Land-use glossary
Rezone
Also: Zone change · Zoning map amendment
A change to the zoning that applies to a piece of land, which changes what can be built or operated there.
Every parcel in a city or unincorporated county area sits in a zone, such as single-family residential, commercial or industrial. The zone sets what uses are allowed and the basic standards for buildings: height, density, setbacks and parking.
A rezone moves land from one zone to another. Because it changes the law that applies to the land, it is a legislative act: the planning commission makes a recommendation and the city council or board of supervisors decides, usually by adopting an ordinance that takes effect 30 days after its second reading.
Rezones often travel with a general plan amendment, because California requires zoning to be consistent with the general plan.
What to look for on the agenda
- The current and proposed zones, and what the new zone would allow that the old one didn't
- Whether a general plan amendment or specific plan is part of the same request
- The environmental (CEQA) document the decision relies on
- Whether the council action is the first or second reading of the ordinance
Where the rules come from: Cal. Gov. Code §65800 et seq. (zoning) and each city's zoning ordinance. Each city's own code adds its details.
Related terms
A general explainer, not legal advice. How we work.