Planning Referrals

Planning applications go through a structured review process to ensure they are consistent with applicable standards. Below is an overview of how applications are reviewed and how agencies work together during the process. The table below lists Planning applications currently in the referral review step of the process.

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The referral process is one of the first steps of application review. It involves circulating the application to relevant County departments and local agencies for review, comment, and identification of additional required materials. During this step, subject-matter experts evaluate the project proposed by the application for compliance with regulations covering:

• Public safety
• Environmental protection
• Access
• Utilities, and
• Infrastructure

Reviewing agencies provide comments and may recommend conditions of approval or identify additional studies needed to confirm compliance or address potential impacts. This coordinated review ensures that all technical considerations are evaluated before the application moves forward to environmental review and public hearing. Certain projects, such as lot line adjustments or zoning permits, may be approved administratively.

Why the Referral Process is Important

This coordinated review helps ensure a transparent process and that projects are consistent with adopted standards. By identifying and addressing issues early, the referral process supports informed decision-making, informs the environmental review process (California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)), and leads to better project outcomes.

Public comment options:

• Contact the Project Planner and request to be added as an interested party to receive future project notices for specific applications under review.
• Submit comments in writing to the Project Planner listed in the table below at any time during the review process.

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