Use our online permitting system to submit applications, upload plans and supporting documents, pay fees, and track application status from anywhere. The system helps property owners, applicants, architects, and developers manage Planning reviews more efficiently while reducing the need for in person visits.
Effective August 10, 2026, all Development Application and Administrative Permit submittals must be submitted electronically. Paper plans and physical submittals are no longer accepted.
For Home Occupation, Landscape Plan Review, View Equity and Wireless Facility Applications please continue to submit in person. For any questions, please reach a Planner at (310) 618-5990 or via email at CDDinfo@TorranceCA.Gov.
Protect Yourself from Scams!
The Planning Division does not request wire transfers nor payments prior to a project being reviewed by the City Planning Commission or City Council.
Returning Applicants and Resubmittals
Do not create a new record for an existing application. Sign in to the Citizen Access Portal, open the existing Planning record, and upload revised plans, response letters, and other requested documents.
For submittal checklists and guides, please visit our Planning Applications & Forms
Which Planning Record Should I Use?
Planning staff will identify the appropriate record type during the Planning Application Clearance process, which is the required first step before applying for wither an Administrative Review or Discretionary Review.
Planning Application Clearance (Required)
Use for initial Planning review when preparing a new application or confirming the required Planning process. A cleared Planning Application Clearance is required before submission of an Administrative or Discretionary Review.
Common uses:
•Project screening and clearance
•Application requirements
•Required entitlement identification
•Submittal guidance
This is not an entitlement application.
Administrative Review
Use when Planning staff identifies your application as an administrative action reviewed by the Community Development Director or Planning staff.
Common Applications:
•Administrative Actions
•Event Permits
•Fence Height Exception
•Minor Development Permit
•Minor Hillside Exemption
•Short Term Rentals
Discretionary Review
Use for applications requiring discretionary review or action by the Planning Commission, or City Council.
Multiple entitlements associated with the same project should be submitted under one Discretionary Review record. Environmental review should also be included when applicable.
Common Applications:
•Conditional Use Permit
•Development Permit
•Division of Lot
•Historic Preservation Commission
•Modification
•Planning Commission Review
•Precise Plan
•Waiver
•Variance