FAQs
- How far wineries should be from nearby homes (setbacks)
- Operating hours
- Rules for parking, noise, and access
- Ways to protect natural resources like land and water
- Local wine industry trends
- Environmental and zoning factors
- Market opportunities for small wineries
- Maps of areas that could work for new wineries
Why is this project happening?
Right now, the County’s Tiered Winery Ordinance allows four types of winery operations in agricultural zones. In Rural Residential (RR) zones, only the largest type called “Wineries” is allowed, and they must get a Major Use Permit to operate.
Many winery owners have asked for more flexibility to run wineries in other areas. On July 14, 2021, the Board of Supervisors directed staff to look into whether it would be possible to expand winery regulations and classifications into more zones.
The Tiered Winery Expansion Feasibility Analysis reviewed the local and regional wine industry, market potential, environmental and zoning factors, and mapped areas that might be suitable for new wineries. It also suggested ways to create more opportunities for both new and existing wineries in unincorporated communities.
On February 28, 2024, the Board reviewed this analysis and directed staff to move forward with expanding winery allowances into RR zones.
Why is the County looking at changing the criteria for wineries in rural areas?
Right now, wineries can only operate in agricultural zones. In Rural Residential (RR) areas, only very large wineries can operate, and they must get a Major Use Permit. Many small winery owners have asked for more flexibility to open or grow in other areas.
The Board of Supervisors asked County staff to see if wineries could safely and fairly be allowed in Rural Residential zones under new, clear rules.
What changes are being studied?
The County is looking at possible updates to zoning criteria and operating standards. This could include:
The goal is to develop criteria that is clear, fair, and balance different community needs.
How will the environment be protected?
The County will study potential environmental impacts through the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process. This review will help identify possible effects on things like water, noise, air, wildlife, and traffic and look for ways to reduce or avoid those impacts.
What has been done so far?
In 2021, the Board of Supervisors asked staff to explore whether winery operations could expand into new areas. A Feasibility Analysis was completed to study:
In February 2024, the Board directed staff to move forward with the next step, studying how wineries could be allowed in Rural Residential zones.
What is a Rural Residential zone?
A Rural Residential (RR) zone in San Diego County is an area meant for homes on larger pieces of land where people can enjoy more space and a country-like setting. These areas often allow for activities like small farms, gardens, or keeping horses. Homes in RR zones are usually farther apart. The exact rules, like how big the lots must be or what kinds of activities are allowed, depend on the specific RR zone and the community’s overall land use plan.
What is the unincorporated county?
The unincorporated area is the part of San Diego County that is not inside any city limits. The County of San Diego is the local government for these communities and are managed directly by the San Diego County Board of Supervisors (BOS).
See map and list of communities here