 225.63 510.11 284.49
Plumbing Fixtures - New / Direct Replacement (Groups of 5) 156.85 297.81 140.96
Sand Oil Interceptor and Grease Traps 225.63 916.64 691.02
Solar Hot Water System 225.63 604.48 378.85
Storm Drain System 225.63 406.88 181.26
Plumbing Permits - Graywater Systems
Potable Water System - Repair / Direct Replacement: Clothes washer System / Simple System 94.05 510.11 416.06
Potable Water System - Repair / Direct Replacement: Complex System 225.63 816.78 591.16
Temporary Occupancy Permit
Certificate of Use and Occupancy - Multi-Family Residential, Non-Residential, and Other Commercial 1,118.27 2,790.91 1,672.64
Certificate of Use and Occupancy - Single Family and Commercial Tenant Improvement less than 10,000 sq. ft. 820.33 1,149.77 329.43
Use & Occupancy Permits
Certificate of Use and Occupancy - Replacement 296.17 134.78 (161.39)
Certificate of Use and Occupancy: Included in Associated Building Permit 1,482.64 170.59 (1,312.06)
Certificate of Use and Occupancy: Stand-alone 1,482.64 1,299.92 (182.72)
* Does not include 2-3% Technology Fee and 5% Reserve amount built into the published fee.
Building Current Fee* Actual Cost Difference
ATTACHMENT A
Planning Current Fee* Actual Cost Difference
Appeals
Appeals and Request for Hearing before City Council or Planning & Transportation Commission 717.80 561.66 (156.14)
Architectural Review
10,679.26 11,451.97 772.71
4,099.91 5,829.99 1,730.08
- 778.15 778.15
8,504.62 3,612.72 (4,891.90)
8,013.79 8,226.44 212.65
5,356.05 6,673.76 1,317.71
1,280.77 2,829.83 1,549.06
Architectural Review - Minor Project (ARB Review)
Architectural Review - Minor Project (Staff Review)
Architectural Review - Over the Counter
Design Enhancement Exception
Preliminary Review
Signs - (ARB Review/Exceptions)
Signs, Minor Façade Changes, Landscaping, Accessory Structures or Similar Minor Changes to a Building Exterior - (Staff
Review, unless OTC)
Director's Approval
Home Improvement Exception 4,770.26 4,306.76 (463.50)
Environmental Impact Assessment
CEQA Categorical Exemption 692.73 743.69 50.97
Historic Resource
Demolition Application for Historic Buildings 1,535.29 1,809.85 274.57
Historic Resource Review - Major Project 2,304.21 6,619.49 4,315.28
Historic Resource Review - Minor Project (Staff Review) 1,536.18 3,040.52 1,504.34
Historic Resource Review of Individual Review Application 384.07 1,123.33 739.26
Individual Review
Expansion of Existing Two-Story greater than 150 sq. ft. 8,653.43 7,388.55 (1,264.88)
Individual Review - Minor Revisions to Approved Projects 4,497.08 3,738.97 (758.11)
Individual Review Refund Fee - 686.52 686.52
New Two-Story Addition or New Two-Story Home 10,810.62 14,396.91 3,586.29
Preliminary Individual Review and SB9 with Architect 575.73 1,036.52 460.79
Other Application Fees
Pre-Screening fee 4,602.29 6,193.09 1,590.80
Public Noticing - 600 ft. Radius 1,380.32 325.82 (1,054.50)
Public Noticing - Up to 150 ft. Radius 786.12 325.82 (460.30)
Public Noticing beyond 600 ft. Radius 1,840.08 325.82 (1,514.26)
Subdivision - (Major) Five or More Parcels
Subdivision Final Map 7,153.03 8,532.47 1,379.44
Subdivision (Minor) Four or Less Parcels
Parcel Map 5,982.76 5,752.95 (229.81)
Parcel Map, Minor with Exception 4,380.18 8,726.42 4,346.24
Preliminary Parcel Map, Minor 7,167.40 7,724.69 557.29
Use Permit
Conditional Use Permit - Alcohol - Amendment 4,655.12 1,884.54 (2,770.58)
Conditional Use Permit - Director Level 8,825.84 9,067.94 242.10
Day Care Center 218.59 8,429.94 8,211.35
Pre-Application Staff Consultation Fee 888.74 1,149.33 260.59
SB 330 Fee 2,872.98 3,006.38 133.39
Temporary Use Permit 1,752.79 2,136.80 384.01
Variance
Variance 5,638.58 6,853.63 1,215.05
Wireless Permit
Wireless Tier 1 4,099.70 3,700.31 (399.38)
Zone Change
Planned Community Zone Change 11,264.44 36,401.88 25,137.44
* Does not include 2-3% Technology Fee and 5% Reserve amount built into the published fee.
ATTACHMENT A
Fire Prevention Current Fee* Actual Cost Difference
Compliance Fees
Emergency Response Fee - Hazmat 472.88 482.25 9.37
Review of Emergency Planning Guide *only assessed if not part of annual submittal 402.00 482.25 80.25
Consultations
Additional Hours Over Plan Review/Site Visit: Development Services - Fire 337.79 352.25 14.46
Additional Hours Over Plan Review/Site Visit: Fire Prevention 337.79 352.25 14.46
Additional Hours Over Plan Review/Site Visit: HazMat 337.79 352.25 14.46
Alternate Means and Methods Application (2 hr minimum): Fire Prevention 1,009.75 835.13 (174.62)
Alternate Means and Methods Application (2 hr minimum): HazMat 1,009.75 835.13 (174.62)
Appeals to Decisions: Development Services - Fire 471.71 482.88 11.17
Appeals to Decisions: Fire Prevention 471.71 482.88 11.17
Appeals to Decisions: HazMat 471.71 482.88 11.17
Consultation Fee: Development Services - Fire 471.71 433.22 (38.49)
Consultation Fee: Fire Prevention 471.71 433.22 (38.49)
Consultation Fee: HazMat 471.71 439.13 (32.58)
General & Miscellaneous Fees Fire Prevention Plan Check Hourly
Development Services - Fire 258.19 352.25 94.07
Fire Prevention 258.19 352.25 94.07
HazMat 258.19 352.25 94.07
Hazardous Materials Classification Permits
Additional Approvals for Hazardous Materials Storage Permit: Per hour for time above two hours 674.31 417.25 (257.05)
Additional Approvals for Hazardous Materials Storage Permit: Per occurrence (includes up to 2 hours) 1,030.19 834.50 (195.69)
Business Plan (HMBP) 674.31 723.38 49.07
Compressed Gas 474.06 482.25 8.19
Corrosives 474.06 482.25 8.19
Cryogenic Fluid 474.06 482.25 8.19
Flammable and Combustible Liquids 474.06 964.50 490.44
Flammable Gas 473.08 482.25 9.17
Flammable Solids 474.06 482.25 8.19
Health Hazard (Liquids & Solids) 474.06 482.25 8.19
Level I Facility 474.06 723.38 249.32
Level II Facility 951.77 1,205.63 253.86
Level III Facility 1,903.55 3,134.63 1,231.08
Liquefied Petroleum Gases 474.06 482.25 8.19
Liquid or Gas-Fueled Powered Equipment (i.e. Generator, Welders, Portable Light Units, etc.): First Equipment 471.71 482.25 10.55
Operate a Tank Vehicle to Transport Flammable/Combustible Liquids 634.00 723.38 89.38
Organic Coatings 474.06 482.25 8.19
Organic Peroxides 474.06 482.25 8.19
Other Hazardous Materials - Unclassified 474.06 482.25 8.19
Ovens - Industrial Baking or Drying 474.06 964.50 490.44
Oxidizers (Liquids & Solids) 474.06 482.25 8.19
Oxidizing Gas 474.06 482.25 8.19
Petroleum Aboveground Storage Tank 951.77 1,929.01 977.23
Provisional Hazmat Storage (6 Month) 951.77 834.50 (117.27)
Pryophoric Gas 474.06 482.25 8.19
Pryophoric Materials (Liquids & Solids) 474.06 482.25 8.19
Pryotechnical Special Effects Material 474.06 482.25 8.19
Radioactive Materials or Sources 474.06 964.50 490.44
Refrigeration Equipment 509.13 482.25 (26.88)
Spraying/Dipping 454.58 482.25 27.67
Tire Recapping/Tire Storage 1,890.25 1,858.11 (32.14)
Toxic, Highly Toxic, Moderately Toxic, Health Hazard Gas 474.06 964.50 490.44
Toxic, Highly Toxic, Moderately Toxic, Health Hazard Materials 474.06 964.50 490.44
Unstable Reactive Gas 474.06 482.25 8.19
Unstable Reactive Materials (Liquids & Solids) 474.06 482.25 8.19
Water Reactive Materials (Liquids & Solids) 474.06 482.25 8.19
Inspection Fees
Additional Inspection or Reinspection Fee (2-hour minimum): Development Services - Fire 473.48 464.53 (8.95)
Additional Inspection or Reinspection Fee (2-hour minimum): Fire Prevention 473.48 464.53 (8.95)
Additional Inspection or Reinspection Fee (2-hour minimum): HazMat 473.48 482.25 8.77
After Hours Inspection Fee: Development Services - Fire 709.34 529.85 (179.49)
After Hours Inspection Fee: Fire Prevention 709.34 529.85 (179.49)
After Hours Inspection Fee: HazMat 709.34 554.61 (154.73)
As-Built Plan Check and Additional Work 946.96 816.78 (130.18)
Care Facility Inspection Including Fire Clearance: Facilities with 7-25 clients 471.71 464.53 (7.18)
Care Facility Inspection Including Fire Clearance: Facilities with more than 25 clients 946.96 1,858.11 911.15
Christmas Tree Lot/Pumpkin Patch 471.71 464.53 (7.18)
High Rise Building - Certificate of Compliance: Annually for up to 7 hours 3,708.19 3,251.70 (456.49)
High Rise Building - Certificate of Compliance: Each additional hours 507.08 464.53 (42.55)
Outside Cooking Booths/Food Trucks 709.34 464.53 (244.81)
Standby Fire Watch - Fire Inspector 471.71 464.53 (7.18)
Temporary Occupancy Permit for Vendors/Stock Occupancy 1,523.55 2,210.37 686.81
Life Safety & Fire Protection
All Other (Non-NFPA 13D) Automatic Fire Sprinkler Installation/Modification: 1 - 19 Sprinkler Heads 1,055.58 1,689.70 634.12
All Other (Non-NFPA 13D) Automatic Fire Sprinkler Installation/Modification: 20 or more Sprinkler Heads 2,334.23 2,914.87 580.64
ATTACHMENT A
All Other (Non-NFPA 13D) Automatic Fire Sprinkler Installation/Modification: 20 or more Sprinkler Heads, Per head 3.89 10.68 6.79
Express Fire Protection Plan Check Fee 235.27 457.35 222.08
Fire Alarm System Installation and Modification 1,379.79 1,985.81 606.02
Fire Alarm System Installation and Modification: Plus per device or contact point 31.09 40.84 9.75
Fire Prevention Inspection of Private Schools (min 2 hours) 473.48 464.53 (8.95)
Hydrant Installation/Modification - Private 237.62 816.78 579.17
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 101-250 units 1,418.67 2,322.64 903.97
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 11-25 units 471.71 929.06 457.35
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 26-100 units 946.96 1,393.59 446.62
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 3-10 units 471.71 464.53 (7.18)
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels greater than 250 units 1,418.67 2,787.17 1,368.50
Other Automatic Extinguishing Systems 1,283.57 1,393.59 110.02
Site Disaster / Emergency Preparedness Planning 471.71 445.63 (26.07)
Standpipe System - Wet, Dry, or Combination 946.96 1,633.56 686.60
Temporary Certificate of Occupancy 1,024.20 1,393.59 369.39
Underground Fire Service Line (Includes 4 hrs of inspection and 1 hr of plan check) 2,229.25 2,210.37 (18.88)
Verification of Fire Protection System Maintenance and Certification 86.89 38.71 (48.18)
Services
Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Testing Fee 667.12 464.53 (202.59)
Hydrant Flow Fee 471.71 696.79 225.09
Specific Hazard Permits
Candles and Open Flames in Assembly Areas 471.71 464.53 (7.18)
Hot Work (i.e. Spark/Flame Producing) Operations 529.56 464.53 (65.03)
Occupant Load Increase - Temporary Public Assembly 471.71 1,281.31 809.60
Place of Assembly 951.77 929.06 (22.71)
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure 992.81 1,169.03 176.22
* Does not include 2-3% Technology Fee and 5% Reserve amount built into the published fee.
Fire Prevention Current Fee* Actual Cost Difference
ATTACHMENT A
Public Works Current Fee* Actual Cost Difference
Encroachment Permit
Parklet Permit: Initial Application Fee 1,860.00 4,548.30 2,688.30
Parklet Permit: License Fee for Use of Right-Of-Way 10.71 10.71
Parklet Permit: Renewal Fee 232.50 549.43 316.93
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: A. Dumpster, Container 407.35 474.77 67.42
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: B. Non-Residential - Single Day 1,631.37 2,053.11 421.74
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: C. Non-Residential Short-Term (Less than 5 days) 1,902.94 2,281.02 378.08
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: D. Non-Residential Long-Term (More than 5 days) 2,609.41 2,930.76 321.35
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: E. Additional Non-Residential Long-Term (More than 5 days) Monthly 917.04 933.62 16.59
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: F. Fence 2,005.08 1,998.57 (6.51)
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: G. Residential 1,038.00 1,276.93 238.93
General & Miscellaneous Fees
Miscellaneous Public Works Inspection 253.85 195.00 (58.85)
Miscellaneous Public Works Plan Check 298.13 242.86 (55.27)
Grading / Excavation
A. 101 - 1,000 cubic yards: Each additional 100 cubic yards or fraction thereof 246.97 321.86 74.89
A. 101 - 1,000 cubic yards: First 100 cubic yards 246.97 1,549.70 1,302.73
B. 1,001 - 10,000 cubic yards: Each additional 1,000 cubic yards or fraction thereof 233.20 553.50 320.31
B. 1,001 - 10,000 cubic yards: First 1,000 cubic yards 2,469.69 4,010.11 1,540.42
C. 10,001 or more cubic yards: Each additional 10,000 cubic yards or fraction thereof 906.21 2,034.25 1,128.04
C. 10,001 or more cubic yards: First 10,000 cubic yards 4,801.63 8,398.28 3,596.65
Inspection Fees
Off Hour Inspection 310.62 244.39 (66.23)
Tree Inspection for Private Development 236.15 763.52 527.38
Wet Season Construction Site Stormwater Inspection: Per hour thereafter, charged monthly October thru April 120.04 208.11 88.06
Wet Season Construction Site Stormwater Inspection: Per Inspection (charged monthly October thru April) 360.12 312.16 (47.96)
Permit Fees
1. Temporary Discharge to Storm Drain from Non-Exclusionary Construction Site Dewatering 18,212.73 17,328.65 (884.08)
2. Additional Temporary Discharge to Storm Drain from Non-Exclusionary Construction Site Dewatering 387.67 372.66 (15.01)
A. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($1.00 - $5,999) 817.66 971.18 153.53
B. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($6,000 - $25,999) 817.76 971.37 153.60
C. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($26,000 - $100,999) 2,923.42 5,430.46 2,507.03
Certificate of Compliance / Certificate of Correction / Map Amendment 5,659.98 4,577.21 (1,082.77)
D. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($101,000 - $500k) 13,033.38 15,854.46 2,821.08
E. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($500k-$1m) 55,726.38 25,267.45 (30,458.93)
F. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($1m+) 109,226.38 38,175.32 (71,051.05)
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) Permit Review Fee 256.81 229.74 (27.07)
Right of Way Closure Management 103.31 95.89 (7.43)
Storm Drain Plan Check Fee 1,225.01 2,718.39 1,493.39
* Does not include 2-3% Technology Fee and 5% Reserve amount built into the published fee.
ATTACHMENT A
Recommended Deposit‐Based Fees Amounts
Fee Title Fee Group Current Deposit Amount Recommended
Deposit Amount
Appeal Costs Exceeding Appeals Filing Fee Appeals and Legal Review Fees 4,744 4,700
Architectural Review ‐ Major Project Architectural Review 16,236 16,000
Comprehensive Plan Change Comprehensive Plan Change 9,674 9,600
Development Agreement Development Agreement 11,163 11,100
Development Agreement ‐ Annual Review Development Agreement 3,908 3,900
Environmental Document (Staff prepared)Environmental Impact Assessment 7,909 7,900
Mitigation Monitoring ‐ Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Assessment 5,805 5,800
Mitigation Monitoring ‐ Mitigated Negative Declaration Environmental Impact Assessment 1,934 1,900
Transfer of Development Rights Projects Historic Resource 933 900
Williamson Act Contract ‐ Establish or Withdraw Historic Resource 3,050 3,000
Planning Compliance Fee Other Application Fees New 1,000
Pre‐Screening Fee Other Application Fees 4,745 4,700
Site and Design Major Site & Design 35,624 20,000
Tentative Map Subdivision ‐ Five or More Parcels 13,637 13,500
Preliminary Parcel Map, Minor with Exception Subdivision ‐ Four or Less Parcels 11,686 11,600
Wireless Tier 2 Wireless Permit 9,100 9,100
Wireless Tier 3 Wireless Permit 9,664 9,600
Planned Community Zone Change Zone Change 11,613 11,600
Zone Change Regular Zone Change 9,675 9,600
Recommended Policy‐Directed Subsidy
Fee Title Category Fee Group Current
FY 2025 Fee*
Actual Cost Current Cost
Recovery %
FY 2024
Permits
Issued
Preliminary Review Individual Review Architectural Review 8,014.00 8,073.00 99%5
Electrical Service ‐ New or Replacement: 400 amp and Greater Electrification Electrical Permits 745.54 871.32 86%187
Electrical Service ‐ New or Replacement: Less than 400 amp Electrification Electrical Permits 496.98 564.65 88%1
Generator: Multi‐Family / Commercial Electrification Electrical Permits 598.35 1,318.04 45%5
Generator: Single‐Family Electrification Electrical Permits 598.35 713.56 84%5
Multi‐Family / Commercial (Level 1 and 2): 1‐6 Stations Electrification Electrical Permits ‐ Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations 482.53 3,930.21 12%12
Multi‐Family / Commercial (Level 1 and 2): Each addl 6 stations Electrification Electrical Permits ‐ Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations 90.53 1,030.52 9%167
Multi‐Family / Commercial (Level 3 and 4): 1‐6 Stations Electrification Electrical Permits ‐ Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations 576.59 3,930.21 15%1
Multi‐Family / Commercial (Level 3 and 4): Each addl 6 stations Electrification Electrical Permits ‐ Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations 113.34 1,030.52 11%1
Single‐Family (Level 1 and 2)Electrification Electrical Permits ‐ Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations 208.70 1,205.31 17%121
Single‐Family (Level 3)Electrification Electrical Permits ‐ Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations 317.22 1,387.31 23% ‐
Multi‐Family / Commercial System (10kW or less)Electrification Electrical Permits ‐ Photovoltaic Systems (PV)755.20 1,761.29 43% ‐
Multi‐Family / Commercial System (11kW‐49kW)Electrification Electrical Permits ‐ Photovoltaic Systems (PV) 1,013.46 2,374.64 43% ‐
Multi‐Family Commercial System (50kW or greater)Electrification Electrical Permits ‐ Photovoltaic Systems (PV)755.20 3,154.61 24%2
Single‐Family Systems (10kW or less)Electrification Electrical Permits ‐ Photovoltaic Systems (PV)349.79 1,345.55 26%128
Single‐Family Systems (greater than 10kW)Electrification Electrical Permits ‐ Photovoltaic Systems (PV)223.16 1,697.89 13%73
Single‐Family System Electrification Energy Storage Systems New Fee 1,688.39 ‐ ‐
Multi‐Family / Commercial System Electrification Energy Storage Systems New Fee 2,957.10 ‐ ‐
HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps, Air Handling Unit): Multi‐Family /
Commercial (Groups of 5): Direct replacements
Electrification Mechanical Permits 63.96 901.50 7% ‐
HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps, Air Handling Unit): Multi‐Family /
Commercial (Groups of 5): New ‐ with curb
Electrification Mechanical Permits 63.96 1,539.09 4% ‐
HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps, Air Handling Unit): Multi‐Family /
Commercial (Groups of 5): New ‐ without curb
Electrification Mechanical Permits 63.96 1,232.42 5% ‐
HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps, Air Handling Unit): Single‐Family Electrification Mechanical Permits 63.96 713.56 9%219
Bathroom Remodel: Multi‐Family (Direct Replacement, Non‐Structural)Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 377.53 753.39 50% ‐
Bathroom Remodel: Single/Multi‐Family (Other)Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 377.53 911.15 41% ‐
Bathroom Remodel: Single‐Family (Direct Replacement Non‐Structural) Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 377.53 595.62 63%142
Doors, windows and skylights (Group of 10) ‐ Non‐Structural: Multi‐Family/Commercial Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 189.42 795.35 24% ‐
Doors, windows and skylights (Group of 10) ‐ Non‐Structural: Single Family Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 189.42 467.70 41%13
Doors, windows and skylights (Group of 5) ‐ Structural: Multi‐Family/Commercial Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 377.53 795.35 47% ‐
Doors, windows and skylights (Group of 5) ‐ Structural: Single‐Family Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 377.53 713.56 53%64
Dryrot Repair/Replacement ‐ Single Family: Non‐Structural Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 94.05 455.58 21%2
Dryrot Repair/Replacement ‐ Single Family: Structural Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 94.05 762.25 12% ‐
Kitchen Remodel: Multi‐Family (Direct Replacement, Non‐Structural)Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 283.47 753.39 38% ‐
Kitchen Remodel: Single/Multi‐Family (Remodel, not direct replacement)Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 283.47 753.39 38%84
Re‐Roof ‐ Single Family Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 377.53 537.72 70%465
Re‐Roof‐Single Family Overlay Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 94.05 297.81 32%13
Retaining Walls: First 100 LF Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 125.46 1,438.78 9%2
Retaining Walls: Each additional 100 LF Minor Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees 62.79 207.87 30% ‐
Boilers, Compressors, and Absorption Systems / Water Heaters Minor Residential Mechanical Permits 125.46 543.47 23%530
Furnace, Flue, and Associated Ducts Minor Residential Mechanical Permits 125.46 631.70 20%150
Swimming Pool Heater ‐ Direct Replacement Minor Residential Mechanical Permits 74.77 488.68 15% ‐
Ventilation and Exhaust System ‐ Single‐Family / Multi‐Family Minor Residential Mechanical Permits 63.96 455.58 14%4
Potable Water System ‐ Repair / Direct Replacement: Clothes washer System / Simple
System
Minor Residential Plumbing Permits 94.05 510.11 18% ‐
Potable Water System ‐ Repair / Direct Replacement: Complex System Minor Residential Plumbing Permits 225.63 816.78 28% ‐
* FY 2025 fee does not include the 2‐3% Technology Fee and 5% Reserve amount that are built into the published fee. These are standalone fees which have an additional $277 base fee applied
ATTACHMENT A
New Fees
Fee Title Fee Group Program Area Propsosed
Amount/Deposit
Base Fee for Small or Medium Sq. Ft. / Valuation Permits Building Permits Fees Building 1,109.79
Base Fee for Larger Sq. Ft. / Valuation Permits Building Permits Fees Building 4,161.71
Deconstruction Permit (Initiation/Intake)Building Permits Fees Building 974.74
Rewiring (Single Family Residential Only)Electrical Permits Building 604.48
Single‐Family Residential Permits / Equipment Not Listed Above Electrical Permits Building 527.57
Multi‐Family / Commercial Permits / Equipment Not Listed Above Electrical Permits Building 685.33
Multi‐Family / Commercial System – Reinstallation Electrical Permits – Photovoltaic Systems (PV) Building 1,226.68
Single‐Family – Reinstallation Electrical Permits – Photovoltaic Systems (PV) Building 911.15
SolarAPP+ PV Electrical Permits – Photovoltaic Systems (PV) Building 595.62
Solar APP+ PV and ESS Electrical Permits – Photovoltaic Systems (PV) Building 1,209.05
Single‐Family System Energy Storage Systems Building 1,688.39
Multi‐Family / Commercial System Energy Storage Systems Building 2,957.10
Bathroom Remodel – Instant Permit General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 595.62
Cell Tower Building Review General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 2,479.54
Deck or Balcony ‐ Single Family General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 786.49
Foundation Repair – Single Family Residential (No Basement)General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 510.11
Kitchen Remodel – Instant Permit General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 595.62
Parklet Permit Application (First Year)General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 1,263.74
Seismic Retrofit – Brace and Bolt – Single Family Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 455.58
Industrial Storage Racks / Cabinets General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 613.34
Swimming Pool / Spa, Single‐Family General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 713.56
Swimming Pool / Spa, Multi‐Family / Commercial General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 1,318.04
Deferred Submittals / Revisions – Base Charge General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 631.07
Deferred Submittals / Revisions – Hourly Charge General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 315.53
Instant Permit – Single‐Family Replacement (i.e., Heat Pump, Water Heaters, Gas, etc.)Mechanical Permits Building 297.81
Miscellaneous Permit – Not Otherwise Listed – Per Hour Mechanical Permits Building 297.81
Alternate Materials, Design Methods of Construction (AMMR)Plan Review Fees Building 898.14
Potable Water System – Repair / Direct Replacement Plumbing Permits Building 352.35
Miscellaneous Permit – Not Otherwise Listed Plumbing Permits – Graywater Systems Building 297.81
Miscellaneous Permit – Per Hour Plumbing Permits – Graywater Systems Building 297.81
Streamlined Housing Development Review Miscellaneous Fees Planning 24,206.00
Planning Compliance Fee Other Application Fees Planning 1,092.06
SB9 Application Other Application Fees Planning 5,174.45
Retail Waiver Planning Fees Planning 8,380.81
HazMat Plan Submittal Compliance Fees Fire Prevention 2,021.26
HazMat Closure, Partial Closure Compliance Fees Fire Prevention 1,316.76
HazMat Closure, Full Closure Compliance Fees Fire Prevention 3,338.01
Temporary Generator / Backup Power Supply Hazardous Materials Permits Fire Prevention 1,316.76
Battery Operated Equipment, Up to 10 Pieces of Equipment Hazardous Materials Permits Fire Prevention 482.25
Battery Operated Equipment, Each Additional Equipment at Same Location Hazardous Materials Permits Fire Prevention 120.56
Temporary Certificate of Occupancy – Hazmat Hazardous Materials Permits Fire Prevention 964.50
Hospital Inspections, Annually for up to 7 hours Inspection Fees Fire Prevention 3,251.70
Hospital Inspections, Each additional hour Inspection Fees Fire Prevention 464.53
Standby Fire Watch – Fire Engine Company Inspection Fees Fire Prevention ‐
Hazmat Temporary Occupancy Permit for Vendors/Stock Occupancy Inspection Fees Fire Prevention 2,281.26
Business Inspection Inspection Fees Fire Prevention 464.53
Environmental Hazard Release Investigations Fire Prevention 417.25
Hazmat Investigations Fire Prevention 482.25
Fire Investigation Investigations Fire Prevention 464.53
Fire Protection and Fire Access Plan Review for New Developments or Additions Life Safety & Fire Protection Fire Prevention 433.22
ATTACHMENT A
Deleted Fee
Fee Title Fee Group Program Area
Air Conditioners Electrical Permits Building
Busway, Power Duct or Floor Duct Electrical Permits Building
Conditional Meter Release (Conditional Utility Agreement)Electrical Permits Building
Each Additional Meter (Group of 5)Electrical Permits Building
Fixtures, Switches, and Outlets (Group of 20)Electrical Permits Building
Lighting, Power and / or Control Panel Board, Switchboard Cabinet, or Panel Electrical Permits Building
Motor (Groups of 10)Electrical Permits Building
Range, Electric Clothes Dryer, or Water Heater (Groups of 5)Electrical Permits Building
Special Circuit (not listed herein; groups of 10)Electrical Permits Building
Temporary Wiring for Construction Electrical Permits Building
All Other Publications General & Miscellaneous Fees Building
Miscellaneous Planning Plan Check & Inspection General & Miscellaneous Fees Building
Records Retention General & Miscellaneous Fees Building
Special Inspection – Materials Testing Lab Certification General & Miscellaneous Fees Building
Utilities Plan Review General & Miscellaneous Fees Building
All Fees Green Building Building
Compressors and Absorption Systems Mechanical Permits Building
Atmospheric‐type Vacuum Breakers Plumbing Permits Building
Industrial Waste Pretreatment Interceptor Plumbing Permits Building
Medical Gas Piping System Plumbing Permits Building
Swimming Pool Plumbing Permits Building
Water Heater, Vent, or Other Plumbing Permits Building
Water Piping Plumbing Permits Building
All Fees Legal Review Fees Planning
Signs – (Exceptions)Architectural Review Planning
Temporary Sign Permit Architectural Review Planning
Comprehensive Plan Documents & Photocopies Planning
Zoning Map Booklet Documents & Photocopies Planning
Records Retention Other Application Fees Planning
Conditional Use Permit – Additional Upon Hearing Request Use Permit Planning
Variance – Additional Upon Hearing Request Variance Planning
Emergency Planning Guide Documents Fire Prevention
Long‐Term Offsite Document Storage Documents Fire Prevention
Microfilm Copy / Print (Blueprint and Specification)Documents Fire Prevention
Photographs (First Print and Each Additional)Documents Fire Prevention
Use & Occupancy Fire Inspection Inspection Fees Fire Prevention
Minor Project Trees (ARB Review)Map / Plan Review fees – Architectural Review Public Works
Minor Project Trees (Staff Review)Map / Plan Review fees – Architectural Review Public Works
Improvement Plan Review Permit Fees Public Works
ATTACHMENT A
***NOT YET APPROVED***ATTACHMENT B
1
0160153_kb2_20240829_ay
Ordinance No. _____
Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending the Fiscal Year 2026
Municipal Fee Schedule to Update Fees for Service in the Planning and
Development Services Department
The Council of the City of Palo Alto ORDAINS as follows:
SECTION 1. Findings and Declarations. The City Council finds and declares as follows:
A.The Department of Planning and Development Services charges user fees to applicants
requesting planning entitlements and related services.
