Sustainable Land Use Framework

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What is the Sustainable Land Use Framework?

The Sustainable Land Use Framework (Framework) is a holistic policy approach intended to balance community priorities, guide future policymaking, and meet the goals of the County's Board, the governing body for the unincorporated area.

2026 PROJECT UPDATES

Two (2) Board of Supervisor hearings relating to the Sustainable Land Use Framework (Framework) are anticipated in 2026, with a series of engagement activities taking place ahead of both hearings. Information on these events are located on this project webpage.

Based on extensive community input, County staff is exploring opportunities to bring forward options for a Sustainable Land Use Framework with a key mechanism being the opportunity to update the County’s General Plan for alignment with the key sustainability principles and focus areas of the Framework. At this time, discussions about a General Plan update are conceptual and exploratory. If directed to proceed with an update, the County will undertake substantial outreach and all required consultations.

Hearing #1: June 10, 2026

Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) is closely connected to sustainability because the intent of VMT policy is to reduce sprawl and encourage less driving, which can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. VMT policy can influence our overall land use patterns, including access to jobs, transportation, and can guide where housing should be prioritized. Due to VMT’s connections to sustainability, the Framework is working closely with the VMT team and will have a shared touchpoint with the Board of Supervisors in summer 2026. At that hearing, approaches to providing VMT mitigation will be discussed, including the option to integrate VMT into the General Plan to support the Framework goals and objectives. Ahead of this hearing, a series of public and focused stakeholder webinars, including a tribal-specific webinar will be hosted to explain the intent of this hearing and set the foundation for a more in-depth hearing on the Framework in the fall.

Hearing #2: Fall 2026

A second hearing on the Framework will be presented to the Board of Supervisors in Fall 2026. At this hearing, staff will review the opportunities and potential outcomes that could be achieved from an update to the General Plan, focusing alignments for sustainability and equity.


Why is there Need for the Sustainable Land Use Framework?

In recent years, the State of California (State) has passed various laws related to housing, climate change, development, and sustainability. Many of these laws attempt to address the simultaneous housing and climate crises, with some laws seeking to redirect development in ways that can lessen the associated environmental impacts. For example, the State has been encouraging development within areas with access to transit, services, and amenities with the goal of reducing greenhouse gases.


The Framework can be the more adaptable and holistic lens used for sustainable planning and development to ensure that ALL unincorporated communities (regardless of proximity to transit, services, and amenities) can live, evolve, and thrive in an equitable and sustainable way. The Framework is not intended to duplicate or conflict with the General Plan but rather identify and address any gaps to help the General Plan (the County’s guiding planning document) evolve with new State legislation and adjacent planning efforts.


The Framework is being developed through a step-by-step approach to ensure it is responsive to feedback and comprehensively built through a structured, inclusive, and transparent process. Visit Learn More About the Project Steps on the right-side to read more about each of the project steps.

We Want You Involved!

  • Sign up to receive updates and stay involved in the process by subscribing here!
  • Upcoming engagement opportunities and events (virtual and in-person) will be shared on this site
  • Reach out to anyone on the project team or by using the "Ask a Question" tool below to get in touch
  • Your ideas and feedback will help shape how the County approaches land use more sustainably and equitably for generations to come



What is the Sustainable Land Use Framework?

The Sustainable Land Use Framework (Framework) is a holistic policy approach intended to balance community priorities, guide future policymaking, and meet the goals of the County's Board, the governing body for the unincorporated area.

2026 PROJECT UPDATES

Two (2) Board of Supervisor hearings relating to the Sustainable Land Use Framework (Framework) are anticipated in 2026, with a series of engagement activities taking place ahead of both hearings. Information on these events are located on this project webpage.

Based on extensive community input, County staff is exploring opportunities to bring forward options for a Sustainable Land Use Framework with a key mechanism being the opportunity to update the County’s General Plan for alignment with the key sustainability principles and focus areas of the Framework. At this time, discussions about a General Plan update are conceptual and exploratory. If directed to proceed with an update, the County will undertake substantial outreach and all required consultations.

Hearing #1: June 10, 2026

Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) is closely connected to sustainability because the intent of VMT policy is to reduce sprawl and encourage less driving, which can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. VMT policy can influence our overall land use patterns, including access to jobs, transportation, and can guide where housing should be prioritized. Due to VMT’s connections to sustainability, the Framework is working closely with the VMT team and will have a shared touchpoint with the Board of Supervisors in summer 2026. At that hearing, approaches to providing VMT mitigation will be discussed, including the option to integrate VMT into the General Plan to support the Framework goals and objectives. Ahead of this hearing, a series of public and focused stakeholder webinars, including a tribal-specific webinar will be hosted to explain the intent of this hearing and set the foundation for a more in-depth hearing on the Framework in the fall.

