Frequently Asked Questions

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 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. The site plan review process is intended to provide for the expeditious review of environmental impact assessments required by official policy of the city and the state.

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 buildings 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.

Review the City Contacts and Useful Information section on this website.