B.While these fees have been annually adjusted across the board based on inflation factors,
it has been at least five years since they have been subject to a full evaluation based on
the cost of providing services.
C.In 2025, the City completed a Cost of Service Study to evaluate the full cost of providing
services. As a result of the Cost of Service Study the City desires to modify some of the
PDS fees.
D.In accordance with the provisions of Chapter 8 of Division 1, of Title 7, commencing with
Section 66016 of the Government Code, as applicable, the Council did on xxxxx, xx, 2025,
hold a public hearing on the proposed amendments to the Municipal Fee Schedule, after
publication of notice and after availability of the data supporting the amendments was
made available to the public at least 10 days prior to the hearing.
E.Fees in the Municipal Fee Schedule are for government services provided directly to the
payor that are not provided to those not charged. The amount of this fee does not exceed
the reasonable costs to the City of providing the services. Consequently, pursuant to Art.
XIII C, Section l(e)(2), such fees are not a tax.
F.The amount of new or increased fees and charges is no more than necessary to cover the
reasonable costs of the governmental activity, and the manner in which those costs are
allocated to a payer bears a fair and reasonable relationship to the payer's burden on, or
benefits received from, the governmental activity.
SECTION 2. The Council of the City of Palo Alto amends the Fiscal Year 2026 Municipal
Fee Schedule by adopting the new fees set forth in Exhibit “A” and incorporated here by
reference.
SECTION 3. The Council finds that this ordinance is not a “project” under CEQA
because it has no potential for resulting in either a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect
change in the environment.
***NOT YET APPROVED***
2
0160153_kb2_20240829_ay
SECTION 4. Effective Date. This ordinance amending the City budget shall be effective upon
adoption. Pursuant to Government Code Section 66017, all Planning Department fees relating
to a "development project" as defined in Government Code Section 66000 shall become
effective no sooner than sixty (60) days from the date of adoption.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
____________________________ ____________________________
Assistant City Attorney City Manager
____________________________
Director of Planning and
Development Services
ATTACHMENT B
Building
Building Permit Fees
Base Fee for All Standalone Permits 277.45
Commercial Interior Non‐Structural Demolition 455.58
Demolition 1,085.71
Construction & Demolition (C&D)
Commercial and Multi‐Family Projects greater than or equal to $25,000.00 in Valuatio 470.20
Single Family and Two Family Projects greater than $25,000.00 and less than $75,000.00 in
Valuations
470.20
Single Family and Two Family Projects greater than $75,000.00 in Valuation 503.04
Electrical Permits
Electrical Service ‐ New or Replacement: 400 amp and Greate 871.32
Electrical Service ‐ New or Replacement: Less than 400 amp 564.65
Generator: Multi‐Family / Commercial 1,318.04
Generator: Single‐Famil 713.56
Electrical Permits ‐ Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations
Multi‐Family / Commercial (Level 1 and 2): 1‐6 Stations 3,930.21
Multi‐Family / Commercial (Level 1 and 2): Each addl 6 station 1,030.52
Multi‐Family / Commercial (Level 3 and 4): 1‐6 Stations 3,930.21
Multi‐Family / Commercial (Level 3 and 4): Each addl 6 station 1,030.52
Single‐Family (Level 1 and 2)1,205.31
Single‐Family (Level 3)1,387.31
Electrical Permits ‐ Photovoltaic Systems (PV)
Multi‐Family / Commercial System (10kW or less)1,761.29
Multi‐Family / Commercial System (11kW‐49kW)2,374.64
Multi‐Family Commercial System (50kW or greater)3,154.61
Single‐Family Systems (10kW or less)1,345.55
Single‐Family Systems (greater than 10kW)1,697.89
General & Miscellaneous Fees
Address Change ‐ Each additional 91.21
Address Change ‐ First address change 364.82
Awnings (Groups of 5): Multi‐Family / Commercial 1,318.04
Awnings (Groups of 5): Single‐Famil 713.56
Bathroom Remodel: Multi‐Family (Direct Replacement, Non‐Structural)753.39
Bathroom Remodel: Single/Multi‐Family (Other)911.15
Bathroom Remodel: Single‐Family (Direct Replacement Non‐Structural) 595.62
Building Reinspection Fee: Multi‐Family Residential and Commercial (up to 30 minute inspection 148.90
Building Reinspection Fee: Single‐Family: Primary Inspection Type (1 hour 297.81
Building Reinspection Fee: Single‐Family: Secondary Inspection Type (30 minutes 148.90
Doors, windows and skylights (Group of 10) ‐ Non‐Structural: Multi‐Family/Commercial 795.35
Doors, windows and skylights (Group of 10) ‐ Non‐Structural: Single Family 467.70
Doors, windows and skylights (Group of 5) ‐ Structural: Multi‐Family/Commercial 795.35
Doors, windows and skylights (Group of 5) ‐ Structural: Single‐Famil 713.56
Dryrot Repair/Replacement ‐ Single Family: Non‐Structural 455.58
Dryrot Repair/Replacement ‐ Single Family: Structural 762.25
Electric Service and Safety Inspection 297.81
Extension of Building Permit or Building Permit Applicatio 237.98
Green Building Special Inspector: Initial Revie 376.22
Green Building Special Inspector: Renewal Updat 188.11
Inspections and Investigations: Outside of Normal Business Hours (2 hour minimum 343.39
Inspections and Investigations: Unclassified (2 hour minimum)297.81
Kitchen Remodel: Multi‐Family (Direct Replacement, Non‐Structural)753.39
Kitchen Remodel: Single/Multi‐Family (Remodel, not direct replacement 753.39
Kitchen Remodel: Single‐Family (Direct Replacement, Non‐Structural)446.71
Progress & Partial Inspections (Up to 30 minutes inspection)148.90
Reactivation of Expired Building Permit: Applicatio 89.85
Reactivation of Expired Building Permit: Final Inspection Only 365.20
Reactivation of Expired Building Permit: Multiple Outstanding Inspection 0.50
Real Property Research Fee (1‐hour minimum)277.45
Request of Release of Building Plans and Document 277.45
Re‐Roof ‐ Multi‐Family / Commercial: Each additional 2,500 s 297.81
Proposed FY 2026 Fee
Exhibit A ATTACHMENT B
Re‐Roof ‐ Multi‐Family / Commercial: First 5,000 sf 1,233.21
Re‐Roof ‐ Single Family 537.72
Re‐Roof‐Single Family Overlay 297.81
Retaining Walls: Each additional 100 LF 207.87
Retaining Walls: First 100 LF 1,438.78
Siding Repair/Replacement (in‐kind)297.81
Sign Permit (Group of 5): Illuminated 750.02
Sign Permit (Group of 5): Monument 655.66
Sign Permit (Group of 5): Non‐Illuminated 452.21
Stucco Repair/Replacement 297.81
Mechanical Permits
Boilers, Compressors, and Absorption Systems / Water Heaters 543.47
Furnace, Flue, and Associated Ducts 631.70
HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps, Air Handling Unit): Multi‐Family / Commercial
(Groups of 5): Direct replacements
901.50
HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps, Air Handling Unit): Multi‐Family / Commercial
(Groups of 5): New ‐ with curb
1,539.09
HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps, Air Handling Unit): Multi‐Family / Commercial
(Groups of 5): New ‐ without curb
1,232.42
HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps, Air Handling Unit): Single‐Family 713.56
Miscellaneous Permit ‐ not otherwise listed 297.81
Process Piping System 455.58
Process Piping System ‐ Hazardous 807.83
Swimming Pool Heater ‐ Direct Replacement 488.68
Ventilation and Exhaust System ‐ Single‐Family / Multi‐Family 455.58
Plan Review Fees
Additional Plan Review 315.53
Certified Access Specialist (CASp) Review/Consultation 595.62
Plumbing Permits
Backflow protective device 203.44
Building Sewer System ‐ Direct Replacement 352.35
Gas Piping System 510.11
Plumbing Fixtures ‐ New / Direct Replacement (Groups of 5)297.81
Sand Oil Interceptor and Grease Traps 916.64
Solar Hot Water System 604.48
Storm Drain System 406.88
Plumbing Permits ‐ Graywater Systems
Potable Water System ‐ Repair / Direct Replacement: Clothes washer System / Simple System 510.11
Potable Water System ‐ Repair / Direct Replacement: Complex System 816.78
Temporary Occupancy Permit
Certificate of Use and Occupancy ‐ Multi‐Family Residential, Non‐Residential, and Other
Commercial
2,790.91
Certificate of Use and Occupancy ‐ Single Family and Commercial Tenant Improvement less than
10,000 sq. ft.
1,149.77
Use & Occupancy Permits
Certificate of Use and Occupancy ‐ Replacement 134.78
Certificate of Use and Occupancy: Included in Associated Building Permit 170.59
Certificate of Use and Occupancy: Stand‐alone 1,299.92
Building Proposed FY 2026 Fee
ATTACHMENT B
Planning
Appeals
Appeals and Request for Hearing before City Council or Planning & Transportation Commissio 561.66
Architectural Review
Architectural Review ‐ Minor Project (ARB Review)11,451.97
Architectural Review ‐ Minor Project (Staff Review)5,829.99
Architectural Review ‐ Over the Counte 778.15
Design Enhancement Exception 3,612.72
Preliminary Review 8,226.44
Signs ‐ (ARB Review/Exceptions)6,673.76
Signs, Minor Façade Changes, Landscaping, Accessory Structures or Similar Minor Changes to a
Building Exterior ‐ (Staff Review, unless OTC)
2,829.83
Director's Approval
Home Improvement Exception 4,306.76
Environmental Impact Assessment
CEQA Categorical Exemption 743.69
Historic Resource
Demolition Application for Historic Building 1,809.85
Historic Resource Review ‐ Major Project 6,619.49
Historic Resource Review ‐ Minor Project (Staff Review)3,040.52
Historic Resource Review of Individual Review Applicatio 1,123.33
Individual Review
Expansion of Existing Two‐Story greater than 150 sq. ft. 7,388.55
Individual Review ‐ Minor Revisions to Approved Project 3,738.97
Individual Review Refund Fee 686.52
New Two‐Story Addition or New Two‐Story Home 14,396.91
Preliminary Individual Review and SB9 with Architec 1,036.52
Other Application Fees
Pre‐Screening fee 6,193.09
Public Noticing ‐ 600 ft. Radius 325.82
Public Noticing ‐ Up to 150 ft. Radius 325.82
Public Noticing beyond 600 ft. Radiu 325.82
Subdivision ‐ (Major) Five or More Parcel
Subdivision Final Map 8,532.47
Subdivision (Minor) Four or Less Parcel
Parcel Map 5,752.95
Parcel Map, Minor with Exception 8,726.42
Preliminary Parcel Map, Minor 7,724.69
Use Permit
Conditional Use Permit ‐ Alcohol ‐ Amendmen 1,884.54
Conditional Use Permit ‐ Director Level 9,067.94
Day Care Center 8,429.94
Pre‐Application Staff Consultation Fee 1,149.33
SB 330 Fee 3,006.38
Temporary Use Permit 2,136.80
Variance
Variance 6,853.63
Wireless Permit
Wireless Tier 1 3,700.31
Zone Change
Planned Community Zone Chang 36,401.88
Proposed FY 2026 Fee
ATTACHMENT B
Fire Prevention
Compliance Fees
Emergency Response Fee ‐ Hazmat 482.25
Review of Emergency Planning Guide *only assessed if not part of annual submittal 482.25
Consultations
Additional Hours Over Plan Review/Site Visit: Development Services ‐ Fire 352.25
Additional Hours Over Plan Review/Site Visit: Fire Prevention 352.25
Additional Hours Over Plan Review/Site Visit: HazMat 352.25
Alternate Means and Methods Application (2 hr minimum): Fire Prevention 835.13
Alternate Means and Methods Application (2 hr minimum): HazMat 835.13
Appeals to Decisions: Development Services ‐ Fire 482.88
Appeals to Decisions: Fire Prevention 482.88
Appeals to Decisions: HazMat 482.88
Consultation Fee: Development Services ‐ Fire 433.22
Consultation Fee: Fire Prevention 433.22
Consultation Fee: HazMat 439.13
General & Miscellaneous Fees Fire Prevention Plan Check Hourly
Development Services ‐ Fire 352.25
Fire Prevention 352.25
HazMat 352.25
Hazardous Materials Classification Permits
Additional Approvals for Hazardous Materials Storage Permit: Per hour for time above two hours 417.25
Additional Approvals for Hazardous Materials Storage Permit: Per occurrence (includes up to 2
hours)
834.50
Business Plan (HMBP)723.38
Compressed Gas 482.25
Corrosives 482.25
Cryogenic Fluid 482.25
Flammable and Combustible Liquids 964.50
Flammable Gas 482.25
Flammable Solids 482.25
Health Hazard (Liquids & Solids)482.25
Level I Facility 723.38
Level II Facility 1,205.63
Level III Facility 3,134.63
Liquefied Petroleum Gases 482.25
Liquid or Gas‐Fueled Powered Equipment (i.e. Generator, Welders, Portable Light Units, etc.): First
Equipment
482.25
Operate a Tank Vehicle to Transport Flammable/Combustible Liquids 723.38
Organic Coatings 482.25
Organic Peroxides 482.25
Other Hazardous Materials ‐ Unclassified 482.25
Ovens ‐ Industrial Baking or Drying 964.50
Oxidizers (Liquids & Solids)482.25
Oxidizing Gas 482.25
Petroleum Aboveground Storage Tank 1,929.01
Provisional Hazmat Storage (6 Month)834.50
Pryophoric Gas 482.25
Pryophoric Materials (Liquids & Solids)482.25
Pryotechnical Special Effects Material 482.25
Radioactive Materials or Sources 964.50
Refrigeration Equipment 482.25
Spraying/Dipping 482.25
Tire Recapping/Tire Storage 1,858.11
Toxic, Highly Toxic, Moderately Toxic, Health Hazard Gas 964.50
Toxic, Highly Toxic, Moderately Toxic, Health Hazard Materials 964.50
Unstable Reactive Gas 482.25
Unstable Reactive Materials (Liquids & Solids)482.25
Water Reactive Materials (Liquids & Solids)482.25
Proposed FY 2026 Fee
ATTACHMENT B
Inspection Fees
Additional Inspection or Reinspection Fee (2‐hour minimum): Development Services ‐ Fire 464.53
Additional Inspection or Reinspection Fee (2‐hour minimum): Fire Prevention 464.53
Additional Inspection or Reinspection Fee (2‐hour minimum): HazMat 482.25
After Hours Inspection Fee: Development Services ‐ Fire 529.85
After Hours Inspection Fee: Fire Prevention 529.85
After Hours Inspection Fee: HazMat 554.61
As‐Built Plan Check and Additional Work 816.78
Care Facility Inspection Including Fire Clearance: Facilities with 7‐25 clients 464.53
Care Facility Inspection Including Fire Clearance: Facilities with more than 25 clients 1,858.11
Christmas Tree Lot/Pumpkin Patch 464.53
High Rise Building ‐ Certificate of Compliance: Annually for up to 7 hours 3,251.70
High Rise Building ‐ Certificate of Compliance: Each additional hours 464.53
Outside Cooking Booths/Food Trucks 464.53
Standby Fire Watch ‐ Fire Inspector 464.53
Temporary Occupancy Permit for Vendors/Stock Occupancy 2,210.37
Life Safety & Fire Protection
All Other (Non‐NFPA 13D) Automatic Fire Sprinkler Installation/Modification: 1 ‐ 19 Sprinkler Heads 1,689.70
All Other (Non‐NFPA 13D) Automatic Fire Sprinkler Installation/Modification: 20 or more Sprinkler
Heads
2,914.87
All Other (Non‐NFPA 13D) Automatic Fire Sprinkler Installation/Modification: 20 or more Sprinkler
Heads, Per head
10.68
Express Fire Protection Plan Check Fee 457.35
Fire Alarm System Installation and Modification 1,985.81
Fire Alarm System Installation and Modification: Plus per device or contact point 40.84
Fire Prevention Inspection of Private Schools (min 2 hours)464.53
Hydrant Installation/Modification ‐ Private 816.78
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 101‐250 units 2,322.64
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 11‐25 units 929.06
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 26‐100 units 1,393.59
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 3‐10 units 464.53
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels greater than 250 units 2,787.17
Other Automatic Extinguishing Systems 1,393.59
Site Disaster / Emergency Preparedness Planning 445.63
Standpipe System ‐ Wet, Dry, or Combination 1,633.56
Temporary Certificate of Occupancy 1,393.59
Underground Fire Service Line (Includes 4 hrs of inspection and 1 hr of plan check)2,210.37
Verification of Fire Protection System Maintenance and Certification 38.71
Services
Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Testing Fee 464.53
Hydrant Flow Fee 696.79
Specific Hazard Permits
Candles and Open Flames in Assembly Areas 464.53
Hot Work (i.e. Spark/Flame Producing) Operations 464.53
Occupant Load Increase ‐ Temporary Public Assembly 1,281.31
Place of Assembly 929.06
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure 1,169.03
Fire Prevention Proposed FY 2026 Fee
ATTACHMENT B
Public Works
Encroachment Permit
Parklet Permit: Initial Application Fee 4,548.30
Parklet Permit: License Fee for Use of Right‐Of‐Way 10.71
Parklet Permit: Renewal Fee 549.43
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: A. Dumpster, Container 474.77
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: B. Non‐Residential ‐ Single Day 2,053.11
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: C. Non‐Residential Short‐Term (Less than 5 days)2,281.02
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: D. Non‐Residential Long‐Term (More than 5 days)2,930.76
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: E. Additional Non‐Residential Long‐Term (More than 5
days) Monthly
933.62
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: F. Fence 1,998.57
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure: G. Residential 1,276.93
General & Miscellaneous Fees
Miscellaneous Public Works Inspection 195.00
Miscellaneous Public Works Plan Check 242.86
Grading / Excavation
A. 101 ‐ 1,000 cubic yards: Each additional 100 cubic yards or fraction thereof 321.86
A. 101 ‐ 1,000 cubic yards: First 100 cubic yards 1,549.70
B. 1,001 ‐ 10,000 cubic yards: Each additional 1,000 cubic yards or fraction thereof 553.50
B. 1,001 ‐ 10,000 cubic yards: First 1,000 cubic yards 4,010.11
C. 10,001 or more cubic yards: Each additional 10,000 cubic yards or fraction thereof 2,034.25
C. 10,001 or more cubic yards: First 10,000 cubic yards 8,398.28
Inspection Fees
Off Hour Inspection 244.39
Tree Inspection for Private Development 763.52
Wet Season Construction Site Stormwater Inspection: Per hour thereafter, charged monthly
October thru April
208.11
Wet Season Construction Site Stormwater Inspection: Per Inspection (charged monthly October
thru April)
312.16
Permit Fees
1. Temporary Discharge to Storm Drain from Non‐Exclusionary Construction Site Dewatering 17,328.65
2. Additional Temporary Discharge to Storm Drain from Non‐Exclusionary Construction Site
Dewatering
372.66
A. Construction in Public Right‐of‐Way ($1.00 ‐ $5,999)971.18
B. Construction in Public Right‐of‐Way ($6,000 ‐ $25,999)971.37
C. Construction in Public Right‐of‐Way ($26,000 ‐ $100,999)5,430.46
Certificate of Compliance / Certificate of Correction / Map Amendment 4,577.21
D. Construction in Public Right‐of‐Way ($101,000 ‐ $500k)15,854.46
E. Construction in Public Right‐of‐Way ($500k‐$1m)25,267.45
F. Construction in Public Right‐of‐Way ($1m+)38,175.32
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) Permit Review Fee 229.74
Right of Way Closure Management 95.89
Storm Drain Plan Check Fee 2,718.39
Proposed FY 2026 Fee
ATTACHMENT B
Recommended Deposit‐Based Fees Amounts
Fee Title Fee Group Current Deposit Amount Proposed FY 2026
Deposit Amount
Appeal Costs Exceeding Appeals Filing Fee Appeals and Legal Review Fees 4,744 4,700
Architectural Review ‐ Major Project Architectural Review 16,236 16,000
Comprehensive Plan Change Comprehensive Plan Change 9,674 9,600
Development Agreement Development Agreement 11,163 11,100
Development Agreement ‐ Annual Review Development Agreement 3,908 3,900
Environmental Document (Staff prepared)Environmental Impact Assessment 7,909 7,900
Mitigation Monitoring ‐ Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Assessment 5,805 5,800
Mitigation Monitoring ‐ Mitigated Negative Declaration Environmental Impact Assessment 1,934 1,900
Transfer of Development Rights Projects Historic Resource 933 900
Williamson Act Contract ‐ Establish or Withdraw Historic Resource 3,050 3,000
Planning Compliance Fee Other Application Fees New 1,000
Pre‐Screening Fee Other Application Fees 4,745 4,700
Site and Design Major Site & Design 35,624 20,000
Tentative Map Subdivision ‐ Five or More Parcels 13,637 13,500
Preliminary Parcel Map, Minor with Exception Subdivision ‐ Four or Less Parcels 11,686 11,600
Wireless Tier 2 Wireless Permit 9,100 9,100
Wireless Tier 3 Wireless Permit 9,664 9,600
Planned Community Zone Change Zone Change 11,613 11,600
Zone Change Regular Zone Change 9,675 9,600
ATTACHMENT B
New Fees
Fee Title Fee Group Program Area Propsosed
Amount/Deposit
Base Fee for Small or Medium Sq. Ft. / Valuation Permits Building Permits Fees Building 1,109.79
Base Fee for Larger Sq. Ft. / Valuation Permits Building Permits Fees Building 4,161.71
Deconstruction Permit (Initiation/Intake)Building Permits Fees Building 974.74
Rewiring (Single Family Residential Only)Electrical Permits Building 604.48
Single‐Family Residential Permits / Equipment Not Listed Above Electrical Permits Building 527.57
Multi‐Family / Commercial Permits / Equipment Not Listed Above Electrical Permits Building 685.33
Multi‐Family / Commercial System – Reinstallation Electrical Permits – Photovoltaic Systems (PV) Building 1,226.68
Single‐Family – Reinstallation Electrical Permits – Photovoltaic Systems (PV) Building 911.15
SolarAPP+ PV Electrical Permits – Photovoltaic Systems (PV) Building 595.62
Solar APP+ PV and ESS Electrical Permits – Photovoltaic Systems (PV) Building 1,209.05
Single‐Family System Energy Storage Systems Building 1,688.39
Multi‐Family / Commercial System Energy Storage Systems Building 2,957.10
Bathroom Remodel – Instant Permit General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 595.62
Cell Tower Building Review General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 2,479.54
Deck or Balcony ‐ Single Family General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 786.49
Foundation Repair – Single Family Residential (No Basement)General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 510.11
Kitchen Remodel – Instant Permit General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 595.62
Parklet Permit Application (First Year)General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 1,263.74
Seismic Retrofit – Brace and Bolt – Single Family Residential General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 455.58
Industrial Storage Racks / Cabinets General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 613.34
Swimming Pool / Spa, Single‐Family General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 713.56
Swimming Pool / Spa, Multi‐Family / Commercial General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 1,318.04
Deferred Submittals / Revisions – Base Charge General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 631.07
Deferred Submittals / Revisions – Hourly Charge General & Miscellaneous Fees Building 315.53
Instant Permit – Single‐Family Replacement (i.e., Heat Pump, Water Heaters, Gas, etc.) Mechanical Permits Building 297.81
Miscellaneous Permit – Not Otherwise Listed – Per Hour Mechanical Permits Building 297.81
Alternate Materials, Design Methods of Construction (AMMR)Plan Review Fees Building 898.14
Potable Water System – Repair / Direct Replacement Plumbing Permits Building 352.35
Miscellaneous Permit – Not Otherwise Listed Plumbing Permits – Graywater Systems Building 297.81
