Key Terms

Moving or reshaping the ground—such as cutting into hillsides or leveling land—typically to prepare for construction, farming, or roads. 

The removal of vegetation—such as grass, shrubs, or trees—from land, often as a first step before grading or development. 

A public report that looks at how a proposed project might affect the environment. It helps to inform the public of the environmental effects of a project and ensures the County makes informed decisions. 

Lands consist of wetlands, floodplains, steep slope lands, sensitive habitat lands, and lands containing significant prehistoric and historic sites. See the Chapter 6. Resource Protection Ordinance (RPO).

These are areas the County has identified in its Housing Element as suitable for new housing to meet state-mandated goals. 

A County law that supports preservation and protection of the County’s unique topography, natural beauty, diversity and natural resources by requiring protections for Environmentally Sensitive Lands (defined above). See the Chapter 6. Resource Protection Ordinance (RPO).