Definitions

Environmental Terms

Learn more about environmental terms, such as California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Categorical Exemption.

Glossary

This glossary is provided to give general definitions for some of the terms commonly used in the planning process. Additional terms are defined in the county's general plan, Area Plans, Land Use Ordinance, Real Property Division Ordinance, Building and Construction Ordinance, and other related documents.

Land Use Entitlements

Land use permits require either a discretionary or a ministerial decision. The following land use entitlements can be processed with a land use permit application:

Subdivision Entitlements

The following subdivision entitlements can be processed with a land division application:

Permit Types

Learn more about permit terms, such as Coastal Development Plan, Discretionary Permit, and General Plan Amendment.