Maximum Building Height in the Open Space (OS) District
The Concord Development Code classifies the Open Space (OS) zoning district as a Community Land District, and the district is intended for land that is generally unaltered with natural resources and scenic value. While the Development Code does not specify a numerical height limit for the OS district in the zoning standards table, any structure proposed in this district must comply with the general development standards and resource management requirements of the city.
Open Space (OS) District Regulations
The OS district is applied to land that is generally unaltered, whether privately or publicly owned, to ensure the protection of natural resources and scenic value [Section 18.60.010].
Development Standards Overview
Development in the Open Space (OS) district is subject to Division II (Zoning Districts – Uses and Standards) and the general development standards established in the Concord Development Code [Section 18.50.010]. Because the OS district is a Community Land District, specific height limits for structures are determined based on the nature of the project and adherence to resource management and hillside protection standards.
Height and Development Requirements
For any development occurring in the Open Space (OS) district, the following regulations apply:
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Height Limits | No specific numerical maximum height is provided for the OS district in the zoning tables; standard height limits are subject to review authority approval. |
| Hillside Protection | Development on parcels with an average slope of 15% or greater must comply with Chapter 18.300 (Hillside Protection). |
| Resource Management | Development must be designed to minimize impacts and protect the ecological integrity of the site [Section 18.305.010]. |
Key Provisions for Open Space
- Permitted Uses: Land uses in the Open Space (OS) district are limited to those established in Table 18.60.020, which focuses on community land and open space.
- Discretionary Review: Structures proposed in the Open Space (OS) district that require a planning permit are subject to review authority and must meet findings related to compatibility and impact mitigation [Section 18.400.020, Section 18.415.090].
- Setbacks and Coverage: If a project is approved on a parcel in the Open Space (OS) district, specific setbacks and lot coverage will be established through the discretionary planning permit process, taking into account the natural topography and the purpose of the OS district [Section 18.60.030].
Sections Cited
- Section 18.50.010: Purpose (Business Park and Industrial Districts)
- Section 18.60.010: Purpose (Community Land Districts)
- Section 18.60.030: Community land districts – Development standards
- Section 18.300.010: Purpose (Hillside Protection)
- Section 18.305.010: Purpose (Creek and Riparian Habitat Protection)
- Section 18.400.020: Authority for land use and zoning decisions
- Section 18.415.090: Discretionary review