Miscellaneous Permit – Per Hour Plumbing Permits – Graywater Systems Building 297.81
Streamlined Housing Development Review Miscellaneous Fees Planning 24,206.00
Planning Compliance Fee Other Application Fees Planning 1,000.00
SB9 Application Other Application Fees Planning 5,174.45
Retail Waiver Planning Fees Planning 8,380.81
HazMat Plan Submittal Compliance Fees Fire Prevention 2,021.26
HazMat Closure, Partial Closure Compliance Fees Fire Prevention 1,316.76
HazMat Closure, Full Closure Compliance Fees Fire Prevention 3,338.01
Temporary Generator / Backup Power Supply Hazardous Materials Permits Fire Prevention 1,316.76
Battery Operated Equipment, Up to 10 Pieces of Equipment Hazardous Materials Permits Fire Prevention 482.25
Battery Operated Equipment, Each Additional Equipment at Same Location Hazardous Materials Permits Fire Prevention 120.56
Temporary Certificate of Occupancy – Hazmat Hazardous Materials Permits Fire Prevention 964.50
Hospital Inspections, Annually for up to 7 hours Inspection Fees Fire Prevention 3,251.70
Hospital Inspections, Each additional hour Inspection Fees Fire Prevention 464.53
Standby Fire Watch – Fire Engine Company Inspection Fees Fire Prevention ‐
Hazmat Temporary Occupancy Permit for Vendors/Stock Occupancy Inspection Fees Fire Prevention 2,281.26
Business Inspection Inspection Fees Fire Prevention 464.53
Environmental Hazard Release Investigations Fire Prevention 417.25
Hazmat Investigations Fire Prevention 482.25
Fire Investigation Investigations Fire Prevention 464.53
Fire Protection and Fire Access Plan Review for New Developments or Additions Life Safety & Fire Protection Fire Prevention 433.22
ATTACHMENT B
Report on Development Cost of Services
(User Fee) Study
CITY OF PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA
FINAL REPORT
February 2025
ATTACHMENT C
Table of Contents
1. Introduction and Executive Summary 1
2. Legal Framework and Policy Considerations 4
3. User Fee Study Methodology 7
4. Results Overview 9
5. Building 10
6. Planning 20
7. Fire Prevention 26
8. Public Works 33
9. Development Surcharges 36
10. Fee Adjustments 42
Appendix A: Full Listing of Fees 44
Appendix B: Fully Burdened Hourly Rates 60
Appendix C: Comparative Survey 61
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 1
1. Introduction and Executive Summary
This report presents the results of the Development-Related Cost of Services (User Fee)
Study conducted by the Matrix Consulting Group for the City of Palo Alto.
1 Project Background and Overview
Matrix Consulting Group analyzed the cost-of-service relationships that exist between
fees for service activities in the following development departments: Building, Planning,
Fire, and Public Works. The City of Palo Alto last conducted a development services fee
study in 2016. It is considered best practice to update these analyses every 7 years;
therefore, the City contracted with Matrix Consulting Group to conduct a review of the
planning and development services related fees. The results of this study provide a tool
for understanding current service levels, the cost and demand for those services, and
what fees for service can and should be charged.
2 General Project Approach and Methodology
The methodology employed by Matrix Consulting Group is a widely accepted “bottom up”
approach to cost analysis, where time spent per unit of fee activity is determined for each
position within a Department or Program. Once time spent for a fee activity is determined,
all applicable City costs are then considered in the calculation of the “full” cost of
providing each service. The following table provides an overview of types of costs applied
in establishing the “full” cost of services provided by the City:
Table 1: Overview of Cost Components
Cost Component Description
Direct .
Indirect
Together, the cost components in the table above comprise the calculation of the total
“full” cost of providing any particular service, regardless of whether a fee for that service
is charged.
The work accomplished by Matrix Consulting Group in the analysis of the proposed fees
for service involved the following steps:
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 2
• Departmental Staff Interviews: The project team interviewed Departmental staff
regarding their needs for clarification on the structure of existing fee items or for
addition of new fee items.
• Data Collection: Data was collected for each permit / service, including time
estimates. In addition, revenue, expenses, and staffing levels for Fiscal Year 2025
were entered into Matrix Consulting Group’s analytical software model.
• Cost Analysis: The full cost of providing each service included in the analysis was
established.
• Review and Approval of Results with City Staff: Department management has
reviewed and approved these documented results.
A more detailed description of user fee methodology, as well as legal and policy
considerations, are provided in subsequent chapters of this report.
3 Summary of Results
When comparing Fiscal Year 2025 fee-related budgeted expenditures with fee-related
revenue based on Fiscal Year 2024 workload the Planning and Development Services
Department is under-recovering its costs by approximately $1.15 million and recovering
93% of its costs. The following table shows by major service area / discipline, the revenue
collected, the total annual cost, the resulting annual difference, and the resulting cost
recovery.
Table 2: Annual Cost Recovery Analysis
Service Area Annual Revenue Annual Cost Annual Difference Cost Recovery %
Building1 $12,990,678 $13,331,847 ($341,169) 97%
Current Planning2 $1,835,952 $2,516,495 ($680,543) 73%
Public Works $656,971 $786,427 ($129,456) 84%
Subtotal Planning & Dev. $15,483,600 $16,634,769 ($1,151,168) 93%
Fire Prevention $3,613,077 $5,012,525 ($1,399,448) 72%
TOTAL $19,096,678 $21,647,294 ($2,550,617) 88%
Due to the interdependence between each division and service area, it is important to
evaluate Planning and Development Services cost recovery wholistically. Overall, the
Department shows a deficit of $1.15 million. The largest source of this deficit is Current
Planning fees at $681,000.
As part of the FY2025 budget process, Fire Prevention (non-development related
activities) was separated from Planning and Development Services; however, they were
1 This captures the cost and revenue associated with the Planning, Fire, and Engineering in association with Building Permits.
2 This captures the services provided by current planning staff as it relates to individual reviews, historic reviews, use permits. It does
not include costs or revenues associated with long-range planning, specific area plans, housing, or code enforcement.
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included in the overall fee analysis. For those services, the City is seeing an under-
recovery of approximately $1.4 million or a cost recovery level of 72%.
The detailed documentation of the study will show an over-collection for some fees (on
a per unit basis) and an undercharge for most others. The results of this analysis will
provide the Department and the City with guidance on how to right-size their fees to
ensure that each service unit is set at an amount that does not exceed the full cost of
providing that service.
The display of cost recovery figures shown in this report are meant to provide a basis
for policy development discussions among Councilmembers and City staff, and do not
represent a recommendation for where or how the Council should act. The setting of the
“rate” or “price” for services, whether at 100 percent full cost recovery or lower, is a
policy decision to be made only by the Council, with input from City staff and the
community.
4 Fee Study Recommendations
Through the course of this study, Matrix Consulting Group reviewed development-related
fee components and activities. The following points summarize the key
recommendations from this analysis:
• All fees should be set at 100% cost recovery unless a specific cost recovery
subsidy policy has been established.
• Fees should continue to be updated annually based upon the city established
increase factor (i.e., cost of living adjustment), except for deposits, surcharges,
percentage-based fees, and any state-set fees.
• The Technology Fee and Reserve surcharge should be shown as separate
surcharges to more transparently reflect the true cost of providing services.
• Surcharges for Comprehensive Plan Maintenance, Technology Fee, and Reserve
Fund should be accounted for in separate subaccounts per accounting best
practices.
The report goes into further detail regarding these fee recommendations. Implementing
these recommendations will allow the department and the City to better capture its full
cost of providing services, while setting asides funds earmarked for specific purposes.
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2. Legal Framework and Policy Considerations
This section of the report is intended to provide an overview regarding overall legal rules
and regulations as well as general policy considerations for fees for service. A “user fee”
is a charge for service provided by a governmental agency to a public citizen or group. In
California, several constitutional laws such as Propositions 13, 4, and 218, State
Government Codes 66014 and 66016, and more recently Prop 26 and the Attorney
General’s Opinion 92-506 set the parameters under which the user fees typically
administered by local government are established and administered. Specifically,
California State Law, Government Code 66014(a), stipulates that user fees charged by
local agencies “…may not exceed the estimated reasonable cost of providing the service
for which the fee is charged.”
1 General Principles and Philosophies Regarding User Fees
Local governments are providers of many types of general services to their communities.
While all services provided by local government are beneficial to constituents, some
services can be classified as globally beneficial to all citizens, while others provide more
of a direct benefit to a specific group or individual. The following table provides examples
of services provided by local government within a continuum of the degree of community
benefit received:
Table 3: Services in Relation to Benefit Received
“Global” Community Benefit
“Global” Benefit and an
Individual or Group Benefit Individual or Group Benefit
Funding for local government is obtained from a myriad of revenue sources such as
taxes, fines, grants, special charges, user fees, etc. In recent years, alternative tax
revenues, which typically offset subsidies for services provided to the community, have
become increasingly limited. These limitations have caused increased attention on user
fee activities as a revenue source that can offset costs otherwise subsidized (usually) by
the general fund. In Table 3, services in the “global benefit” section tend to be funded
primarily through voter approved tax revenues. In the middle of the table, one typically
finds a mixture of taxes, user fees, and other funding sources. Finally, in the “individual /
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group benefit” section of the table lie the services provided by local government that are
typically funded almost entirely by user fee revenue.
The following are two central concepts regarding the establishment of user fees:
• Fees should be assessed according to the degree of individual or private benefit
gained from services. For example, the processing and approval of a land use or
building permit will generally result in monetary gain to the applicant, whereas
Police services and Fire Suppression are examples of services that are essential
to the safety of the community at large.
• A profit-making objective should not be included in the assessment of user fees.
In fact, California laws require that the charges for service be in direct proportion
to the costs associated with providing those services. Once a charge for service is
assessed at a level higher than the actual cost of providing a service, the term
“user fee” no longer applies. The charge then becomes a tax subject to voter
approval.
Therefore, it is commonly accepted that user fees are established at a level that will
recover up to, and not more than, the cost of providing a particular service.
2 General Policy Considerations Regarding User Fees
Undoubtedly, there are programs, circumstances, and services that justify a subsidy from
a tax base or alternative revenue source. However, it is essential that jurisdictions
prioritize the use of revenue sources for the provision of services based on the continuum
of benefit received.
Within the services that are typically funded by user fees, Matrix Consulting Group
recognizes several reasons why City staff or the Council may not advocate the full cost
recovery of services. The following factors are key policy considerations in setting fees
at less than 100 percent of cost recovery:
• Limitations posed by an external agency. The State or an outside agency will
occasionally set a maximum or minimum or otherwise limit the jurisdiction’s ability
to charge a fee. An example includes time spent copying and retrieving public
documents and / or transportation permits.
• Encouragement of desired behaviors. Keeping fees for certain services below full
cost recovery may provide better compliance from the community. For example, if
the cost of a permit for changing out or installing a water heater in a residential
home is higher than the cost of the water heater itself, many citizens will avoid
pulling the permit.
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• Benefit received by user of the service and the community at large is mutual.
Many services that directly benefit a group or individual equally benefit the
community as a whole. Examples include Planning Design Review and historical
dedications.
Matrix Consulting Group recognizes the need for policies that intentionally subsidize
certain activities. The primary goals of a User Fee Study are to provide a fair and equitable
basis for determining the costs of providing services and ensure that the City complies
with State law.
3 Summary of Legal Restrictions and Policy Considerations
Once the full cost of providing services is known, the next step is to determine the “rate”
or “price” for services at a level which is up to, and not more than, the full cost amount.
The Council is responsible for this decision, which often becomes a question of
balancing service levels and funding sources. The placement of a service or activity
within the continuum of benefit received may require extensive discussion and at times
fall into a “grey area.” However, with the resulting cost of services information from a user
fee study, the Council can be assured that the adopted fee for service is reasonable, fair,
and legal. The City will need to review all fees for service in this analysis, and where
subsidies are identified, increase the fee to reduce the deficit; where over-recoveries are
identified, the fee must be reduced to comply with State laws.
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3. User Fee Study Methodology
Matrix Consulting Group utilizes a cost allocation methodology commonly known and
accepted as the “bottom-up” approach to establishing user fees. The term means that
several cost components are calculated for each fee or service. These components then
build upon each other to comprise the total cost for providing the service. The following
chart describes the components of a full cost calculation:
The general steps utilized by the project team to determine allocations of cost
components to a particular fee or service are:
• Calculate fully burdened hourly rates by position, including direct & indirect costs;
• Develop time estimates for the average time spent to deliver each service included
in the study;
• Distribute the appropriate amount of the other cost components to each fee or
service based on the staff time allocation basis or another reasonable basis.
The results of these allocations provide detailed documentation for the reasonable
determination of the actual cost of providing each service.
One of the key study assumptions utilized in the “bottom up” approach is the use of time
estimate averages for the provision of each fee related service. Utilization of time
estimates is a reasonable and defensible approach, especially since experienced staff
members who understand service levels and processes unique to the City developed
these estimates.
The project team worked closely with City staff in developing time estimates with the
following criteria:
• Estimates are representative of average times for providing services. Extremely
difficult or abnormally simple projects are not factored in the analysis.
• Estimates reflect the time associated with the position(s) that perform a service.
DIRECT
(Salaries, Benefits,
Services, Supplies)
INDIRECT
(Departmental Admin,
Services Supplies, Citywide
Overhead etc.)
Total Cost
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• Estimates provided by staff are reviewed and approved by the division /
department and often involve multiple iterations before a Study is finalized.
• Estimates are reviewed by the project team for “reasonableness” against their
experience with other agencies.
• Estimates were not based on time in motion studies3, as they are not practical for
the scope of services and time frame for this project.
• Estimates match the current or proposed staffing levels to ensure there is no over-
allocation of staff resources to fee and non-fee related activities.
Matrix Consulting Group agrees that while the use of time estimates is not perfect, it is
the best alternative available for setting a standard level of service for which to base a
jurisdiction’s fees for service and meets the requirements of California law.
The alternative to time estimating is actual time tracking, often referred to billing on a
“time and materials” basis. Except in the case of irregular or sometimes very large and
complex projects, Matrix Consulting Group believes this approach is not cost effective or
reasonable for the following reasons:
• Accuracy in time tracking is compromised by the additional administrative burden
required to track, bill, and collect for services in this manner.
• Additional costs are associated with administrative staff’s billing, refunding, and
monitoring of deposit accounts.
• Customers often prefer to know the fees for services in advance of applying for
permits or participating in programs.
• Departments can better predict revenue streams and staff needs using
standardized time estimates and anticipated permit volumes.
Situations arise where the size and complexity of a given project warrants time tracking
and billing on a “time and materials” basis. The City already has existing deposit-based
fees for these situations.
3 Time and motion studies involve actual tracking of staff time through the use of “stop watches” or other devices to determine
average task times. This process can take between six months and several years to collect time for all process tasks.
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4. Results Overview
The motivation behind a cost-of-service (user fee) analysis is for the City Council and
Departmental staff to maintain services at a level that is both accepted and effective for
the community and also to maintain control over the policy and management of these
services.
It should be noted that the results presented in this report are not a precise measurement.
In general, a cost-of-service analysis takes a “snapshot in time,” where a fiscal year of
adopted, budgeted cost information is compared to the prior fiscal year of revenue and
workload data available. Changes to the structure of fee names, along with the use of
time estimates, allow only for a reasonable projection of subsidies and revenue.
Consequently, the Council and Department staff should rely conservatively upon these
estimates to gauge the impact of implementation going forward.
Discussion of results in the following chapters is intended as a summary of extensive and
voluminous cost allocation documentation produced during the study. Each chapter will
include detailed cost calculation results for each major service category including the
following:
• Modifications or Issues: discussions regarding any revisions to the current fee
schedule, including elimination or addition of fees.
• “Per Unit” Results: comparison of the full cost of providing each unit of service to
the current fee for each unit of service (where applicable).
The full analytical results were provided to City staff under separate cover from this
summary report.
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5. Building
The Building Division is responsible for providing plan check and inspection services on
all building and construction within the City to establish safety for residents by ensuring
all buildings comply with California building codes and regulations. Fees included in this
analysis are in relation to life-safety, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, green
building, and energy compliance plan checks and inspections. The following subsections
discuss fee schedule modifications and detailed per unit results for the fee-related
services provided by the Building Division.
1 Fee Schedule Modifications
In discussions with Building Division staff several modifications were made to the current
fee schedule, including:
• Eliminated Fees: Based upon the conversation with the division, the following fees
were eliminated:
- Electrical Permits
o Air Conditioners
o Busway, Power Duct or Floor Duct
o Conditional Meter Release (Conditional Utility Agreement)
o Each Additional Meter (Group of 5)
o Fixtures, Switches, and Outlets (Group of 20)
o Lighting, Power and / or Control Panel Board, Switchboard Cabinet, or
Panel
o Motor (Groups of 10)
o Range, Electric Clothes Dryer, or Water Heater (Groups of 5)
o Special Circuit (not listed herein; groups of 10)
o Temporary Wiring for Construction
- General & Miscellaneous Fees
o All Other Publications
o Miscellaneous Planning Plan Check & Inspection
o Records Retention
o Special Inspection – Materials Testing Lab Certification
o Utilities Plan Review
- Green Building
o All fees
- Mechanical Permits
o Compressors and Absorption Systems
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- Plumbing Permits
o Atmospheric-type Vacuum Breakers
o Industrial Waste Pretreatment Interceptor
o Medical Gas Piping System
o Swimming Pool
o Water Heater, Vent, or Other
o Water Piping
These fees were eliminated as they are services that are no longer provided (i.e.,
inspection guidelines and all other publications) or are services that are captured
through other existing fees.
