Chapter 17.23

GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT

Sections:

• 17.23.010 Purpose. 17.23.020 Approval Authority.

• 17.23.030 Frequency of Amendment.

• 17.23.040 Initiation of Amendment.

• 17.23.050 Findings for General Plan Amendment (Text or Map). 17.23.060 Adoption.

The Atherton Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 677, passed February 18, 2026.

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Title 17 Zoning | Atherton Municipal Code

The purpose of a general plan amendment is to allow for modifications to the general plan text (e.g., goals, policies, or implementation programs) or to change the general plan land use designation on any parcel(s). (Ord. 582 § 1 (Exh. A), 2009)

The designated approval authority for general plan amendments is the city council. The town planner, general plan committee, and planning commission provide recommendations and the city council approves, conditionally approves, or denies the general plan amendment in accordance with the requirements of this title as described in section 17.06.070 (Approval Authority) and Table 17.06.070-1 (Approval Authority). (Ord. 582 § 1 (Exh. A), 2009)

Pursuant to Government Code Section 65358, no mandatory element of the general plan may be amended more frequently than four times during any calendar year. Subject to that limitation, an amendment may be made at any time and may include more than one change to the general plan. (Ord. 582 § 1 (Exh. A), 2009)

A general plan amendment may be initiated by motion of the planning commission or city council, by application by property owner(s) of parcel(s) to be affected by a general plan amendment, or by recommendation of the town planner to clarify text, address changes mandated by State law, maintain internal general plan consistency, address boundary adjustments affecting land use designation(s), or for any other reason beneficial to the town. (Ord. 582 § 1 (Exh. A), 2009)

In the event that a general plan amendment is requested by a private property owner, the applicant shall demonstrate to the city council that there is a substantial public benefit to be derived from such amendment. (Ord. 582 § 1 (Exh. A), 2009)

The Atherton Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 677, passed February 18, 2026.

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Title 17 Zoning | Atherton Municipal Code

Adoption of the general plan amendment by the city council shall constitute final action and approval of the amendment. Authorization for construction or occupancy in accordance with the amendment may only be granted upon or after the effective date of the action. (Ord. 582 § 1 (Exh. A), 2009)