CDI Announcements

Access a centralized resource page with links and contact information for Santa Cruz County road conditions, infrastructure services, transportation agencies, emergency alerts, evacuation tools, and public safety resources.

Our website now features Major Project Applications, a new section where the public can learn more about major development proposals and other projects of community interest.

You may qualify for up to $300,000 in forgivable homebuyer assistance if you lived in a California area impacted by the 2023 or 2024 floods.

A new Building Code cycle will take effect on January 1, 2026. To ensure your project is reviewed under the current 2022 Code, all complete applications must be submitted by December 5, 2025.

The County of Santa Cruz has released a draft ordinance regulating the siting and development of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) for public review. The proposed ordinance is designed maintain local control over the siting, design and operation of such systems to maximize public safety, enhance environmental protection and assure community compatibility.

We’ve been gathering feedback from counter appointments and permit approval surveys and we’re using your input to keep improving. See the results on UPC Scorecard Metrics.

Learn more about types of Building permits, processing times, and more, so that you can develop a realistic timeline for your project.

The County of Santa Cruz, in partnership with nonprofit Hello Housing, has launched an ADU Incentives Program. The program offers free project management support to participating homeowners through every phase of the development process. Learn more and apply now as spaces are limited.

Now the Building Permit Application Status page has been expanded to increase transparency and includes the "Reviewer's Name" and "Review due date." Access your building permit status information here.  

Environmental Planning Staff and the FireSafe Council of Santa Cruz County are here to help you create defensible space and harden your home in the face of wildfire. Visit Home Ignition  HIZ - Fire Safe Council of Santa Cruz County to discover available resources and take action today.

Read the Santa Cruz County's 2026 Growth Goal Report. Santa Cruz County’s growth management system, established by Measure J in 1978, requires the County to set an annual population growth goal that reflects its fair share of statewide growth. 

Our 2024 Annual Report is out now! Check it out. 

Starting July 1, 2025, the Ben Lomond Transfer Station will continue accepting CRV beverage containers for recycling but will no longer provide CRV payouts due to changes in CalRecycles CRV Program. Learn more on our page.

Learn more about the City of Santa Cruz's Murray Street Bridge Seismic Retrofit and Barrier Rail Project

We're happy to announce that work is progressing at the Children's Crisis Center!

Volunteer or attend public meetings, events, etc to get involved in the conversation!

At a public hearing on March 15, 2024, the California Coastal Commission certified the Sustainability Update Local Coastal Program Amendment. The Sustainability Update is now in effect!

To meet the future needs of County residents and business, the Buena Vista Landfill must undergo a transformation. Learn more about what we are doing.

Tuesday, June 7, 2022 - Santa Cruz County Recycyling and Sold Waste Services

Santa Cruz County completes its 6th Cycle Housing Element and Sustainability Policy, addressing housing shortages and promoting sustainable development to enhance the quality of life in unincorporated areas.