• New Fees: Similar to elimination of fees, the project team also worked with
Building Staff to identify new fees. The following points list the new fees added:
- Building Permit Fees
o Deconstruction Permit (Initiation / Intake)
- Electrical Permits
o Rewiring (Single Family Residential Only)
o Single-Family Residential Permits / Equipment Not Listed Above
o Multi-Family / Commercial Permits / Equipment Not Listed Above
- Electrical Permits – Photovoltaic Systems (PV)
o Multi-Family / Commercial System – Reinstallation
o Single-Family – Reinstallation
o SolarAPP+ PV
o Solar APP+ PV and ESS
- Energy Storage Systems
o Single-Family System
o Multi-Family / Commercial System
- General & Miscellaneous Fees
o ADU – Standalone Detached
§ Excluding Master Permits
§ Master Permit
§ Site Construction – Site Specific Related to Master
§ Pre-fab Site Specific Related to Master
o Bathroom Remodel – Instant Permit
o Cell Tower Building Review
o Foundation Repair – Single Family Residential (No Basement)
o Kitchen Remodel – Instant Permit
o Parklet Permit Application (First Year)
o Seismic Retrofit – Brace and Bolt – Single Family Residential
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o Industrial Storage Racks / Cabinets
o Swimming Pool / Spa
§ Single-Family
§ Multi-Family / Commercial
o Deferred Submittals / Revisions – Base Charge
§ Hourly Charge
- Mechanical Permits
o Instant Permit – Single-Family Replacement (i.e., Heat Pump, Water
Heaters, Gas, etc.)
o Miscellaneous Permit – Not Otherwise Listed – Per Hour
- Plan Review Fees
o Alternate Materials, Design Methods of Construction (AMMR)
- Plumbing Permits
o Potable Water System – Repair / Direct Replacement
- Plumbing Permits – Graywater Systems
o Miscellaneous Permit – Not Otherwise Listed
§ Per Hour
- Appeal
- Consultation
These fees were added to the schedule to capture services that are currently being
provided but are not captured separately.
• Expanded or Streamlined Fees: Other modifications made to the fee schedule
involved expanding or collapsing fee categories. The following modifications were
made:
- Building Permits
o Expansion of the base permit fee to be specific to standalone permits,
small or medium, and then larger projects
- Electrical Permits
o Expansion of Generator fees into ‘Single-Family’ and ‘Multi-Family /
Commercial’
o Expansion of Electrical Service into ‘Less than 400 amp’ and ‘400 amp
and Greater’
- General & Miscellaneous Fees
o Addition of Balcony to the Deck fee and change from tiers of “Up to
1,000 SF” and “Each Add’l 1,000 SF” to one category – ‘Single Family’
o Expansion of Doors, Windows, and Skylights fees to include ‘Single-
Family’ and ‘Multi-Family/Commercial’ tiers
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o Expansion of Dry Rot Repair / Replacement fee into ‘Structural’ and ‘Non-
Structural’ tiers
o Expansion of the Sign Permit into ‘Illuminated,’ ‘Non-Illuminated,’ and
‘Monument’
- Mechanical Permits
o Expansion of Air Conditioners into HVAC Systems generally, with tiers
for ‘Single-Family’ and ‘Multi-Family / Commercial (Groups of 5)’
§ Further expansion of Multi-Family / Commercial HVAC systems
into ‘Direct replacements,’ ‘New – with curb,’ and ‘New – without
curb’
- Use & Occupancy Permits
o Expansion of the Certificate of Use and Occupancy into ‘Standalone’ and
‘Included in Associated Building Permit.’
These changes will allow the Division to better capture the different levels of
service that are associated within different permit categories or types.
• Conversion of Plan Review Fees from Valuation to Occupancy Basis: All Plan
Check fees were changed from a tiered valuation basis to a two-category
occupancy basis: ‘Single-Family Residential’ and ‘Commercial & Multifamily.’ They
would still be based on a percentage of the building permit fee to remain
consistent with industry standards.
• Conversion of Valuation-Based Fees to Sq. Ft. Fees: for single-family residential
projects, the valuation-based building permits were converted into a square
footage structure. This allows the Division to better capture the level of effort
associated with plan check and inspection, as it is more dependent on the size of
the project.
• Expansion of Valuation Tiers: The City currently utilizes three tiers of valuation-
based projects, which does not accurately capture the breadth and complexity of
projects. For commercial / multi-family / industrial, it was proposed that the City
remain on a valuation-based structure but revert back to the traditional base and
multiplier model with expanding the tiers all the way up to $50 million. This
allows the City to better capture the complexity of construction in its City.
As the points demonstrate, there were significant modifications made to the Building
Division fee schedule and structure. The goal of these modifications is to better reflect
the services provided by the Building Division and to ensure that associated fees and
charges are accurate, fair, transparent, and defensible.
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2 Detailed Results
The Building Division charges fees for building permits, standalone trade permits, and
other miscellaneous services such as awnings, doors, re-roofs, decks, and remodels. The
total cost calculated for each service includes direct staff costs, cross-divisional and
departmental support (Planning, Engineering, Fire, Public Works, Utilities, etc.), and
departmental and Citywide overhead. The following table details the fee name, current
fee, total cost, and the difference associated with each service offered.
Table 4: Total Cost Per Unit Results – Building Fees
4
Base Fee For All Standalone Permits $155.67 $277 ($122)
Base Fee for Small or Medium Sq. Ft. / Valuation Permits New $1,110 N/A
Base Fee for Larger Sq. Ft. / Valuation Permits New $4,162 N/A
Single-Family / Duplex Residential (Sq. Ft.) Permit Fees:
0-250 sq. ft. Modified $596 N/A
251-500 sq. ft Modified $1,191 N/A
501-1,000 sq. ft. Modified $1,340 N/A
1,001 - 1,500 sq. ft. Modified $2,234 N/A
1,501 - 2,000 sq. ft. Modified $2,531 N/A
2,001 - 2,500 sq. ft. Modified $4,467 N/A
2,501 - 3,000 sq. ft. Modified $4,616 N/A
3,001 - 3,500 sq. ft. Modified $5,063 N/A
3,500 - 4,000 sq. ft. Modified $5,212 N/A
4,001 - 4,500 sq. ft. Modified $5,361 N/A
4,501 - 5,000 sq. ft Modified $5,509 N/A
5,001 - 5,500 sq. ft. Modified $5,956 N/A
5,501 - 6,000 sq. ft. Modified $6,552 N/A
6,001 - 6,500 sq. ft. Modified $6,850 N/A
6,500+ sq. ft Modified $7,445 N/A
6,500+ sq. ft. – Each Add’l 500 sq. ft. Modified $573 N/A
Multi-Family & Commercial (Valuation) Permit Fees:
$0 - $2,000 $32.74 $1,191.24 ($1,158.50)
$2,001 - $25,000 $32.74 $1,191.24 ($1,158.50)
$2,001 - $25,000 – Each Add’l $1,000 $16.37 $25.90 ($9.53)
$25,001 - $50,000 $409.20 $1,786.86 ($1,377.66)
$25,001 - $50,000 – Each Add’l $1,000 $16.37 $35.74 ($19.37)
$50,001 - $100,000 $818.40 $2,680.29 ($1,861.89)
$50,001 - $100,000 – Each Add’l $1,000 $16.37 $20.85 ($4.48)
$100,001 - $500,000 $1,636.80 $3,722.62 ($2,085.82)
$100,001 - $500,000 – Each Add’l $1,000 $16.37 $7.45 $8.92
$500,001 - $1,000,000 $8,184.00 $6,700.72 $1,483.28
$500,001 - $1,000,000 – Each Add’l $1,000 $16.37 $16.38 ($0.01)
$1,000,001 - $5,000,000 $16,368.00 $14,890.49 $1,477.51
$1,000,001 - $5,000,000 – Each Add’l $1,000 $9.63 $7.45 $2.18
4 The current fee listed does not include the 2% Technology Fee and 5% Reserve amount that are built into the published fee.
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Fee Name
FY25
Current Fee4
Total City
Cost Difference
$5,000,001 - $10,000,000 $54,870.00 $44,671.48 $10,198.52
$5,000,001 - $10,000,000 – Each Add’l $1,000 $10.97 $5.96 $5.02
$10,000,001 - $25,000,000 $109,740.00 $74,452.46 $35,287.54
$10,000,001 - $25,000,000 – Each Add’l $1,000 $1.67 $1.99 ($0.31)
$25,000,001 - $50,000,000 $134,850.00 $104,233.45 $30,616.55
$25,000,001 - $50,000,000 – Each Add’l $1,000 $5.39 $1.79 $3.61
$50,000,000+ $269,700.00 $148,904.92 $120,795.08
$50,000,000+ – Each Add’l $1,000 $5.39 $0.89 $4.50
Demolition $674.31 $1,086 ($411)
Deconstruction New $975 N/A
Interior Non-Structural Demolition $242.43 $456 ($213)
Construction & Demolition (C&D)
Commercial and Multi-Family Projects Greater Than or Equal
to $25,000.00 In Valuation $412.27 $470 ($58)
Single-Family and Two-Family Projects Greater Than
$25,000.00 and Less Than $75,000.00 in Valuations $220.81 $470 ($249)
Single Family and Two-Family Projects Greater Than
$75,000.00 in Valuation $283.47 $503 ($220)
Electrical Permits
Generator
Single-Family $598.35 $714 ($115)
Multi-Family / Commercial $598.35 $1,318 ($720)
Electrical Service - New or Replacement
Less than 400 AMP $496.98 $565 ($68)
400 AMP and Greater $745.54 $871 ($126)
Rewiring (Single Family Residential Only) New $604 N/A
Temporary Electric Service (Power Pole, Pedestal, Etc.) $79.60 $149 ($69)
Misc. Permit - Not Otherwise Listed
Single-Family Residential Permits / Equipment Not Listed
Above New $528 N/A
Multi-Family / Commercial Permits / Equipment Not Listed
Above New $685 N/A
Electrical Permits - Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations
Multi-Family Commercial (Level 1 and 2)
1-6 Stations $482.53 $3,930 ($3,448)
Each Add’l 6 Stations $90.53 $1,031 ($940)
Multi-Family Commercial (Level 3 and 4)
1-6 Stations $576.59 $4,759 ($4,182)
Each Add’l 6 Stations $113.34 $1,031 ($917)
Single-Family (Level 1 and 2) $208.70 $1,205 ($997)
Single-Family (Level 3) $317.22 $1,387 ($1,070)
Electrical Permits - Photovoltaic Systems (PV)
Multi-Family / Commercial System (10kW Or Less) $755.20 $1,761 ($1,006)
Multi-Family / Commercial System (11kW-49kW) $1,013.46 $2,375 ($1,361)
Multi-Family Commercial System (50kW or Greater) $755.20 $3,155 ($2,399)
Multi-Family / Commercial System - Reinstallation New $1,227 N/A
Single-Family Systems (10kW or Less) $349.79 $1,346 ($996)
Single-Family Systems (Greater Than 10kW) $223.16 $1,698 ($1,475)
Single-Family - Reinstallation New $911 N/A
SolarAPP+ PV New $596 N/A
SolarAPP+ PV and ESS New $1,209 N/A
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Fee Name
FY25
Current Fee4
Total City
Cost Difference
Energy Storage Systems (ESS)
Single-Family System New $1,688 N/A
Multi-Family / Commercial System New $2,957 N/A
General & Miscellaneous Fees
ADU - Stand-Alone Detached - Excluding Master Permits New $6,384 N/A
ADU - Stand-Alone Detached - Master Permit New $2,305 N/A
ADU - Stand-Alone Detached - Site Construction - Site Specific
Related to Master New $4,764 N/A
ADU - Stand-Alone Detached - Pre-fab Site Specific Related to
Master New $3,415 N/A
Address Change - First Address Change $683.93 $365 $319
Each Additional $254.82 $91 $164
Awnings (Groups Of 5)
Single-Family $94.05 $307 ($213)
Multi-Family / Commercial $94.05 $1,519 ($1,425)
Bathroom Remodel
Single-Family (Direct Replacement Non-Structural) $377.53 $596 ($218)
Multi-Family (Direct Replacement, Non-Structural) $377.53 $753 ($376)
Single-Family and Multi-Family (Not Direct Replacement,
Structural) $377.53 $911 ($534)
Instant Permit New $595 N/A
Cell Tower Plan Review New $2,480 N/A
Deck and Balcony – Single-Family New $786 N/A
Doors, Windows And Skylights (Group Of 5) - Structural
Single-Family $377.53 $547 ($169)
Multi-Family/Commercial $377.53 $795 ($418)
Doors, Windows and Skylights (Group Of 10) - Non-Structural
Single-Family $189.42 $468 ($278)
Multi-Family/Commercial $189.42 $547 ($357)
Dry Rot Repair/Replacement - Single Family Structural $94.05 $762 ($668)
Non-Structural $94.05 $456 ($362)
Electric Service and Safety Inspection $265.37 $298 ($32)
Extension Of Building Permit Or Building Permit Application $106.18 $238 ($132)
Foundation Repair – Single-Family Residential (No Basement) New $510
Green Building Special Inspector Application
Initial Review $574.46 $376 $198
Renewal Update $286.53 $188 $98
Inspections And Investigations
Outside of Normal Business Hours (2 Hour Minimum) $499.47 $343 $156
Unclassified (2 Hour Minimum) $332.98 $298 $35
Kitchen Remodel
Single-Family (Direct Replacement, Non-Structural) $283.47 $447 ($163)
Multi-Family (Direct Replacement, Non-Structural) $283.47 $604 ($321)
Single-Family and Multi-Family (Remodel, Not Direct
Replacement) $283.47 $753 ($470)
Instant Permit New $447 N/A
Progress and Partial Inspections (Up to 30 Minutes
Inspection) $74.77 $149 ($74)
Reactivation of Expired Building Permit
Multiple Outstanding Inspections 50% 50% 0%
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Fee Name
FY25
Current Fee4
Total City
Cost Difference
Final Inspection Only $346.27 $365 ($19)
Application $211.17 $90 $121
Real Property Research Fee (1-Hour Minimum) $310.04 $277 $33
Building Reinspection Fee
Multi-Family Residential And Commercial (Up To 30 Minute
Inspection) $184.60 $149 $36
Single-Family
Primary Inspection Type (1 Hour) $190.58 $298 ($107)
Secondary Inspection Type (30 Minutes) $102.51 $149 ($46)
Request of Release of Building Plans and Documents $103.70 $277 ($174)
Re-Roof:
Re-Roof - Multi-Family / Commercial First 5,000 Sf $377.53 $1,233 ($856)
Each Additional 2,500 Sf $93.44 $298 ($204)
Re-Roof-Single Family Overlay $94.05 $298 ($204)
Re-Roof - Single Family $377.53 $538 ($160)
Retaining Walls
First 100 LF $125.46 $1,439 ($1,313)
Each Additional 100 LF $62.79 $208 ($145)
Siding Repair/Replacement (in-kind) $189.41 $298 ($108)
Sign Permit (Group of 5)
Illuminated $156.85 $750 ($593)
Non-Illuminated $156.85 $452 ($295)
Monument $156.85 $656 ($499)
Seismic Retrofit - Brace and Bolt Program – Single-Family New $456 N/A
Industrial Storage Racks / Cabinets New $613 N/A
Stucco Repair / Replacement $283.47 $298 ($14)
Swimming Pool / Spa
Single-Family New $1,184 N/A
Multi-Family / Commercial New $2,217 N/A
Deferred Submittal / Revisions - Base Charge New $631 N/A
Hourly Charge New $316 N/A
Appeal New $413 N/A
Consultation New $413 N/A
Mechanical Permits
HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps, Air
Handling Unit)
Single-Family $63.96 $489 ($425)
Multi-Family / Commercial (Groups of 5)
Direct Replacements $63.96 $902 ($838)
New - With Curb $63.96 $1,539 ($1,475)
New - Without Curb $63.96 $1,232 ($1,168)
Water Heaters and/or Boilers $125.46 $543 ($418)
Instant Permit - Single-Family Replacement (i.e., Heat Pump
Water Heaters, Gas, etc.) New $298 N/A
Furnace and Associated Ducts $125.46 $632 ($506)
Miscellaneous Permit - Not Otherwise Listed $63.96 $298 ($234)
Per Additional Hour New $298 N/A
Process Piping System $62.79 $456 ($393)
Process Piping System - Hazardous $63.96 $808 ($744)
Swimming Pool Heater - Direct Replacement $74.77 $489 ($414)
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Fee Name
FY25
Current Fee4
Total City
Cost Difference
Ventilation and Exhaust System - Single-Family / Multi-Family $63.96 $456 ($392)
Plan Review Fees
Additional Plan Review $258.19 $316 ($57)
Alternate Materials, Design Methods Of Construction (AMMR) New $898 N/A
Certified Access Specialist (CASp) Review / Consultation $496.99 $596 ($99)
Single-Family Residential Plan Check (% of Bldg permit) Modified 125% N/A
Multi-Family / Commercial Plan Check (% of Bldg Permit) Modified 95% N/A
Plumbing Permits
Backflow Protective Device $225.63 $203 $22
Building Sewer System - Direct Replacement $152.04 $352 ($200)
Gas Piping System $225.63 $510 ($284)
Sand Oil Interceptor and Grease Traps $225.63 $917 ($691)
Plumbing Fixtures - New / Direct Replacement (Groups Of 5) $156.85 $298 ($141)
Solar Hot Water System $225.63 $604 ($379)
Storm Drain System $225.63 $407 ($181)
Potable Water System - Repair / Direct Replacement New $352 N/A
Plumbing Permits - Graywater Systems
Clothes Washer System / Simple System $94.05 $510 ($416)
Complex System $225.63 $817 ($591)
Miscellaneous Permit - Not Otherwise Listed New $298 N/A
Per Additional Hour New $352 N/A
Use and Occupancy Permits
Certificate of Use and Occupancy
Stand-Alone $1,482.64 $1,300 $183
Included In Associated Building Permit $1,482.64 $171 $1,312
Certificate of Use and Occupancy - Replacement $296.17 $135 $161
Temporary Occupancy Permit
Multi-Family Residential, Non-Residential, and Other
Commercial $1,118.27 $2,791 ($1,673)
Single-Family and Commercial Tenant Improvement Less
Than 10,000 Sq. Ft. $820.33 $1,150 ($329)
The majority of the flat (non-valuation based) fees charged by the Building Division are
under-recovering. On average, the per-unit cost recovery for flat fees is approximately
64%. The largest under-recoveries come from the electrical permits for multi-family and
commercial electric vehicle charging stations. The ‘Multi-Family / Commercial (Level 3
and 4)’ fee for 1-6 stations under-recovers by about $4,155, and the ‘Multi-Family /
Commercial (Level 1 and 2)’ fee for 1-6 stations under-recovers by about $3,430; both
show only a 12% cost recovery at the current fee level.
Some flat fees are currently over-recovering costs, which indicates that the fee should
decrease. These overages range from a low of $22 (‘Backflow Protective Device’) to a
high of $1,312 (‘Certificate of Use and Occupancy – Included in Associated Building
Permit’). The high overcharge for a ‘Certificate of Use and Occupancy – Included in
Associated Building Permit’ underscores the importance of expanding this fee into two
tiers as proposed by staff during this study.
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The valuation-based building permit fees show a mix of under- and over-recoveries. The
largest over-recoveries are found in the higher valuation tiers; whereas the under-
recovering is in the lower valuation tiers. This is fairly common when we expand
valuation-based fees and indicates the reasoning for expanding those tiers.
Implementing fees at the cost listed in the “Total City Cost” column above will allow the
Division to recover the costs associated with all Citywide departments and divisions
involved in processing building permits while remaining in compliance with state laws
and regulations.
3 Cross-Departmental / Divisional Support
The Building Division is not the only division that reviews Building Permits. The Building
Division routes permits to Planning, Fire, Public Works (Engineering, Urban Forestry,
Industrial Waste Investigators), Transportation, and Zero Waste for review. The City
currently only has support fees for Planning, Fire, and Public Works. Through this process,
it was determined that all support departments and divisions should have a fee for their
review. The following table shows the cross-departmental / divisional fees calculated:
Table 5: Total Cost Per Unit Results – Cross-Departmental Support
Category Single Family Residential Commercial & Multi-Family
Fire 8% of Building Permit 40% of Building Permit
Planning 30% of Building Permit 15% of Building Permit
Public Works 35% of Building Permit 15% of Building Permit
Zero Waste N/A 0.48% of Building Permit
Transportation N/A 0.06% of Building Permit
The fees are set up as a percentage of the building permit to help capture the
proportionate level of effort associated with conducting reviews and inspections in
support of these projects. The greater the permit fee, the greater the proportionate time
associated with reviews and inspections. Implementing these fees will ensure that the
City is not only recovering for Building time on these projects, but also recovering all other
City staff time.
It is important to note that these fees would only be charged if those departmental
reviews are conducted. If certain building projects do not require a Transportation review,
the relevant fee would not be assessed. The fees have also been split into Single-Family
Residential and Commercial / Multi-Family to appropriately capture the level of effort
spent on those projects.
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6. Planning
Planning focuses on ensuring that private development complies with environmental
policies, long-range planning, and land use regulations. The group also oversees the
Historic Preservation Program. The fees examined within this study relate to appeals,
architectural review, historical resources, individual review, subdivision, variances, and
wireless permits. The following subsections discuss fee schedule modifications and
detailed per unit results for the fee-related services provided by Planning.
1 Fee Schedule Modifications
A key advantage to conducting fee studies is the ability to modify the fee structure to
account for all current services being provided by the division. There were some key
modifications made to Planning fees through this process, which included the following:
• Elimination of Legal Review Fees: Based upon discussion with staff, all Legal
Review Fees (Legislative, ARB, Environment, Additional Hearings, and Mitigation
Monitoring) were eliminated. These fees were originally created to capture the
City’s Legal department’s support specific to fees. These costs are now allocated
to the department through a Citywide Indirect charge, which is proposed to be
allocated as overhead to Planning staff.
• Other Eliminated Fees: In addition to legal review of fees, the project team also
worked with staff to eliminate the following fees:
- Architectural Review
o Signs – (Exceptions)
o Temporary Sign Permit
- Documents & Photocopies
o Comprehensive Plan
o Zoning Map Booklet
- Historic Resource
o Mills Act Contract – Establish or Withdraw
- Other Application Fees
o Records Retention
- Use Permit
o Conditional Use Permit – Additional Upon Hearing Request
- Variance
o Variance – Additional Upon Hearing Request
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These fees represent either services no longer offered or duplications of fees
codified elsewhere in the fee schedule.
• New Fees: The project team worked with staff to identify the following new areas
of service:
- Streamlined Housing Development Review
- Planning Compliance Fee
- SB9 Application
- Retail Waiver
The addition of these new fees helps capture services already being provided
either for free or being captured through other fees that don’t reflect the level of
staff effort associated with these activities.
• Expanded Fees: The following fees were expanded from existing fee categories:
- Conditional Use Permit – Director Level – Amendment
- Conditional Use Permit – Alcohol
The creation of these new fee categories helps capture the varying level of effort
associated with these types of activities.
• Streamlined Fees: There are currently three different ranges of public noticing fees
– up to 150 ft. radius, 150-600 ft, and beyond 600 ft. radius. However, in discussion
with staff it was determined that the staff time to process these notices is now the
same, and as such the fee can be streamlined to a singular public noticing fee.
• Conversion of Deposits to Flat Fees: Certain fees are currently being charged as
deposits, but the project team was able to work with City staff to identify a
reasonable average of staff effort associated with those activities to be able to
convert them from deposits to flat fees:
- Pre-Screening Fee
- Wireless Tier 1
- Planned Community Zone Change – Minor Change
• Conversion of Flat Fees to Deposits: ‘Preliminary Parcel Map, Minor with
Exception’ was converted from a flat fee to a deposit-based fee. This is due to the
significant amount of effort associated with these types of applications.
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The modifications noted above help streamline the Planning fee schedule to better reflect
the types of services and the level of effort associated with those activities.
2 Detailed Results – Flat Fees
The Planning Division collects fees for appeals, architectural review, subdivision fees,
historic preservation, use permits, wireless permits, and zone changes. The total cost
calculated for each service includes direct staff costs, direct materials costs (where
applicable), cross-departmental / divisional support (i.e., Engineering, Fire, Building,
Transportation, Utilities, etc.), and Departmental and Citywide overhead. The following
table details the fee name, current fee, total cost, and the difference for each fee.
