VENTURA, Calif. — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors, on Tuesday, March 24, received an update from County agencies on a series of measures to improve customer service, modernize policies, and streamline the County’s permitting process. The goal of the improvements is to make it easier for residents and businesses to complete building projects while reducing delays and confusion. The report to the Board reflects an ongoing commitment to improving how the County delivers services that directly affect daily life.
Broadly, the County’s permitting process involves several agencies including the Resource Management Agency, Public Works Agency, Ventura County Fire Department, and the County Executive Office. Each agency plays an important role in reviewing projects, ensuring safety standards and helping applicants move through the process. Over the years, applicants have consistently shared that the process can feel complex, slow, and difficult to navigate, especially when working across multiple departments.
“Behind every permit is a family, a small business, or an investment in our community,” said Chair of the Board of Supervisors Jeff Gorell. “Our goal is simple: to make county government more customer service–focused, more predictable, and more responsive. These improvements reflect a countywide commitment to streamline how we work, improve coordination across departments, and deliver a more efficient and transparent experience for the community members we serve – while strengthening Ventura County’s economy.”
Recent progress reported by agencies included an approved two-year extension for certain Conditional Use Permits (CUPs) and a long-term work plan to guide improvements through 2029. These actions build on earlier direction to modernize planning and zoning rules and improve the overall permitting experience for residents. Together, they represent a coordinated effort to create a more efficient and predictable system for applicants.
In response to community feedback, County agencies have taken a unified approach to improve how they work together and serve the public. Recent improvements include a single application for construction-related permits, expanded online services, and stronger coordination across agencies. Additionally, agencies are identifying potential issues earlier in the review process, helping applicants avoid delays and improving the process to move forward with permits with greater certainty.
“As a County, we are focused on delivering a better experience for every resident who needs a permit,” said County Executive Officer Dr. Sevet Johnson. “We are simplifying the process, improving communication, and making sure people can get clear answers quickly. This work is about meeting residents where they are and providing the support they need from start to finish.”
A key part of the effort is the expanded Permit Navigator program, which provides a single point of contact for complex projects and helps guide applicants through each step. Additional customer service improvements include pre-application meetings, live office hours, and clearer application materials to help applicants better understand requirements. These changes are designed to make the process more approachable, especially for first-time applicants.
Upgrades in technology are also being made to improve the permit application and tracking experience. New tools allow applicants to apply online, track permit status in real time, and access multiple services through a single system. These updates are helping connect departments behind the scenes while giving applicants clearer, faster access to information.
In addition to hearing about improvements to the application process, the Board of Supervisors also approved extending CUP expiration dates for permits set to expire between 2026 and fiscal year 2027-28. This gives current permit holders more time to benefit from upcoming zoning updates and reduces the need for immediate renewals. The County will also refund fees for certain CUP extension applications submitted in 2025 and early 2026, recognizing that changes to the system are already underway.
County officials said the reforms will continue in phases, with a focus on simplifying rules, improving coordination, and investing in tools that better connect residents to services. The Board of Supervisors will continue to receive updates as the work progresses, and additional improvements are implemented. These efforts are intended to create a permitting system that is easier to navigate, more responsive and better aligned with community needs.