The Community Development Department ensures that community values, environmental standards and safety are reflected in the physical environment.  The Department consists of four divisions:

The Development Services Division is responsible for providing support to the community by interpreting and implementing the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance as adopted by the City Council. This consists of processing applications for land development including environmental assessment, landscaping review and sign requests.

The Planning and Redevelopment Division is responsible for annexations, advance planning, the City’s General Plan, inter-agency and regional planning; environmental programs related to climate change, energy, sustainability and green building; and redevelopment of the Orange County Great Park.

The Housing Division is responsible for implementing the City’s Housing Strategy and Implementation Plan inclding the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance.  The Division also administers the affordable housing program, Housing Set Aside funds for the Irvine Redevelopment Agency, and the Community Develoment Block Grant and HOME Program. 

The Building and Safety Division administers and enforces all building codes and ordinances adopted by the City. This includes field inspections, plan checking and permit issuance for new construction. The Building and Safety division also includes the City's Code Enforcement, and Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping programs.

The Department operates a permit processing center designed to expedite the permit approval process while ensuring a high degree of review of incoming projects.

Our Mission Statement
Our goal is to ensure that community values are reflected in the physical environment. The department focuses on planning and implementing standards that maintain the City's high quality of life as the City continues to develop and mature. The City encourages a balance of inviting and safe residential communities, vibrant commercial centers, and varied manufacturing and employment opportunities.

To contact the Community Development Department or any divisions within the department: