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Project Overview
Background
Due to the ongoing housing crisis, California enacted laws to increase housing supply and reduce obstacles to housing production and streamline housing development projects. These laws include Senate Bill 35 and Senate Bill 330, which mandate housing development projects to be reviewed against objective design standards (ODS).
To respond to this, the City of Ventura’s Housing Element requires the creation of ODS specifically via Program 18 (Infill First Strategy), Program 24 (Affordable Housing Overlay), and Program 28 (Streamlined Processing Procedures).
What are Objective Design Standards (ODS)?
Objective design standards are clear, measurable standards used by local agencies to regulate development without relying on subjective judgement.
The purpose of City of Ventura’s ODS is to establish a clear set of architectural and site design requirements for new multifamily, mixed-use and commercial developments. The standards must be measurable, quantifiable, easily defined, and enforceable.
The ODS are a powerful tool that allow communities to respond to State housing laws while simultaneously defining City design characteristics such that new developments attract visual interest and positively contribute to the city's urban fabric and economic vitality.
Applicability Map
The ODS apply to R-3 (Multifamily), R-P-D(Residential Planned Development), C-1 (Limited Commercial), C-1-A (Intermediate Commercial), C-2 (General Commercial), and M-X-D (Mixed-Use), HMXD (Harbor Mixed-Use), CMXD (Coastal Mixed-Use) projects. The Ventura Applicability Map below highlights areas in the City of Ventura that are applicable to the ODS. Note: Single-family parcels utilizing SB9 to build duplexes shall utilize the objective design standards for a ministerial approval process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Development Standards, Design Guidelines, and Objective Design Standards?
Development Standards: Provisions that apply to a development within a particular zone, such as height limits, setbacks, and FAR.
Ex. “Primary building front setback: 10 feet minimum; 20 feet maximum.”
Design Guidelines: Subjective design parameters for development to describe design intent.
Ex. “Wall Openings: shaped frames and sills should be used to enhance openings and add additional relief.”
Objective Design Standards: measurable and quantifiable design requirements for any project that shall be affirmatively addressed by project applicants.
Ex. “Dwelling units that abut a public right-of-way shall orient the primary entryway toward the public street.”
What is the timeline for the project completion?
Please see the project schedule section.
What type of projects do Ventura ODS apply to?
ODS apply to the following project types:
- Multifamily (2 or more units)
- Mixed-Use
- Commercial
The ODS do not apply to:
- Single-family homes (Note: Single-family parcels utilizing SB9 to build duplexes shall utilize the objective design standards for a ministerial approval process.)
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Industrial uses
How will the new objective design standards work with existing specific plans, design guidelines, and overlays?
As presently formulated, the ODS takes precedence. Multifamily, mixed-use, and commercial projects that choose to forego the ministerial design approval process offered through ODS are subject to the existing standards and guidelines and a discretionary approval process.
How can I share my thoughts on the ODS before it is adopted?
A few ways!
- A Public Review Draft of the ODS will be uploaded to this Project Engagement Hub from early July through late August, where anyone can provide comments on the draft document.
- Come to a public meeting and share your thoughts in person! Please see the Share Your Voice section for the upcoming engagement schedule.
Get Involved!
For project updates, please visit the project web page at cityofventura.ca.gov/ODS
Have a question or want to provide feedback? Email the project team at ODSVentura@cityofventura.ca.gov
Click the button below to stay informed and involved by signing up to receive email updates about the Ventura ODS project.