Local zoning · Lemoore

Lemoore — Overlay Districts

Q: What is a PUD overlay and can it change allowed uses or density?

A PUD (Planned Unit Development) overlay creates project‑specific standards and can authorize deviations from physical standards (setbacks, height) when findings are made, but it may not allow land uses that are not permitted in the underlying zone nor increase the base density. See § 9-9B-2 and § 9-2B-19(E–F) .

Q: How do I know if my lot is inside the NASL overlay and which overlay area applies?

The NASL overlay is shown on the official zoning map and generally covers lands west of State Route 41 and south of the city limits in the military influence area; the code breaks the overlay into Overlay I/II/III by noise/APZ categories. Confirm your parcel on the zoning map and consult § 9-9C-2 and § 9-9C-3(A) .

Q: What are the height and noise rules in the NASL overlay?

No structure or tree may exceed 150 ft in the NASL overlay. Where outdoor aircraft noise exceeds 65 dB CNEL , new development must achieve an interior noise level of 45 dB CNEL ; new residences must meet the city’s adopted building code noise‑attenuation standards. See § 9-9C-3(B–C) .

Q: Where can I find the adopted PUD standards for a named tract (e.g., Tract 935)?

The code lists adopted PUDs in Table 9‑9B‑3‑1 ; the table provides ordinance/resolution references and tract names. To get the exact standards (setbacks, phasing), obtain the PUD ordinance/conditions of approval listed in that table. § 9-9B-3 .

Overlay Districts under the Lemoore local zoning and planning code, with the controlling citations.

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Last reviewed: July 2, 2026

Overview

Overlay districts in Lemoore are supplemental zoning layers that sit on top of the base zoning and either add location‑specific standards or allow project‑level flexibility. The code establishes the procedures for mapping and applying overlays, a citywide framework for Planned Unit Development overlays (PUD), and a site‑specific Naval Air Station Lemoore overlay (NASL). See how an overlay interacts with base zoning and development standards in the city's zoning framework and map rules described below. § 9-9A-1, § 9-9A-2, § 9-9A-3 . For context on base zoning and where overlays appear on the map, consult the city's zoning summary. Lemoore Zoning & Planning overview

How overlays work in Lemoore (core rules)

Overlay districts are intended to supplement the underlying base zone where site‑specific or area‑specific rules are needed. § 9-9A-1 .
Where an overlay conflicts with the base zone, the overlay controls; where the overlay is silent, the base zone rules apply. § 9-9A-3 .
Overlays are shown on the official zoning map together with the base district (for example, RLD‑PUD) and the planning director determines map symbology and boundary interpretation. § 9-9A-2, § 9-3-3(D) .
When a PUD or another overlay is adopted, its ordinance (or an adopted site plan) supplies the project‑specific standards; applicants must follow those components or the map/listing in the code. § 9-9B-2, § 9-9B-3 .

Note: For development rules (setbacks, lot coverage, floor area ratio) look under Development Standards by district; link to the city's development standards for cross‑reference. Lemoore Development Standards

District-by-district breakdown

Planned Unit Development Overlay — PUD

Purpose

The PUD overlay provides project‑specific architectural and development standards for new residential subdivisions and other master‑planned developments; it allows carefully controlled deviations from base standards in return for superior design or public benefits. § 9-9B-1, § 9-2B-19(E) .

Where it applies

Applied by ordinance and shown on the zoning map as an overlay combined with the underlying base zone (e.g., RLD‑PUD). § 9-9B-2, § 9-3-3(D) .

Typical permitted uses

The PUD does not itself change the allowed land uses of the base zone; uses default to the underlying district except where the PUD ordinance explicitly modifies them. The approving authority may not use a PUD to authorize uses not allowed in the base zone. § 9-9A-3, § 9-2B-19(E) .

Key standards & required PUD components

A PUD ordinance (or referenced plan) must include at minimum: performance/development requirements (yards, lot area, intensity), parking, landscaping, signs, phasing, infrastructure, circulation, master floor plans/elevations, and any other site‑specific design standards. § 9-9B-2(B)(1–6) .
The approving authority may authorize deviations from development standards (setbacks, height, lot area) only if required findings are made and density/uses of the base zone are not increased. § 9-2B-19(E–F) .

Adopted PUDs (examples from the code)

The code lists PUD overlays adopted by ordinance and includes a table of PUDs (Table 9‑9B‑3‑1) with tract names, dates, resolution numbers and densities (e.g., 8301 Lutheran Church (Tract 469); 9101 Daley Patio Homes; 2021‑01 Lennar Homes, Tract 935). See the code list for parcel‑by‑parcel entries. § 9-9B-3 .

Practical notes

Because PUD standards are project‑specific, always obtain the PUD ordinance or the PUD’s approved plan to read exact setbacks, garage orientation, and phasing rules. If a proposed design asks for deviations from the base standards, the PUD process is the vehicle — the planning commission is the usual approving body and must make the required findings. § 9-9B-2, § 9-2B-19 .

Relevant cross references

Parking rules that apply within PUDs remain those in the parking chapter unless the PUD specifies otherwise; check the city parking standards early in design. Lemoore Parking

Naval Air Station Lemoore Overlay — NASL

Purpose

The NASL overlay recognizes potential impacts from Naval Air Station Lemoore (noise, accident potential) and imposes public‑safety and compatibility standards. § 9-9C-1 .

Where it applies

Applied to properties designated on the zoning map generally west of State Route 41 and south of the city limits that fall within the military influence area (MIA). § 9-9C-2 . Verify your parcel’s inclusion with the official zoning map. (Verify with the jurisdiction.)

