HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 6c. Introduce an Ordinance amending Title 17 (Zoning Regulations) approving text amendment to C-N zone to allow single- and multi-family residential with minor use permit (CODE-0224-2024) Item 6c
Department: Community Development
Cost Center: 4008
For Agenda of: 8/20/2024
Placement: Public Hearing
Estimated Time: 30 minutes
FROM: Timmi Tway, Community Development Director
Prepared By: Hannah Hanh, Associate Planner
SUBJECT: INTRODUCE AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND TITLE 17 (ZONING
REGULATIONS) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADD RESIDENTIAL
USES AS CONDITIONALLY ALLOWED WITH APPROVAL OF A MINOR
USE PERMIT IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL (C-N) ZONE
(CODE-0224-2024)
RECOMMENDATION
Introduce a Draft Ordinance entitled, “An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of San
Luis Obispo, California, approving an amendment to Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone)
in Title 17 (Zoning Regulations) of the Municipal Code with an exemption from
environmental review (CEQA) (CODE-0224-2024).”
REPORT-IN-BRIEF
On behalf of the City of San Luis Obispo (City), the Community Development Director
(Director) has initiated a text amendment to Title 17 (Zoning Regulations) of the Municipal
Code. To provide additional flexibility in the development potential and use of parcels in
the Neighborhood Commercial (C-N) Zone, the proposed text amendment includes a
minor revision to Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone) to add “single-unit dwellings,
detached” and “multi-unit residential” as conditionally allowed uses with approval of a
Minor Use Permit in the C-N Zone (Attachment A – Draft Ordinance). There are no other
revisions proposed as part of this application.
POLICY CONTEXT
Per Chapter 17.124 (Amendments – Zoning Regulations and Zoning Map), the City
Council may review the proposed text amendment, including the Planning Commission’s
recommendation, and take action based on consistency with the General Plan and State
Law.
Background
Per Chapter 17.26 (Neighborhood Commercial [C-N] Zone) of the Zoning Regulations,
the C-N Zone is intended to accommodate the establishment and operation of small -
scale, pedestrian-oriented, and low-impact retail sales and personal services for the
Page 387 of 403
Item 6c
convenience and frequent needs of people living in the surrounding residential areas .
Since at least 1981, single-family and multi-family uses were conditionally allowed uses
with approval of a Minor Use Permit (i.e., Administrative Use Permit) in the C -N Zone
(Ordinance No. 887 [1981 Series]). These uses were removed from the list of allowable
uses for the C-N Zone as part of the comprehensive update to Title 17 (Zoning
Regulations) in 2018 (Ordinance No. 1650 [2018 Series]). It is not clear to staff if this
change was intentional or an oversight as there was no specific discussion in the staff
reports, presentations, or minutes from the public hearings regarding this amendment. As
such, the current Zoning Regulations do not include “single-unit dwellings, detached” and
“multi-unit residential” uses as allowable uses in the C-N Zone (Figure 1 – Current Zoning
Regulations).
Figure 1 – Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone) of the current Zoning Regulations
Public Interest / Proposed Text Amendment
In response to public interest received to allow single -family and multi-family uses in the
C-N Zone, the Director has initiated a text amendment in accordance with Section
17.124.020(B) (Authority to Initiate an Amendment to the Zoning Regulations). The
proposed amendment includes a minor revision to Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone) to
add “single-unit dwellings, detached” and “multi-unit residential” uses as conditionally
allowed uses with approval of a Minor Use Permit (Figure 2 – Proposed Text
Amendment). This amendment would be consistent with use regulations for the C -N Zone
prior to the comprehensive update in 2018. There are no other revisions proposed as part
of this application.
Figure 2 – Proposed Text Amendment to Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone)
Page 388 of 403
Item 6c
PROJECT ANALYSIS
Previous Review
On June 12, 2024, the Planning Commission reviewed the proposed text amendment and
recommended the City Council introduce and adopt the Ordinance approving the
amendment to Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone) in Title 17 (Zoning Regulations) of the
Municipal Code (Resolution, Minutes).
