Zoning Verification Letters
What is a Zoning Verification Letter?
A Zoning Verification Letter is a formal written response to a request regarding the current zoning and land use designation of a specific property, including, but not limited to, information on variances, use permits, ordinances and conditions, and zoning violations. Please be advised that a Zoning Verification Letter will not include information related to building permits or Certificates of Occupancy. This information can be obtained from the Ventura County Building and Safety Division at Building@ventura.org or by phone at (805) 654-2771.
Zoning Verification Letters help developers, lenders, insurance companies, and real estate professionals perform their due diligence by providing an official record of the current zoning for a specific property and determine if an existing land use conforms to the current zoning regulations.
How do I apply for a Zoning Verification Letter?
To apply for a Zoning Verification Letter, the following is required:
- Complete the Zoning Verification Letter Application
- Fee – (under “General Research and Report Preparation” in the Planning Division Fee Schedule).
- Mail your Zoning Verification Letter Application, required documents, and payment to:
County of Ventura
RMA, Planning Division, L#1740
Attn: Rebuild Letter Request
800 S. Victoria Avenue, Ventura, CA 93009 - Or, you may submit the Zoning Verification Application and required documents to: Plan.Counter@ventura.org, with the subject line “Zoning Verification Request”. Upon receipt of the application, Planning staff will contact the applicant to accept payment electronically via Citizen Access.
How long does it take to process a Zoning Verification Letter?
Depending on the complexity of the research, the County’s typical time frame for a Zoning Verification Letter is 30 business days
Can I get a copy of a Planning permit or the conditions of approval?
Be sure to indicate what you need in your written request letter. Only upon request will Planning staff include a copy of any active Planning permits with conditions of approval in the Zoning Verification Letter.
Can a Zoning Verification Letter identify easements or property ownership?
The Planning Division is not able to verify easements or the current property owner through a Zoning Verification Letter. This information may be obtained from the following:
- County of Ventura Assessor’s Office – current property ownership may be obtained from the County of Ventura Assessor’s Office at: https://assessor.countyofventura.org/ or by phone at (805) 654-2181.
- Title Company – A title search obtained through a title company can best provide you with the most detailed information regarding property rights and easements.
What if I just want to find out my zoning for a property?
If you wish just to find out the zoning for a property, you do not need to request a formal Zoning Verification letter. To find out the zoning of a property, you can:
- Search “What’s My Zoning?”
- Contact the Planning Counter Staff at: Plan.Counter@ventura.org or by phone: (805) 654-2045, or come to the office at: County of Ventura, Government Center, Third Floor, 800 S. Victoria Avenue, Ventura, Ca 93009
