City of Petaluma General Plan Update

The City of Petaluma is undertaking a General Plan Update to replace the General Plan 2025, establishing a comprehensive 25-year framework for land use, resource decisions, and sustainable growth. This programmatic effort focuses on aligning community goals with contemporary state laws and emerging trends, specifically addressing greenhouse gas reduction targets and land use management. The project is centered on the preparation and certification of a programmatic Environmental Impact Report (EIR) in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which allows for tiered environmental reviews of future development projects. Key project requirements include extensive regulatory compliance and inter-agency coordination. The process involves detailed biological resource assessments under the California Endangered Species Act and the Fish and Game Code, as well as mandatory tribal consultations pursuant to AB 52 and SB 18 to protect cultural resources. The City of Petaluma serves as the lead agency, with the project being executed in Petaluma, California. Primary deliverables include the updated General Plan and a Final Environmental Impact Report featuring a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program. The project is managed by the Community Development Department, with a focus on mitigating impacts to air quality, water supply, and sensitive habitats.