Diamond      Star Associates

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LAND USE ENTITLEMENT

 

Land Planning-Master Planning-Urban Design

We specialize in collaborating with property owners and architects to envision land use, site planning, and architecture. We prepare master planning documents and urban design guidelines for city submission. The key to project approval is good planning; comprising of quality designs, educating government officials about the project, and implementing city general plans benefiting the community. Our approach builds consensus among project proponents, communities, and government agencies. We create beneficial projects for all parties involved and haven't had any project denied by a city to date.

 

Specific Plan Preparation

Implementing a "specific plan" for larger parcels can significantly enhance the implementation of a city's general plan. Benefits include architectural compatibility, efficient reciprocal access and parking, clearly defined amenities, and established pedestrian connectivity across property boundaries. The plan also provides a simple document that ensures enforcement of your vision by the city, even when ownership changes.

 

Land Subdivision

The Subdivision Map Act, codified in Section 65,000 et.seq. of the State's Government Code, regulates the preparation of subdivision maps and allows cities to impose user fees, including parkland dedication requirements for residential projects. Some California cities have adopted a "user fee" for apartment projects that don't require a subdivision map. However, other impact fees require a comprehensive user fee analysis to justify their imposition.

 

Government Relations

Our primary focus is comprehending the role of city staff in local government agencies. Their participation in project creation is crucial, as they are tasked with implementing a city's general plan and understand their community's needs. We only work on projects backed by these professionals. A strong relationship with city staff at all levels is important for us to help them achieve their goals. We design projects with their support well before they are presented to a planning commission or city council.