Hearing #2: Fall 2026

A second hearing on the Framework will be presented to the Board of Supervisors in Fall 2026. At this hearing, staff will review the opportunities and potential outcomes that could be achieved from an update to the General Plan, focusing alignments for sustainability and equity.


Why is there Need for the Sustainable Land Use Framework?

In recent years, the State of California (State) has passed various laws related to housing, climate change, development, and sustainability. Many of these laws attempt to address the simultaneous housing and climate crises, with some laws seeking to redirect development in ways that can lessen the associated environmental impacts. For example, the State has been encouraging development within areas with access to transit, services, and amenities with the goal of reducing greenhouse gases.


The Framework can be the more adaptable and holistic lens used for sustainable planning and development to ensure that ALL unincorporated communities (regardless of proximity to transit, services, and amenities) can live, evolve, and thrive in an equitable and sustainable way. The Framework is not intended to duplicate or conflict with the General Plan but rather identify and address any gaps to help the General Plan (the County’s guiding planning document) evolve with new State legislation and adjacent planning efforts.


The Framework is being developed through a step-by-step approach to ensure it is responsive to feedback and comprehensively built through a structured, inclusive, and transparent process. Visit Learn More About the Project Steps on the right-side to read more about each of the project steps.

We Want You Involved!

  • Sign up to receive updates and stay involved in the process by subscribing here!
  • Upcoming engagement opportunities and events (virtual and in-person) will be shared on this site
  • Reach out to anyone on the project team or by using the "Ask a Question" tool below to get in touch
  • Your ideas and feedback will help shape how the County approaches land use more sustainably and equitably for generations to come


  • 11/19/25 Board of Supervisors Hearing: Housing Forward

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    Staff from Planning & Development Services and Housing and Community Development Services will present at a Board of Supervisors meeting on November 19, 2025, to provide an update on the regional housing crisis and focus on the County’s unincorporated land use and housing efforts. It reviews the 2011 General Plan’s smart growth framework, shares findings from the Development Feasibility Analysis on barriers to housing in unincorporated communities, and outlines how State legislation has shifted development patterns. The item will identify upcoming policy decision points, including the Sustainable Land Use Framework, that will affect the trajectory of housing in the region and will provide an opportunity for both the public and the Board to communicate key policy priorities as it relates to housing. Note, this is not intended to be a milestone hearing for the Framework and does not include Board direction at this time.

  • Industry Focus Groups (12/10, 12/12, 12/17)

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    The Sustainable Land Use Framework team hosted Industry Focus Group sessions on 12/10, 12/12, and/or 12/17. The purpose of these sessions was to begin drafting ideas for the Approaches & Mechanisms to achieve the Sustainable Land Use Framework‘s Goals & Objectives with industry professionals. Each session used the same presentation content but had a unique lens of focus: Land & Economic Development, Sustainability & Climate Solutions, and Equitable Communities.

    These sessions were designed to be small-group discussions with stakeholders who practice in these interest areas, and to help prepare for community-wide engagement. The presentations and the feedback received from these sessions are linked below. This feedback does not carry importance or priority over feedback the Framework will receive at upcoming community engagement events that involve the public, community organizations, and other stakeholders.

  • September 2024 Update to the Board of Supervisors

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    In September 2024, staff submitted a Memorandum (Memo) to the Board of Supervisors (Board) with an update on the Framework, including Focus Areas, Goals, and Objectives. No action was needed from the Board, and staff will continue working with the Framework by moving into the next phase and creating Approaches & Mechanisms. The September 2024 Memo and Attachments are linked and shared below:

    Want to quickly check out the Framework's Focus Areas, Goals, and Objectives? You can read them by going here.

  • Stakeholder Group & Community Planning Group Meetings

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    Five stakeholder groups representing Land Development, the Building Industry Association (BIA),Environmental Coalition, Labor Union, and Farm Bureau, along with several Community Planning Groups are receiving updates on the Sustainable Land Use Framework.

    The presentation slides and the one-pager these groups received can be found on the right in the "Key Dates & Milestones" section as well as included below.

