On June 13th, 2024, the California Coastal Commission (CCC) unanimously certified an amendment to the Estero Area Plan (EAP) with suggested modifications, based on the Los Osos Community Plan. The new policies and regulations of the amendment do not take effect unless the Board of Supervisors takes action to accept the suggested modifications and the CCC subsequently takes final action, recognizing the Board of Supervisors’ acceptance of the suggested modifications.

Key policies and regulations from CCC’s June 13th action:

• Residential growth rate cap to be 1% of total residential dwelling units
• Requirement for development to comply with the community-wide Los Osos Habitat Conservation Plan (LOHCP) and Incidental Take Permit
• Requirement for development to be served by a sustainable wastewater treatment system (such as the Los Osos sewer)

BMC and water purveyor staff will be working with the County to develop amendments to the Growth Management Ordinance for Los Osos that will include the continuation of the water neutral development requirements (2:1 offset per Title 19) and other safeguards to ensure the sustainability of the groundwater basin.

The Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing in October 29,  2024 to consider the CCC suggested modifications for the Estero Area Plan amendment and amendment to the Los Osos section of Title 26 which will codify the recommended growth rate implementation approach in the Growth Management Ordinance. If the modifications to the Estero Area Plan are approved by the Board of Supervisors, the final plan will return to the CCC for final action, probably sometime before the end of 2024.

For general Los Osos inquiries and as it relates to LOCP, the Growth Management Ordinance or the Habitat Conservation Plan, please see the County website: https://www.slocounty.ca.gov/departments/planning-building/grid-items/community-engagement/active-planning-projects/los-osos-community-plan-update

Upcoming Meetings and Town Hall 

• September 26, 2024: LOCAC General Council meeting
• October 5, 2024: Los Osos “town hall” community meeting
• October 8, 2024: County Board of Supervisors meeting – Introduction for ordinances relating to Los Osos growth rate and Los Osos Habitat Conservation Plan fees (consent agenda)
• October 24, 2024: LOCAC General Council meeting
• October 29, 2024: County Board of Supervisors meeting – Hearing to consider acceptance of California Coastal Commission’s suggested modifications, amendment to Los Osos Community Plan, establishment of Los Osos growth rate and protocols for implementation of the “Los Osos Waitlist to Build”, and implementation of Los Osos Habitat Conservation Plan
• December 2024 (Tentative): California Coastal Commission meeting to consider County Board of Supervisors action