Our Issue: Minimum parcel size required in order to rezone to the timber production zone.

As it stands now, applications for rezoning to TP under current rules (minimum acreage at 5 acres) need to be in by September 21, 2007. 

After this date, landowners will need to own 40 acres or more to rezone to TP. In the future, the Board of Supervisors claim that you may still be able to rezone to TPZ if you own less than 40 acres. This would be on a case by case basis, and given the track record of the Board on this issue, it seems highly unlikely. The only scenario we could realistically see approved is if you already own a TP parcel, and wish to rezone an ADJACENT parcel (under the same ownership) to TP.

The application process entails going to Planning Department with $1500 deposit (per application) and someone will enter your info into the computer. No appointment is needed.  
The Timber Management Plan required for rezoning needs to be submitted by Dec. 31, 2007.  The timber management plan needs to be developed by an RPF (Registered Professional Forester) - this is typically a short report where the forester describes the forest resource, and certifies that the land is capable of producing forest products. Foresters are busy right now, so you need to get on your forester’s calendar.

Subsequent time to schedule the Planning and B.O.S. Meetings will not effect the status of the application. 

If you even think you might want to harvest timber in the future, or if you have other reasons for rezoning like qualifying for lower property taxes, apply for the rezoning to get yourself in the queue.  It will be easier to withdraw from the queue than to get in too late. (Don’t expect a refund if you ultimately opt not to rezone.)

If you desire to harvest, then rezone, but you should also check with the County about how this TP zoning would limit future projects such as developing homesites, or any other projects you may consider in the future.

The planning department has sent a letter to all possibly affected landowners  informing them of the new rules and of the grace period.

Download letter (PDF)
Zoning Letter 9/21/07 (PDF)
Negative Declaration 10/22/07 (PDF)

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