    Link to the Presentation

    One-Pager:


    Raw text from the one-pager is copied below for translation purposes


    The Sustainable Land Use Framework

    What is the Sustainable Land Use Framework?
    The Sustainable Land Use Framework (Framework) strives to identify where and how development can occur sustainably and equitably and provide a comprehensive and holistic approach to address the housing crisis, transportation, human health and equity, economic prosperity, climate, the natural environment, and natural hazards such as wildfire.

    Focus Areas, Goals, and Objectives
    The Framework’s Focus Areas and the drafted Goals & Objectives were created in collaboration with the community, County departments, and other stakeholders. The Goals & Objectives are under review and may change prior to being finalized and shared with the Board of Supervisors in summer 2024.

    Focus Areas (bolded) & Draft Goal Draft Objectives

    Housing

    Accessible, Inclusive, and Sustainable Housing
    • Increase the Availability and Affordability of Housing
    • Increase Mixed-Income Housing and Communities
    • Create Sustainable and Resilient Housing
    • Reduce Regulatory and Municipal Service Barriers to Sustainable Housing
    • Protect Against Displacement

    Transportation

    Equitable, Sustainable Transportation Options
    • Increase Rural Accessibility to Decarbonized Modes of Transportation.
    • Facilitate Sustainable and Complete Community Development.
    • Increase Efficient and Accessible Active Transportation (e.g., walking, biking, rolling)
    • Increase Connectivity and Development Within and Between Transportation-Efficient Areas

    Human Health & Equity

    Equitable, Inclusive, & Adaptable Planning
    • Provide Equal Access to Decision-Making Processes
    • Ensure Shelter is Available to All
    • Protect and Improve Accessibility to Basic Human Needs (e.g., healthy air, water, food)
    • Expand and Enhance Community Amenities to Increase Cultural Cohesion (e.g., parks, community centers, community gardens)
    • Preserve Historic and Cultural Communities to Deter Displacement
    • Streamline Accessibility to Quality Goods and Services

    Economic Strength

    Environmentally Sustainable Local Business Growth and Employment
    • Increase and Encourage Green Economic Opportunities
    • Preserve Agricultural and Working Lands and Associated Workforce Opportunities
    • Incentivize Locally Owned Businesses and Local Commercial Areas to Serve Communities
    • Promote Circular Economies and Efficient Use of Resources

    Natural Environment

    Sustainably Functional Natural Environments
    • Protect, Restore, and Enhance the Function of the Natural Environment
    • Ensure Equitable and Sustainable Access to Natural Spaces and Resources
    • Create and Maintain Space for Connected Natural Networks and Diverse Habitats
    • Integrate Innovative and/or Nature-Based Infrastructure Into Urban and Built Environments

    Natural Hazards

    Wildfire & Hazard Resiliency
    • Assess Natural Hazards (e.g., wildfire, heat, flood) and Develop Strategies to Reduce Risk
    • Integrate Nature-Based and Innovative Solutions to Reduce Vulnerabilities and Exposure to Hazards
    • Ensure Development is Informed by Potential Hazards
    • Build Resilience with Communities in Hazard Areas

    Climate

    Climate Mitigation & Adaptation
    • Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Human Activities
    • Promote Sustainable Living
    • Advance Transition to Efficient and Renewable Energy
    • Create Communities that are Adaptable and Resilient to the Impacts of Climate Change
    • Expand Carbon Capture and Storage


    Framework Timeline

    2023 2024 2025
    Sustainable Land Use Principles (Sustainability Principles) Focus Areas, Goals, and Objectives
    		 Approaches, Mechanisms,
    and Options

    Board of Supervisors - Preliminary Approval of Sustainability Principles

    Completed March 2023

    Board of Supervisors - Informational

    Upcoming - Summer 2024

    Board of Supervisors - Selection of Options and Implementation Mechanisms

    Pending Recommendation

    Note: Dates and details are subject to change


    Questions? Email Julie Marlett at JulieK.Marlett@sdcounty.ca.gov

  • Sustainable Land Use Framework (Framework) Workshops

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    Dear Interested Stakeholder,

    We want to hear from you! The County of San Diego Planning & Development Services (PDS) invites you to attend three public workshops to discuss the Sustainable Land Use Framework (Framework) and the advancement of the Sustainable Land Use Principles into measurable and actionable Goals and Objectives. The intent of the Framework is to identify where and how development can occur sustainably and equitably. It will also provide a comprehensive and equitable approach to address land use, non-renewable resources, and quality of life. The Framework will ensure that growth occurs in a manner that addresses the climate crisis, with consideration of the housing crisis, transportation, human health and equity, economic prosperity and longevity, the natural environment, natural hazards such as wildfire, and climate resiliency and adaptation.