Consistency with the General Plan
The Neighborhood Commercial (NC) land use designation is the corresponding land use
designation in the Land Use Element (LUE) that informs the purpose of, and allowable
uses in, the C-N Zone. As described in Table 1 (General Plan Land Use Designations
and Development Standards in the LUCE Planning Sub -area) of the LUE, the NC land
use designation is intended for the provision of goods and services that meet the frequent
shopping needs of people living nearby. Listed examples of intended uses include small-
scale grocery stores, laundromats, drugstore, small-scale specialty stores, residential
uses as part of mixed-use projects, and public and quasi-public uses. It is noted that the
examples provided do not reflect an exhaustive list of allowable uses as the intents of
land use designations inform allowable uses in corresponding zones of the Zoning
Regulations.
Since the NC land use designation is intended for small-scale commercial uses that serve
the daily needs of nearby residents, the proposed text amendment would not conflict with
the intent of the land use designation and instead provide additional opportunities where
residential uses can be allowed. To facilitate its intent, the NC land use designation is
located in proximity or adjacent to residential land use designations (i.e., Low, Medium,
Medium-High, and High Density Residential) as shown in the Land Use Map. As such,
the amendment to add single- and multi-family uses to the list of allowable uses in the C-
N Zone would result in residential uses that are in proximity to other compatible residential
and neighborhood serving commercial uses.
Consistency with the Zoning Regulations
Per Chapter 17.26 (Neighborhood Commercial [C-N] Zone), the C-N Zone is intended to
accommodate the establishment and operation of small-scale, pedestrian-oriented, and
low-impact retail sales and personal services for the convenience and frequent needs of
people living in the surrounding residential areas. As shown in the Zoning Map, there is
a limited number of parcels in the C-N Zone throughout the City. These properties are
developed with existing residential, personal service, restaurant, general retail,
commercial recreation, etc. uses. They are primarily concentrated near and along the
Broad Street corridor between Church Street and Alphonso Street with few exceptions,
or outliners, at the following locations:
Broad Street and Lincoln Avenue intersection
California Boulevard between Hathway Avenue and Highway 101
Laurel Lane between Augusta Street and Southwood Drive
Page 389 of 403
Item 6c
There are also C-N zoned parcels located within the San Luis Ranch Specific Plan and
Avila Ranch Development Plan areas. However, these properties are regulated differently
by the applicable Specific Plan or Development Plan approval.
After the comprehensive update to the Zoning Regulations in 2018, existing residences
that are not part of mixed-use developments in the C-N zone became nonconforming
uses. These nonconforming residential uses are located primarily near and along Broad
Street between Church Street and Alphonso Street, and have specific circumstances in
which they may be continued, expanded, and lose their nonconforming status on the
premises as detailed in Chapter 17.94 (Nonconforming Uses). For instance, if a
nonconforming residential use is replaced with a conforming use, such as a personal
service use, then the property can no longer be used for residential purposes because
residential uses are no longer permitted in the C-N Zone.
Since the list of allowable uses in the C-N Zone includes a limited range of small-scale
and low-impact commercial uses (e.g., food services, personal services, etc.) that are
dependent on the surrounding residential areas, the amendment to add single -family and
multi-family uses would provide additional flexibility in the development potential and use
of these parcels. Since the procurement of daily goods and services have evolved with
technology in recent decades to allow regular home deliveries, personal services that are
mobile or tailored to the customer’s experience, etc., residents living in the vicinity may
be less likely to rely on and utilize small-scale neighbor serving commercial uses.
Therefore, amendments that provide additional development and use potential of this
zone would be important to consider.
