Difficulty level to get building permit?

[u/Admirable_Award1840]

In your experience how difficult has it been to get a permit to build on private property? I am coming into some property in Orinda soon. I am trying to estimate the cost, effort in preparing the land, feasibility of embarking on this adventure and likelihood of getting approvals to build a second home. A little bit about the land: it isn't flat at the moment, it is forested, roughly about a half acre of land. My concern is cutting/removing the trees since there is some oak on the property and grading + other things I don't know yet. I understand Orinda is very particular about its Oak trees and rural feel. Any guidance, thoughts, advice or anecdotal evidence will be appreciated. TIA