General Plan and Development Code Interpretation–Planning

This application is required when an individual requests a written interpretation of either the General Plan or the County Development Code.  You can access current Development Code at https://lus.sbcounty.gov/planning-home/development-code/. You can access the County's General Plan at https://lus.sbcounty.gov/planning-home/general-plan/

A General Plan and Development Code Interpretation asks the Planning Department to make a preliminary determination as to whether or not a particular use/project on a specified lot/parcel is consistent with the goals and policies of the County as specified in the General Plan and the land use regulations as specified in the Development Code. This action also interprets the intent of the General Plan and the Development Code regarding land uses that are not specified in the Alpha List.  This preliminary screening process is offered by the Planning Department to aid clients in the initial stages of planning a project or use. This process is not a detailed analysis of every General Plan goal or policy or Development Code Regulation that might affect the potential planning of the project/use. The determination by Planning staff will state whether or not an amendment to the General Plan or to the Development Code is required. This determination may be appealed to the Planning Commission by filing the appropriate form and fee. Forms may be obtained from the Public Service Counter.

Can I apply online? Yes, applications can be found in the EZ Online Permitting Portal