While residential uses can be achieved as part of a mixed -use development (which is
allowed use in the C-N Zone), most of the parcels in the C-N Zone are fairly small in size,
which may make it more difficult to satisfy development standards for a feasible mixed -
use development. In addition, the amendment would change the status of existing
nonconforming residential uses back to conforming. To be consistent with how residential
uses were permitted in the C-N Zone prior to the comprehensive Zoning Regulations
update in 2018, staff is recommending that residential uses require approval of a Minor
Use Permit, instead of being uses allowed by right. This amendment would conditionally
allow residential uses to provide additional development and use options while still
prioritizing the C-N Zone as a commercial zone. As proposed, the amendment would
facilitate single-family and multi-family uses in proximity to other compatible residential
and neighbor serving commercial uses.
If the proposed text amendment is adopted, f uture residential development in the C-N
Zone would be subject to requirements detailed in Table 2-14 (C-N Zone Development
Standards) and other standards related to site development, parking, etc., as applicable,
in the Zoning Regulations.
Page 390 of 403
Item 6c
Consistency with Major City Goals
Housing & Homelessness was prioritized as a Major City Goal in the 2023-2025 Financial
Plan to support the expansion of housing options and facilitate housing production. As
proposed, the text amendment would advance this Major City Goal by providing additional
opportunities where housing may be located within the City.
Public Engagement
Each public hearing associated with this item has been noticed in compliance with the
City’s notification requirements for a proposed text amendment. If the Ordinance for the
proposed text amendment is adopted, future single-family and multi-family residential
development in the C-N Zone would be subject to approval of a Minor Use Permit, which
is discretionary review process that requires legal notices and a public hearing for each
development project.
CONCURRENCE
The Council Agenda Report was reviewed by the Community Development Department,
Finance Department, City Attorney, and City Administration for concurrence. If Council
adopts the Ordinance, all relevant departments and divisions would have the opportunity
to review any proposed single-family and multi-family residential development as part of
the Minor Use Permit application process.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The text amendment is exempt under Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines. This
“Common Sense” exemption states that CEQA only applies to projects that have the
potential for causing significant effect on the environment. Since the text amendment is a
minor revision to Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone) in Title 17 (Zoning Regulations) that
would conditionally allow residential uses with approval of a Minor Use Permit in the C-N
zone, the scope of this action is limited to a text amendment where subsequent single -
family and multi-family residential development would be subject to discretionary review.
Since these uses are subject to discretionary review, environmental review would be
evaluated on a project-specific basis. It is also noted that there are existing single -family
residences in some of the C-N zoned parcels. Therefore, there would not be additional
environmental impacts for those parcels.
FISCAL IMPACT
Budgeted: No Budget Year: 2023-25
Funding Identified: Yes
Page 391 of 403
Item 6c
Fiscal Analysis:
Funding
Sources
Total Budget
Available
Current
Funding
Request
Remaining
Balance
Annual
Ongoing
Cost
General Fund $0 $0 $0 $0
State
Federal
Fees
Other:
Total $0 $0 $0 $0
There is no upfront cost resulting from the proposed text amendment. If Council adopts
the Ordinance, each subsequent residential development in the C-N Zone would require
a Minor Use Permit application, which is an applicant-funded review process.
ALTERNATIVES
1. Modify and introduce the Ordinance for the proposed amendment to Table 2-1
in Title 17 of the Municipal Code. The amendment may require re-review by the
Planning Commission if substantial modifications affecting different uses,
aside from residential uses in the C-N Zone, are considered by the City Council.
2. Continue review of the proposed amendment to Table 2-1 in Title 17 of the
Municipal Code with direction to staff on pertinent issues.
3. Do not introduce and adopt the Ordinance for the proposed amendment to Table
2-1 in Title 17 of the Municipal Code. This action is not recommended because
it would not allow residential uses in the C-N Zone and facilitate additional
housing opportunities throughout the City.
