Title
Introduce, waive first reading, and set November 3, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. as the date and time to consider adoption of an ordinance adding Chapter 18.20 to the Monterey County Code to establish objective design criteria for multiple-unit and mixed-use housing development projects in the unincorporated areas of Monterey County. (ADDED VIA ADDENDA)
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RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors introduce, waive first reading, and set November 3, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. as the date and time to consider adoption of an ordinance adding Chapter 18.20 to the Monterey County Code to establish objective design criteria for multiple-unit and mixed-use housing development projects in the unincorporated areas of Monterey County.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
The proposed ordinance would add model objective design standards to Title 18 of the Monterey County Code by adding a new Chapter 18.20. This action is related to the Sixth Cycle Housing Element update scheduled and noticed for public hearing on November 3, 2026. The proposed ordinance allows the Board of Supervisors to adopt objective design criteria by resolution. When the Board hears the Housing Element item on November 3rd, the action will include a draft resolution with Objective Design Standards for Housing Development. Also included with that action will be consideration of formal adoption of this ordinance. The associated California Environmental Quality Act finding will be made at the November 3rd hearing.
Recent actions by the state legislature limit the County’s ability to apply subjective architectural development standards to multifamily housing projects. Under state housing law, a project of two or more housing units (detached or attached) cannot be denied for non-compliance with subjective zoning standards (Government Code section 65589.5). With these types of applications, jurisdictions are prevented from applying or enforcing subjective standards. Much of the current County Code related to design standards are subjective and would therefore be unenforceable on certain project development applications.
Therefore, staff developed countywide Objective Design Standards for Housing Development for the “by-right” zoning approval requirements in the HEU6. County staff will work with community members, the Planning Commission, and Board of Supervisors to refine these countywide standards to be more reflective of the unique needs and desires of individual community areas throughout unincorporated Monterey County as part of future HEU6 implementation. Topics that are regulated by these standards include but are not limited to: building mass, form, articulation; building and dwelling unit entrances; materials and colors; parking location and structures; site design; fencing; lighting; landscaping; and screening of mechanical equipment.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The County Counsel’s Office has reviewed the ordinance as to form. HCD staff have coordinated with the California Housing & Community Development staff and the Coastal Commission staff on the proposed ordinance.
FINANCING:
Any fiscal impact will be described in the required resolution that is brought forward to effectuate compliance with the draft ordinance if adopted.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS:
The proposed recommended actions support the Board of Supervisors’ Strategic Plan Goal to support well-being and quality of life, provide sustainable infrastructure for the present and future, and support a diverse and thriving economy. Objective design standards will help preserve the aesthetic character of the County and is part of a larger effort to facilitate housing development for current and future residents in the County.
ü Well-Being and Quality of Life
ü Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
__ Safe and Resilient Communities
ü Diverse and Thriving Economy
__ Dynamic Organization and Employer of Choice
Prepared by: Craig Spencer, Director, Housing & Community Development
The following attachments are on file with the Clerk of the Board:
Attachment A - Draft Ordinance