    Each workshop will be unique. During the first workshop, we will discuss the Goals and Objectives that address Housing and Transportation. During our second workshop, we will discuss the Goals and Objectives that address Economic Strength and Human Health & Equity. During the third workshop, we will discuss the Goals and Objectives that address the Natural Environment, Climate, and Natural Hazards.

    We genuinely value your input and welcome your thoughts on the Framework. We also want to know how you would like to be involved and which organizations, agencies, communities, and stakeholders you would like to see included. We look forward to your valuable insights and contributions at these workshops. See you there!

    Save the Dates:

    Workshop 1: Housing and Transportation

    April 3, 2024 at 6:00 PM (Virtual Workshop)

    Can be accessed at the link below:

    https://bit.ly/zoom-framework1

    Meeting ID: 838 8461 3717

    Passcode: 894943

    Workshop 2: Economic Strength and Human Health & Equity

    April 17, 2024 at 6:00 PM (Virtual Workshop)

    Can be accessed at the link below:

    https://bit.ly/zoom-framework2

    Meeting ID: 884 2255 5983

    Passcode: 405484

    Workshop 3: Natural Environment, Climate, and Natural Hazards

    May 1, 2024 at 6:00 PM (Virtual Workshop)

    Can be accessed at the link below:

    https://bit.ly/zoom-framework3

    Meeting ID: 883 5914 8982

    Passcode: 869729

    If you would like interpretation services available at the meeting, please contact Paola Garcia-Betancourt in your preferred language at paola.garcia-betancourt@sdcounty.ca.gov by March 25, 2024, for the first workshop, April 3, 2024, for the second workshop, and April 17, 2024, for the third workshop.

    Please help us spread the word - share this message with your friends and colleagues!

    If you have any questions, please contact the Sustainable Land Use Framework team at PDS.LongRangePlanning@sdcounty.ca.gov or at the following phone number: (858) 505-6677

  • Public Meetings Coming 10/18 & 10/25!

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    Overview of the Development Feasibility Analysis (DFA)

    Dear Interested Stakeholder,

    We want to hear from you! The County of San Diego Planning & Development Services (PDS) invites you to attend two public meetings to discuss the Development Feasibility Analysis (DFA) project. Both meetings will cover the same content, offering an overview and updates on this effort.

    The primary objective of the DFA project is to explore practical strategies for facilitating residential development in key vehicle miles traveled (VMT) efficient and infill areas. We have identified four initial communities – Buena Creek, Casa de Oro North, El Cajon/Lakeside, and Spring Valley – based on location, funding opportunities, alignment with other County initiatives, and environmental justice considerations.

    The outcome of the DFA’s effort will be a resource for the Board of Supervisors to better understand development feasibility challenges and provide actionable strategies to help address the County’s critical housing needs in alignment with the County’s broader goal of building housing the right places in a sustainable way.

    Additionally, County staff are pursuing a federal funding opportunity to finance the project. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is offering funding through the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO Housing) grant. We have posted the grant application on our website (below) and we are asking for public comment. We will be collecting feedback via email or comment at our virtual public meetings.

    We genuinely value your input and welcome your thoughts on the DFA project. We're interested in hearing how you'd like to be involved and which organizations, agencies, communities, and stakeholders we should engage with. We look forward to your valuable insights and contributions at these meetings. See you there!

    Save the Dates:

    Meeting 1: October 18, 2023, at 6:00 PM (Virtual Meeting)

    Can be accessed at the link below:

    https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82803174165?pwd=tBTh10zNbMRlrwzQLf3dAIn01x5w7v.1

    Meeting ID: 828 0317 4165

    Passcode: 330775

    Meeting 2: October 25, 2023, at 6:00PM (Virtual Meeting)

    Can be accessed at the link below:

    https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86384880212?pwd=kOPyvZy6Xbmle4J69oV0aoMPlJKxkz.1

    Meeting ID: 863 8488 0212

    Passcode: 587872

    If you would like interpretation services available at the meeting, please contact Paola Garcia-Betancourt in your preferred language at paola.garcia-betancourt@sdcounty.ca.gov by October 12, 2023.

    Please help us spread the word - share this message with your friends and colleagues! 

    For more information about the Project, please visit this link: Project Website

    If you have any questions, please contact Paola Garcia-Betancourt at Paola.Garcia-Betancourt@sdcounty.ca.gov or at the following phone number: (858) 505-6677



Page last updated: 17 Mar 2026, 02:12 PM