ATTACHMENTS
A - Draft Ordinance approving an amendment to Table 2 -1 (Uses Allowed by Zone) in
Title 17 (Zoning Regulations) of the Municipal Code
Page 392 of 403
O _____
ORDINANCE NO. _____ (2024 SERIES)
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS
OBISPO, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO TABLE 2-1
(USES ALLOWED BY ZONE) IN TITLE 17 (ZONING REGULATIONS) OF
THE MUNICIPAL CODE WITH AN EXEMPTION FROM
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW (CEQA) (CODE-0224-2024)
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a
public hearing in the Council Chamber of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo,
California on June 12, 2024, for the purpose of recommending an amendment to Table
2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone) in Title 17 (Zoning Regulations) of the Municipal Code,
pursuant to a proceeding under CODE-0224-2024; City of San Luis Obispo, applicant;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a public
hearing in the Council Chamber of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo,
California on August 20, 2024, for the purpose of introducing an ordinance to amend
Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone) in Title 17 (Zoning Regulations) of the Municipal Code,
pursuant to a proceeding under CODE-0224-2024; City of San Luis Obispo, applicant;
and
WHEREAS, notices of said public hearing were made at the time and in the
manner required by law; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has duly considered all evidence, including the
testimony of interested parties and the evaluation and recommendation by staff,
presented at said hearing.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of San Luis
Obispo as follows:
SECTION 1. Findings. Based upon all the evidence, the City Council makes the
following findings:
1. The proposed amendment to Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone) in Title 17
(Zoning Regulations) of the Municipal Code to add single-family and multi-family
residential uses as conditionally allowed uses with approval of a Minor Use
Permit is consistent with the intent of the Neighborhood Commercial (NC) land
use designation and purpose of the Neighborhood Commercial (C-N) zone.
2. The proposed amendment to Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone) in Title 17
(Zoning Regulations) of the Municipal Code to add single-family and multi-family
residential uses as conditionally allowed uses with approval of a Minor Use
Permit would not alter the character of the City or cause health safety or welfare
concerns because the amendment is consistent with the General Plan . In
addition, the amendment would directly implement City goals and policies,
particularly the Major City Goal for Housing & Homelessness, to support the
expansion of housing options and facilitate housing production.
Page 393 of 403
Ordinance No. ______ (2024 Series) Page 2
O ______
3. Parcels located in the C-N zone include historical residential uses that are
currently nonconforming. The proposed amendment would allow these
residential uses to become conforming and facilitate additional opportunities for
these uses to continue and expand.
SECTION 2. Environmental Determination. The proposed amendment to Table
2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone) of Title 17 (Zoning Regulations) has been assessed in
accordance with the authority and criteria contained in the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA), the CEQA Guidelines, and environmental regulations of the City. The
amendment is exempt under Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines. This
“Common Sense” exemption states that CEQA only applies to projects that have the
potential for causing significant effect on the environment. Since the text amendment is a
minor revision that would conditionally allow residential uses with approval of a Minor Use
Permit in the C-N zone, the scope of this action is limited to a text amendment where
subsequent single-family and multi-family residential development would be subject to
discretionary review. Since these uses are subject to discretionary review, environmental
review would be evaluated on a project-specific basis. It is also noted that there are
existing single-family residences in some of the C-N zoned parcels. Therefore, there
would not be additional environmental impacts for those parcels.
SECTION 3. Action. The City Council hereby adopts an ordinance to amend
Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone) in Title 17 (Zoning Regulations) of the San Luis Obispo
Municipal Code and add single-family and multi-family uses as conditionally allowed uses
in the C-N zone as set forth and incorporated herein.
Page 394 of 403
Ordinance No. ______ (2024 Series) Page 3
O _____
Table 2-1: Uses Allowed By Zone
Key: A = Allowed; MUP = Minor Use Permit approval required; CUP = Conditional Use Permit approval required
M/A = Minor Use Permit approval required on ground floor along street frontage, allowed on second floor or above
Land Use Permit Requirement by Zoning District Specific Use
Regulations AG C/OS R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 PF O C-N C-C C-R C-D C-T C-S M BP
AGRICULTURE
Agricultural Accessory
Structure A A
Animal Husbandry and
Grazing A A
Community Garden A MUP A A A A A
Crop Production A A A MUP MUP
Greenhouse/Plant Nursery,
Commercial CUP CUP
INDUSTRY, MANUFACTURING & PROCESSING, WHOLESALING
Fuel Dealer (propane, etc) MUP A See also Sec.
