Conditional Use Permit Requirements in the RL: Low Density Residential District
In the City of Concord’s RL: Low Density Residential district, several land uses require the approval of a "Use Permit" (UP) from the planning commission. These uses include specific residential facilities, public/quasi-public uses, and recreational facilities, each of which must be evaluated to ensure compatibility with the surrounding residential neighborhood.
Overview of Use Permit Requirements
Per Table 18.30.020, "Residential districts – Allowed uses and permit requirements," a use permit is required to establish the following uses within the RL: Low Density Residential district:
| Land Use Classification | Permit Required |
|---|---|
| Bed and Breakfast Inn | Use Permit (UP) |
| Single-Family, Detached – Small Lot Subdivision | Use Permit (UP) |
| Group Housing | Use Permit (UP) |
| Mobile Home Park | Use Permit (UP) |
| Residential Facility for Seniors, Assisted Living | Use Permit (UP) |
| Cultural Institution | Use Permit (UP) |
| Golf Course, Country Club | Use Permit (UP) |
| Residential Recreation Facility | Use Permit (UP) |
| Religious Facility | Use Permit (UP) |
| Elementary, Middle, Secondary Schools | Use Permit (UP) |
| Utility Facility, Transmission Towers | Use Permit (UP) |
| Adult Day Care Center | Use Permit (UP) |
Process for Obtaining a Use Permit
Applications for a use permit within the RL district are processed in accordance with the procedures established in Chapter 18.435 [Section 18.435.010]. The Planning Commission serves as the review authority for use permits and conducts a public hearing to review and approve or disapprove the application [Section 18.435.030].
Before approving a use permit in the RL district, the Planning Commission must make several findings, including that the proposed use is consistent with the general plan and any applicable specific plan, and that the design, location, size, and operating characteristics of the activity are compatible with the existing and future land uses in the vicinity [Section 18.435.060].
Performance Guarantees and Maintenance
As part of the use permit approval process, the city may require the property owner to enter into an agreement to ensure that all improvements are maintained continuously in compliance with conditions of approval [Section 18.305.060]. Additionally, the Planning Commission may impose conditions relating to the placement, height, nature, and extent of the use, as well as requirements for buffers, screening, landscaping, and performance guarantees to ensure that the development complies with the city's standards [Section 18.435.060].
Sections Cited
- Section 18.30.020: Table 18.30.020 – Residential districts – Allowed uses and permit requirements.
- Section 18.305.060: Property maintenance agreements.
- Section 18.435.010: Purpose.
- Section 18.435.030: Review authority.
- Section 18.435.060: Findings and decision.