Conditional Use Permit#25-0007 / Initial Study #25-0017 Don Whitacre

Conditional Use Permit 25-0007 and Initial Study 25-0017 authorize Don Whitacre to construct and operate a new residential water well at 915 Mesquite Road in Ocotillo, California. The project is designed to supply a future 50 by 50 foot barndominium home with a projected maximum annual water extraction of one acre-foot. The site is located within a Low Density Residential Zone (R-1) and is governed by the Ocotillo/Nomirage Community Area Plan. The Imperial County Planning Commission approved the project on September 24, 2025, following an environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) which resulted in a Negative Declaration, indicating no significant environmental impacts. The project must adhere to strict technical and regulatory standards, including California Well standards and Imperial County Land Use Ordinances regarding groundwater and water well regulations. Because the site is in Seismic Zone D, all development must comply with the latest California Building Code for earthquake resistance. Additional requirements include the submission of a drill log from a California licensed well driller and a grading and drainage letter approved by the Imperial County Department of Public Works. Administrative costs are managed via a time track billing system through the Imperial County Planning and Development Services Department.