17.74.060
Laboratory - Medical,
Analytical, Research,
Testing
CUP A A A A See also Sec.
17.74.060
Manufacturing - Heavy CUP CUP See also Sec.
17.74.060
Manufacturing - Light A A A See also Sec.
17.74.060
Recycling
Recycling -
Collection Facility MUP MUP MUP A
Recycling -
Processing Facility MUP
Research and
Development A MUP A See also Sec.
17.74.060
Salvage and Wrecking MUP
Warehousing, Storage, and Distribution
Outdoor Storage MUP MUP
Personal Storage A A
Warehousing and
Indoor Storage A A MUP
Page 395 of 403
Ordinance No. ______ (2024 Series) Page 4
O ______
Table 2-1: Uses Allowed By Zone
Key: A = Allowed; MUP = Minor Use Permit approval required; CUP = Conditional Use Permit approval required
M/A = Minor Use Permit approval required on ground floor along street frontage, allowed on second floor or above
Land Use Permit Requirement by Zoning District Specific Use
Regulations AG C/OS R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 PF O C-N C-C C-R C-D C-T C-S M BP
Wholesaling and
Distribution A A MUP
LODGING
Bed and Breakfast
Establishment MUP CUP CUP A A A See Sec. 17.86.070
Homeless Shelter A A A A A A A A A A A A
See Sec. 17.86.150
and GC Sec.
65583(a)(4)
Hostel CUP CUP A A A
Hotels and Motels A A A CUP CUP
RV Parks CUP
PUBLIC AND QUASI-PUBLIC USES
Cultural Institutions CUP A A A CUP
Hospitals and Clinics
Clinic MUP MUP A MUP MUP MUP See Sec. 17.36.030.C
and Sec. 17.42.030.A
Hospital CUP CUP
Park and Recreation
Facilities A A A A A A A A A A A A A A
Parks and Recreation
Commission review
required.
Public Assembly Facilities CUP A MUP MUP M/A MUP CUP
Religious Assembly
Facilities CUP MUP MUP MUP MUP A MUP MUP A M/A MUP MUP MUP See 42 U.S.C. §§
2000cc, et seq.
Schools - Colleges CUP
Schools - Primary and
Secondary CUP CUP MUP MUP CUP CUP CUP MUP CUP See Sec. 17.86.240
Schools - Trade Schools CUP MUP CUP MUP MUP
In the C-D zone, Trade
Schools are not
allowed on the ground
floor.
Sports and Entertainment
Assembly Facility CUP CUP
Page 396 of 403
Ordinance No. ______ (2024 Series) Page 5
O ______
Table 2-1: Uses Allowed By Zone
Key: A = Allowed; MUP = Minor Use Permit approval required; CUP = Conditional Use Permit approval required
M/A = Minor Use Permit approval required on ground floor along street frontage, allowed on second floor or above
Land Use Permit Requirement by Zoning District Specific Use
Regulations AG C/OS R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 PF O C-N C-C C-R C-D C-T C-S M BP
RESIDENTIAL USES
General Residential
Housing Types
Single-Unit
Dwellings, Detached A CUP A A A A A MUP
Multi-Unit
Residential A A A A MUP
Boarding House CUP CUP MUP MUP
Caretaker Quarters A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A MUP
Continuing Care
Community MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP
Elderly and Long Term
Care MUP MUP MUP M/A M/A MUP
Family Day Care (Small
and Large) A A A A A A A A A A A A A See Sec. 17.86.100
and H&SC 1597.40
Fraternities and Sororities CUP CUP Section 17.86.130
Hospice In-Patient Facility CUP CUP MUP CUP CUP MUP
Mobile Home Park A A A A See GC Sec. 65852.7,
65863.7, 65863.8
Residential Care Facilities
- 6 or Fewer Residents A A A A A A M/A M/A M/A MUP Multiple state statutes
Residential Care Facilities
- 7 or More Residents MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP Multiple state statutes
Supportive and/or
Transitional Housing, with
On or Off-Site Services
A A A A MUP A A A A A A A A See GC Sec.
