Land Use Element and Safety Element Draft Program Environmental Impact Report

The City of Ferndale is undertaking a comprehensive update to its land use framework by adopting an addendum to the certified Program Environmental Impact Report and amending its Zoning Map and Zoning Ordinance to align with the 2024 General Plan Land Use Element and current California housing laws. This initiative involves revising 31 parcels on the zoning map and updating multiple articles of the zoning ordinance to enhance consistency, clarify definitions, and modernize development standards. Key changes include the removal of obsolete zoning categories such as RS, R4, and CAG, the introduction of flag lot standards, and the revision of terms related to dwellings, families, and employee housing. Residential zones R2 and R3 are updated to permit multiple dwellings and dwelling groups, while commercial zones C1 and C2 now allow residential uses above the ground floor by right and on the ground floor with a use permit. Employee housing is newly designated as a permitted or conditional use in several zones and combining districts. The amendments also introduce new objective design criteria, adjust yard, height, and density standards, and make technical corrections across Articles 3 through 7 to ensure compatibility with state mandates including CEQA, SB 375, and the Sixth Cycle Housing Element. The project, managed by the City of Ferndale as the lead agency, is focused on regulatory compliance and land use planning rather than traditional procurement or contractual execution. There is no assigned solicitation number, contract value, or federal acquisition regulation structure, and the effort does not involve bidding, evaluation factors, or contractor selection. Financial transactions are limited to environmental filing fees paid to state agencies such as the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and payments are made by check, cash, or credit. The primary point of contact is the City Clerk, with additional coordination through PlanWest Partners. All documents related to the environmental review, zoning amendments, and public notices are filed and made accessible at Ferndale City Hall in the 95536 ZIP code, with electronic availability via the city’s official website. The work is governed strictly by California environmental and land use statutes, with no federal contract clauses, delivery requirements, or invoicing systems applicable. The adoption of these amendments represents a strategic effort by the city to support housing goals, improve regulatory compliance, and respond to evolving state housing policies while maintaining local planning authority.