FAQs

What is the difference between ministerial permits and discretionary permits?

A ministerial permit is a permit that is granted upon determination that a proposed project complies with established standards set forth in the zoning ordinance and/or other applicable policy documents. These determinations are arrived at through reference to objective standards, involve little or no personal judgment, and are issued by the City Planner or his/her designee (e.g. home occupation permit, building permit review/issuance). A discretionary permit is a permit granted following the exercise of judgment and deliberation. Most discretionary permit applications require an analysis by the Planning Division and various City departments followed by public hearing at which a final decision is made. A decision to approve or deny a permit application is based on the findings of fact contained in the City of Oceanside zoning ordinances, subdivision ordinance or Municipal Code. Discretionary permit types