The General Plan is the fundamental policy document of the City of Huntington Beach. It provides the framework for management and utilization of the City’s physical, economic and human resources. By providing a basis for rational decision-making, this document guides civic decisions regarding land use, the design and/or character of buildings and open spaces, the conservation of existing housing and the provision of new dwelling units, the provisions of supporting infrastructure and public services, the protection of environmental resources, the allocation of fiscal resources, and the protection of residents from natural and human-caused hazards.
The General Plan acts to clarify and articulate the City’s intentions with respect to the rights and expectations of the public, property owners, and prospective investors and business interests. Through the Plan, the City informs these groups of the community's goals, objectives and policies thereby communicating the expectations and responsibilities of all sectors in fulfilling the General Plan. In addition to the written goals, objectives and policies, the General Plan contains a Land Use Plan that is the prevailing determinate of land use in the City. The Zoning Maps and development standards are secondary to the General Plan.
The City’s General Plan consists of 16 elements listed below. The date of the most recent update of the element is shown in parentheses.
- Community Development Chapter
- Infrastructure and Community Services Chapter
- Natural Resources Chapter
- Hazard Chapter