Land & Building Use In Petaluma
The General Plan
The General Plan outlines a vision for Petaluma’s long-range physical and economic development and resource conservation through 2025. All land/building use decisions are made in accordance with this plan.
Implementing Zoning Ordinance (IZO)
The City of Petaluma Zoning Ordinance carries out the policies of the Petaluma General Plan by classifying and regulating the uses of land and structures within the City, consistent with the General Plan. The IZO is a helpful reference when you are looking at space outside the downtown core, as it provides detailed zoning information for buildings and land use in these areas.
Open Counter Zoning Portal – research where your project is permitted in the city.
Interactive Map – research the zoning of any property located within the city limits.
Static Zoning Map – see the zoning designations across the city via this static zoning map.
Central Petaluma Specific Plan
The Central Specific Plan outlines land development goals and policies for properties located in Petaluma’s central core. Review the document or talk to staff in the Planning Department to find out if this applies to you.
SmartCode (Downtown Petaluma)
The Smart Code carries out the policies of the Petaluma General Plan by classifying and regulating the uses of land and structures within the downtown core of the city of Petaluma, consistent with the General Plan. This is a helpful reference when you are looking at space within the downtown core boundaries, as it provides detailed zoning information for buildings and land use in Petaluma.
Special Plans
The City has adopted special plans that provide specific details and development guidance for sites around the Petaluma River, near downtown and in other areas. Also, some areas are governed by special zoning districts called Planned Unit Developments. Below is a list of some of those plans. If you are developing or improving a building in or near these areas, these plans may apply to you; contact the Planning Department at 707-778-4470 or petalumaplanning@ci.petaluma.ca.us for more information.
- Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan
- River Enhancement Plan
- Corona / Ely Specific Plan
- Smart Station Area Master Plan
- Downtown Historic District Guidelines
- Planned Unit Development Guidelines
The Design Review Committee (DRC)
Comprised of representatives from multiple City departments, the DRC meets weekly with business owners, property owners, engineers, architects and other relevant parties to discuss how specific business plans and development projects address city requirements.
The DRC will review projects at all stages of development, enabling business owners to identify and address areas of concern early in a project. Read about how the DRC works, then contact the Planning Department at 707-778-4470/email to see if this meeting is right for you.