Battery Energy Storage Systems Zoning Ordinance

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The County is taking steps to guide the safe and responsible growth of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). By developing clear standards for BESS through a Zoning Ordinance amendment, we aim to:

  • Define what types of uses are allowed

  • Identify where facilities can be located

  • Reduce potential impacts on surrounding areas

  • Explore incentives for placing facilities in certain locations

  • Allow flexibility to support new and emerging technologies

These standards will help protect nearby communities and encourage innovation. The County is seeking input from residents and local partners to ensure the standards reflect community needs.

How can you participate in the process? 

  • Follow this project and receive regular status updates  

  • Comment on draft materials when released 

  • Attend public meetings

  • Ask questions


The County is taking steps to guide the safe and responsible growth of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). By developing clear standards for BESS through a Zoning Ordinance amendment, we aim to:

  • Define what types of uses are allowed

  • Identify where facilities can be located

  • Reduce potential impacts on surrounding areas

  • Explore incentives for placing facilities in certain locations

  • Allow flexibility to support new and emerging technologies

These standards will help protect nearby communities and encourage innovation. The County is seeking input from residents and local partners to ensure the standards reflect community needs.

How can you participate in the process? 

  • Follow this project and receive regular status updates  

  • Comment on draft materials when released 

  • Attend public meetings

  • Ask questions


  • August & September 2026 Webinar Registration

    We will be hosting two public meetings on the draft BESS Zoning Ordinance. 

    Join us to learn more about the draft ordinance and give feedback.

    Session Information 

    Please note that each meeting will cover the same material. 

    August Virtual Public Meeting 

    Thursday, August 27 at 12:00 p.m. 

    Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83821996822 


    September Virtual Public Meeting 

    Thursday, September 17 at 6:00 p.m. 

    Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87632623299 


    Let us know if you will be joining us and request language and accessibility services below. 

    Disability-related modifications or accommodations necessary to facilitate participation in this virtual meeting, language interpretation, including American Sign Language, and written materials in languages and formats are available upon request. Please submit your request at least one week in advance through this form or email PDS.LongRangePlanning@sdcounty.ca.gov. 

    Complete Form
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  • CLOSED: This webinar has been completed.

    November 2025 Webinar Registration (Closed)

    Thank you to everyone who attended the webinar! 

    During this webinar, County staff:  

    • Provided an overview of prior efforts related to BESS standards 
    • Discussed potential standards to be included in the ordinance  
    • Collected initial feedback on potential Zoning Ordinance standards for locating, designing, and building BESS facilities.

    Missed the meeting? The recording, presentation slides, and public comment virtual whiteboard are now available. 



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Page last updated: 21 Aug 2026, 10:39 AM