Community Development

The Community Development Department (department org chart(PDF, 251KB) PDF) provides a wide range of programs and services focused on planning, building and safety, engineering services, code enforcement, affordable housing, neighborhood improvement, and historic preservation. Together, these efforts help create and maintain safe, sustainable, and livable neighborhoods throughout the community.

Divisions

Building and Safety

The Building and Safety Division helps keep construction projects safe and compliant with building codes. Find information on permits, inspections, plan review, online services, and the Torrance Online Citizen Portal to track permit status.

Engineering Services Division

The Engineering Division helps support safe and efficient development throughout the City by reviewing public and private improvement projects. Find information on permits, maps, engineering standards, contractor requirements, and utility plan requests to help projects meet City requirements.

Neighborhood Services Division

The Neighborhood Services Division is responsible for providing a variety of services to the community and is comprised of three main programs: Code Enforcement, Environmental, and Section 8 assistance.

Planning Division

The Planning Division helps guide growth and development to support well-planned, livable neighborhoods and communities. Find information on the General Plan, Housing Element, planning projects, commissions, and development standards outlined in the Torrance Municipal Code.

Major Projects

News

Phishing Scams

Fake Permit Fee Notices

Published on May 01, 2026

The City of Torrance is warning property owners and developers to be alert for a scam in which criminals impersonate city staff to request fraudulent payments of permit fees.

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Fake Entitlement Application Fee Notices

Published on May 01, 2026

The City of Torrance is warning property owners and developers to be alert for a scam involving fake notices requesting payment of "application approval fees" for rezoings, special use permits, and other land development requests.

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Apply for a Permit and More

Learn about how our Citizen Access Portal can provide quick access to permits and other services.

Online Permit Portal

Department Head

Michelle G. Ramirez

A Message From the Director

The Community Development Department offers multiple services through its four divisions: Building & Safety, Engineering, Neighborhood Services, and Planning.
Our team is focused on delivering a top-quality customer experience to the community through innovation and responsiveness, with integrity, flexibility, and professionalism. We look forward to serving you!

Contact Us

Phone

(310) 618-2550

Fax

(310) 618-5829

Email

CDDInfo@TorranceCA.Gov

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday
- 07:30 AM–05:30 PM
Tuesday
- 07:30 AM–05:30 PM
Wednesday
- 07:30 AM–05:30 PM
Thursday
- 07:30 AM–05:30 PM
Friday
- 07:30 AM–05:30 PM
Saturday Closed

Permit Center
Counter Hours
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Wednesday:
Walk-In Counter Hours for
Building & Safety Division
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Closed: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

The City of Torrance is closed every other Friday.