What is a General Plan?

The General Plan is the document guiding all new development in the City of Lancaster. See General Plan Basics for more information.

Why should I get involved in the General Plan Update?

By getting involved in the General Plan Update process you can help guide the future of your city. See Get Involved for more information.

What is a General Plan element?

Each component or “element” of the General Plan focuses on a specific topic. The Lancaster General Plan includes ten elements: community vision, natural environment, active living, physical development, physical mobility, public health/ safety, economic development and vitality, municipal services and facilities, community design, and housing.

What is a land use designation?

The General Plan designates different types of land uses, such as, residential, commercial, industrial, and parks/ recreational facilities for different areas of the City. Each land use designation will also identify standards for population density and/or building intensity.

What is the difference between zoning and land use?

The General Plan is a long-term document for the general types and location of future development. Zoning provides site-specific standards for development, including a list of uses that are allowed in each zone, density, lot size, set backs, and other standards. All development must comply with both zoning and the General Plan.

Will my zoning be changed?

This General Plan process will not directly change your zoning, but it may be changed at a later date for consistency with the General Plan Update.

Will my General Plan land use designation be changed?

The existing adopted land use will be evaluated to determine changes appropriate to carry out the goals and visions incorporated into the updated General Plan. Changes in land use will focus on comprehensive community planning, rather than site-specific development.

Who will conduct the update process?

The Planning Department is taking the lead on the Lancaster General Plan 2030 Update process with assistance from other City departments and local, county, and state agencies. A consultant team, RBF Consulting, has been hired to assist with the workshops, preparation of the General Plan document and Environmental Impact Report.

Will I receive notices to all meeting and workshops?

Notices will be mailed or emailed to individuals that have requested them, in addition they will be posted on this website. Click here to request to be on the General Plan mailing list.

Where can I get more information?

For more information contact: Dave Ledbetter, Planning Department at (661) 723-6248.