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1. What is zoning?

Zoning sets forth regulations to preserve, protect and promote the public health, safety, peace, comfort, convenience, prosperity and general welfare of the citizens of Hanford. The zoning ordinance consists of a zoning map designating certain districts and a set of regulations controlling the uses of land; the density of population; the uses and locations of structures; and the height and bulk of structures. It also consists of the open spaces required for structures; the appearance of certain uses and structures; the areas and dimensions of sites; the location, size and illumination of signs; and number of design off-street parking and off-street loading facilities.

2. What is a Conditional Use?

A Conditional Use is a use that is not principally permitted in a particular zoning district. Conditional Uses require a Planning Commission hearing, in order to determine if the proposed use is necessary and desirable to the neighborhood, whether it may potentially have a negative impact on the surrounding neighborhood, and whether the use complies with the General Plan. During this public hearing, the Planning Commission will "condition" the use by applying operational conditions that may mitigate neighborhood concerns, as well as apply conditions that may be required by the Community Development Department and the zoning code. Conditional Use Permits are entitlements that run with the property, not the operator.

A conditional use permit is required if the use is represented by a “C” in the Land Use Table.

To apply for a conditional use permit, please submit via the Citizen Self Service Portal.

3. What is site plan review?

A site plan review is a process that enables the community development department to determine whether a proposed development is in conformity with the intent and provisions of this chapter and to guide the building official in the issuance of building permits. More specifically, site plan review is necessary to ensure that all improvements, including without limitation structures, parking areas, walks, refuse containers, landscaping and street improvements are properly located or adjacent to their sites and to surrounding sites and structures; to prevent excessive grading of the land and the creation of drainage hazards; to prevent the indiscriminate clearing of property and the destruction of trees and shrubs of ornamental value; to avoid unsightly, inharmonious, monotonous and hazardous site development; and to encourage originality in site design and development in a manner which will enhance the physical appearance and attractiveness of the community.

To apply for a site plan review, please submit via the Citizen Self Service Portal.

4. What is a variance?

The zoning code regulates the use of property, including the size, design, and siting of buildings that may be constructed on a piece of property. The zoning code has standards for sites that govern such features as rear yards, front setbacks, usable open space, height, and parking. A variance is a request for an exception to a Planning Code standard. Variances may be granted by the Planning Commission when various findings can be made, affirming that there are special circumstances applicable to the site, such that strict adherence to the municipal code is not feasible.

The required variance findings can be found here.

To apply for a variance, please submit via the Citizen Self Service Portal.

5. What do I need to build an ADU (Additional Dwelling Unit)?

Accessory Dwelling Units are permitted by State Law. Find out more here.

An accessory dwelling unit requires an Administrative Approval and Site Plan Review Application (both of which are ministerial). To apply for a site plan review and administrative approval, please submit via the Citizen Self Service Portal.