Step 2: Design

Applications related to replacing structures damaged or destroyed by the Wildfires will be given priority by Building and Safety. Every effort will be made to review your plans within two to three weeks. If you are interested, the Building and Safety Division has developed standardized plans for the construction of homes that requires minimal plan review time. When possible, applications for these homes will be processed by staff on the same day they are submitted. 

Existing footings, slabs, and foundation systems in fire-destroyed buildings are not typically permitted to be re-used. Homeowners interested in retaining their foundation are advised to discuss this issue early and in detail with the professional engineer who will be designing their replacement structure. For more information about re-using fire damaged foundation systems please see the resources below.  

During the design phase, it is important to determine if you can utilize your existing septic system or if you need to bring onsite wastewater treatment system (OWTS) into compliance with current codes. There are three basic permits for OWTS in Ventura County; construction or repair permits for conventional systems, construction or repair permits for alternative systems, and Certifications of existing systems. The size and design of the OWTS is dependent upon the design and size of the rebuilt home, so it is important to consider the OWTS at the earliest stages of the site layout. Information about Environmental Health Division’s Liquid Waste Program can be found here. 

The development standards that pertain to your property are based on zoning and any applicable overlays. You can find your zoning at the Planning Division’s What’s My Zoning page. Every property is unique, and you may need to speak with  Planning Division staff about the appropriate provisions related to your property.