Table 6: Total Cost Per Unit Results – Planning Flat Fees
Fee Name
FY25
Current
Fee5
Total
City
Cost Difference
Appeals
Architectural Review
Director's Approval
Documents & Photocopies
Environmental Impact Assessment
Historic Resource
5 The current fee listed does not include the 3% Technology Fee, that is built into the published fee.
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Fee Name
FY25
Current
Fee5
Total
City
Cost Difference
Individual Review
Expansion of Existing Two-Story greater than 150 sq. ft. $8,653 $7,389 $1,265
Individual Review - Minor Revisions to Approved Projects $4,497 $3,739 $758
New Two-Story Addition or New Two-Story Home $10,811 $14,397 ($3,586)
Preliminary Individual Review and SB9 with Architect $576 $1,037 ($461)
Other Application Fees
Pre-Screening fee $4,602 $6,193 ($1,591)
Pre-Application Staff Consultation Fee $889 $1,149 ($261)
SB9 Applications New $5,174 N/A
Day Care Center $219 $8,430 ($8,211)
SB 330 Fee $2,873 $3,006 ($133)
Public Noticing Modified $326 N/A
Subdivision (Minor) – Four or Less Parcels
Parcel Map $5,983 $5,753 $230
Preliminary Parcel Map $7,167 $7,725 ($557)
Parcel Map, Minor with Exception $4,380 $8,726 ($4,346)
Subdivision (Major) – Five or More Parcels
Subdivision Final Map $7,153 $8,532 ($1,379)
Use Permit
Conditional Use Permit - Director Level $8,826 $9,068 ($242)
Conditional Use Permit – Director Level – Amendment New $4,252 N/A
Conditional Use Permit – Alcohol New $3,890 N/A
Conditional Use Permit – Alcohol – Amendment $4,655 $1,885 $2,771
Temporary Use Permit $1,753 $2,137 ($384)
Variance
Variance $5,639 $6,854 ($1,215)
Wireless Permit
Wireless Tier 1 $4,100 $3,700 $399
Zone Change
Planned Community Zone Change - Minor Change $2,302 $7,481 ($5,179)
Retail Waiver
Retail Waiver New $8,381 N/A
The Planning Division’s fees generally under-recover its costs, with some exceptions. Use
permits for Day Care Centers have the largest under-recovery at about $8,200, or only 3%
of costs. It is important to note that this fee is often set below cost recovery to encourage
these types of facilities when there is a shortage. The fee with the smallest under-
recovery is the ‘CEQA Categorical Exemption’ fee at around $51, or 93% cost recovery.
There are several fees for which the department currently overcharges. These range from
$4,892 (Design Enhancement Exception) to $156 (Appeals before City Council or
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Planning & Transportation Commission). It is important that the division adjust these fees
to at or below cost recovery.
3 Detailed Results – Deposit-Based Fees
The Planning Division also assesses deposit-based fees for entitlement and land use
applications. Deposit-based fees are specifically for those types of projects that can span
several months and are often complex in nature. Since these types of applications vary
widely in the time that staff are required to spend on them, a deposit is generally
recommended to ensure that each project pays its appropriate share and cost recovery
is achieved.
In order to evaluate the City’s current and proposed deposit-based fees, the project team
worked with Planning and other Departmental staff to estimate the minimum amount of
time needed to process the applications. This would ensure that the recommended
deposit would at least account for the base level of effort and allow staff to collect
additional funds as needed. The following table shows the deposit-based fees (current
and calculated) for Planning and the recommended deposit amount.
Table 7: Planning Deposit-Based Fees – Current and Proposed Deposits
6
Appeal Costs Exceeding Appeals Filing Fee $4,602 $6,188 $4,700
Architectural Review - Major Project $15,749 $38,227 $16,000
Comprehensive Plan Change $9,384 $29,122 $9,600
Development Agreement $10,828 $32,762 $11,100
Development Agreement - Annual Review $3,791 $5,460 $3,900
Environmental Document (Staff Review) $7,671 $14,561 $7,900
Mitigation Monitoring - Environmental Impact Report $5,631 $5,460 $5,800
Mitigation Monitoring - Mitigated Negative Declaration $1,876 $3,640 $1,900
Transfer of Development Rights Projects $905 $5,460 $900
Williamson Act Contract – Establish or Withdraw $2,959 $3,640 $3,000
Planning Compliance Fee New $1,092 $1,000
6 The current deposit listed does not include the 3% Technology Fee, that is built into the published fee.
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Fee Name
FY25 Current
Deposit6
Calculated
Deposit
Recommended
Deposit
Site and Design Major $34,555 $38,412 $20,000
Subdivision (Minor) – Four or Less Parcels
Preliminary Parcel Map, Minor with Exception $11,335 $19,491 $11,600
Subdivision (Major) – Five or More Parcels
Tentative Map $13,228 $19,926 $13,500
Wireless Permit
Wireless Tier 2 $8,827 $21,515 $9,100
Wireless Tier 3 $9,374 $25,155 $9,600
Zone Change
Planned Community Zone Change $11,264 $36,402 $11,600
Zone Change Regular $9,385 $21,841 $9,600
The majority of the City’s deposits are insufficient based upon the minimum level of effort
needed to complete each task. Additionally, due to the nature of deposits, the project
team considers it best practice to assess deposits as a round, estimated number (i.e.,
$5,000, $12,000, $20,000, etc.) as the remaining funds will be refunded and / or additional
funds would be requested. This will simplify the customer service aspect for applicants,
as well as make it easier for staff to administer the deposit.
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7. Fire Prevention
The Fire Prevention Division as part of the Development Services Department focuses on
performing fire plan checks, reviews, permitting, and field inspections to ensure that
development complies with the California Fire Code. In FY2025, these fees were identified
to be moved from Planning and Development Services to the Fire Department. The Fire
development-related fees are captured under the Building fee schedule. Fees examined
in this study relate to hazardous materials, inspection fees, consultations, life safety and
fire, and hazard permits. The following subsections discuss fee schedule modifications
and detailed per unit results for the fee-related services provided by the Fire Prevention
Division.
1 Fee Schedule Modifications
During discussions with Fire Prevention staff, modifications were proposed to the current
fee schedule, which include:
• Eliminated Fees: Several fees were eliminated as these services are either
captured through other fees and are redundant or they are no longer provided:
- Documents
o Emergency Planning Guide
o Long-Term Offsite Document Storage
o Microfilm Copy / Print (Blueprint and Specification)
o Photographs (First Print and Each Additional)
- Inspection Fees
o Use & Occupancy Fire Inspection
• New Fees: Several new fees were added to the schedule to capture services that
are currently being provided, but for which no current or unique fee is being
collected:
- Compliance Fees
o Hazmat Plan Submittal
o Hazmat Closure
§ Partial Closure
§ Full Closure
- Hazardous Materials Permits
o Temporary Generator / Backup Power Supply
o Battery Operated Equipment
§ Up to 10 Pieces of Equipment
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§ Each Additional Equipment at Same Location
o Temporary Certificate of Occupancy – Hazmat
- Inspection Fees
o Hospital Inspections
§ Annually for up to 7 hours
§ Each additional hour
o Standby Fire Watch – Fire Engine Company
o Hazmat Temporary Occupancy Permit for Vendors/Stock Occupancy
o Business Inspection
- Investigations
o Environmental Hazard Release
o Hazmat
o Fire Investigation
- Life Safety & Fire Protection
o Fire Protection and Fire Access Plan Review for New Developments or
Additions
• Restructured Fees: Several fees were restructured to capture the level of service,
which included expanding categories or renaming the fee:
- General & Miscellaneous Fees – renamed ‘Fire Prevention Plan Check Hourly’
- Hazardous Materials
o The Hazardous Materials Classification section – renamed ‘Hazardous
Materials Permits’ and combined with the Hazardous Materials Storage
section.
o Liquid or Gas-Fueled Powered Equipment – expanded into two
categories: ‘First Equipment’ and ‘Each Additional Equipment at Same
Location’
- Inspection Fees
o Additional Inspection or Reinspection Fee – expanded into three
categories: ‘Fire Prevention,’ ‘Development Services – Fire,’ and
‘HazMat’
o After Hours Inspection Fee – expanded into three categories: ‘Fire
Prevention,’ ‘Development Services – Fire,’ and ‘HazMat’
- Consultations
o Additional Hours Over Plan Review/Site Visit – expanded into three
categories: ‘Fire Prevention,’ ‘Development Services – Fire,’ and
‘HazMat’
o Alternate Means and Methods Application – expanded into two
categories: ‘Fire Prevention’ and ‘HazMat’
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o Appeals to Decisions – expanded into three categories: ‘Fire Prevention,’
‘Development Services – Fire,’ and ‘HazMat’
o Consultation Fee – expanded into three categories: ‘Fire Prevention,’
‘Development Services – Fire,’ and ‘HazMat’
- Services
o Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Testing Fee – from flat fee to
per hour
- Life Safety & Fire Protection
o Sprinklers – broke out NFPA 13D vs. all others; charged NFPA 13D
based on a base fee and per head fee
o Fire Prevention Inspection of Private Schools – changed from a flat fee
to per hour with a 2-hour minimum
o Multi-family dwellings, hotels, and motels – creating smaller intervals to
better reflect the level of support associated with each set of units
§ 3 – 10 units, 11 – 25 units, 26 – 100 units, 101 – 250 units, more
than 250 units
o Site Disaster Planning – expanded to include Emergency Preparedness
Planning
- Specific Hazard Permits
o Occupant Load Increase – Temporary Public Assembly – modified to
read only ‘Temporary Public Assembly’
o Place of Assembly – expanded to include a fee for each additional
assembly
The modifications outlined will allow Fire Prevention staff to better capture their level of
effort associated with providing services to the community.
2 Detailed Results
The Fire Prevention Division collects fees for occupancy inspections, fire life safety, and
hazardous materials. The total cost calculated for each service includes direct staff
costs, contractor costs, and Departmental and Citywide overhead, as well as any specific
material costs. The following table details the fee name, current fee, total cost, and the
difference between the two for each fee.
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Table 8: Total Cost Per Unit Results – Fire Prevention
Fee Name
FY25
Current
Fee7
Total
Cost Difference
Compliance Fees
Emergency Response Fee - Hazmat $472.88 $482 ($9)
Hazmat Plan Submittal New $2,021 N/A
Hazmat Closure
Partial Closure New $1,317 N/A
Full Closure New $3,338 N/A
Hazmat Work Submittal Without Approved Plans and/or Permits Double Fee
Hazmat Closure Without Approved Plans and/or Permits Double Fee
Review of Emergency Planning Guide *Only assessed if not part of
annual submittal (per hour) Modified $482 N/A
Fire Prevention Plan Check - Hourly
Fire Prevention $258.19 $352 ($94)
Development Services – Fire $258.19 $352 ($94)
HazMat $258.19 $352 ($94)
Hazardous Materials Permits
Compressed Gas $474.06 $482 ($8)
Corrosives $474.06 $482 ($8)
Cryogenic Fluid $474.06 $482 ($8)
Flammable and Combustible Liquids $474.06 $964 ($490)
Flammable Gas $473.08 $482 ($9)
Flammable Solids $474.06 $482 ($8)
Health Hazard (Liquids & Solids) $474.06 $482 ($8)
Liquefied Petroleum Gases $474.06 $482 ($8)
Organic Coatings $474.06 $482 ($8)
Organic Peroxides $474.06 $482 ($8)
Other Hazardous Materials - Unclassified $474.06 $482 ($8)
Ovens - Industrial Baking or Drying $474.06 $964 ($490)
Oxidizers (Liquids & Solids) $474.06 $482 ($8)
Oxidizing Gas $474.06 $482 ($8)
Pyrophoric Gas $474.06 $482 ($8)
Pyrophoric Materials (Liquids & Solids) $474.06 $482 ($8)
Pyrotechnical Special Effects Material $474.06 $482 ($8)
Radioactive Materials or Sources $474.06 $964 ($490)
Refrigeration Equipment $509.13 $482 $27
Spraying/Dipping $454.58 $482 ($28)
Tire Recapping/Tire Storage $1,890.25 $1,858 $32
Toxic, Highly Toxic, Moderately Toxic, Health Hazard Gas $474.06 $964 ($490)
Toxic, Highly Toxic, Moderately Toxic, Health Hazard Materials $474.06 $964 ($490)
Unstable Reactive Gas $474.06 $482 ($8)
Unstable Reactive Materials (Liquids & Solids) $474.06 $482 ($8)
Water Reactive Materials (Liquids & Solids) $474.06 $482 ($8)
Additional Approvals for Hazardous Materials Storage Permit
Per occurrence (includes up to 2 hours) $1,030.19 $834 $196
Per hour for time above two hours $674.31 $417 $257
Business Plan (HMBP) $674.31 $723 ($49)
Level I Facility 25% $0 $0
7 The current fee listed does not include the 2% Technology Fee that is built into the published fee.
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Fee Name
FY25
Current
Fee7
Total
Cost Difference
Level II Facility $474.06 $723 ($249)
Level III Facility $951.77 $1,206 ($254)
Petroleum Aboveground Storage Tank $1,903.55 $3,134 ($1,231)
Provisional Hazmat Storage (6 Month) $951.77 $1,929 ($977)
Liquid or Gas-Fueled Powered Equipment (i.e. Welders, Portable Light
Units, etc.)
Up to 10 Pieces of Equipment $471.71 $482 ($11)
Each Additional Equipment at Same Location New $121 N/A
Temporary Generator / Backup Power Supply New $1,317 N/A
Battery Operated Equipment
Up to 10 Pieces of Equipment New $482 N/A
Each Additional Equipment at Same Location New $121 N/A
Operate a Tank Vehicle to Transport Flammable/Combustible Liquids $634.00 $723 ($89)
Temporary Certificate of Occupancy - Hazmat New $964 N/A
Inspection Fees
Additional Inspection or Reinspection Fee (2-hour minimum)
Fire Prevention $473.48 $464 $9
Development Services – Fire $473.48 $464 $9
HazMat $473.48 $482 ($9)
After Hours Inspection Fee (4-hour minimum)
Fire Prevention $709.34 $530 $180
Development Services – Fire $709.34 $530 $180
HazMat $709.34 $555 $155
As-Built Plan Check and Additional Work $946.96 $817 $130
Care Facility Inspection Including Fire Clearance
Facilities with 7-25 clients $471.71 $464 $7
Facilities with more than 25 clients $946.96 $1,858 ($911)
Christmas Tree Lot/Pumpkin Patch $471.71 $464 $7
High Rise Building - Certificate of Compliance
Annually for up to 7 hours $3,708.19 $3,251 $457
Each additional hour $507.08 $464 $43
Hospital Inspections
Annually for up to 7 hours New $3,251 N/A
Each additional hour New $464 N/A
Outside Cooking Booths/Food Trucks $709.34 $464 $245
Standby Fire Watch – Fire Inspector $471.71 $464 $7
Temporary Occupancy Permit for Vendors/Stock Occupancy $1,523.55 $2,210 ($687)
Hazmat Temporary Occupancy Permit for Vendors/Stock Occupancy New $2,281 N/A
Business Inspection New $464 N/A
Consultations
Additional Hours Over Plan Review/Site Visit
Fire Prevention $337.79 $352 ($14)
Development Services – Fire $337.79 $352 ($14)
HazMat $337.79 $352 ($14)
Alternate Means and Methods Application (2 hr minimum)
Fire Prevention $1,009.75 $835 $175
Development Services – Fire $1,009.75 $835 $175
Appeals to Decisions
Fire Prevention $471.71 $483 ($11)
Development Services – Fire $471.71 $483 ($11)
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Fee Name
FY25
Current
Fee7
Total
Cost Difference
HazMat $471.71 $483 ($11)
Consultation Fee
Fire Prevention $471.71 $433 $39
Development Services – Fire $471.71 $433 $39
HazMat $471.71 $439 $33
Investigations
Environmental Crimes New $417 N/A
Hazmat New $482 N/A
Fire Investigation New $464 N/A
Services
Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Testing Fee $667.12 $464 $203
Hydrant Flow Fee $471.71 $697 ($225)
Life Safety & Fire Protection
Hydrant Installation/Modification - Private $237.62 $817 ($579)
Sprinkler NFPA 13D - Base New $993 N/A
Sprinkler NFPA 13D - Per head New $4 N/A
All Other (Non-NFPA 13D) Automatic Fire Sprinkler
Installation/Modification
1 - 19 Sprinkler Heads $1,055.58 $1,690 ($634)
20 or more Sprinkler Heads - Base $2,334.23 $2,915 ($580)
Per head $3.89 $11 ($7)
Express Fire Protection Plan Check Fee $235.27 $457 ($222)
Fire Alarm System Installation and Modification $1,379.79 $1,986 ($606)
Plus per device or contact point $31.09 $41 ($10)
Fire Prevention Inspection of Private Schools (min 2 hours) $473.48 $464 $9
Fire Protection and Fire Access Plan Review for New Developments
or Additions (min 2 hours) New $433 N/A
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 3-10 units $471.71 $464 $7
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 11-25 units $471.71 $929 ($457)
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 26-100 units $946.96 $1,393 ($447)
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 101-250 units $1,418.67 $2,322 ($904)
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels greater than 250 units $1,418.67 $2,787 ($1,368)
Other Automatic Extinguishing Systems $1,283.57 $1,393 ($110)
Site Disaster / Emergency Preparedness Planning $471.71 $446 $26
Standpipe System - Wet, Dry, or Combination $946.96 $1,633 ($686)
Temporary Certificate of Occupancy $1,024.20 $1,393 ($369)
Underground Fire Service Line (Includes 4 hrs of inspection and 1 hr
of plan check) $2,229.25 $2,210 $19
Verification of Fire Protection System Maintenance and Certification $86.89 $39 $48
Specific Hazard Permits
Candles and Open Flames in Assembly Areas $471.71 $464 $7
Hot Work (i.e. Spark/Flame Producing) Operations $529.56 $464 $65
Temporary Public Assembly $471.71 $1,281 ($810)
Place of Assembly $951.77 $929 $23
Each additional assembly New $232 N/A
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure $992.81 $1,169 ($176)
Fire Prevention’s fees show a mix of over- and under-recovery. The largest fee with the
largest under-recovery is the ‘Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels greater than 250
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units’ fee at $1,368. The fee where the division overcharges the most is the ‘High Rise
Building – Certificate of Compliance – Annually for up to 7 hours’ at $457. On average
the division recover about 90% of its costs. The department should critically examine its
current fees and adjust as needed to better achieve cost recovery goals while complying
with legal requirements.
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8. Public Works
The Public Works unit located at the Development Center focuses on land development,
encroachment in the right-of-way, environmental services, urban forestry, and zero waste.
The fees examined within this study relate to encroachment, construction in the public
right-of-way, tree removal, storm drain plan check, and miscellaneous reviews and
inspections. The following subsections discuss fee schedule modifications and detailed
per unit results for the fee-related services provided by the Public Works Division.
1 Fee Schedule Modifications
In discussion with Public Works Division staff, there were minor modifications made to
the fee schedule:
• Eliminated Fees: In discussion with staff, it was proposed that the following fees
be eliminated, as they represent duplicative services or services no longer offered:
- Map / Plan Review fees – Architectural Review
o Minor Project Trees (ARB Review)
o Minor Project Trees (Staff Review)
- Permit Fees
o Improvement Plan Review
• Expanded Fees: The Construction in Public Right-of-Way fee was expanded from
ending at $500,000 to include two additional ranges - $500,000-$1 million and
greater than $1.0 million. This will allow the City to capture additional projects that
are typically falling into these categories.
The modifications outlined will allow Public Works staff to better capture their level of
effort associated with providing services to the community.
2 Detailed Results
Public Works collects fees for encroachment, tree permits, construction in public right-
of-way, and grading. The total cost calculated for each service includes direct staff costs
and Departmental and Citywide overhead. The following table details the fee name,
current fee, total cost, and the difference between the two for each fee.
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Table 9: Total Cost Per Unit Results – Public Works
Fee Name
FY25
Current
Fee8
Total
Cost Difference
Encroachment Permit
Grading / Excavation
General & Miscellaneous Fees
Inspection Fees
Permit Fees
8 The current fee listed does not include the 2% Technology Fee and 5% Reserve Amount, that is built into the published fee.
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D. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($101,000 - $500k) $13,033 $15,854 ($2,821)
Value Greater than $100,000 10.7% 2.3% 8.4%
E. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($500k-$1m) $55,726 $25,267 $30,459
Value Greater than $500,000 10.7% 2.5% 8.2%
F. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($1m+) $109,226 $38,175 $71,051
Value Greater than $1m 10.7% 1.3% 9.4%
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) Permit Review Fee
Per hour of review $257 $230 $27
Right of Way Closure Management $103 $96 $7
Storm Drain Plan Check Fee $1,225 $2,718 ($1,493)
The majority of fees being charged by Public Works are under-recovering, although there
are also some significant overcharges. The under-recoveries range from $17
(Encroachment Permit – Additional Non-Residential Long-Term (More than 5 days)
Monthly) to about $3,597 (Grading / Excavation – 10,001 or more cubic yards – First
10,000 cubic yards). The overages range from $7 (Right of Way Closure Management) to
around $71,051 (Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($1m+)). The project team
recommends adjusting fee levels to be no higher than the total calculated cost.
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9. Development Surcharges
There are two typical surcharges assessed as part of the development review process –
the Comprehensive Plan Fee and the Technology Fee. The City of Palo Alto currently
charges a Comprehensive Plan Maintenance Fee as part of the building phase, and the
Technology Fee is included within the permit and application fees. The City of Palo Alto
is unique in that it also builds a reserve calculation into its fees, which can be considered
a surcharge. The following subsections discuss the calculation of the Comprehensive
Plan Maintenance Fee, Technology Fee, and the Reserve Surcharge.
1 Comprehensive Plan Maintenance Fee
The City of Palo Alto currently assesses a Comprehensive Plan Maintenance Fee as part
of its building permit process. The fee is meant to account for updates to the general
plan, zoning ordinance, housing elements, and other long-range planning activities that
are part of the larger General Plan. This is a standard fee charged by many jurisdictions.
The City of Palo Alto charges this fee as a percentage of the building valuation at the time
of building permit submittal. It is charged during the building permit phase because
development projects that get to that phase generally make a sufficient impact to require
the need for an update to the Zoning Code or the General Plan.
The project team worked with Department staff to identify the costs associated with
Long-Range Planning based upon the components of the long-range plan that need to be
updated. The cost estimates for the categories are based upon existing updates, an
inflationary factor, and staff estimates. The following table shows the total cost, lifespan,
and resulting annual cost by plan category:
Table 10: Comprehensive Plan Maintenance Fee Cost Components
Category Total Cost Lifespan Annual Cost
General Plan Update $3,475,916 15 $231,728
Housing Element Update $767,594 8 $95,949
Zoning Code Update $1,000,000 10 $100,000
Total Long-Range Planning Annual Costs $427,677
The total annual costs associated with updating the Comprehensive Plan are
approximately $428,000. To assess this fee as a percentage of the building valuation, the
project team took the annual cost associated with comprehensive plan upkeep and
divided it by the average total building permit valuation for FY24. The following table
shows this calculation:
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Table 11: Comprehensive Plan Maintenance Fee Calculation
Category Amount
Total Comprehensive Plan Annual Maintenance Cost $427,677
Annual Building Permit Valuation $314,402,136
General Plan Maintenance Fee 0.136%
As the table indicates, the calculated Comprehensive Plan Maintenance Fee is 0.136% of
the building valuation. The following table compares the city’s current fee to the full cost
fee calculated through this study:
Table 12: General Plan Maintenance Fee Per Unit Result Comparison
Category Current Fee Full Cost Surplus / (Deficit)
Comprehensive Plan Maintenance Fee 0.133% 0.136% (0.003%)
The City’s current fee is $1.33 per $1,000 of building permit valuation or 0.133% of the
building valuation. Therefore, the full cost fee would result in an increase of the City’s
current fee from 0.133% to 0.136%.
As part of this analysis, the project team conducted a comparative survey of other local
jurisdictions and their Comprehensive Plan Maintenance Fees. Like other comparative
efforts, the survey below only shows the fees charged by the jurisdiction and does not
include the basis upon which the other jurisdictions calculated or developed their fee. The
following table shows the results of this comparative analysis:
Table 13: General Plan Maintenance Fee – Comparative Survey
Jurisdiction Fee Amount
Menlo Park 3% of Permit Fee
Mountain View 0.26% of Building Valuation
San Jose 11.97% of Building and Planning Applications
Santa Clara 12.39% of Building Permit Fee
Sunnyvale 0.15% of Building Permit Valuation
As the table indicates, the surrounding jurisdictions charge for long-range planning either
as a percentage of the building valuation or as a percentage of the permit fee or planning
and building fees. Of those jurisdictions that charge it as a percentage of the building
permit valuation, both the City’s current fee of 0.133% and the 0.136% full-cost fee fall
below the fees that are charged based on valuation (Mountain View and Sunnyvale).