65583(a)(5)
Farmworker Housing A A
MIXED USES
Mixed-use Development A A A A A A A A See Sec. 17.70.130
Page 397 of 403
Ordinance No. ______ (2024 Series) Page 6
O ______
Table 2-1: Uses Allowed By Zone
Key: A = Allowed; MUP = Minor Use Permit approval required; CUP = Conditional Use Permit approval required
M/A = Minor Use Permit approval required on ground floor along street frontage, allowed on second floor or above
Land Use Permit Requirement by Zoning District Specific Use
Regulations AG C/OS R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 PF O C-N C-C C-R C-D C-T C-S M BP
COMMERCIAL USES
Adult Entertainment
Businesses A A
See Sec. 17.86.030
and GC Section
65850.4
Animal Care, Sales and Services
Animal
Boarding/Kennels CUP MUP MUP
Outdoor runs and
kennel areas shall be
allowed only in the C-S
zone. See also Sec.
17.86.170.
Animal Grooming A A A A A MUP
Animal Retail Sales MUP A A A A
Veterinary Services,
Large Animal CUP MUP MUP
Veterinary Services,
Small Animal A A A A M/A A
Banks and Financial Institutions
ATMs A A A A A A A A A
Banks and Credit
Unions A A A A MUP MUP MUP See Sec. 17.36.030.B
and Sec. 17.40.030.A
Check Cashing
Shops/Payday
Loans
MUP MUP
Business Services A A A M/A A A A
Cemetery CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP
Commercial Recreation -
Large Scale CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP MUP See Sec. 17.36.030.D
and Sec. 17.86.110
Commercial Recreation -
Small Scale MUP MUP A A A A A A MUP
Day Care Center MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP A A A A M/A MUP MUP MUP MUP See Sec. 17.86.100
Page 398 of 403
Ordinance No. ______ (2024 Series) Page 7
O ______
Table 2-1: Uses Allowed By Zone
Key: A = Allowed; MUP = Minor Use Permit approval required; CUP = Conditional Use Permit approval required
M/A = Minor Use Permit approval required on ground floor along street frontage, allowed on second floor or above
Land Use Permit Requirement by Zoning District Specific Use
Regulations AG C/OS R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 PF O C-N C-C C-R C-D C-T C-S M BP
Eating and Drinking Establishments
Bars and Taverns MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP
See also Sec.
17.86.040 and Sec.
17.86.050
Restaurant A A A A A A MUP MUP
Restaurant with Late
Hour Alcohol
Service
MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP See Sec. 17.86.040
and Sec. 17.86.050
Food and Beverage Sales
General Market A A A A CUP See Sec.
17.26.030.B.1
Convenience Store MUP MUP MUP A A A A A MUP MUP MUP
See Sec.
17.26.030.B.1 and
Sec. 17.86.090
Produce Stand MUP MUP A A A A
Liquor Store MUP MUP MUP MUP CUP
See Sec.
17.26.030.B.2 and
Sec. 17.86.040
Food Preparation A A A
Funeral Parlors and
Internment Services MUP MUP A MUP
Instructional Services MUP CUP MUP M/A A M/A CUP A MUP
Maintenance and Repair
Services A A CUP
Offices
Business and
Professional Offices MUP A A A M/A M/A MUP MUP
In the C-S zone, a
MUP is required for
office uses on the
ground floor. See also
Sec. 17.36.030.B and
Sec. 17.40.030.A.
