Engineering

The City of Madera’s Engineering Department reviews Civil Improvement Plans to ensure new development meets City standards and complies with local regulations. Plans typically cover infrastructure such as streets, sidewalks, drainage systems, and water and sewer improvements.

Applicants should prepare detailed plans following City standards and submit them for review. The department evaluates plans for completeness and compliance, provides feedback if revisions are needed, and issues approvals and permits once requirements are met. Inspections are conducted during and after construction to ensure work is completed according to approved plans.

• Engineering Plan Review Submittal Sheet
• Civil Plan Submittal Checklist
• General Notes
• Flood Damage Prevention Regulations (Adopted 8/19/09)

The City’s 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan outlines all planned projects for the upcoming fiscal year and provides a roadmap for future infrastructure investments. The most current plan is available below:

• FY 2025–2026 Capital Improvement Plan

The Engineering Department provides guidance and support for property owners and developers who need to connect to the City’s water or sewer systems. Our team assists with the application process, reviews connection requirements, and ensures compliance with City standards to help projects move forward smoothly.

For detailed instructions, please refer to the Connecting to City Water and/or Sewer Guidelines.

To support sustainable growth and ensure that new development contributes its fair share to community infrastructure, the City administers a Developer Impact Fee Program. These fees provide essential funding for public capital improvements—including streets, parks, water, sewer, and storm drainage—helping to ensure that the costs of growth are distributed equitably.

For complete details, please see the Developer Impact Fee Program Guidelines.

The City of Madera is committed to ensuring equal opportunity for Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) in all U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)-assisted contracts. Our DBE Program is designed to eliminate barriers, foster fair competition, and promote the inclusion of DBE firms in federally funded projects.

The Engineering Department provides comprehensive support for property owners, developers, and surveyors in processing parcel and subdivision maps. Our goal is to ensure that all maps meet City standards and comply with state and local regulations, facilitating smooth development and land division processes.

Parcel Map Processing

The department assists with the preparation, submission, and review of parcel maps, which divide land into smaller parcels for sale or development. We provide guidance on required documentation, forms, and processing procedures to help applicants navigate the process efficiently.

Subdivision Map Processing

For larger developments, the department manages subdivision map processing, including tentative and final maps. Staff review submissions for compliance with City standards, infrastructure requirements, and legal regulations, ensuring that all subdivisions are properly planned and recorded.

For detailed instructions and required forms, please refer to the following:

• Parcel Map Processing Forms and Instructions
• Subdivision Map Processing Forms and Instructions

The Engineering Department reviews and issues permits for construction and development projects that impact City infrastructure. Permits ensure work meets safety standards, protects public assets, and complies with City regulations.

Common permit types include grading, utility connections, and right-of-way encroachments.

Apply for a permit or access applications on the City’s Applications, Licenses, and Permits page