2 Technology Surcharge Fee
The City currently collects a fee for technology as part of its overall permit or application
fee. The Technology Fee allows the City to support the costs associated with the City’s
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permitting system, such as staff time for managing the systems, acquisition and upgrade
costs, and mobile devices used for permitting. The following table shows the total cost,
the quantity of items, the number of years the item or cost is related to, and the resulting
annual cost by cost category:
Table 14: Technology Surcharge Fee Cost Components
Cost Category Amount Lifespan Annual Cost
Adobe Licenses $60,000 1 $60,000
Scanning Services/Arc/SkySite $25,000 1 $25,000
Reporting Database $25,000 1 $25,000
Inspection App – Accela $15,000 1 $15,000
Other Inspection App – CityGovApps $11,000 1 $11,000
Ongoing EDR Cost $80,000 1 $80,000
GIS Migration $75,000 2 $37,500
Hardware Maintenance/Upgrades $25,000 1 $25,000
Software and Apps Maintenance/Upgrades $25,000 1 $25,000
Replace / Renew Cost for Accela9 $500,000 10 $50,000
Hardware for Inspector/Plan Review – iPads, etc. $5,000 2 $2,500
Parcel Map Updates $45,000 1 $45,000
Total IT Software and Hardware Costs: $401,000
IT Internal Support:
39370 - DESKTOP REPLACEMENT $26,520 1 $26,520
39380 - DESKTOP MAINTENANCE $119 1 $119
39420 - IT-INFRAST REPLACEMN $7,425 1 $7,425
39430 - IT-INFRAST MAINT $24,365 1 $24,365
39440 - IT SUPPORT $208,023 1 $208,023
39520 - APPLICATION MAINT $360,877 1 $360,877
Subtotal Internal IT Support: $627,329
Total Annual Tech Fee Costs $1,028,329
Based on the technology needed to provided development-related services, as well as
internal IT staff and operational support, the annual technology fee costs are
approximately $1.0 million for the City of Palo Alto.
Working with City staff, the project team determined that the most relatable nexus for the
Technology Fee is proportionate to the permit fee. This means that the greater the permit
fee, the greater the Technology Fee should be, as there is more software utilization and
storage space for larger projects. Therefore, the project team took the total Technology
Annual Cost and divided it by the total permit revenue associated with Building, Fire,
Planning, and Engineering services for FY24. The following table shows this calculation:
9 Implementation and potential contract increase.
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Table 15: Technology Fee Calculation
Category Amount
Total Technology Annual Cost $1,028,329
Development- Related Permit Revenue $21,647,294
Technology Fee as % of Permit Fee 5%
The City’s calculated technology fee is 5% of the permit fee. Therefore, if a permit fee was
$100, the technology fee collected would be $5; if a permit fee was $1,000, the technology
fee collected would be $50. This type of structure enables the technology fee to be more
proportionately distributed to the projects based on their impact.
Currently, the City incorporates a 2% fee for Building Permits and 3% fee for planning
applications. It is a best practice to capture this separately to allow for a more transparent
fee schedule.
As part of this analysis, the project team conducted a comparative survey of other local
jurisdictions and their assessment of a Technology Fee. Like other comparative efforts,
the survey below simply shows the fees charged by the jurisdiction and does not include
the basis upon which the other jurisdictions calculated or developed their fee. The
following table shows the results of this comparative analysis:
Table 16: Technology Fee – Comparative Survey
Jurisdiction Fee Amount
Menlo Park 3% of Permit Fee
Mountain View 4% of Permit Fee
Santa Clara 3.37% of Permit Fee
Sunnyvale 5% of Permit Fee
The majority of the jurisdictions charge the Technology Fee as a percentage of the permit
fee, similar to the City of Palo Alto. The City currently incorporates between 2-3% of the
permit fee as the Technology Fee, which is in line with or lower than the surrounding
jurisdictions. The full cost of the technology fee at 5% of the permit fee is higher than all
surrounding jurisdictions except Sunnyvale, which has an equivalent fee.
3 Reserve Fund
As discussed, the City of Palo Alto is unique in that Development Services has a reserve
calculation built into the current fees. Development Services’ current reserve policy is set
to sunset at the end of this fiscal year (June 30, 2025). Through this study, the project
team analyzed an updated reserve fee calculation.
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The current policy calculates that the reserve for the department should include 3 months
of average recurring operating expenses, collected over the course of 5 years. The reserve
amount is to be recovered as a percentage of the fees assessed. Therefore, it is assessed
on the building, engineering, and fire fees. The following table shows the City’s reserve
surcharge calculation:
Table 17: Reserve Calculation
Cost Category Amount
Total DS Operating Budget $23,715,59210
% of Cost to be Funded 25%11
Total Reserve Amount $5,928,898
# of Years to Achieve Funding 5
Annual Reserve Cost $1,185,780
Total DS Revenue $21,688,294
Reserve Surcharge % 5 %
The proposed updated reserve surcharge is 5%, which is consistent with the City’s current
reserve surcharge. Overall, if the City would still like to assess a reserve fee, then the
project team makes the following recommendations:
• The reserve policy should be renewed, and it should clearly state the purpose of
the reserve, the amount proposed to be collected, and policies and procedures for
accessibility and utilization of the reserve.
• The reserve surcharge should remain steady at about 5% and it should be shown
as an added fee line item (similar to the Technology Fee and Comprehensive Plan
Maintenance Fee) to more transparently demonstrate the true cost of permitting
to internal and external stakeholders.
The advantage of retaining the reserve fund is that the department has a built-in
contingency that it can access if there is a significant change in operations due to
unpredictable circumstances and situations. Some other considerations for the City
include transitioning Development Services to an enterprise fund to allow for a separate
reserve policy more specific to those types of activities.
10 Includes operating costs for DS Building, Planning (including current planning), Engineering, and Fire.
11 25% represents 3 months out of 12-month timeframe.
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4 Surcharge Funds
It is a best practice to collect and account for all surcharges in separate accounts. The
City of Palo Alto currently has a separate subaccount for the Comprehensive Plan
Maintenance Fee.
However, there is currently no separate account or subaccount within the General Fund
for the Technology Fee. Implementing this as a separate surcharge will require the
creation of a separate account to follow accounting best practices and to more
transparently demonstrate to internal and external stakeholders that this funding is only
being used for the purpose of annual maintenance and / or replacement of the permitting
system. This will ensure compliance with funding requirements, enable appropriate
allocation of funds to general plan or technology-related activities, and mitigate any
potential issues with comingling of funds.
Additionally, as discussed, if the City continues a reserve policy for Development Services
within the General Fund, the Reserve Surcharge should also be tracked in a separate
subaccount. This will again ensure that fees are collected separately, so they can be used
for the intended purposes of offsetting any contingency-related expenses.
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10. Fee Adjustments
This study has documented and outlined on a fee-by-fee basis where the City’s current
fee differs from its full cost. City and Department management will now need to review
the results of the study and adjust fees in accordance with state guidelines, Departmental
and City philosophies, and policies. The following points outline the major options the
City has in adjusting its fees.
• Over-Collection: Upon review of the fees that are shown to be greater than the
current fee, the City should reduce the current fee to be in line with the full cost of
providing the service.
• Full Cost Recovery: For fees that show an under-collection of costs, the City may
decide to increase the fee to full cost recovery immediately.
• Phased Increase: For fees with significantly low cost recovery levels, or that would
have a significant impact on the community, the City could choose to increase fees
gradually over a set timeframe.
The City will need to review the results of the fee study and associated cost recovery
levels and determine how best to adjust fees. The following subsections provide further
detail on why and how the City should consider either implementing Full Cost Recovery
or a Phased Increase approach to adjusting its fees that are under-collecting.
1 Full Cost Recovery
Based on the permit or review type, the City may wish to increase the fee to cover the full
cost of providing services. Certain permits may be close to cost recovery already, and an
increase to full cost may not be significant. Other permits may have a more significant
increase associated with full cost recovery.
The City should consider increasing fees for permits for which services are rarely
engaged to full cost recovery. These services often require specific expertise and can
involve more complex research and review due to their infrequent nature. As such, setting
these fees at full cost recovery will ensure that when the permit or review is requested,
the City is recovering the full cost of its services.
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2 Phased Increases
Depending on current cost recovery levels, some current fees may need to be increased
significantly to comply with established or proposed cost recovery policies. Due to the
type of permit or review or the amount by which a fee needs to be increased, it may be
best for the City to use a phased approach to reach their cost recovery goals.
As an example, the City could have a current fee of $200 with a full cost of $1,000,
representing 20% cost recovery. If the current policy is 80% cost recovery, the current fee
would need to increase by $600, bringing the fee to $800, to comply. Assuming this
service is something the City provides quite often and affects various members of the
community, an instant increase of $600 may not be feasible. Therefore, the City could
take a phased approach, whereby it increases the fee annually over a set period until cost
recovery is achieved.
Raising fees over a set timeframe not only allows the City to monitor and control the
impact to applicants, but also ensures that applicants have time to adjust to significant
increases. Continuing with the example above, the City could increase the fee by $150 for
the next four years, spreading out the increase. Depending on the desired overall increase,
and the impact to applicants, the City could choose to vary the number of years by which
it chooses to increase fees. However, the project team recommends that the City not
phase increases for periods greater than five years, as that is the maximum window for
which a comprehensive fee assessment should be completed.
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Appendix A: Full Listing of Fees
The following table shows the complete list of fees reviewed in this study by division / section, including the fee name, the
current fee amount, and full cost calculated through this analysis:
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES - BUILDING
Building Permit Fees
Base Fee for All Permits Per permit $155.67 $277 $122
Base Fee for Small or Medium Sq. Ft. / Valuation
Permits Per permit New $1,110 N/A
Base Fee for Larger Sq. Ft. / Valuation Permits Per permit New $4,162 N/A
Single-Family / Duplex Residential (Sq. Ft.) Permit
Fees: 0-250 sq. ft. Each Modified $596 N/A
251-500 sq. ft Each Modified $1,191 N/A
501-1,000 sq. ft. Each Modified $1,340 N/A
1,001 - 1,500 sq. ft. Each Modified $2,234 N/A
1,501 - 2,000 sq. ft. Each Modified $2,531 N/A
2,001 - 2,500 sq. ft. Each Modified $4,467 N/A
2,501 - 3,000 sq. ft. Each Modified $4,616 N/A
3,001 - 3,500 sq. ft. Each Modified $5,063 N/A
3,500 - 4,000 sq. ft. Each Modified $5,212 N/A
4,001 - 4,500 sq. ft. Each Modified $5,361 N/A
4,501 - 5,000 sq. ft Each Modified $5,509 N/A
5,001 - 5,500 sq. ft. Each Modified $5,956 N/A
5,501 - 6,000 sq. ft. Each Modified $6,552 N/A
6,001 - 6,500 sq. ft. Each Modified $6,850 N/A
6,500 sq. ft+ Base Modified $7,445 N/A
6,500 sq. ft. Each Addl. 500 sq. ft. Modified $573 N/A
Multi-Family & Commercial (Valuation) Permit Fees: N/A
$0 - $2,000 Base $32.74 $1,191 $1,159
$2,001 - $25,000 Base $32.74 $1,191 $1,159
$2,001 - $25,000 Each Addl. $1,000 or fraction thereof $16.37 $1,191 $1,175
$25,001 - $50,000 Base $409.20 $1,787 $1,378
12 This current fee / deposit removes the tech fee and reserve fee.
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Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
$25,001 - $50,000 Each Addl. $1,000 or fraction thereof $16.37 $1,787 $1,770
$50,001 - $100,000 Base $818.40 $2,680 $1,862
$50,001 - $100,000 Each Addl. $1,000 or fraction thereof $16.37 $2,680 $2,664
$100,001 - $500,000 Base $1,636.80 $3,723 $2,086
$100,001 - $500,000 Each Addl. $1,000 or fraction thereof $16.37 $3,723 $3,706
$500,001 - $1,000,000 Base $8,184.00 $6,701 ($1,483)
$500,001 - $1,000,000 Each Addl. $1,000 or fraction thereof $16.37 $6,701 $6,684
$1,000,001 - $5,000,000 Base $16,368.00 $14,890 ($1,478)
$1,000,001 - $5,000,000 Each Addl. $1,000 or fraction thereof $9.63 $14,890 $14,881
$5,000,001 - $10,000,000 Base $54,870.00 $44,671 ($10,199)
$5,000,001 - $10,000,000 Each Addl. $1,000 or fraction thereof $10.97 $44,671 $44,661
$10,000,001 - $25,000,000 Base $109,740.00 $74,452 ($35,288)
$10,000,001 - $25,000,000 Each Addl. $1,000 or fraction thereof $1.67 $74,452 $74,451
$25,000,001 - $50,000,000 Base $134,850.00 $104,233 ($30,617)
$25,000,001 - $50,000,000 Each Addl. $1,000 or fraction thereof $5.39 $104,233 $104,228
$50,000,000+ Base $269,700.00 $148,905 ($120,795)
$50,000,000+ Each Addl. $1,000 or fraction thereof $5.39 $148,905 $148,900
Demolition Per permit $674.31 $1,086 $411
Deconstruction (Initiation / Intake) Per permit New $975 N/A
Commercial Interior Non-Structural Demolition Per permit $242.43 $456 $213
Construction & Demolition (C&D)
Commercial and Multi-Family Projects greater than or
equal to $25,000.00 in Valuation Per Permit $412.27 $470 $58
Single Family and Two-Family Projects greater than
$25,000.00 and less than $75,000.00 in Valuations Per Permit $220.81 $470 $249
Single Family and Two-Family Projects greater than
$75,000.00 in Valuation Per Permit $283.47 $503 $220
Electrical Permits Generator Single-Family Per Permit $598.35 $714 $115
Multi-Family / Commercial Per Permit $598.35 $1,318 $720
Electrical Service - New or Replacement Less than 400 amp Per Permit $496.98 $565 $68
400 amp and Greater Per Permit $745.54 $871 $126
Rewiring (Single Family Residential Only) Per Permit New $604 N/A
Temporary Electric Service (Power Pole, Pedestal,
etc.) Per Permit $79.60 $149 $69
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Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
Misc. Permit - Not Otherwise Listed Single-Family Residential Permits / Equipment Not
Listed Above Per Permit New $528 N/A
Multi-Family / Commercial Permits / Equipment Not
Listed Above Per Permit New $685 N/A
Electrical Permits - Electrical Vehicle Charging
Stations
Multi-Family Commercial (Level 1 and 2) 1-6 Stations Per Permit $482.53 $3,930 $3,448
Each Add’l 6 Stations Per Group $90.53 $1,031 $940
Multi-Family Commercial (Level 3 and 4) 1-6 Stations Per Permit $576.59 $3,930 $3,354
Each Add’l 6 Stations Per Group $113.34 $1,031 $917
Single-Family (Level 1 and 2) Per Permit $208.70 $1,205 $997
Single-Family (Level 3) Per Permit $317.22 $1,387 $1,070
Electrical Permits - Photovoltaic Systems (PV)
Multi-Family / Commercial System:
10kW or less Per Permit $755.20 $1,761 $1,006
11kW-49kW Per Permit $1,013.46 $2,375 $1,361
50kW or greater Per Permit $755.20 $3,155 $2,399
Reinstallation Per Permit New $1,227 N/A
Single-Family System: 10kW or less Per Permit $349.79 $1,346 $996
Greater than 10kW Per Permit $223.16 $1,698 $1,475
Reinstallation Per Permit New $911 N/A
SolarAPP+ PV Per Permit New $596 N/A
SolarAPP+ PV and ESS Per Permit New $1,209 N/A
Energy Storage Systems (ESS)
Single-Family System Per Permit New $1,688 N/A
Multi-Family / Commercial System Per Permit New $2,957 N/A
General & Miscellaneous Fees
ADU - Stand-Alone Detached - Excluding Master
Permits Per Permit New $6,384 N/A
ADU - Stand-Alone Detached - Master Permit Per Model New $2,305 N/A
ADU - Stand-Alone Detached - Site Construction - Site
Specific Related to Master Per Permit New $4,764 N/A
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 47
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
ADU - Stand-Alone Detached - Pre-fab Site Specific
Related to Master Per permit New $3,415 N/A
Address Change - First Address Change Per address $683.93 $365 ($319)
Each Additional Per address $254.82 $91 ($164)
Awnings (Groups Of 5) Single-Family Per Group $683.93 $714 $620
Multi-Family / Commercial Per Group $254.82 $1,318 $1,224
Bathroom Remodel Single-Family (Direct Replacement Non-Structural) Per Permit $377.53 $596 $218
Multi-Family (Direct Replacement, Non-Structural) Per Permit $377.53 $753 $376
Single-Family and Multi-Family (Other) Per Permit $377.53 $911 $534
Instant Permit Per Permit New $596 N/A
Cell Tower Building Review Per Permit New $2,480 N/A
Deck and Balcony – Single-Family Per Permit $786 N/A
Doors, Windows And Skylights (Group Of 5) -
Structural Single-Family Per Group $377.53 $714 $336
Multi-Family/Commercial Per Group $377.53 $795 $418
Doors, Windows and Skylights (Group Of 10) - Non-
Structural Single-Family Per Group $189.42 $468 $278
Multi-Family/Commercial Per Group $189.42 $795 $606
Dry Rot Repair/Replacement - Single Family Structural Per Permit $94.05 $762 $668
Non-Structural Per Permit $94.05 $456 $362
Electric Safety Inspection Per Hour $265.37 $298 $32
Extension Of Building Permit Or Building Permit
Application Per Application $106.18 $238 $132
Foundation Repair – Single-Family Residential (No
Basement) Per Permit New $510 N/A
Green Building Special Inspector Application Initial Review Per Application $574.46 $376 ($198)
Renewal Update Per Application $286.53 $188 ($98)
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 48
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
Inspections And Investigations Outside of Normal Business Hours (2 Hour
Minimum) Per Hour $499.47 $343 ($156)
Unclassified (2 Hour Minimum) Per Hour $332.98 $298 ($35)
Kitchen Remodel Single-Family (Direct Replacement, Non-Structural) Per Permit $283.47 $447 $163
Multi-Family (Direct Replacement, Non-Structural) Per Permit $283.47 $753 $470
Single-Family and Multi-Family (Remodel, Not Direct
Replacement) Per Permit $283.47 $753 $470
Instant Permit Per Permit New $596 N/A
Parklet Permit Application (First Year) Per Application New $1,264 N/A
Progress and Partial Inspections (Up to 30 Minutes
Inspection) Per inspection $74.77 $149 $74
Reactivation of Expired Building Permit Multiple Outstanding Inspections Per Inspection 50% 50% $0
Final Inspection Only $346.27 $365 $19
Application $211.17 $90 ($121)
Real Property Research Fee (1-Hour Minimum) Per hour $310.04 $277 ($33)
Building Reinspection Fee Multi-Family Residential And Commercial (Up To 30
Minute Inspection) Per Inspection $184.60 $149 ($36)
Single-Family Primary Inspection Type (1 Hour) Per Inspection $190.58 $298 $107
Secondary Inspection Type (30 Minutes) Per Inspection $102.51 $149 $46
Request of Release of Building Plans and Documents Per request $103.70 $277 $174
Re-Roof: Re-Roof - Multi-Family / Commercial First 5,000 Sf Per Permit $377.53 $1,233 $856
Each Additional 2,500 Sf Each additional 2,500 sf $93.44 $298 $204
Re-Roof - Single Family Overlay Per permit $94.05 $298 $204
Re-Roof - Single Family Per permit $377.53 $538 $160
Retaining Walls First 100 LF Per Permit $125.46 $1,439 $1,313
Each Additional 100 LF Each additional 100 LF $62.79 $208 $145
Siding Repair/Replacement (in-kind) Per Permit $189.41 $298 $108
Sign Permit (Group of 5) Illuminated Per Permit $156.85 $750 $593
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 49
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
Non-Illuminated Per Permit $156.85 $452 $295
Monument Per Permit $156.85 $656 $499
Seismic Retrofit - Brace and Bolt Program – Single-
Family Per Permit New $456 N/A
Industrial Storage Racks / Cabinets Per Permit New $613 N/A
Stucco Repair / Replacement Each $283.47 $298 $14
Swimming Pool / Spa Single-Family Per Permit New $714 N/A
Multi-Family / Commercial Per Permit New $1,318 N/A
Deferred Submittal / Revisions - Base Charge Per Application New $631 N/A
Hourly Charge Per Hour New $316 N/A
Appeal Per Hour New $413 N/A
Consultation Per Hour New $413 N/A
Mechanical Permits
HVAC Systems (i.e., Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps,
Air Handling Unit) Single-Family Per Permit $63.96 $714 $650
Multi-Family / Commercial (Groups of 5) Direct Replacements Per Permit $63.96 $902 $838
New - With Curb Per Permit $63.96 $1,539 $1,475
New - Without Curb Per Permit $63.96 $1,232 $1,168
Boilers, Compressors, and Absorption Systems /
Water Heaters Per Permit $125.46 $543 $418
Instant Permit - Single-Family Replacement (i.e., Heat
Pump Water Heaters, Gas, etc.) Per Permit New $298 N/A
Furnace and Associated Ducts Per Permit $125.46 $632 $506
Miscellaneous Permit - Not Otherwise Listed Per Permit $63.96 $298 $234
Per Additional Hour Per Hour New $298 N/A
Process Piping System Per Permit $62.79 $456 $393
Process Piping System - Hazardous Per Permit $63.96 $808 $744
Swimming Pool Heater - Direct Replacement Per Permit $74.77 $489 $414
Ventilation and Exhaust System - Single-Family /
Multi-Family Each $63.96 $456 $392
Plan Review Fees
Additional Plan Review Per hour $258.19 $316 $57
Alternate Materials, Design Methods of Construction
(AMMR) Per application New $898 N/A
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 50
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
Certified Access Specialist (CASp)
Review/Consultation Flat $496.99 $596 $99
Building Plan Check:
Single-Family Residential % of Bldg Permit Fee Modified 125% N/A
Commercial & Multi-Family % of Bldg Permit Fee Modified 95% N/A
Fire and Life Safety Plan Check:
Single-Family Residential % of Bldg Permit Fee Modified 8% N/A
Commercial & Multi-Family % of Bldg Permit Fee Modified 40% N/A
Public Works Plan Check:
Single-Family Residential % of Bldg Permit Fee Modified 35% N/A
Commercial & Multi-Family % of Bldg Permit Fee Modified 15% N/A
Zoning Plan Check
Single-Family Residential % of Bldg Permit Fee Modified 30% N/A
Commercial & Multi-Family % of Bldg Permit Fee Modified 15% N/A
Zero Waste Plan Check
Commercial & Multi-Family % of Bldg Permit Fee Modified 0.48% N/A
Traffic Engineering Plan Check
Commercial & Multi-Family % of Bldg Permit Fee Modified 0.06% N/A
Plumbing Permits
Backflow Protective Device Per Permit $225.63 $203 ($22)
Building Sewer System - Direct Replacement Per Permit $152.04 $352 $200
Gas Piping System Per Permit $225.63 $510 $284
Sand Oil Interceptor And Grease Traps Per Permit $225.63 $917 $691
Plumbing Fixtures - New / Direct Replacement
(Groups Of 5) Per Group $156.85 $298 $141
Solar Hot Water System Per Permit $225.63 $604 $379
Storm Drain System Per Permit $225.63 $407 $181
Potable Water System - Repair / Direct Replacement Per Permit New $352 N/A
Plumbing Permits - Graywater Systems Clothes Washer System / Simple System Per Permit $94.05 $510 $416
Complex System Per Permit $225.63 $817 $591
Miscellaneous Permit - Not Otherwise Listed Per Permit New $298 N/A
Per Hour Per Hour New $298 N/A
Use & Occupancy Permits N/A
Certificate of Use and Occupancy Stand-Alone Per Application $1,482.64 $1,300 ($183)
Included In Associated Building Permit Per Application $1,482.64 $171 ($1,312)
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 51
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
Certificate of Use and Occupancy - Replacement Per Application $296.17 $135 ($161)
Temporary Occupancy Permit Multi-Family Residential, Non-Residential, and Other
Commercial Per Application $1,118.27 $2,791 $1,673
Single-Family and Commercial Tenant Improvement
Less Than 10,000 Sq. Ft. Per Application $820.33 $1,150 $329
PLANNING
Appeals
Appeal Costs Exceeding Appeals Filing Fee Deposit $4,602 $6,188 $1,587
Appeals and Request for Hearing before City Council
or Planning & Transportation Commission Per Application $718 $562 ($156)
Architectural Review Architectural Review: Major Project Deposit $15,749 $38,227 $22,478
Minor Project (ARB Review) Each $10,679 $11,452 $773
Minor Project (Staff Review) Each $4,100 $5,830 $1,730
Design Enhancement Exception Each $8,505 $3,613 ($4,892)
Preliminary Review Each $8,014 $8,226 $213
Signs: ARB Review/Exceptions Per Application $5,356 $6,674 $1,318
Staff Review (not OTC) Per Application $1,281 $2,830 $1,549
Comprehensive Plan Change
Comprehensive Plan Change Deposit $9,384 $29,122 $19,737
Development Agreement Annual Review Deposit $3,791 $5,460 $1,669
Development Agreement Deposit $10,828 $32,762 $21,934
Director's Approval Home Improvement Exception Each $4,770 $4,307 ($463)
Documents & Photocopies Administrative Extensions and Zoning Letters Applicable hourly rate N/A $354 N/A
Property Research requiring more than 30 minutes Applicable hourly rate N/A $342 N/A
Environmental Impact Assessment CEQA Categorical Exemption Each $693 $744 $51
Environmental Document (Staff Prepared) Deposit $7,671 $14,561 $6,889
Mitigation Monitoring - Environmental Impact Report Deposit $5,631 $0 ($5,631)
Mitigation Monitoring - Mitigated Negative Declaration Deposit $1,876 $3,640 $1,764
Historic Resource
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 52
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
Demolition Application for Historic Buildings Each $1,535 $1,810 $275
Historic Resource Review - Major Project Each $2,304 $6,619 $4,315
Historic Resource Review - Minor Project (Staff
Review) Each $1,536 $3,041 $1,504
Historic Resource Review of Individual Review
Application Each $384 $1,123 $739
Transfer of Development Rights Projects Deposit $905 $5,460 $4,556
Williamson Act Contract - Establish or Withdraw Deposit $2,959 $3,640 $681
Individual Review Expansion of Existing Two-Story greater than 150 sq.
