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Zoning Clearances

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Overview

A Zoning Clearance (ZC) is a staff-level, ministerial review conducted by Santa Cruz County Planning. It certifies that an existing or proposed use or development complies with the County’s Zoning Ordinance and does not require a discretionary permit.

Zoning Clearances also include a review of any terms and conditions from previously approved discretionary permits on the parcel. These reviews are not routed to other agencies.


When Is a Zoning Clearance Is Required?

Zoning Clearances are required for certain uses and small projects. Some are simple and processed free of charge, while others require more staff time and a $199 fee. Additional charges may apply based on hourly rates if extra work is needed. Some projects may also require a building permit, Environmental Health permit, or other County approvals. In some cases, additional actions may be required to comply with County Code.


Free Zoning Clearances

No intake or fee is required. The following uses qualify for a free Zoning Clearance:

  1. Two single-family dwellings on one parcel (Dwelling Group)

  2. Container crops grown on one acre or less

  3. Fuel tanks in the Commercial Agricultural (CA) zone

  4. Greenhouses in Agricultural (A) or CA zones

  5. Signs for nondiscretionary uses in Residential or Agricultural zones

  6. Agricultural water infrastructure, including:

  • Water wells
  • Storage tanks and distribution lines
  • Well covers and small pump houses


Fee-Based Zoning Clearances

Intake and $199 fee are required; additional charges may apply. The following uses require a Zoning Clearance with intake and fee:

  1. Commercial change of use

  2. Hosted Rental

  3. Cannabis enterprise in the Rodeo Gulch overlay area

  4. Community event (no amplified music)

  5. Dining establishment in VA (ancillary), C-1, C-2, or C-T zones

  6. Flood control works for agricultural use (e.g., channel rectification or alteration)

  7. Seasonal sales (e.g., Halloween pumpkins, Christmas trees)

  8. Storage of agricultural equipment and supplies (indoor or outdoor)

  9. Wireless Communication Facilities (WCF) eligible under Section 6409(a), with the following conditions:

  • Not located in the public right-of-way (ROW)
  • May be submitted with a building permit application
  • Paper submittal only (online processing not available)
  • Requires Zoning Counter appointment and plans


How to Apply

To begin your application: 

  1. Click here to access the online Zoning Clearance questionnaire.
  2. Be prepared to provide:

You may schedule an appointment with the Zoning Counter for assistance, either in person or by telephone using the Appointment Scheduler.


What Happens Next

  • Zoning staff will contact you if additional information is needed or if an intake is required.
  • Staff will also help identify any related permits or additional actions needed to comply with County Code requirements for your project.
     
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