Kern County General Plan - Chapter 1, Land Use - County of Kern

Map Code 5.7 (5.0 Gross Acres/Dwelling Unit Maximum) - Designated in the outlying,
less densely settled areas, often characterized with physical constraints and not
requiring connections to public water and sewer infrastructure.
Map Code 5.75 (10.0 Gross Acres/DU Maximum) B Designated in the outlying, less
densely settled areas, often characterized by areas with physical constraints and
not requiring connections to public water and sewer infrastructure.
Map Code 5.8 (20+ Gross Acres/DU Maximum) - Designated in the outlying, less
densely settled areas, often characterized by physical constraints and not requiring
connections to public water and sewer infrastructure.
POLICIES: RESIDENTIAL
1. Varied approaches to residential development will be actively encouraged and
given favorable consideration, in order to foster a variety of housing types and
densities and a more efficient use of the land, while preserving the character of
individual communities.
2. The County will encourage the creation of residential developments as provided for
in the Cluster Combining District of the Zoning Ordinance as a means of preserving
open space.
3. Owners of individual legal residentially zoned lots of record will, in any event, retain
the right to develop a housing unit structure regardless of the General Plan
designation, provided County development ordinance criteria are met.
4. Limited neighborhood type of commercial uses will be permitted in all residential
map code designations provided that the specific commercial use being proposed
is determined through site review to be of a neighborhood nature and appropriate
and compatible with surrounding uses provided findings of consistency with the
policies and provisions of this plan are met.
5. Discourage premature urban encroachment into areas of intense agriculture areas.
6. Encourage mixed-use developments that allow residential use of the upper levels of
multistory commercial buildings.
7. The County shall offer density incentives for residential projects that provide desired
elements including infrastructure, affordable housing, day care, and clustered
development.
8. The extent, type, and location of new residential development designated by the
plan will be in accordance with the goals and objectives of the Housing Element.
9. Development in areas without adequate infrastructure or development that places a
burden on public services (i.e. fire, sheriff, parks, and libraries) shall be
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