Palm Desert To Overhaul Permitting, Fees For Construction Services

PALM DESERT, CA — Palm Desert has announced a major overhaul of its development-services system in an attempt to modernize the permitting process for construction projects.

Beginning Oct. 27, the city will deploy a new online permitting platform named Clariti and introduce revised user and regulatory fees for construction and development services.

The Clariti online system will allow residents, contractors and developers to submit permit applications, upload plans, track progress and pay fees in one place, the city said.

City officials said the update marks the first comprehensive review of Palm Desert’s development services fees in more than a decade. The adjustments aim to align the cost of services with the expenses required to deliver them and to reduce reliance on general taxpayer funding for private development projects.

"This update ensures the city can continue delivering efficient, high-quality service to residents, businesses, and the development community while maintaining fairness and transparency in how costs are shared,” city staff said in a statement.

The new fee schedule will be phased in over three years to give homeowners, builders and design professionals time to adapt.

Both the fee update and the Clariti system will take effect Oct. 27.

Residents who have questions can contact the city’s Development Services team at 760-776-6430 or email dscinfo@palmdesert.gov.