Objective Design Standards

The Oakley Planning Division is currently working to establish Residential Objective Design Standards following a set of of goals established within Oakley’s recent Housing Element Update. Objective Design Standards (ODS) are a set of measurable, verifiable, and known standards that local agencies use to regulate development.  For any questions, please contact Associate Planner Evan Gorman at 925-625-7160.

The Oakley Planning Division welcomes you to meet with our team on the topic of Objective Design Standards on October 16, 2024. We’ll meet at 6:30 PM at the Oakley Recreation Center, located at 1250 O’Hara Ave.

Over the last several years, the California State Legislature has passed laws intended to smooth out the process of building housing in all cities, counties and municipalities. We want to ensure that any development fits in with our existing neighborhoods while providing a nice place to live for our new neighbors.

Cities typically have Residential Design Standards, which are guidelines that set the layout and look of new housing to ensure there’s proper access for both residents and emergency services. We also want to ensure that the buildings are of a high-quality design and that amenities such as walking paths and recreational areas are provided for residents where possible. A few of the recent State laws aimed at boosting housing production have asked cities to create guidelines that 1) are straightforward and can not be applied based on the opinion of decision makers, 2) can be checked ahead of time by looking at clear, set rules, and 3) are easily available to both the person applying to build housing and the plan reviewers.

Good City Planning starts with our residents. As we work to update our standards to meet the State requirement, we want your input and need your design sense. Please think of things you like about neighborhood design, think of your favorite homes or other residential buildings around the State, and feel free to bring pictures of your favorite places to share with us.

Damos la bienvenida a los que hablan español.