Development Services counter service is now open to the public during the following business hours: 

Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 7:30 am - 11:30 am

Tuesday and Thursday: 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Commercial and residential development project permit applications and inspection requests can be submitted online and all staff members are available by phone or email.

The Development Services Department ensures the built environment is consistent with the General Plan, design guidelines, Area Plan policies, guiding principles, Federal, State and Local environmental regulations, City Municipal Code, State Building Code and the surrounding environment. The department is committed to guiding principles that promote quality, clarity and consistency in the processing and approval of all permits, development applications, and in the delivery of all services.  

The Development Services Department includes the following service areas: 

^{Building Permits and Inspections}

The Building Division seeks to ensure the safety of structures for the public within the City by providing Building Code interpretation, Plan Check service, Building Permit issuance and inspection services, for compliance with California Building Code, TRPA regulations and City of South Lake Tahoe Ordinances for all construction activities

^{Planning, Land Use and Zoning}

The Planning Division seeks to ensure the quality of the built environmental by providing services to the general public, project applicants, and other City Departments for all planning related issues. The Division maintains the City General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, Airport Land Use Plan, City Design Standards, Plan Area Statements, Area Plans, Design Guidelines, and Vacation or Hosted Rental regulations. The Division also provides research and consultation services to the community and conducts project or permit application review to ensure that development activities in the City are consistent with City, State, TRPA, and Federal laws or policies.

^{Housing Inspections and Programs}

The Housing Division seeks to ensure adequate housing stock for residents of the City by providing programs and assistance for the development and maintenance of affordable housing within the City. The Division maintains the Housing Hotline, Multi-Family Dwelling Inspection Program, Single Room Occupancy Program, administration of Homebuyer Assistance and Rehabilitation loans, and provides opportunities for affordable housing development partnerships.