City of Buena Park

Building in the City of Buena Park
Located in northwestern Orange County, the City of Buena Park offers exceptional opportunities for developers and investors pursuing residential, commercial, mixed-use, and industrial projects. As one of the region’s most accessible and business-friendly communities, Buena Park combines a robust local economy with a welcoming atmosphere and high quality of life. Known for its entertainment destinations, diverse economy, and strategic location, Buena Park provides an ideal environment for growth, innovation, and sustainable urban development.

Home to world-renowned attractions such as Knott’s Berry Farm, Medieval Times, and The Source OC, Buena Park has evolved into a dynamic regional hub for tourism, retail, and business investment. Its central location along major transportation corridors—including Interstate 5, State Route 91, and State Route 39 (Beach Boulevard)—offers direct access to Los Angeles, Anaheim, and the greater Southern California marketplace. This connectivity, coupled with Buena Park’s ongoing infrastructure improvements and redevelopment initiatives, makes the city a prime destination for commercial and mixed-use projects that contribute to long-term economic vitality.

The City of Buena Park is committed to smart growth, high-quality design, and sustainable development that enhances both function and community character. With its blend of established neighborhoods, new housing opportunities, and modern commercial centers, Buena Park continues to strengthen its reputation as a forward-looking and balanced community.For anyone planning a construction or development project in Buena Park, the first point of contact should be the Community Development Department. This department administers the City’s General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and project review and permitting processes to ensure that all proposed developments align with Buena Park’s planning goals and design standards. Through its collaborative approach and commitment to service, the City supports responsible development that advances Buena Park’s vision for a vibrant, sustainable, and economically strong future.

Building and Development Process in the City of Buena Park, CA
1. Initial Project Planning
Before beginning any construction or development project in Buena Park, it is essential to define your project’s vision, scope, and feasibility—whether residential, commercial, industrial, or mixed-use. Start by reviewing the property’s zoning designation, General Plan land use, and development standards to ensure your proposal aligns with the City’s regulations and long-term vision. Evaluate important factors such as site access, topography, utilities, and any environmental constraints that may affect development. Establish your project’s timeline and budget early, keeping in mind Buena Park’s commitment to high-quality design, sustainability, and smart growth.

‍2. Pre-Application Consultation / Development Review
The City of Buena Park strongly encourages applicants to begin the process with a Pre-Application Meeting through the Community Development Department. During this consultation, staff from the Planning, Building, and Public Works Divisions review your conceptual plans and provide coordinated feedback on zoning compliance, necessary permits, and potential conditions of approval. This early review helps identify whether your project will require discretionary approvals, such as a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), Site Plan Review, or Environmental Assessment under CEQA. The typical review time for pre-application feedback is approximately 3–4 weeks, depending on the complexity of the proposal.

‍3. Submit Development / Building Permit Application
After receiving pre-application feedback, submit a complete development or building permit application to the Building & Safety Division. The submittal must include all required forms, detailed project plans, a written project description, and all applicable fees. Typical application materials include a site plan, floor plans, elevations, and documentation verifying zoning compliance. Building permits are required for new construction, additions, remodels, tenant improvements, and most structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work within the City.

‍4. Plan Check / Design and Code Review
Once submitted, the Building & Safety Division conducts a comprehensive plan check to ensure compliance with the latest editions of the California Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Energy, and Green Building Codes, as adopted by the City of Buena Park. Concurrently, the Planning Division verifies that the project meets applicable zoning, design, and environmental standards. Larger or more complex projects may require review and approval by the Planning Commission or City Council. Any conditions identified during the pre-application process must be addressed before final approval.

‍5. Obtain Permits and Coordinate Infrastructure / Utilities
Once plans are approved and all required fees are paid, the City issues the necessary building and development permits. At this stage, applicants must coordinate with utility providers for water, sewer, storm drain, and electrical connections. Projects involving public infrastructure or improvements within the public right-of-way must coordinate with the Public Works Department to ensure compliance with Buena Park’s engineering standards, construction specifications, and permit requirements.

‍6. Construction and Inspections
Construction work must be performed by licensed contractors in accordance with approved plans and all applicable codes. The Building & Safety Division conducts inspections at key stages of construction—such as foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and final inspection—to ensure compliance with City and State requirements. The approved plans and inspection card must remain visible on-site at all times. Regular communication with inspectors helps prevent delays and ensures that the project proceeds smoothly.

‍7. Final Inspection and Certificate of Occupancy
Upon completion of construction, request a final inspection from the Building Division. After all inspections are passed and any outstanding conditions are fulfilled, the City will issue a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or equivalent final clearance. This certificate verifies that the building meets all health, safety, and building code standards and is approved for its intended use.

‍8. Project Closeout
After receiving the Certificate of Occupancy, ensure all outstanding fees are paid, final documents are recorded (such as deeds or easements), and all required site or landscape improvements are completed in accordance with the approved plans. Once these conditions are met, the project file is formally closed by the City, marking the successful completion of the development process.

‍9. Long-Term Compliance and Future Modifications
After project completion, property owners are responsible for maintaining compliance with all City regulations. The Code Enforcement Division monitors ongoing adherence to Buena Park’s building, zoning, and property maintenance standards. Any future changes—such as additions, remodels, or changes in land use—must be reviewed and approved through the Planning and Building & Safety Divisions to ensure continued consistency with Buena Park’s codes, community standards, and long-term planning objectives.
‍‍‍