Carlsbad, CA
Home MenuPlanning Codes, Standards & Policies
Below are links to Planning codes and policies that may have a significant design impact on a project. The intent of the codes and policies is to assist developers with a clear direction for design and review of projects within the city.
Codes
Codes are adopted by ordinance and are the law. All development proposals are subject to the Carlsbad Municipal Code Title 21 (Zoning Ordinance). Some, but not all, development proposals will be subject to a variety of other codes adopted by the City of Carlsbad or other agency.
- Title 19 (Environment)
- Title 20 (Subdivisions)
- Title 21 (Zoning)
- California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan for McClellan-Palomar Airport- Climate Action Plan (2020)
- Climate Action Plan Compliance
- El Camino Real Corridor Standards
- Guidance to Demonstrating Consistency with the Climate Action Plan P-31
- Habitat Management Plan
- Landscape Manual
- Local Coastal Program
- Noise Guidelines Manual
- Open Space Management Plan
- South Carlsbad Coastal Redevelopment Plan
- Zoning Requirements Summary
Policies
Policies are adopted by resolution and include development guidelines. These policies are not "law," but are often an interpretation of the law that provide clarity regarding the city's desired direction. Policies are applied citywide. The policies most commonly applied to development are listed below.
- Applicant Resources (IB-110)
- Carlsbad Tribal, Cultural and Paleontological Resources Guidelines
- Carlsbad Village Decorative Lighting Study
- Council Policy 43 - Excess Dwelling Units
- Council Policy 44 - Small Lot Guidelines
- Council Policy 64 - Wireless Communication Facilities
- Council Policy 84 - Development Project Public Involvement Policy
- Guide to Measuring Building Height
- Hillside Development Guidelines
- Planning Division Policy 35 - Discretionary Permit Consistency Determinations
- Planning Division Policy 37 - Infill Development