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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Assessor's Parcel Number (APN)?

An Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN) is a 12-digit number that is found on your tax bill or tax receipt. Each parcel of land has its own unique number that identifies the property’s location within the County. If you have a physical address, we can obtain your parcel number for you or you can access it on-line using the GIS/Zoning Map feature of the City’s website.

What is the zoning of my property?

You may obtain zoning information for specific parcels by using the interactive GIS/Zoning Map feature of the City’s website or you may contact Planning Services at (530) 879-6800. Either a physical address or an Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN) is needed to look up the zoning information. You may also submit a zoning information request on-line at: zoning@ci.chico.ca.us

What land uses are allowed on my property?

Allowable land uses are based on the property’s zoning district and can be found in the Chico Municipal Code (CMC), Title 19, Land Use and Development Regulations. A matrix is provided that lists uses allowed by right, uses requiring a Use Permit, and those uses that are prohibited. Using the "Bookmarks" feature of the document, locate the appropriate table for the zone and/or property in question, based on the guide below. If you do not know the property’s zoning district, click here: What is the zoning of my property?

Title 19 Chapter & Table Based on Zoning
  • 19.42, Table 4-2 (RR,RS,R1,R2,R3,R4,RD)
  • 19.44, Table 4-6 (OR,OC,CN,CC,CD,CS)
  • 19.46, Table 4-8 (ML, MG, MP)

What are my building setbacks?

Building setbacks vary depending on the zoning designation of the property and can be found in the Development Standards section of Title 19 of the Chico Municipal Code (CMC). Using the "Bookmarks" feature of the document, locate the appropriate table for the zone and/or property in questions, based on the guide below. If you do not know the property’s zoning district, click here: What is the zoning of my property?

Title 19 Chapter & Table Based on Zoning
  • 19.42, Table 4-3A (RR,RS)
  • 19.42, Table 4-3B (R1,R2)
  • 19.42, Table 4-3C (R3,R4,RD)
  • 19.44, Table 4-7 (OR,OC,CN,CC,CD,CS)
  • 19.46, Table 4-9 (ML,MG,MP)

Can my property be rezoned?

The current zoning and General Plan designations of a property both play a role in determining possible development and rezoning options. Contact Planning Services at (530) 879-6800 to obtain zoning and General Plan designations for the property in question and discuss possible rezoning options with Planning staff.

Can I convert my garage into another bedroom or office?

All single-family residential units must provide two off-street parking spaces. In order to convert garage space into a bedroom or office, an applicant must demonstrate the ability to meet the requirement of two off-street parking spaces without the garage. Contact Planning Services staff at (530) 879-6800 for more information.

Can I build a second dwelling unit on my property?

Property owners in the R1 (Low Density Residential) and R2 (Medium Density Residential) zoning districts may apply for a Second Dwelling Unit Permit. Second Units, also referred to as "Granny" or "Accessory" Units, are limited in size based on the square footage of the existing structure. Second dwelling units must also meet the requirements of Title 19 of the Chico Municipal Code; see Chapter 19.76.130. In addition, the City’s Building and Development Services Department should be contacted at (530) 879-6700 for information regarding building and impact fees associated with a second dwelling unit. For further assistance, contact Planning Services at (530) 879-6800.

What is the difference between a second dwelling unit and a guest house?

There are quite a few differences between a second dwelling unit and a guest house. A second dwelling unit (see Title 19 of the Chico Municipal Code, Chapter 19.76.130), unlike a guest house, is rentable, has its own utility meters and contains full kitchen and bath facilities. Guest houses (see Chapter 19.76.100) are limited to a maximum of 250 square feet of livable floor area, do not contain kitchen or cooking facilities, and may not be rented or leased separately from the main dwelling. For further assistance, contact Planning Services at (530) 879-6800.

Can I subdivide my property?

Depending on the property’s General Plan designation (which determines allowable density, or the number of units per acre) and zoning (which regulates minimum lot size), it may be possible to subdivide your property. If you do not know the property’s zoning district, click here: What is the zoning of my property? For further assistance, contact Planning Services at (530) 879-6800

Do I need a permit for a home-based business?

The Chico Municipal Code (CMC), Title 19, Chapter 19.20, addresses the matter of permits for home occupations. The purpose is to allow limited business activities in a manner that is accessory to and compatible with the residential characteristics of the surrounding neighborhood. If required, a Home Occupation Permit application must be filed with the Planning Services Department and the applicant must comply with standards set forth in CMC Chapter 19.20.06. In addition, a Business License must be obtained from the City’s Finance Department. For more information regarding a Business License, contact the City’s Finance Department at (530) 879-7300. For further assistance, contact Planning Services at (530) 879-6800.

May I put a fence in my front yard?

Fences are generally allowed in front yards, but there are height restrictions. In most cases, a six-foot fence must be set back fifteen (15) feet from the property line. A three-foot fence may generally be built at the front property line and along the side yard(s) until it is set back fifteen (15) feet, after which point it is permitted to go to a height of six feet. Corner lots need to have a sight distance clearance and other restrictions. Fences and walls in excess of six feet require a Use Permit application as well as a building permit. Fencing and screening standards are addressed in Chico Municipal Code (CMC), Title 19, Chapter 19.60.06. For further assistance, contact Planning Services at (530) 879-6800.

How do I determine the location of my property line?

The City’s Development Engineering division may have a subdivision map showing the approximate location of your property lines. You may need to check the legal description of the property (check the Preliminary Title Report, if one is available) or hire a surveyor to determine the precise location. Fence lines are not necessarily property lines. For further assistance, contact Planning Services at (530) 879-6800 or Development Engineering staff at (530) 879-6900.