ft. Each $8,653 $7,389 ($1,265)
Individual Review - Minor Revisions to Approved
Projects Each $4,497 $3,739 ($758)
New Two-Story Addition or New Two-Story Home Each $10,811 $14,397 $3,586
Preliminary Individual Review with Architect Per Occurrence $576 $1,037 $461
Other Application Fees Planning Compliance Fee Deposit New $1,092 N/A
Pre-Screening Fee Flat $4,602 $6,193 $1,591
Pre-Application Staff Consultation Fee Each $889 $1,149 $261
SB 9 Applications Flat New $5,174 N/A
SB 330 Fee Each $2,873 $3,006 $133
Day Care Center Each $219 $8,430 $8,211
Public Noticing Each Modified $326 ($460)
Retail Waiver
Retail Waiver Each New $8,381 N/A
Site & Design Site & Design Major Deposit $34,555 $38,412 $3,857
Subdivision (Minor) – Four or Less Parcels Parcel Map Each $5,983 $5,753 ($230)
Preliminary Parcel Map, Minor Each $7,167 $7,725 $557
Parcel Map, Minor with Exception Each $4,380 $8,726 $4,346
Preliminary Parcel Map, Minor with Exception Deposit $11,335 $19,491 $8,156
Subdivision (Major) – Five or More Parcels Subdivision Final Map Each $7,153 $8,532 $1,379
Tentative Map Deposit $13,228 $19,926 $6,698
Use Permit Conditional Use Permit - Director Level Each $8,826 $9,068 $242
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 53
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
Conditional Use Permit - Director Level - Amendment Each New $4,252 N/A
Conditional Use Permit - Alcohol Each New $3,890 N/A
Conditional Use Permit - Alcohol - Amendment Each $4,655 $1,885 ($2,771)
Temporary Use Permit Each $1,753 $2,137 $384
Variance Variance Each $5,639 $6,854 $1,215
Wireless Permit Wireless Tier 1 Flat $4,100 $3,700 ($399)
Wireless Tier 2 Deposit $8,827 $21,515 $12,688
Wireless Tier 3 Deposit $9,374 $25,155 $15,781
Zone Change Planned Community Zone Change - Minor Change Flat $2,302 $7,481 $5,179
Planned Community Zone Change Deposit $11,264 $36,402 $25,137
Zone Change Regular Deposit $9,385 $21,841 $12,456
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES – FIRE PREVENTION
Compliance Fees
Emergency Response Fee - Hazmat Per person per hour $473 $482 $9
Hazmat Plan Submittal Min 5 hrs New $2,021 N/A
Hazmat Closure
Partial Closure Min 3 hrs New $1,317 N/A
Full Closure Min 8 hrs New $3,338 N/A
Hazmat Work Submittal Without Approved Plans
and/or Permits 2x Fee Double Fee
Hazmat Closure Without Approved Plans and/or
Permits 2x Fee Double Fee
Review of Emergency Planning Guide *Only assessed
if not part of annual submittal (per hour) Per hour Modified $482 N/A
Fire Prevention Plan Check - Hourly
Fire Prevention Per hour $258 $352 $94
Development Services – Fire Per hour $258 $352 $94
HazMat Per hour $258 $352 $94
Hazardous Materials Permits
Compressed Gas Annually $474 $482 $8
Corrosives Annually $474 $482 $8
Cryogenic Fluid Annually $474 $482 $8
Flammable and Combustible Liquids Annually $474 $964 $490
Flammable Gas Annually $473 $482 $9
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 54
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
Flammable Solids Annually $474 $482 $8
Health Hazard (Liquids & Solids) Annually $474 $482 $8
Liquefied Petroleum Gases Annually $474 $482 $8
Organic Coatings Annually $474 $482 $8
Organic Peroxides Annually $474 $482 $8
Other Hazardous Materials - Unclassified Annually $474 $482 $8
Ovens - Industrial Baking or Drying Annually $474 $964 $490
Oxidizers (Liquids & Solids) Annually $474 $482 $8
Oxidizing Gas Annually $474 $482 $8
Pyrophoric Gas Annually $474 $482 $8
Pyrophoric Materials (Liquids & Solids) Annually $474 $482 $8
Pyrotechnical Special Effects Material Annually $474 $482 $8
Radioactive Materials or Sources Annually $474 $964 $490
Refrigeration Equipment Annually $509 $482 ($27)
Spraying/Dipping Annually $455 $482 $28
Tire Recapping/Tire Storage Annually $1,890 $1,858 ($32)
Toxic, Highly Toxic, Moderately Toxic, Health Hazard
Gas Annually $474 $964 $490
Toxic, Highly Toxic, Moderately Toxic, Health Hazard
Materials Annually $474 $964 $490
Unstable Reactive Gas Annually $474 $482 $8
Unstable Reactive Materials (Liquids & Solids) Annually $474 $482 $8
Water Reactive Materials (Liquids & Solids) Annually $474 $482 $8
Additional Approvals for Hazardous Materials
Storage Permit
Per occurrence (includes up to 2 hours) Per occurrence $1,030 $834 ($196)
Per hour for time above two hours Per hour $674 $417 ($257)
Business Plan (HMBP) Per location $674 $723 $49
Level I Facility Per location $474 $723 ($0)
Level II Facility Per location $952 $1,206 $249
Level III Facility Per location $1,904 $3,134 $254
Petroleum Aboveground Storage Tank Annually $952 $1,929 $1,231
Provisional Hazmat Storage (6 Month) Each $952 $834 $977
Liquid or Gas-Fueled Powered Equipment (i.e.
Welders, Portable Light Units, etc.) ($117)
First Equipment Each $472 $482
Each Additional Equipment at Same Location Each New $121 $11
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 55
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
Temporary Generator / Backup Power Supply Each New $1,317 N/A
Battery Operated Equipment N/A
Up to 10 Pieces of Equipment Each New $964
Each Additional Equipment at Same Location Each New $121 N/A
Operate a Tank Vehicle to Transport
Flammable/Combustible Liquids Per vehicle $634 $723 N/A
Temporary Certificate of Occupancy - Hazmat Per occurrence New $964 $89
Inspection Fees
Additional Inspection or Reinspection Fee (2-hour
minimum)
Fire Prevention Per hour $473 $464
Development Services – Fire Per hour $473 $464 ($9)
HazMat Per hour $473 $482 ($9)
After Hours Inspection Fee (4-hour minimum) $9
Fire Prevention Per hour $709 $530
Development Services – Fire Per hour $709 $530 ($180)
HazMat Per hour $709 $555 ($180)
As-Built Plan Check and Additional Work Each $947 $817 ($155)
Care Facility Inspection Including Fire Clearance ($130)
Facilities with 7-25 clients Per inspection $472 $464
Facilities with more than 25 clients Per inspection $947 $1,858 ($7)
Christmas Tree Lot/Pumpkin Patch Each $472 $464 $911
High Rise Building - Certificate of Compliance ($7)
Annually for up to 7 hours Annually $3,708 $3,251
Each additional hour Per hour $507 $464 ($457)
Hospital Inspections ($43)
Annually for up to 7 hours Annually New $3,251
Each additional hour Per hour New $464 N/A
Outside Cooking Booths/Food Trucks Each $709 $464 N/A
Standby Fire Watch – Fire Inspector Per hour per person $472 $464 ($245)
Temporary Occupancy Permit for Vendors/Stock
Occupancy Per occurrence $1,524 $2,210 $687
Hazmat Temporary Occupancy Permit for
Vendors/Stock Occupancy Per occurrence New $2,281 N/A
Business Inspection Per Inspection New $464 N/A
Consultations
Additional Hours Over Plan Review/Site Visit N/A
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 56
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
Fire Prevention Per hour $338 $352 $14
Development Services – Fire Per hour $338 $352 $14
HazMat Per hour $338 $352 $14
Alternate Means and Methods Application (2 hr
minimum) N/A
Fire Prevention Per application $1,010 $835 ($175)
Development Services – Fire Per application $1,010 $835 ($175)
Appeals to Decisions N/A
Fire Prevention Per hour $472 $483 $11
Development Services – Fire Per hour $472 $483 $11
HazMat Per hour $472 $483 $11
Consultation Fee N/A
Fire Prevention Per hour $472 $433 ($39)
Development Services – Fire Per hour $472 $433 ($39)
HazMat Per hour $472 $439 ($33)
Investigations
Environmental Crimes Per hour per person New $417 N/A
Hazmat Per hour per person New $482 N/A
Fire Investigation Per hour per person New $464 N/A
Services:
Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Testing Fee Per Hour $667 $464 ($203)
Hydrant Flow Fee Per occurrence $472 $697 $225
Life Safety & Fire Protection
Hydrant Installation/Modification - Private Per device $238 $817 $579
Sprinkler NFPA 13D - Base Base New $993 N/A
Sprinkler NFPA 13D - Per head Per Head New $4 N/A
All Other (Non-NFPA 13D) Automatic Fire Sprinkler
Installation/Modification N/A
1 - 19 Sprinkler Heads Flat $1,056 $1,690 $634
20 or more Sprinkler Heads Base $2,334 $2,915 $580
Per head Per head $4 $11 $7
Express Fire Protection Plan Check Fee Per occurrence $235 $457 $222
Fire Alarm System Installation and Modification Flat $1,380 $1,986 $606
Plus per device or contact point Per device or contact point $31 $41 $10
Fire Prevention Inspection of Private Schools (min 2
hours) Per hour $473 $464 ($9)
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 57
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
Fire Protection and Fire Access Plan Review for New
Developments or Additions (min 2 hours) Per hour New $433 N/A
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 3-10 units Annually $472 $464 ($7)
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 11-25 units Annually $472 $929 $457
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 26-100 units Annually $947 $1,393 $447
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels 101-250 units Annually $1,419 $2,322 $904
Multifamily dwellings, hotels & motels greater than
250 units Annually $1,419 $2,787 $1,368
Other Automatic Extinguishing Systems Per occurrence $1,284 $1,393 $110
Site Disaster / Emergency Preparedness Planning Per hour $472 $446 ($26)
Standpipe System - Wet, Dry, or Combination Each $947 $1,633 $686
Temporary Certificate of Occupancy Per occurrence $1,024 $1,393 $369
Underground Fire Service Line (Includes 4 hrs of
inspection and 1 hr of plan check) Per occurrence $2,229 $2,210 ($19)
Verification of Fire Protection System Maintenance
and Certification Annually per system $87 $39 $48
Specific Hazard Permits
Candles and Open Flames in Assembly Areas Per Permit $472 $465 ($7)
Hot Work (i.e. Spark/Flame Producing) Operations Each $530 $465 ($65)
Temporary Public Assembly Per Permit $472 $1,281 $810
Place of Assembly Annually - Base per Address $952 $929 ($23)
Each additional assembly Each Add'l New $232 N/A
Tent/Canopy or Air Supported Structure Per Permit $993 $1,169 $176
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES - PUBLIC WORKS
Encroachment Permit
A. Dumpster, Container Each $407 $475 $67
B. Non-Residential - Single Day Each $1,631 $2,053 $422
C. Non-Residential Short-Term (Less than 5 days) Each $1,903 $2,281 $378
D. Non-Residential Long-Term (More than 5 days) Each $2,609 $2,931 $321
E. Additional Non-Residential Long-Term (More than 5
days) Monthly Per month $917 $934 $17
F. Fence Each $2,005 $1,999 ($7)
G. Residential Each $1,038 $1,277 $239
Parklet Permit:
Initial Application Fee Per Application $1,860 $4,539 $2,679
License Fee for Use of Right-Of-Way Per sq. ft. $11 $11 $0
Refundable Deposit Per Application $2,500 $2,500 $0
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 58
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
Renewal Fee Per Application $233 $549 $317
Grading / Excavation
A. 101 - 1,000 cubic yards First 100 cubic yards Base $247 $1,550 $1,303
Each additional 100 cubic yards or fraction thereof
Each Additional 100 c.y. or fraction
thereof $247 $322 $75
B. 1,001 - 10,000 cubic yards First 1,000 cubic yards Base $2,470 $4,010 $1,540
Each additional 1,000 cubic yards or fraction
thereof
Each Additional 1,000 c.y. or fraction
thereof $233 $554 $320
C. 10,001 or more cubic yards First 10,000 cubic yards Base $4,802 $8,398 $3,597
Each additional 10,000 cubic yards or fraction
thereof
Each Additional 10,000 c.y. or fraction
thereof $906 $2,034 $1,128
General & Miscellaneous Fees
Miscellaneous Public Works Inspection Per Hour $254 $195 ($59)
Miscellaneous Public Works Plan Check Per Hour $298 $243 ($55)
Inspection Fees
Tree Inspection for Private Development Per Inspection $236 $764 $527
Wet Season Construction Site Stormwater Inspection Per Inspection Per Inspection $360 $312 ($48)
Per hour thereafter, charged monthly October thru
April Per Hour $120 $208 $88
Off Hour Inspection Per Hour $311 $244 ($66)
Permit Fees
1. Temporary Discharge to Storm Drain from Non-
Exclusionary Construction Site Dewatering Per Request $18,213 $17,329 ($884)
2. Additional Temporary Discharge to Storm Drain
from Non-Exclusionary Construction Site Dewatering
Per Week for the Duration of Dewatering
Activities $388 $373 ($15)
Certificate of Compliance / Certificate of Correction /
Map Amendment Per Occurrence $5,660 $4,577 ($1,083)
A. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($1.00 - $5,999) Per Occurrence $818 $971 $154
B. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($6,000 -
$25,999) Per Occurrence $818 $971 $154
Value Greater than $6,000 % of Construction 10.7% 18.37% 7.67%
C. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($26,000 -
$100,999) Per Occurrence $2,923 $5,430 $2,507
ATTACHMENT C
Development Cost of Service (User Fee) Study PALO ALTO, CA
Matrix Consulting Group 59
Fee Name Unit
Current Fee /
Deposit12
Total City
Cost
Fee
Change
Value Greater than $26,000 % of Construction 13.7% 10.61% (3.09%)
D. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($101,000 -
$500k) Per Occurrence $13,033 $15,854 $2,821
Value Greater than $100,000 % of Construction 10.7% 2.30% (8.40%)
E. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($500k-$1m) Per Occurrence $55,726 $25,267 ($30,459)
Value Greater than $500,000 % of Construction 10.7% 2.49% (8.21%)
F. Construction in Public Right-of-Way ($1m+) Per Occurrence $109,226 $38,175 ($71,051)
Value Greater than $1m % of Construction 10.7% 1.25% (9.45%)
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) Permit Review Fee Per hour of review Per Hour $257 $230 ($27)
Right of Way Closure Management Each $103 $96 ($7)
Storm Drain Plan Check Fee Each $1,225 $2,718 $1,493
SURCHARGES
Comprehensive Plan Maintenance Fee % of Valuation 0.133% 0.136% 0.003%
Technology Surcharge % of Permit 3% or 2% 5% 2%
Reserve Surcharge % of Permit 5% 5% 0%
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Appendix B: Fully Burdened Hourly Rates
The following table shows the current and fully burdened hourly rates by position type reviewed through this study:
Table 18: Hourly Rates
Position Current Hourly Rate Fully Burdened Hourly Rate
Associate Planner $247.09 $339.41
Building / Planning Technician $198.69 $325.82
Code Enforcement Lead $268.08 $297.53
Engineer $229.88 $229.74
Engineering Tech III $169.37 $191.77
Landscape Architect / Park Planner $255.37 $230.74
Planning Manager $314.41 $436.80
Planner $258.99 $343.26
Principal Planner $306.54 $393.54
Senior Engineer $272.88 $274.66
Senior Planner $298.69 $369.26
Building - Inspections and Investigations - Unclassified $356.01 $297.81
Building - Additional Plan Review $276.04 $351.21
Planning - Miscellaneous Plan Check & Inspection $278.57 $361.37
Public Works - Miscellaneous Plan Check $319.31 $242.86
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Appendix C: Comparative Survey
As part of the cost-of-service (user fee) study for the City of Palo Alto, Matrix Consulting
Group conducted a comparative survey of user fees. The City identified five jurisdictions
to be included in the comparative survey: Menlo Park, Mountain View, San Jose, Santa
Clara, and Sunnyvale. The project team then reviewed public documents (i.e., agenda
items, staff reports, budgets, fee schedules, and ordinances), and or contacted
jurisdictions to get comparative information.
While this report will provide the City with a reasonable estimate and understanding of
the true costs of providing services, many jurisdictions also wish to consider the local
“market rates” for services as a means for assessing what types of changes in fee levels
their community can bear. However, a comparative survey does not provide adequate
information regarding the relationship of a jurisdiction’s cost to its fees.
The following sections detail various factors to consider when reviewing comparative
survey results, as well as graphical comparisons of current fees and total calculated
costs for various permits issued or services provided by the City.
1 Economic Factors
To provide additional context to the comparative survey information, the project team
collected economic factors for the jurisdictions included. Three important economic
factors to consider when comparing fees across multiple jurisdictions are population,
budget, and workforce size. The following tables rank each jurisdiction from smallest to
largest for each of these economic factors:
Table 19: Ranking of Jurisdictions by Population
Menlo Park 31,023
65,057
Mountain View 81,458
Santa Clara 131,886
Sunnyvale 150,872
San Jose 956,433
Table 20: Ranking of Jurisdictions by Citywide Total Budget13
Jurisdiction FY24/25 Budget
13 To ensure appropriate comparisons, full operating budget (all funds) has been used for all jurisdictions.
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Jurisdiction FY24/25 Budget
Palo Alto $1,269,242,117
Santa Clara $1,482,954,629
San Jose $5,334,969,564
Table 21: Ranking of Jurisdictions by Workforce Size
Jurisdiction FY24/25 FTE
Menlo Park 293
Mountain View 710
Sunnyvale 957
Palo Alto 1,092
Santa Clara 1,153
San Jose 6,985
Based on the data shown in the previous tables, Palo Alto ranks in the higher middle of
surveyed jurisdictions in terms of workforce size and budget, and in the lower half of
surveyed jurisdictions in terms of population.
2 Recency Factor
While the previous comparative information can provide some perspective when
comparing Palo Alto’s fees with surveyed jurisdictions, other key factors to consider are
when a jurisdiction’s fee schedule was last updated and when the last comprehensive
analysis was completed. The following tables detail when each surveyed jurisdiction last
conducted a fee analysis and when they last updated their fee schedule.
Table 22: Last Fee Study Conducted
Mountain View FY 09-1014
Menlo Park FY 17-18
San Jose FY 17-18
Sunnyvale FY 16-17
Santa Clara FY 23-24
Table 23: Last Fee Schedule Update
Menlo Park FY 24/25
Mountain View FY 24/25
San Jose FY 24/25
Sunnyvale FY 24/25
Santa Clara FY 24/25
14 Mountain View is currently undergoing a fee study.
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Based on the data presented in the above tables, only Santa Clara has conducted a fee
study in the last 5 years. All surveyed jurisdictions have updated their fee schedules within
the last year.
Although these metrics may seem similar, many jurisdictions will update their fee
schedules without completing or conducting a comprehensive fee analysis. For example,
while the City of Mountain View has updated its fees annually, it hasn’t completed a fee
study in the last 10 years. Although the fee amounts are updated, the basis upon which
those fee amounts are calculated has not been evaluated.
It is important to note that even though jurisdictions may have conducted fee studies,
fees are not always adopted at full cost recovery. The comparative results will only show
the adopted fees for the surveyed jurisdictions, not necessarily the full cost associated
with the comparable service.
3 Additional Factors
Along with keeping the statistics outlined in the previous sections in mind, the following
issues should also be noted when considering market surveys in setting fees for service:
• Each jurisdiction and its fees are different, and many are not based on the actual
cost of providing services.
• The same fee with the same name may include more or less steps or sub-
activities. In addition, jurisdictions provide varying levels of service and have
varying levels of costs associated with providing services such as staffing levels,
salary levels, indirect overhead costs, etc.
Market surveys can run the risk of creating a confusing excess of data that will obscure
rather than clarify policy issues. Because each jurisdiction is different, Matrix Consulting
Group recommends that the information contained in the market comparison of fees be
used as a secondary decision-making tool, rather than a tool for establishing an
acceptable price point for services.
4 Comparative Survey Results
As part of this study, the project team conducted a survey of how the City’s current user
fees and calculated full cost compare to other similarly sized and regionally located
jurisdictions. The following subsections provide a comparative look at several fee-related
services provided by the City versus the surveyed jurisdictions.
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1 New Single-Family Home Valued at $421,857, 3,632 Sq. Ft.
Currently, the Building Division charges a fee of $12,993 for a new 3,632 square foot
single-family home valued at $421,857. Through this study, the project team calculated
the full cost of this service to be $11,726. The following graph shows how the division’s
current fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
Palo Alto’s current fee ($12,993) and calculated full cost ($11,726) are higher than the
jurisdictional average of $11,227. Santa Clara ($13,102) and San Jose ($13,905) also
have fees higher than the jurisdictional average. Menlo Park ($9,929), Mountain View
($8,454), and Sunnyvale ($10,746) have fees lower than the average and both Palo Alto’s
current fee and full costs.
2 R-2 Multi-Family Valued at $28,006,595, 194,500 Sq. Ft.
Currently, the Building Division charges a fee of $359,948 for a 194,500 square foot R-2
multi-family building valued at $28,006,595. Through this study, the project team
calculated the full cost of providing this service to be $213,731. The following graph
shows how the division’s current fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
$-
$2,000
$4,000
$6,000
$8,000
$10,000
$12,000
$14,000
$16,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
New Single Family Home -$421,857 (3,632 sq. ft.)
Fee Average
$-
$100,000
$200,000
$300,000
$400,000
$500,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
R-2 Multi-Family -$28,006,595 (194,500 sq. ft.)
