Zoning Regulations for the Open Space (OS) District in Concord
The Open Space (OS) district is designed for land that is generally unaltered and retains natural resources and scenic value, which may be privately or publicly owned [Section 18.60.010]. Specific minimum lot size and dimension requirements are not explicitly defined in the provided Development Code for the Open Space (OS) district, as this land is intended for preservation rather than intensive development.
Land Use and Development in the Open Space (OS) District
The Open Space (OS) district is applied to land with natural resources and scenic value that is generally kept in its natural state [Section 18.60.010]. Because the district is intended to maintain areas as undeveloped or under-developed, the permitted uses are restricted.
Allowed Uses and Permit Requirements
Permitted uses in the Open Space (OS) district are limited to activities consistent with resource preservation and low-impact recreation.
| Land Use Classification | Permit Required in OS District |
|---|---|
| Crop Production, Orchard, Vineyard | ZC (Zoning Clearance) |
| Livestock, Grazing | ZC (Zoning Clearance) |
| Community Gardens | AP (Administrative Permit) |
| Park and Recreation Facility | ZC (Zoning Clearance) |
Note: Most other uses, including residential, commercial, and industrial, are not permitted in the Open Space (OS) district [Table 18.60.020].
Development Standards for Open Space
Development on land in the Open Space (OS) district is guided by the intent to preserve its natural character. The following standards apply to any permitted development:
- Outdoor Storage: In the Open Space (OS) district, outdoor storage is permitted only if it is associated with a permitted agricultural use and is not located within a required setback [Table 18.150.120].
- Maintenance: Property owners with a creek on their property or fronting on a creek must maintain the creek and abutting vegetation, including the removal of any trash accumulated by the creek [Section 18.305.060].
- General Requirements: Any area of a project site in the Open Space (OS) district not proposed for a specific use must be landscaped, unless the area is retained in its natural state and the review authority determines that additional landscaping is not necessary [Section 18.165.040].
Sections Cited
- Section 18.60.010 (Purpose)
- Table 18.60.020 (Community land districts – Allowed uses and permit requirements)
- Table 18.150.120 (Outdoor Storage Regulations)
- Section 18.165.040 (Landscape location requirements)
- Section 18.305.060 (Property maintenance agreements)