Breadth of Experience - Depth of PerspectiveWe help clients solve the puzzle of California land use and environmental regulation. Our logo says how we do it. We open the box, examine all its dimensions, unfold its possibilities, make new connections and open new pathways. We are committed to help create a more just and sustainable future. Our practice is values-based on the ethical standards of both the legal and the planning professions. |
Land Use
and Use Regulation in California encompasses General and Specific Plan Adoption and Amendments, Zoning Ordinances, Conditional Use Permits, Variances, Subdivision Maps, Development Agreements, Mitigation Fee Act Compliance, Reimbursement Agreements, Annexations and special district formation through local government proceedings as well as voter initiative and referendum. Specialized processes frequently come into play in different areas of the state or when particular issues are involved. such as the Coastal Zone, Lake Tahoe region, Bay-Delta area, surface mining, air and water quality regulation, habitat protection, airports, fire safety, flood control.
Comprehensive knowledge, technical proficiency and political sensitivity are all critical to success.
Environment
n our extensive experience with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in both entitlements and litigation we have effectively represented local governments, project applicants and project opponents - providing a uniquely balanced and consistent perspective. We focus on Climate Change & Sustainability and closely track greenhouse gas emission reduction, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32), and CEQA Guidelines revisions for global warming effects by the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) required by SB 97. The new law to address the global warming effects of land use at the state, regional and local levels, and integrate transportation and housing planning under SB 375 is a key interest. Flood control planning issues, air and water quality regulation and mechanisms for preservation of agricultural land, habitat and open space conservation are additional areas of our practice. Real Estate
eal Estate law underpins all land use and environmental law and regulation. Title, ownership, sales and leasing, options, boundary issues, access questions, business entity formation for development, tax and estate planning considerations, oil and gas and other mineral rights, water rights, all play key roles in how land is used and managed over time. The complexities of real estate finance and property appraisal, assessment and taxation also are major factors. Few land use firms bring familiarity with the transactional, business and economics issues with land use and environmental analysis. We do, and it makes a significant difference in the way we approach problems that our clients appreciate.
Latest Posts to the California Land Use Blog
Joel Ellinwood is a member of the following professional organizations: | |
 | The American Institute of Certified Planners |
The American Planning Association |  |
 | California Chapter of the APA |
United States Green Building Council |  |
| Green Building Certification Institute |
| Urban Land Institute Sacramento District Council |  |
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