Ladera residents have expressed some concern as to the future of the Ladera Shopper. The LCA contacted Aaron Sage, of the County Planning Department, for clarification of the zoning of the Shopper and what that means in terms of usage.

According to Aaron, most of Ladera's commercial area is zoned "C-1" (Neighborhood Business). One parcel, located on La Cuesta next to the gas station, is zoned "O" (Office). The regulations associated with C-1 and O can be viewed on the Ladera website at c1-regs.PDF and O-regs.PDF respectively.

When asked if the contents of Section 6251 described in C-1 Districts be modified, he stated that the contents are law and cannot be modified without the Board of Supervisors' approval. The land uses permitted in the C-1 district are those listed in Section 6251. In order for another use to be permitted or a stated use to be disallowed, either (1) the C-1 regulations would have to be amended to include the proposed use, or (2) the property in question would have to be re-zoned to another district where the proposed new use is permitted or the proposed disallowed use is not permitted.

Mr. Sage went on to state that just because something requires the Board's approval does not mean it is not possible. However, amending the zoning ordinance is a lengthy, involved process.

San Mateo County Planning Division
455 County Center | Redwood City, CA 94063
phone: 363-4061   |   fax: 363-4849