Medical and Dental
Offices A A A M/A MUP MUP See Sec. 1736.030.C
Personal Services A A A A MUP A MUP
Page 399 of 403
Ordinance No. ______ (2024 Series) Page 8
O ______
Table 2-1: Uses Allowed By Zone
Key: A = Allowed; MUP = Minor Use Permit approval required; CUP = Conditional Use Permit approval required
M/A = Minor Use Permit approval required on ground floor along street frontage, allowed on second floor or above
Land Use Permit Requirement by Zoning District Specific Use
Regulations AG C/OS R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 PF O C-N C-C C-R C-D C-T C-S M BP
Retail Sales
See Sec. 17.26.030.A,
17.30.030.A,
17.32.030, and
17.34.034.A and
17.36.030.A
Building Materials and
Services - Indoor A A A A A
Building Materials and
Services - Outdoor MUP A MUP A A
Extended Hour Retail MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP
General Retail MUP A A A MUP MUP
Large-Scale Retail CUP CUP CUP
Nurseries and Garden
Centers CUP A A
Theaters CUP MUP MUP MUP MUP
Only nonprofit theaters
are allowed in the PF
zone. See also Sec.
17.86.030.
Vehicle Sales and Services
Auto and Vehicle Sales
and Rental MUP CUP A MUP
Large Vehicle,
Construction and
Heavy Equipment
Sales, Service, and
Rental
MUP A
Service Stations MUP MUP MUP MUP A See Sec. 17.86.250,
and Sec. 17.86.060.
Vehicle Services -
Major Repair/Body
Work
A A MUP
Vehicle Services -
Minor
Repair/Maintenance
CUP MUP A A MUP
Vehicle Services -
Washing MUP MUP CUP MUP MUP
Page 400 of 403
Ordinance No. ______ (2024 Series) Page 9
O ______
Table 2-1: Uses Allowed By Zone
Key: A = Allowed; MUP = Minor Use Permit approval required; CUP = Conditional Use Permit approval required
M/A = Minor Use Permit approval required on ground floor along street frontage, allowed on second floor or above
Land Use Permit Requirement by Zoning District Specific Use
Regulations AG C/OS R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 PF O C-N C-C C-R C-D C-T C-S M BP
TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNICATIONS, & UTILITIES
Airport CUP CUP CUP MUP
Wireless
Telecommunications
Facilities
MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP
See Sec. 17.86.290,
47 USC Sec. 332(c)(7)
of the
Telecommunications
Act, Pub. Util. Code
Sec. 7901 et seq., GC
Sec. 65850.6
Freight/Truck Terminals A A MUP
Light Fleet-Based Services A MUP MUP
Media Production
Backlots and
Soundstages MUP MUP MUP
Broadcast Studios A A M/A A A A
Heliport CUP CUP CUP CUP
Parking Facilities CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP See Sec. 17.86.200
Public Safety Facilities CUP CUP
Transit Station or Terminal CUP CUP CUP MUP A
Utilities Facilities Ground-mounted
equipment in
residential zones shall
be screened by
landscaping to the
satisfaction of the
Director.
Facilities with Onsite
Staff CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP
Facilities with No
Onsite Staff
(unmanned)
MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP
Transmission Lines CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP
Page 401 of 403
Ordinance No. ______ (2024 Series) Page 10
O ______
Table 2-1: Uses Allowed By Zone
Key: A = Allowed; MUP = Minor Use Permit approval required; CUP = Conditional Use Permit approval required
M/A = Minor Use Permit approval required on ground floor along street frontage, allowed on second floor or above
Land Use Permit Requirement by Zoning District Specific Use
Regulations AG C/OS R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 PF O C-N C-C C-R C-D C-T C-S M BP
CANNABIS ACTIVITY
Cannabis See Section 17.86.080
Specialty Cultivator MUP MUP MUP
Small Cultivator MUP MUP MUP
Nursery MUP MUP MUP
Manufacturing MUP MUP MUP
Distributor MUP MUP MUP
Microbusiness CUP MUP/
CUP
MUP/
CUP
MUP/
CUP
See Sec.
17.86.080(E)(12) for
specific requirements
per zone.
Testing CUP A A A
Director’s action
required. See also
Sec. 17.86.080(E)(9).