Fee Average
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Palo Alto’s current fee ($359,948) is above the jurisdictional average of $291,299. The
City’s full cost is below the jurisdictional average and more in alignment with Santa Clara
and Mountain View’s fees.
3 ADU Valued at $198,523; 528 Sq. Ft.
Currently, the Building Division charges a fee of $6,115 for a 528 square foot ADU valued
at $198,523. Through this study, the project team calculated the full cost of this service
to be $6,384. The following graph shows how the division’s current fee and full cost
compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
Palo Alto’s current fee ($6,115) and calculated full cost ($6,384) are significantly higher
than the jurisdictional average ($3,728). Sunnyvale has the most comparable fee at
$6,000). Mountain View’s fee ($3,956) falls around the average, while the other three
jurisdictions fall below average. It should be noted that Palo Alto (current fee), Sunnyvale,
and Mountain View charge this fee based on valuation, while Menlo Park, San Jose, and
Santa Clara charge their fees based on square footage. The full cost fee under the new
proposed schedule would be charged based on the type of ADU, rather than the valuation
or square footage. Importantly, fees associated with ADU’s have recently begun to be set
below cost recovery to address local housing issues.
4 Business Tenant Improvement Valued at $597,255, 5,852 Sq. Ft.
Currently, the Building Division charges a fee of $18,395 for a 5,852 square foot tenant
improvement valued at $597,255. Through this study, the project team calculated the full
cost of providing this service to be $16,173. The following graph shows how the division’s
current fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
$-
$1,000
$2,000
$3,000
$4,000
$5,000
$6,000
$7,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Accessory Dwelling Unit -$198,523 (528 sq. ft.)
Fee Average
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Palo Alto’s current fee ($18,395) and full cost ($16,173) are higher than the jurisdictional
average of $11,733. Menlo Park’s fee of $5,076, which is based on square footage is
driving the overall average lower. If Menlo Park is removed, then the jurisdictional average
is $13,398, which is much closer to the City’s Full cost.
5 New Business Valued at $1,068,079, 5,444 Sq. Ft.
Currently, the Building Division charges a fee of $32,897 for a new 5,444 square foot
business valued at $1,068,079. Through this study, the project team calculated the full
cost of this service to be $30,025. The following graph shows how the division’s current
fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
Palo Alto’s current fee ($32,897) and full cost ($30,025) are significantly higher than the
jurisdictional average of $18,517. All other jurisdictions’ fees are below Palo Alto’s fees
but close to average and relatively comparable to each other.
$-
$5,000
$10,000
$15,000
$20,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Business TI -$597,255 (5,852 sq. ft.)
Fee Average
$-
$5,000
$10,000
$15,000
$20,000
$25,000
$30,000
$35,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
New Business -$1,068,079 (5,444 sq. ft.)
Fee Average
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6 Water Heater
Currently, the Building Division charges a fee of $281 for a water heater. Through this
study, the project team calculated the full cost of this service to be $298. The following
graph shows how the division’s current fee and full cost compare to the surveyed
jurisdictions.
Palo Alto’s current fee ($281) and full cost fee ($298) is slightly higher than the
jurisdictional average of $198. San Jose ($319) and Santa Clara ($325) are higher than
average but lower than Palo Alto’s calculated full cost. San Jose’s fee is most comparable
to Palo Alto’s current fee. Mountain View’s fee at $44 is skewing the average. If Mountain
View was removed, then the average fee would be $237 which would be more in
alignment with Palo Alto’s current and full cost fees. Fees associated with water heater
permits are often set below cost recovery to encourage compliance.
7 Single-Family Re-roof Valued at $8,000
Currently, the Building Division charges a fee of $406 for a 2,500 square foot Single Family
Re-roof Permit valued at $8,000. Through this study, the project team calculated the full
cost of this service to be $538. The following graph shows how the division’s current fee
and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
$0
$50
$100
$150
$200
$250
$300
$350
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Water Heater
Fee Average
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Palo Alto’s current fee ($406) and calculated full cost ($538) are higher than the
jurisdictional average of $372. The current fee is most comparable to San Jose’s fee
($463), while the full cost is most comparable to Santa Clara’s fee ($671). Sunnyvale
($337), Mountain View ($238), and Menlo Park ($152) all have fees that fall below
average.
8 Single-Family Bathroom Remodel (Direct Replacement Non-Structural) Valued
at $15,000, 50 sq. ft
Currently, the Building Division charges a fee of $406 for a Single-Family Bathroom
Remodel permit with no structural changes. Through this study, the project team
calculated the full cost of providing this service to be $596. The following graph shows
how the division’s current fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
Palo Alto’s current fee ($406) and calculated full cost ($596) is below the jurisdictional
average of $717. San Jose ($1,234) and Sunnyvale ($1,156) both charge higher fees than
Palo Alto’s full cost.
$0
$100
$200
$300
$400
$500
$600
$700
$800
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Single-Family Re-roof -$8,000 (2,500 sq. ft.)
Fee Average
$0
$500
$1,000
$1,500
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Single-Family Bathroom Remodel (Direct Replacement Non-
Structural) -$15,000 (50 sq. ft)
Fee Average
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9 Single-Family Residential Photovoltaic System
Currently, the Building Division charges a fee of $350 for a Single-Family Residential
Photovoltaic System. Through this study, the project team calculated the full cost of
providing this service to be $1,346. The following graph shows how the division’s current
fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
Palo Alto’s current fee ($350) is below the jurisdictional average of $441, which is below
the state fee of $450. The City’s full-cost fee is the highest among surveyed jurisdictions.
10 Single-Family Residential Energy Storage System
Currently, the Building Division charges a fee of $350 for a Single-Family Residential
Energy Storage System. Through this study, the project team calculated the full cost of
providing this service to be $1,688. The following graph shows how the division’s current
fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
$0
$200
$400
$600
$800
$1,000
$1,200
$1,400
$1,600
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Single-Family Residential Photovoltaic System
Fee Average
$0
$500
$1,000
$1,500
$2,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Single-Family Residential ESS
Fee Average
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Palo Alto’s current fee ($264) is below the jurisdictional average of $645. Other than the
City of Satna Clara, other jurisdictions utilize valuation or other types of fees to recover
the costs associated with Residential energy storage systems.
11 SB330
Currently, the Planning Division charges a fee of $2,962 for an SB330 review. Through this
study, the project team calculated the full cost of this service to be $3,006. The following
graph shows how the division’s current fee and full cost compare to the surveyed
jurisdictions.
Palo Alto’s current fee ($2,962) and full cost ($3,006) are similar, and both are near but
slightly above the jurisdictional average of $2,403. Santa Clara charges the highest fee at
$5,900, while Menlo Park charges the lowest fee at $800. It is important to note that
Menlo Park’s fee is a deposit, however, so all costs will be recovered and the final amount
charged may be significantly higher.
12 Conditional Use Permit – Director Level
Currently, the Planning Division charges a fee of $9,099 for a Conditional Use Permit
(CUP) processed at the director level. Through this study, the project team calculated the
full cost of this service to be $9,068. The following graph shows how the division’s current
fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
$0
$1,000
$2,000
$3,000
$4,000
$5,000
$6,000
$7,000
Palo Alto - Current Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
SB330
Fee Average
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Palo Alto’s current fee ($9,099) and calculated full cost ($9,068) are near but slightly
lower than the jurisdictional average of $9,607. Its fees are most in alignment with Menlo
Park’s initial deposit of $10,000.
13 Pre-Application Staff Consultation
Currently, the Planning Division charges a fee of $916 for a pre-application staff
consultation or meeting. Through this study, the project team calculated the full cost of
this fee to be $1,149. The following graph shows how the division’s current fee and full
cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
Palo Alto’s current fee ($916) and calculated full cost ($1,149) are significantly higher
than the jurisdictional average of $416; the City’s fees are not comparable to any surveyed
jurisdiction. Notably, however, Menlo Park ($400) charges this fee as a deposit. Of the
two remaining jurisdictions who include a fee for pre-application meetings on their fee
schedule, Santa Clara ($522) charges more than the average but less than Palo Alto’s
current fee and San Jose ($325) charges less than the jurisdictional average.
$0
$5,000
$10,000
$15,000
$20,000
$25,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Conditional Use Permit -Director Level
Fee Average
$0
$200
$400
$600
$800
$1,000
$1,200
Palo Alto - Current Palo Alto - Full Cost Menlo Park San Jose Santa Clara
Pre-Application Staff Consultation
Fee Average
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14 Parcel Map – Minor, 4 or Less Parcels
Currently, the Planning Division charges a fee of $6,168 for a minor parcel map review.
Through this study, the project team calculated the full cost of this service to be $5,753.
The following graph shows how the division’s current fee and full cost compare to the
surveyed jurisdictions.
Palo Alto’s current fee ($6.169) and calculated full cost ($5,753) are very close to the
jurisdictional average of $5,700. As with the prior fee, Menlo Park charges a deposit for
this service ($6,000). Of the remaining jurisdictions, none are comparable to Palo Alto’s
current fee or full cost. San Jose ($8,125) and Santa Clara ($8,361) charge significantly
above average, while Sunnyvale ($3,675) and Mountain View ($2,338) charge below
average.
15 Variance
Currently, the Planning Division charges a fee of $5,813 for a variance. Through this study,
the project team calculated the full cost of this service to be $6,8547. The following graph
shows how the division’s current fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
$0
$2,000
$4,000
$6,000
$8,000
$10,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Parcel Map -Minor, 4 or Less Parcels
Fee Average
$0
$2,000
$4,000
$6,000
$8,000
$10,000
$12,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Variance
Fee Average
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Palo Alto’s current fee ($5,813) and full cost ($6,854) are both slightly above the
jurisdictional average of $5,409. Santa Clara charges the highest fee ($10,405), while
Sunnyvale charges the lowest fee ($2,263). Menlo Park charges this fee as a deposit
($3,000). Mountain View ($3,362) and San Jose ($7,743) charge the fees most
comparable to Palo Alto.
16 Automatic Fire Sprinkler Installation/Modification Valued at $25,000; 20
Sprinkler Heads
Currently, Fire charges a fee of $2,510 for an Automatic Fire Sprinkler
Installation/Modification Permit with 20 sprinkler heads. Through this study, the project
team calculated the full cost of this service to be $2,915. The following graph shows how
the division’s current fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
Palo Alto’s current fee ($2,510) and calculated full cost ($2,915) are above the
jurisdictional average ($1,232). Palo Alto’s current and full cost is most comparable to
San Jose’s fee ($1,924).
17 Fire Alarm System Installation and Modification Valued at $25,000; 1 System
Currently, Fire charges a fee of $1,484 for a Fire Alarm System Installation and
Modification Permit for one system. Through this study, the project team calculated the
full cost of this service to be $1,986. The following graph shows how the division’s current
fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
$0
$1,000
$2,000
$3,000
$4,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Automatic Fire Sprinkler Installation/Modification -$25,000 (20
sprinkler heads)
Fee Average
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Palo Alto’s current fee ($1,484) is near the jurisdictional average of $1,280; the City’s full
cost ($1,986), however, falls well above average. The current fee is most comparable to
Menlo Park’s fee ($1,303). Palo Alto’s calculated full cost is most comparable to San
Jose’s fee ($2,544), the highest fee among the surveyed jurisdictions. Mountain View
charges the lowest fee at $447.
18 Tree Inspection for Private Developments
Currently, the Public Works Division charges a fee of $254 for a private development tree
inspection. Through this study, the project team calculated the full cost of this service to
be $764. The following graph shows how the division’s current fee and full cost compare
to the surveyed jurisdictions.
Palo Alto’s current fee ($254) is lower than the jurisdictional average of $421 and is most
comparable to Menlo Park’s fee ($210). The City’s calculated full cost ($764) is much
higher than average but is comparable to Mountain View’s fee ($778). The fees for San
Jose ($452), Santa Clara ($295), and Sunnyvale ($372) fall between Palo Alto’s current
fee and calculated full cost.
$0
$500
$1,000
$1,500
$2,000
$2,500
$3,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Fire Alarm System Installation and Modification -$25,000 (1
system)
Fee Average
$0
$200
$400
$600
$800
$1,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Tree Inspection for Private Developments
Fee Average
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19 Dumpster/Container Encroachment Permit, 1 week
Currently, the Public Works Division charges a fee of $438 for a Dumpster/Container
Encroachment Permit for one week. Through this study, the project team calculated the
full cost of this service to be $475. The following graph shows how the division’s current
fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
Palo Alto’s current fee ($438) and full cost ($475) are above the jurisdictional average of
$225 for this type of encroachment permit. Menlo Park charges the lowest fee at $120,
while Santa Clara charges the highest fee at $421. Both Palo Alto’s current fee and
calculated full cost are most comparable to Santa Clara’s fee.
20 Grading Valued at $50,000; 10,000 Cubic Yards
Currently, the Public Works Division charges a fee of $5,163 for a 10,000 cubic yard
Grading Permit valued at $50,000. Through this study, the project team calculated the full
cost of this service to be $8,398. The following graph shows how the division’s current
fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
$0
$100
$200
$300
$400
$500
Palo Alto - Current Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara
Dumpster/Container Encroachment Permit, 1 week
Fee Average
$0
$2,000
$4,000
$6,000
$8,000
$10,000
$12,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Grading -$50,000 (10,000 cubic yards)
Fee Average
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Palo Alto’s current fee ($5,163) is above the jurisdictional average of $4,972 and is most
comparable to Menlo Park’s fee ($4,786). The City’s calculated full cost ($8,996) is above
the jurisdictional average but still falls below San Jose’s fee ($11,236). Sunnyvale charges
the lowest fee at $1,177. It is important to note that Sunnyvale does not charge their fee
based on project size or valuation; the fee schedule only differentiates between single-
family/duplex projects and all others.
21 Construction in the Public Right-of-Way Valued at $500,000; 5,000 Sq. Ft.
Currently, the Public Works Division charges a fee of $56,707 for construction in the
public right-of-way valued at $500,000 (or 5,000 square feet). Through this study, the
project team calculated the full cost of this service to be $25,267. The following graph
shows how the division’s current fee and full cost compare to the surveyed jurisdictions.
Palo Alto’s current fee ($56,707) is above average ($51,039) but comparable to Santa
Clara’s fee ($58,511) and Menlo Park’s fee ($58,320). The City’s calculated full cost
($25,267) is well below average and only comparable to Sunnyvale’s fee ($16,321).
5 Summary
Based upon the comparative survey, the City’s calculated full cost is generally higher than
the City’s current fees and both are generally higher than the jurisdictional average of
comparable cities, with the exception of building fees, where the full cost brings that more
in alignment. It is important to note with many of the comparative jurisdictions not
having completed a recent study, the comparative fees may not reflect the current cost
of the services provided.
Additionally, the results of this survey only show the fees adopted by council, not the cost
recovery policy decisions for departments or a jurisdiction. As such, the results of this
survey should be used as a secondary decision-making tool and cannot be used to
determine if costs are “too high” or “too low” as the basis upon which fees are set in other
jurisdictions are variable.
$0
$10,000
$20,000
$30,000
$40,000
$50,000
$60,000
$70,000
$80,000
Palo Alto -
Current
Palo Alto - Full
Cost
Menlo Park Mountain View San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale
Construction in Public Right-of-Way -$500,000 (5,000 sq. ft.)
Fee Average
ATTACHMENT C
Item No. 3. Page 1 of 3
Finance Committee
Supplemental Report
From: Jonathan Lait, Planning and Development Services Director
Meeting Date: March 4, 2025
Item Number: 2
Report #:2502-4216
TITLE
Additional Fee Subsidy Considerations for the Planning and Development Services Cost of
Services Study and Proposed Municipal Fee Adjustments
RECOMMENDATION
This item provides additional information regarding potential subsidy consideration for the
Planning and Development Services cost of services assessment to assist the Committee in
evaluation of and potential recommendation to the Council and staff regarding:
1. Continued subsidy of the planning application fee associated with childcare centers, and
2. Consideration for appropriateness of building permit-related subsidies to support public
policy interests.
BACKGROUND
The Planning and Development Services (PDS) Cost of Services Study assessed the actual costs of
providing development-related services, including Planning, Building, Fire Prevention, and Public
Works. While the study recommends aligning fees with service costs, the City Council retains
discretion to subsidize certain fees based on policy priorities.
Historically, the City has subsidized the planning application costs for day care centers to increase
childcare availability, support working families, boost economic growth, promote early childhood
development, and enhance community well-being.
The current subsidized planning application fee for a day care center is $218.59. The actual cost
for providing this service is about $8,500. Staff recommends the fee remain at a subsidized level.
The City’s development services program is a full-cost recovery program and has not previously
subsidized fees. Staff recommends recovering full costs for building permit applications.
However, there may be value in considering whether some application Fees should be subsidized.
Specifically, fees related to residential trade permits and electrification are highlighted in the
section below for the Committee’s consideration.
ANALYSIS
Item No. 3. Page 2 of 3
Jurisdictions require building permits to ensure that construction projects meet safety standards,
adhere to state and local building codes, and protect public health. These permits help prevent
structural failures, fire hazards, and other risks that could endanger occupants and the broader
community. By enforcing proper design, materials, and construction methods, permits ensure
that buildings are safe, durable, and compliant with applicable laws. However, when the
permitting process is overly complex, time-consuming, or costly, it can discourage property
owners and contractors from obtaining the necessary approvals. High permit fees and regulatory
hurdles may lead some to bypass the system entirely, increasing the likelihood of unsafe, non-
compliant construction that puts both individuals and the community at risk. Streamlining the
permitting process and keeping fees reasonable can encourage compliance, ensuring that
buildings are constructed safely and legally.
▪Low Cost Recovery (15% Cost Recovery) – Highest General Fund contribution, lowest
applicant fees.
▪Medium Cost Recovery (50% Cost Recovery) – Balanced cost-sharing between applicants
and the General Fund.
▪High Cost Recovery (85% Cost Recovery) – Applicants cover most costs, minimizing
General Fund impact.
Item No. 3. Page 3 of 3
FISCAL IMPACTS
Based on assumed cost recovery thresholds, staff estimates if all the highlighted permit fees in
Attachment A were subsidized, the development services program would miss its cost recovery
goal by about $90,000 per year.
Given cost increases for certain fee types, the Finance Committee may wish to explore phased
implementation or targeted subsidies to encourage compliance and to advance public policy
goals. If the Finance Committee were interested in pursuing any building permit subsidy staff
would explore other sources such as S/CAP program to help offset costs to the General Fund. It
is important to note that any phasing or subsidy of a fee activity does impact the financial status
of the General Fund as currently the City’s FY 2026 Long Range Financial Forecast assumes the
Development Center remains a cost neutral operation.
:
Jonathan Lait, Planning and Development Services Director
ATTACHMENT A
TABLE 1: Electrification Permits at Various Cost Recovery Levels
* Current fee does not include 2-3% Technology Fee and 5% Reserve amount built into the published fee. Standalone fees may have additional base fee applied.
C F F F
P
C
F
A L
R
P
S
M
R
P
S
H
R
P
S
E E E 1 7 8 1 1 4 8 7 2
E 5 4 5 8 2 2 1 4 4
G 2 5 1 1 2 6 1 1 5
G 2 5 7 1 1 3 9 6 2
E M 1 4 3 5 4 1 2 3 7
M 1 9 1 1 8 5 5 8 1
M 2 5 3 5 8 1 5 3 1
M 7 1 1 1 6 5 3 8 1
S 1 2 1 1 1 6 6 1 1
S 0 3 1 2 7 6 4 1 1
E M 0 7 1 2 4 8 2 1 8
M 0 1 2 3 6 1 3 2 1
M 1 7 3 4 2 1 1 2 4
S 1 3 1 2 1 6 9 1 2
S 5 2 1 2 7 8 4 1 1
E M --2 4 -1 -2 -
S --1 2 -8 -1 -
M H
M
-6 9 1 -4 -7 -
H
M
-6 1 2 -7 -1 -
H
M
-6 1 1 -6 -1 -
H
S
2 6 7 1 1 3 8 6 2
G 8 7 3 5 7 1 4 3 1
ATTACHMENT A
TABLE 2: Minor Residential (Trade) Permits at Various Cost Recovery Levels
* Current fee does not include 2-3% Technology Fee and 5% Reserve amount built into the published fee. Standalone fees may have additional base fee applied.
C F F F
P
C
F
A L
R
P
S
M
R
P
S
H
R
P
S
M G B -3 7 1 -3 -6 -
B -3 9 1 -4 -7 -
B 1 3 5 8 7 2 4 5 1
D -1 7 1 -3 -6 -
D 5 1 4 7 2 2 1 3 3
D -3 7 1 -3 -6 -
D 1 3 7 1 7 3 4 6 1
D 1 9 4 6 3 2 2 3 6
D -9 7 1 -3 -6 -
K -2 7 1 -3 -6 -
K 9 2 7 1 6 3 3 6 1
R 3 3 5 8 1 2 8 4 2
R 1 9 2 4 4 1 2 2 8
R -6 2 3 -1 -1 -
R 1 1 1 2 1 7 9 1 2
M B 2 1 5 8 1 2 8 4 2
F 1 1 6 9 6 3 3 5 1
S -7 4 7 -2 -4 -
V 4 6 4 6 1 2 9 3 2
P P -9 5 7 -2 -4 -
G 1 4 1 1 5 6 3 1 9
PDS Cost of Services Study & Proposed Fee Adjustments
Presenters:
Jonathan Lait, Director
George Hoyt, Chief Building Official
Oscar Murillo , Sr. Mgt. Analyst
Tuesday, March 4, 2025 www.cityofpaloalto.org
1
PURPOSE
•Review the findings of the updated Cost of Services Study
•Discuss proposed municipal fee adjustments for Planning,
Building, Fire Prevention, and Public Works
•Ensure revenues align with the cost of providing services
while considering cost recovery goals and subsidy
implications
•Provide Finance Committee with information to make a
recommendation to City Council
2
CONTEXT – ROLE OF PDS FEES
•Services Covered
▪Building Permits: Compliance with safety codes
▪Planning Applications: Zoning approvals, CUPs, variances
▪Fire Prevention Inspections: Compliance with fire code
▪Public Works Permits: Encroachments, grading, street
improvements
•City Policy
▪Fees should reflect actual costs of service, per the City's
2015 User Fee Cost Recovery Policy
▪Council discretion to subsidize based on policy priorities
3
FEE STUDY TAKEAWAYS
•Conducted by: Matrix Consulting Group
•Last comprehensive study: 2016
•Key findings:
▪Attachment A provides breakdown of current fees, actual
costs, and cost recovery levels.
▪Some fees below full cost recovery, leading to subsidy
considerations
4
FEE STUDY TAKEAWAYS
•Increases align with actual service costs, reflecting
updated time study data and staffing adjustments since the
last fee study, ensuring fairness and cost recovery.
•Decreases to reflect changes to regulatory processes
or streamlining initiatives.
•Building
•Planning
•Fire Prevention
•Public Works
5
FEE STUDY TAKEAWAYS
•Technology Surcharge
•Comprehensive Plan
•DS Reserve Policy
6
CITY'S COST RECOVERY POLICY
Source: 2015 City of Palo Alto User Fee Cost Recovery Policy
7
SUBSIDY CONSIDERATIONS
•Why subsidies matter:
▪Encourage compliance with local/state regulation (lower
fees)
▪Advance/support policy interests (sustainability)
▪Reduces barriers for minor residential work
•Subsidy Level Options (Attachment A – Fee Analysis)
8
ELECTRIFICATION
9
MINOR RESIDENTIAL (TRADE PERMITS)
10
FINANCE COMMITTEE DECISION
The Finance Committee is requested to evaluate and provide
recommendations to the City Council and staff on the
following:
1.Affirm continued subsidy of the planning application
fee for childcare centers;
2.Consider and provide direction on any building permit-
related subsidies to advance public policy interests;
and,
3.Recommend that the City Council amend the Planning
and Development Services municipal fees as part of the
FY26 budget and municipal fee schedule as outlined in
the staff report.
11
NEXT STEPS & IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE
•March 2025: Finance Committee recommendation
•April/May 2025: City Council consideration
•June 2025: Budget adoption, including fee adjustments
•August 2025: New fees take effect, following legal
requirements for a 60-day implementation period after
adoption.