The Santa Ana Planning Commission on August 31 recommended that the City Council approve a draft comprehensive update to the city's Zoning Code. This update aims to align regulations with the city's 2022 General Plan and address changes since the last major revision in the 1960s. The City Council may begin considering the draft update as early as October, though no public hearing has yet been scheduled.
The City of Santa Ana initiated the comprehensive update to ensure its growth regulations reflect contemporary needs and future aspirations. The previous Zoning Code, enacted in the 1960s, predates significant shifts in population, economy, and work patterns. City officials also note that without updated regulations, the city risks losing local control over development standards, particularly concerning housing and parking, due to increasing state-level influence.
The proposed Zoning Code update is designed to implement the long-term vision established by the General Plan, which was adopted in 2022 after extensive community participation. This implementation aims to put that vision into practice "with clarity and predictability for residents and businesses" regarding how property may be used and developed. The stated goals of the update include strengthening neighborhoods, fostering economic opportunity, safeguarding public health, and ensuring Santa Ana remains a place where families and businesses can thrive. It also aims to maintain the city's regional leadership in housing production while creating opportunities for new businesses compatible with the community.
City officials have clarified what the update does not entail. It does not signify the City taking private property through eminent domain, nor does it require businesses to close or displace tenants. Furthermore, a change in property zoning does not automatically necessitate redevelopment. Zoning, in its function, sets the standards for how property can be utilized and developed over time, consistent with the community's vision from the 2022 General Plan. Ultimately, decisions regarding property investment or development rest with property owners, subject to the City's regulations outlined in the Zoning Code.
The public will continue to have opportunities to ask questions and provide feedback on the proposed changes up to and during the City Council's hearing process. Residents, businesses, and property owners are encouraged to learn more and share their input. The Planning Commission's recommendation advances the update to the next stage of consideration within the city's legislative process.
