Zoning Regulations for the WRC (Wetlands and Resource Conservation) District
The WRC (Wetlands and Resource Conservation) District in the City of Concord is established to ensure the protection of wildlife, hydrological, and biological resources within bay marshes and tidal wetlands. Land use within the WRC district is highly restricted and intended to maintain the ecological integrity of these sensitive areas in perpetuity, with most land uses prohibited or requiring specific discretionary approvals [Section 18.60.010].
Purpose and Applicability of the WRC District
The WRC (Wetlands and Resource Conservation) District is applied to bay marshes and wetlands within the tidal area of the City of Concord [Section 18.60.010]. The primary purpose of the WRC district is to ensure the protection of wildlife, hydrological, and biological resources [Section 18.60.010].
Allowed Land Uses in the WRC District
Land uses in the WRC District are strictly limited to those established by the Concord Development Code to protect natural resources. The following table summarizes the permitted uses and required permit types for the WRC District, based on the provided zoning district tables.
| Land Use Classification | Permit Required in WRC District |
|---|---|
| Crop Production, Orchard, Vineyard | Zoning Clearance (ZC) |
| All other uses listed in the Development Code | Not Allowed (–) |
Note: Any use not explicitly listed as permitted or conditionally permitted in the applicable district is prohibited [Section 18.20.010].
Development Standards and Resource Protection
All subdivisions, new uses, and structures within the WRC district must be designed and established in compliance with requirements in the Concord Development Code [Section 18.60.030]. Because the WRC district is designed to conserve resources, development is largely restricted to protect the ecological function of the wetlands. When development is proposed on a site that is also subject to creek or riparian habitat protection, additional standards may apply as outlined in the Creek and Riparian Habitat Protection regulations [Chapter 18.305].
Sections Cited
- Section 18.20.010: Purpose and applicability (Use Classifications)
- Section 18.60.010: Purpose (Community Land Districts)
- Section 18.60.020: Community land districts – Allowed uses and permit requirements
- Section 18.60.030: Community land districts – Development standards
- Chapter 18.305: Creek and Riparian Habitat Protection