Novato 2035 General Plan Update Draft EIR

The City of Novato is implementing the Novato General Plan 2035, specifically focusing on a Safety Element update to comply with Section 65302(g) of the California Government Code. This programmatic update establishes policies and implementation actions to address climate change adaptation, resilience, and natural hazards, including sea level rise, flooding, seismic hazards, extreme heat, and fire risks. The project also requires a climate change vulnerability assessment and an evaluation of residential areas with evacuation constraints. As a programmatic document, the update provides strategic safety and resilience frameworks without increasing the city's development capacity. The project is managed by the City of Novato Community Development Department and adheres to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Key deliverables include an Environmental Impact Report (EIR), an Addendum to the existing General Plan EIR, a mitigation reporting and monitoring plan, and a statement of overriding considerations. The project has citywide applicability within Novato, Marin County, and was approved on December 9, 2025. Administrative oversight is provided by the Planning Manager, and the project is tracked under State Clearinghouse number 2016122043.