Zoning Ordinance Update

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Zoning Ordinance?

A zoning ordinance is a set of land use regulations enacted by a city that creates districts or zones establishing permitted and special uses within those zones as well as development regulations applying to the specific zones.  The zoning ordinance consists of two parts:  a map (or a series of maps) and text.  The zoning map shows how the City is divided into different use districts or zones and shows the precise locations for each district to the parcel level.  Common zoning districts for most cities include open space, residential, commercial, and industrial. 

The zoning ordinance text explains the zoning rules that apply in each zoning district.  These rules establish the types of land uses allowed in each district and identify the specific standards that regulate lot size, building height, and yard and setback provisions. 

What kinds of regulations are addressed in the Zoning Ordinance?

The zoning ordinance is the City’s primary regulatory tool to provide for orderly development, to protect property values and to avoid significant negative impacts on adjacent properties.  Regulations in the zoning ordinance address:

• allowable uses of property, such as for residential, retail, commercial, office, industrial, and public and/or recreational uses;
• the permitted intensity of those uses, such as the minimum lot size or maximum number of units per acre for residential development, or the land coverage and floor area allowed for office and retail development;
• standards for proposed development, such as for height, setbacks, parking, landscaping, signage, etc.; and
• procedures for reviewing and approving development proposals, including submittal requirements, design review provisions, public hearing requirements, and appeals.

Why is the City updating its Zoning Ordinance?

The City’s zoning ordinance was originally adopted in 1962 and was last comprehensively updated in 1977.  The zoning ordinance has been amended 85 times since the 1977 update.  Due to the age and number of amendments, the ordinance needs to be amended to be more user friendly for the public, staff, and decision-makers.  Also, the current ordinance does not fully reflect current planning practices and trends or the City’s evolving goals for land use and development in the community.  The comprehensive update will:

• reorganize the ordinance and rewrite the text in a clear and concise manner;
• update the ordinance in conjunction with applicable state and federal laws;
• utilize tables, charts, and graphics to improve readability; and
• update the ordinance to reflect current planning trends. 

What is the schedule for the Zoning Ordinance update?

The zoning ordinance update process began in earnest in April 2007.  It is anticipated that the update will take 12-15 months.  Public review of the zoning ordinance and hearings by the City Council and Planning Commission are anticipated to be held in late 2007 to early 2008.  The zoning ordinance update is expected to be finalized by mid 2008. 

How can I participate in the Zoning Ordinance update program? 

Comments regarding the zoning ordinance update can be submitted using the online comment form on this City’s website.   Additionally, public workshops will be held to solicit public input.  These public workshops and any study sessions with the City Council and Planning Commission will be advertised by the city.  Please check back for updates on the public workshops.

Where can I review a copy of the existing Zoning Ordinance?

The existing City of Downey Zoning Ordinance is available on the City’s website. A hard copy of the document can also be viewed at the Planning Division counter on the 1^st floor of Downey City Hall located at 11111 Brookshire Avenue. 

Who should I contact for more information? 

Please contact David Blumenthal, Senior Planner, at (562) 904-7154 or by submitting an online comment.