A. Mandated by State Law, a General Plan is an official public document that comprehensively plans for the physical development of a County of City. The document consisting of texts and maps adopted by the local government through a public hearing process and provides policies for decision makers that must be considered when evaluating development proposals. In broad terms, it indicates in a general way how the community shall develop.

Q. What is zoning?

A. Zoning is the basic means of land use regulations. Zoning and development regulations are contained in the Butte County Zoning Ordinance. The Zoning Ordinances establishes uses and standards which ensure that land is used in a manner which bests serves the health and safety of the entire community. Specific zoning districts separate land uses which might be incompatible with each other. It does this by directing industrial, commercial, residential, and other land uses to specified lands where similar uses will be located. The Zoning Ordinance also regulates the intensity of such uses, the location of structures on the property lines, and other development requirements such as parking or building height. Zoning also provides the legal and enforceable land use regulations required to carry out the policies set forth in the County's General Plan.

Q. How do I find out what the zoning is for my property?

A. Zoning information is available through the Butte County Development Services Department, Planning Division by phone or in person. Having your Assessors Parcel Number (APN) will assist us in serving you more efficiently. Your APN is listed on your property tax statement. If you don't have your APN an address can be used.

Q. What is a Use Permit?

A. Within each zone district there are land uses permitted by right and land uses permitted only by approval of a conditional use permit. Land uses which are permitted by right are typically authorized by issuance of a building permit. Those uses which are permitted by the conditional use permit process are those which are not uniformly allowed in the applicable zoning district. These conditional uses may be incompatible with the neighborhood if not properly controlled. A conditional use permit may be approved after public notice, public hearing, and may be subject to conditions which may limit or control the use.

Q. What is a Variance?

A. A Variance is the process by which a land owner may receive relief from certain development standards (i.e. buildings setbacks, heights, etc.). This relief can only be achieved if certain physical conditions exist that would preclude the landowner from using the land in a similar manner as other lands within the same zoning district. A Variance cannot be granted which will allow a use that is not allowed in the zoning district.

Q. Who is the Planning Commission?

A. The Planning Commission is hearing body made up of five County residents, one appointed by each Board of Supervisors member. The Planning Commission is responsible for taking actions and making recommendations on a variety of planning request and issues including but not limited to rezones, amendments to the general plan, use permits, and variances. The Planning Commission regularly meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month at 9:00 am in the Board of Supervisors chambers located at 25 County Center Drive, Oroville.