Block Party Permits are obtained from the Planning Department.
The following information pertains to permits obtained from the Public Works Department.
Permits are required for various activities within the City. To view instructions and downloadable forms click on the permit name below:
Any construction or demolition occurring in the City of Palm Desert that involves work within the public right-of-way requires an encroachment permit, issued by the Public Works Department, prior to beginning the work. Encroachment permits vary in type and cost based on the kind and amount of work that will take place in the public right-of-way. Please see the complete Encroachment Permit Forms, Fees, and Information file for more details, or contact the Public Works Department for assistance. Please allow 48 hours for approval of your application for an encroachment permit.
Construction of a fence, wall, or retaining wall requires a building permit and may require an encroachment permit. The City of Palm Desert zoning ordinances regulate height and set-back for all structures. For information concerning fence, wall, and retaining wall construction requirements please contact the Building and Safety Department and the Public Works Department.
A Grading Permit is required before performing any land alteration (some exceptions exist and are described in Chapter 27.20 of the Palm Desert Muncipal Code). Property owners and contractors are urged to contact the Public Works Department while in the planning stage of projects requiring land alteration. The Grading Permit Application may be downloaded here or obtained from the Public Works Department.
A no-charge Pool Drain Permit is required prior to draining a swimming pool, hot tub, or similar body of water. The permit allows the City to coordinate drainage activities with construction projects and traffic flows. The Pool Drain Permit Application form may be downloaded here or obtained from the Public Works Department . Please allow 24 hours for approval of your application.
A Wide Load Permit must be obtained for any "oversized" vehicle exceeding the legal limits for weight and/or dimension, as defined by the California Vehicle Code (CVC 35783). The City of Palm Desert permit allows the movement of only the vehicle/load described in the approved permit, and only within its city boundaries. If the vehicle/load travels within another city, a permit from that city must also be obtained. If the vehicle/load moves onto a State highway, a permit from the California DOT is also required. The Wide Load Permit Application form may be downloaded here or obtained from the Public Works Department. Please allow 24 hours for approval of your application. There is no fee for this permit.
Did you know?
The City will not allow any patches in new asphalt or concrete surfaces for a period of three years from the date of installation, unless approved by the Director of Public Works. (Ord. 515 § 1(A), 1987)