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Development Engineering

The City of Chico Development Engineering Division is responsible for the review and approval of infrastructure improvements associated with the City of Chico’s public right-of-way to support new and existing private development throughout the City. We promote infrastructure that meets the needs of the community while protecting public health and safety by supporting high-quality and safe development through efficient engineering review, clear design expectations, and close coordination with City departments, outside agencies, and applicants. Typical infrastructure improvements are constructed by applicants and will ultimately become City-owned and maintained infrastructure. Our team ensures that subdivision maps, improvement plans, and infrastructure designs are prepared in accordance with the Subdivision Map Act, City standards, City policies, and applicable state regulations. Responsibilities include reviewing private development applications, planning applications, and building permits.

Services & responsibilities

Improvement Plan Review

Site improvements, utility design, street design, lighting, and other elements of infrastructure design

Planning Application Review

Tentative Parcel Maps (TPMs), Tentative Subdivision Maps (TSMs), Lot Line Adjustments, Minor Land Divisions, Use Permits, Planned Development Permits, and other applications

Coordination with the Planning Department to provide conditions of approval, review infrastructure design, and ensure consistency with City standards

Building Permit Review

Single-family, multi-family, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), commercial, signs, pools, etc.

Coordination with the Building Department to ensure consistency with City standards

Engineering Coordination and Document Preparation

Coordination with Planning, Building, Operations and Maintenance, Fire, and other internal departments and outside agencies
Preparation of Subdivision Improvement Agreements (SIAs), Reimbursement Agreements, Avigation Easements, Chico Maintenance District (CMD) documents, and other development-related agreements necessary to support and implement development projects

quick links

Chico Municipal Code

Access local laws and regulations governing development.

Standard Plans & Specifications

Download standard plans and technical specifications.

City Fee Schedule

View current fees for permits and services.

Engineering Calculators

Tools for fee estimates, impact fees, and structural calculations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What improvements require a Development Engineering review?

A: Any private development project and public right-of-way improvements including but not limited to driveways, curb/gutter/sidewalk installation, utilities, roadways, and lighting must be reviewed and approved by Development Engineering.

Q: What are frontage improvements?

A: Frontage improvements refer to public infrastructure that must be constructed or upgraded along the frontage of a developing parcel. These improvements may include curb, gutter, sidewalk, street widening, landscaping, lighting, and utility improvements. Requirements are outlined in Chico Municipal Code Title 18R.

Q: Who do I contact to check the status of my building permit?

A: For questions about the status of a building permit, please contact the City of Chico Building Division at (530) 879-6700. Be sure to have your permit number ready to help staff locate your information quickly.

Q: Who do I contact to check the status of my planning application?

A: For questions about the status of a planning application, please contact the City of Chico Planning Division at (530) 879-6800 or contact your assigned Planner directly. Be sure to have your application number ready to help staff locate your information quickly.

Q: When is a City of Chico Encroachment Permit needed?

A: An Encroachment Permit is required any time work is proposed in the public right-of-way or on City-owned property, including sidewalk replacement, driveway construction, utility connections, and other similar activities. For more information, contact EncroachmentPermit@chicoca.gov or to apply visit the eTrakIt Portal.

Q: Where can I get a Development Impact Fee (DIF) estimate?

A: DIF estimates can be obtained using our online DIF calculator or by contacting the Development Engineering Division directly. Estimates are based on the type and size of your proposed development. Please utilize the online calculator prior to contacting the Development Engineering Division.

Q: How long does the review process take?

A: Initial reviews typically take 3 weeks, depending on the complexity of the project. Resubmittals and minor revisions may be reviewed more quickly.

Q: Can I meet with Engineering before submitting?

A: Applicants can request a pre-application meeting to clarify project requirements. Meetings can be scheduled by contacting our division directly. Questions should be provided in writing prior to meetings to help facility answers during the meeting. It is not uncommon for multiple City Department to need to be contacted to answer questions accurately.