A key aspect of preserving agricultural, rural, and open space lands is actively investing in enhancing existing
communities and urban areas. These are areas with adequate public services and infrastructure to support
housing and employment centers. This section focuses on promoting attractive communities with a distinct sense
of place. An overview of design standards based on zoning is located in section 3.6, “Existing Zoning,” of the
Background Report.
Goal: LU-16
To enhance the character and design of unincorporated communities in the county in order to cultivate self-contained communities and provide parks and recreational facilities designed to meet the daily needs of Ventura County residents.
The County shall encourage discretionary development to be designed to maintain the distinctive character of unincorporated communities, to ensure adequate provision of public facilities and services, and to be compatible with neighboring uses.
RDR
The County shall require that discretionary commercial and industrial developments maintain high standards of urban design and environmental quality by incorporating compact form, maximizing pedestrian access and safety, and minimizing land use conflicts and traffic congestion.
RDR
The County shall support compatible, mixed-land use development in areas designated as Area Plans and Existing Communities, where these plans include this type of use.
MPSP
RDR
In Area Plans and Existing Communities, the County shall encourage the development of flexible live-work spaces for residents who desire office, commercial, or studio space adjacent to their living space, where these plans include this type of use.
RDR
The County shall encourage discretionary commercial development to promote ease of pedestrian/bicycle access to encourage walk-in business, while providing sufficient off-street parking.
RDR
CAP
HC
The County shall discourage the development of new or expansion of existing strip commercial development.
RDR
The County shall encourage discretionary development to locate central gateways and building entrances in areas that are visible from the street to contribute to an active commercial center and locate parking in areas that are less visible from the street.
RDR
The County shall encourage discretionary development that incorporates design features that provide a harmonious relationship between adjoining uses and the natural environment.
RDR
The County shall encourage discretionary development to be oriented and landscaped to enhance natural lighting, solar access, and passive heating or cooling opportunities to maximize energy efficiency.
RDR
CAP
The County shall encourage discretionary development in rural areas to maintain views of hillsides, beaches, forests, creeks, and other distinctive natural areas through building orientation, height, and bulk.
RDR
The County shall support the development of parks and recreation facilities and encourage these uses to locate within areas designated as Existing Community, Area Plans, or Areas of Interest.
RDR
EJ
HC