Design Approval Guidelines Matrix

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Design approval guidelines matrix (for projects in "D", “S” and "VS" Districts)

TYPE OF PROJECT

INLAND

COASTAL

CCP

COMMENTS

Accessory Structure - Non-Habitable

A, OTC

A, OTC, CAP

A, OTC

OTC if <=240 SF; If >1,000 SF, COASTAL requires a CAP; if on septic, refer applicant to EHB.

Accessory Structure - Habitable

A

CAP

A

If >1,000 SF, COASTAL requires a CAP; if on septic, refer applicant to EHB.

Barn

A

CAP

not applicable

check viewshed policies; if on septic, refer applicant to EHB.

Chimney

OTC

OTC

X

 

Deck - Detached

X, A

X, A

X

(X if replacing with same color and material type and in CCP)

Deck - Additions to existing

A, OTC

A, OTC

X

Second Story Deck or >500 SF requires administrative approval

Decks less than 12" high

OTC

OTC

X

(X if replacing with same color and material type and in CCP)

Dormer, Ornamental

OTC

OTC

OTC

If no additional interior floor area

Fence

OTC

OTC

X

Check neighborhood character, LUP, AP, and GP viewshed policies; if not consistent, consult a manager.

Fence, Agricultural

X

X

X

 

Fence, Deer, <15'

OTC

OTC

X

 

Fireplace, Outdoor - BBQ - Oven

A, OTC

A, OTC

A, OTC

>6' tall requires administrative approval

Flagpole

OTC

OTC

OTC

 

Foundations

X

X

X

 

Fountain

A, OTC

A, OTC

A, OTC

>6' tall requires administrative approval

Interior Remodel with no exterior changes

X

X

X

If on septic, refer applicant to EHB.

New Paint

OTC

OTC

X

X in Castroville if same colors

Patio Cover

A, OTC

A, OTC

A, OTC

>240 SF requires administrative approval

Pool Accessory Equipment Shed

OTC

OTC

OTC

 

Pool House

A

A, CAP

A

If >1,000 SF, COASTAL requires a CAP; if on septic, refer applicant to EHB.

Pools/Spas - Above ground

A, OTC

A, OTC

A, OTC

>2' Deep or >5,000 gallons requires administrative approval

Pools/Spas - In ground

X

X

X

If property is on septic, refer applicant to EHB.

Repair & routine maintenance with no change in appearance

X

X

X

 

Reroofs

OTC, X

OTC, X

X

OTC (X with same color and material type and in CCP)

Retaining Wall

A, OTC

A, OTC

A, OTC

Review potential impacts to resources; if there are impacts, a discretionary permit is required.

Roof Line Change

A

A

A

 

SFD - New

PH

CAP

PH

If property is on septic, refer applicant to EHB.

SFD Addition to 1st Story

A

A, CAP

A

In COASTAL, CAP if >=10% of internal floor area (between the sea and the first public road); if on septic, refer applicant to EHB.

SFD Addition of New 2nd Story

A, PH

A, PH, CAP

A, PH

Public hearing if potential for substantial adverse impact; CAP if >=10% of internal floor area (between the sea and the first public road); if on septic, refer applicant to EHB.

SFD Addition to Existing 2nd Story

A, PH

A, PH, CAP

A, PH

Public hearing if potential for substantial adverse impact; CAP if >=10% of internal floor area (between the sea and the first public road); if on septic, refer applicant to EHB.

Sign (To change copy only)

X

X

X

 

Sign

A

A

A

check sign ordinance

Skylight

OTC

OTC

OTC

 

Solar Panels

X

X

X

 

Trellis

A, OTC

A, OTC

X

OTC if <240 SF or not visible from common public viewing area

Water Tanks

A

A, CAP

not applicable

>5,000 gallons or ratio of height to diameter or width >2:1; Immediate installation in emergency situation only. A discretionary permit may be required if associated with a water system.

Window awnings

OTC

OTC

OTC

 

Window/Door Change-out

X, OTC, A

X, OTC, A

X

“X” with same color and material type and in CCP; OTC if different color/material; “A” if enlarging, if a historic structure. or zoned “HR” for historic resources (not arch. resources)

 Notes:

  • This matrix is intended to be used as a guide. Review the purpose in the main zoning district. If any questions arise regarding the interpretation of this document, the text in the Monterey County Zoning Ordinance (20.44, 21.44 or 21.46) shall take precedence. For any project, always check viewshed policies.
  • If the Design Approval has known controversy, consult a manager about a different level of review (OTC à A or A à PH)
  • For Coastal projects, always check MCC 20.70.120 (Exemptions).
  • Projects within an “S” and "VS” district require a site visit and may require additional discretionary permits such as use permits or administrative permits.
  • CCP = Castroville Community Plan Area only; review CCP for more detail. Within the CCP, the Director of Planning has the discretion to classify a project as exempt from Design Approval (CCP, Page B-4)
  • A = Administrative Approval
  • CAP = Coastal Administrative Permit
  • OTC = Over The Counter Approval
  • PH = Public Hearing (ZA or PC)
  • X = Exempt (No DA required)