Planning Division

The Planning Division is responsible for the implementation of the General Plan and Local Coastal Plan (Plan Morro Bay), which involves periodic updates, revisions and amendments. Plan Morro Bay is also actualized in other planning documents such as the Zoning Code, Downtown Waterfront Strategic Plan, and Waterfront Master Plan. The management of the Plans and Codes is known as long-range planning and the application of the Plans and Codes is known as current planning. Some common current planning activities include:

  • Site plan review
  • Subdivision review
  • Zone changes and modifications
  • General Plan and Local Coastal Plan amendments
  • Conditional Use Permits
  • Minor Use Permits
  • Coastal Development Permits
  • Temporary Use Permits

Click here Version OptionsCommunity DevelopmentHeadline to view our team's latest updates!

Do you need a Planning Permit? 

Residents in Morro Bay may need a Planning Permit for the following activities:

  • New residential single-family or multi-family home
  • New Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) or Junior ADU 
  • Demolition of any structure

Businesses may need a Planning Permit for the following activities: 

  • New commercial development
  • Remodel of commercial development
  • New tenant operation in existing commercial building
  • Demolition of any structure
  • Sidewalk vending (e.g. stationary plant stand or roaming ice cream cart)

Nonpermanent vendors (e.g. food trucks) operating on private property are not required to obtain a Planning permit. Additional regulations however still apply. Click here for more information pertaining to prospective nonpermanent vendors. 

Please note this is not an exhaustive list of Planning permits that may be required. Please call the Planning Division at 805-772-6577 or email Lee Ackerman at lackerman@morrobayca.gov if you think a Planning Permit is needed for your development or activity but are unsure of next steps. You are also welcome to visit us in the Public Services Building at 955 Shasta Avenue. We are open to the public Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Friday from 8:00AM to 12:00 PM.

Ready to submit a Planning application? 

Click here to view the list of Planning applications and forms. 

More about the Planning Division

The Planning Division is staffed by three Planners, one Administrative Technician and one Planning Intern. This office also coordinates closely with the Engineering Division of the Public Works Department. A list of key current projects is provided here. A list of all current projects may be found by reviewing Item A-1 on the latest Planning Commission meeting agenda.

The Planning Commission is appointed by the City Council, and responsible for considering changes to the governing documents as well as making determinations regarding potential development activities. In come cases, the Planning Commission is charged with making decisions with regard to development, and in other cases, they are tasked with making recommendations to the City Council for decision-making. The Planning Division conducts a wide range of services in support of the City council, Planning Commission, City Staff, and the public. 

All properties within the City of Morro Bay are subject to the General Plan and Local Coastal Plan (Plan Morro Bay), and Zoning Code. Depending on location or use, properties may also be subject to additional regulatory documents. Click here to view all planning documents and maps.

Last updated: September 4, 2024