Community Development Workshops

Community Open House: Economic Development Along San Pablo Avenue 
Monday, March 9, 2020 at 6:30 p.m.
City Hall, City Council Chambers: 10890 San Pablo Avenue

The  Community Development staff hosted a presentation, open house and brainstorm session regarding economic development, including:
  • San Pablo Avenue Specific Plan and Approved, and Under Construction New Development
  • San Pablo Avenue Complete Streets Plan and Development Projects
  • Sharing ideas regarding economic development
Please click here to view the event flyer and here to view the presentation slides.


Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) Workshop
Thursday, June 4, 2020 at 6:30 p.m.
City Hall, City Council Chambers: 10890 San Pablo Avenue

ADUs, also known as granny flats or in-law units, are a great way to create additional housing on your existing property. They come in various shapes and forms such as a new standalone structure; an addition to a house; or through the conversion of existing garage, basement or part of a house. On January 1, 2020 there were several changes to State law to encourage new ADUs throughout cities by streamlining and modifying the development process and standards to help address California’s housing shortage. Please join Community Development Department staff to learn more about the current permit process and design and development standards.

Please RSVP to planning@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us or call (510) 215-4362. Sign up here for our E-Newsletter to receive updates on this and more workshops and even

Previous Workshops:


This First 72


This workshop explained how to prepare for and what to do after a major disaster such as a fire or earthquake, focusing on the first 72 hours.



Brace & Bolt Program


A workshop on the state’s “Earthquake Brace + Bolt” program which provides homeowners with up to $3,000 each to strengthen the foundations of their homes and lessen the potential for earthquake damage.



Home Components Workshop
This workshop covered the components of a home in simple and easy to understand terms. Upon explaining home components, attention will be paid to common issues and defects related to water heater strapping, hand rails and water traps, among other items.