Mission Statement

Together, with our diverse community, the department is committed to enhancing the present and future quality of life by:  ensuring an attractive, safe and environmentally-conscious community; constructing public infrastructure; promoting active citizen participation in community affairs; exercising stewardship through technical excellence, innovation and fiscal responsibility; creating a positive climate for residents, business community, and working partners.  

About us

The City of Visalia's Community Development Department, managed and directed by the Community Development Director, is a department that provides for various functions of development, as well as serving as a liaison to many community boards such as Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Visalians, High Speed Rail, Visalia Planning Commission and City Council. The Department is committed to providing excellent customer service to the development community by providing "one-stop shopping" counter services to fast-track the permitting process whenever possible.

The department consists of the following services: Business Tax; Site Plan Review; Planning; Environmental Review; Building Safety; Geographic Information Systems (GIS); Engineering Development and Neighborhood Preservation.

The information and links on the following pages are meant to assist you in accomplishing your business as quickly and easily as possible. If you are not able to find what you need here or would like to make suggestions on how we can better serve you, we encourage you to contact us directly at 559-713-4444 or send an e-mail to paul.bernal@visalia.city.