Project Status Descriptions

Application Review [App Review]

The first stage of the process, application review, occurs after an application has been submitted along with associated fees and documents. Planning & Zoning Services accepts the application and assigns a Project Number and Staff Lead. The application and attachments are reviewed for completeness and the applicant notified if any additional documentation regarding the application will be required at this time.

Application Review Committee [ARC Review]

In this stage of the process, the application is routed to the Application Review Committee (ARC). The ARC meets to allow review agencies to discuss and gather input regarding an application’s compliance with applicable ordinances and development requirements. Agency review comments are consolidated and shared with the applicant, who then has the opportunity to work with staff and update the application based on feedback received. Some applications may result in multiple ARC reviews, meetings, and revisions. The application and associated documentation regarding the project will be published to the Orange County website.

Town Hall [Town Hall (if applicable)]

The applicant may desire to hold a Community Meeting (aka Town Hall) before official public hearings. At this stage of the process, a project has been scheduled for a Community Meeting/Town Hall. These meetings are attended by the applicant and the public. Community Meetings are meant to provide interested parties more information regarding the project, and to answer any questions which may arise. The district Planning Commissioner, Staff Lead, and other relevant staff may attend. While County staff may assist with scheduling the meeting and meeting logistics, the meeting is hosted by the applicant, who is responsible for presenting the project information at the meeting.

Staff Report Preparation [Staff Report]

At this stage of the process, staff is drafting a written report for the project. The report provides detailed information regarding the characteristics and details of the application, analysis of impacts, supporting information, and staff recommendations.  When finalized, this report will be provided to the Planning Commission, Board of Supervisors, and posted for public review. It should be noted that ordinance amendments initiated by the County will not have a staff report under most circumstances.

Planning Commission Hearing [PC Hearing]

Legislative applications (rezonings, comprehensive plan amendments, special use permits, etc.) and ordinance amendments require two public hearings. The first is held by the Planning Commission (PC). At this stage, a PC hearing has been scheduled. At the PC hearing, the project and staff report will be presented by staff. The applicant will also be able to address the Commission regarding the request. After staff and the applicant have addressed the PC, a public hearing will be opened for public comments to the Commission regarding the request. Following the hearing, the Commission will make a recommendation of approval or denial to the Board of Supervisors. In some cases, when additional time or information may be needed, the Planning Commission may defer action on the matter to a future meeting.

Board of Supervisors' Hearing [BOS Hearing]

The Board of Supervisors (BOS) holds the second of two required public hearings. At this stage, a BOS hearing has been scheduled. At the BOS hearing, the project will be presented by staff, noting recommendations by both the PC and staff. The applicant will also be able to address the Board regarding the request. After staff and the applicant have addressed the BOS, a public hearing will be opened where members of the public will be able to address the Board regarding the request. Following the hearing, the Board will approve or deny the application. When additional time or information may be needed, the BOS may defer their decision to a future meeting.