Retailer (Delivery) MUP MUP MUP
Retailer (Storefront) CUP CUP
SPECIFIC AND TEMPORARY LAND USES
Educational Conferences
Housing MUP MUP MUP MUP
Homestay Rentals See Sec. 17.86.160
Home Occupation See Sec. 17.86.140
Food Trucks See Sec. 17.86.120
Nightclubs and Live
Entertainment MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP
Office - Temporary See Chapter 17.113
Outdoor Temporary and/or
Seasonal Sales See Sec. 17.86.190 and Chapter 17.113
Parking Facility -
Temporary CUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP See Chapter 17.113
Safe Parking CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP See Sec. 17.86.230
Special Event MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP See Chapter 17.113
Vending Machine See Section 17.86.280
Page 402 of 403
Ordinance No. ______ (2024 Series) Page 11
O _____
SECTION 4. A summary of this ordinance, together with the names of Council
members voting for and against, shall be published at least five (5) days prior to its final
passage, in the New Times, a newspaper published and circulated in this City. The
Ordinance shall be effective thirty (30) days after its final passage.
INTRODUCED on the _____ day of _______ 2024, AND FINALLY ADOPTED by
the Council of the City of San Luis Obispo on the ___ day of ________, 2024, on the
following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
__________________________
Mayor Erica A. Stewart
ATTEST:
_________________________
Teresa Purrington,
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
__________________________
J. Christine Dietrick,
City Attorney
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the
City of San Luis Obispo, California, on ______________________.
__________________________
Teresa Purrington,
City Clerk
Page 403 of 403
1
C-N Zone Text Amendment
City Council Hearing –August 20, 2024
Applicant: City of San Luis Obispo
2
Proposed Text Amendment
Add residential uses (i.e., single-
family and multi-family uses) as
conditionally allowed with Minor
Use Permit approval in the C-N
zone
Residential uses were
conditionally allowed with Minor
Use Permit approval since at
least 1981 and until the
comprehensive Zoning
Regulations update in 2018
Recent public interest to add
residential uses back to provide
additional flexibility for the C-N
zone
Existing
Proposed
3
Zoning Map – Parcels in the C-N Zone
Primarily along the
Broad Street corridor
between Church Street
and Alphonso Street
Developed properties
with existing residential
(nonconforming),
personal service,
restaurant, general
retail, commercial
recreation, etc. uses
4
Zoning Map – Parcels in the C-N Zone
Broad Street and
Lincoln Avenue
intersection
Developed properties
with existing restaurant
and mixed-use
5
Zoning Map – Parcels in the C-N Zone
California Boulevard
between Hathway
Avenue and Highway 101
Developed properties
with existing restaurant,
personal service, general
retail, convenience store,
etc. uses
6
Zoning Map – Parcels in the C-N Zone
Laurel Lane between
Augusta Street and
Southwood Drive
Developed properties with
existing restaurant,
commercial recreation,
personal service, general
retail, etc. uses
7
Policy Analysis
Neighborhood Commercial Land Use Designation and Zone
Establishment and operation of small-scale, pedestrian-oriented, and low-
impact retail sales and personal services for the convenience and frequent
needs of surrounding residences
Adjacent to residential land use designations and zones
Current list of allowable uses includes limited range of complementary small-
scale and low-impact commercial uses that are dependent on nearby
residences
Major City Goal – Housing
Support expansion of housing options and facilitate housing production
Proposed Text Amendment
Provides additional flexibility in development potential and use of the C-N
zone
Compatible with other residential and neighborhood serving commercial uses
Subject to development standards in the Zoning Regulations
8
Environmental Determination
Exempt under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3)
(General Rule Exemption)
Limited to a text amendment where subsequent
residential development requires discretionary review
Environmental review evaluated on a project-specific
basis
9
Recommendation
Introduce a Draft Ordinance entitled, “An Ordinance of
the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo, California,
approving an amendment to Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by
Zone) in Title 17 (Zoning Regulations) of the Municipal
Code with an exemption from environmental review
(CEQA) (CODE-0224-2024).”