Overlay areas and noise/compatibility categories

Lands in the NASL overlay are divided into Overlay I, Overlay II, and Overlay III per the joint land use study:
- Overlay I = Accident Potential Zones (APZs) and areas with aircraft noise > 75 dB CNEL; (the code states there are no Overlay I areas within the city).
- Overlay II = aircraft noise 65–75 dB CNEL.
- Overlay III = aircraft noise < 65 dB CNEL. § 9-9C-3(A) .

Key development standards

Height: no structure or tree is allowed to exceed 150 ft within the NASL overlay to protect flight safety. § 9-9C-3(B) .
Noise attenuation: Development in Overlay II/III where aircraft noise exceeds 65 dB CNEL must be constructed to achieve an indoor noise level of 45 dB CNEL; new residences must meet the city’s adopted building code noise attenuation standards. § 9-9C-3(C) . See the state's building code for construction standards reference. California Building Standards Code

Practical notes

If your lot is inside NASL Overlay II (approx. 65–75 dB CNEL), you will need noise attenuation documentation and building plans showing compliance with the 45 dB CNEL indoor standard and the city’s adopted building code requirements for noise. Verify the overlay area and noise contour for your parcel on the official map. § 9-9C-3 .

Quick reference table — most decision‑relevant overlay rules

Overlay	Purpose / Where it applies	Most important standards or effects	Code reference
PUD (Planned Unit Development)	Project‑specific overlay for residential/master‑planned developments; adopted by ordinance and mapped as overlay	Requires PUD plan components (yards, lot area, parking, landscaping, signs, phasing, infrastructure, master plans); allows deviations from development standards but cannot change base uses or increase density	§ 9-9B-1, § 9-9B-2, § 9-9B-3
NASL (Naval Air Station Lemoore)	Military influence area generally west of SR‑41 and south of city limits	Overlay areas I/II/III by CNEL; height limit 150 ft; where noise > 65 dB CNEL indoor 45 dB CNEL required and new residences per adopted building code	§ 9-9C-1, § 9-9C-2, § 9-9C-3
Mapping / Conflicts	How overlays appear on the map; how conflicts resolve	Overlay symbol shown with base zone (e.g., RLD‑PUD); overlay controls in conflict, else base applies	§ 9-9A-2, § 9-9A-3, § 9-3-3(D)

Checklist (what an applicant must satisfy before filing/building)

Confirm the parcel’s base zoning and any overlay(s) on the official zoning map (verify boundary with the planning director if uncertain). § 9-3-3(D) .
If the parcel is in NASL, determine which overlay area (II or III) and whether exterior noise contours exceed 65 dB CNEL; prepare noise attenuation strategy to achieve 45 dB CNEL interior for new residences. § 9-9C-3(C) .
For projects using or proposing a PUD, assemble required components: performance/development requirements (setbacks, lot area, parking, landscaping, signs), phasing, infrastructure, circulation, master plans/elevations, and any additional standards the ordinance requires. § 9-9B-2(B) .
If proposing deviations from development standards under a PUD, prepare findings and design justification showing superior design or public benefit and that density/uses of the base zone are not increased. § 9-2B-19(E–F) .
Cross‑check parking, landscaping, and design review requirements that will apply to the overlay approval (PUDs commonly reference those standards). Lemoore Parking Lemoore Landscaping and Screening Lemoore Design Review
If noise attenuation or construction technique is required, cite compliance with the city’s adopted building code and the relevant California standards. California Building Standards Code California ADU law (where ADUs are involved, check ADU rules). Lemoore ADUs

Risks & Ambiguities

Issue	Why it matters	What to verify
Boundary uncertainty for overlay lines	Overlay affects what standards apply (e.g., NASL noise/height, PUD special standards)	Have the planning director determine the precise zone boundary and request an official map excerpt; if a boundary divides a parcel, ask how development will be treated. § 9-3-3(E)
Parcel‑specific PUD standards differ from base code	PUDs are bespoke — setbacks, garage placement, lot coverage may vary	Obtain the PUD ordinance and approved plan (Table 9‑9B‑3‑1) for that tract before designing. § 9-9B-3
Whether a proposed change is a ‘deviation’ vs. a prohibited increase in density	The city can approve deviations to physical standards but cannot increase allowed density or permit new uses through a PUD	Prepare findings showing superior design and public benefit; the approving authority must make the required findings. § 9-2B-19(E–F)
Determining NASL noise contours and required attenuation	Obligations (e.g., 45 dB CNEL interior) depend on exact noise contour and overlay area	Verify noise contour for the parcel and whether Overlay II or III applies; consult the NASL figure in the code and the zoning map. § 9-9C-3(A–C)
Trees vs. structures in the 150 ft height limit	Trees can exceed building height in many codes; NASL prohibits trees above 150 ft which may affect landscaping choices	Confirm whether proposed landscape trees are treated as “tree” vs. “structure” and demonstrate compliance with the 150 ft limit. § 9-9C-3(B)

Plain-English Summary

In Lemoore, overlays are extra zoning layers: PUD lets a developer create a project‑specific plan that can alter setbacks or layout (but not allowed uses or overall density) while NASL imposes safety and noise rules for land near Naval Air Station Lemoore (including a 150 ft height cap and interior noise requirements of 45 dB CNEL where outdoor noise exceeds 65 dB CNEL). Read the overlay ordinance that applies to your parcel and pull the specific PUD plan or NASL map before you design. § 9-9B-2, § 9-9C-3 .

Information Gaps

Exact spatial extent (parcel‑level boundaries and overlays on the current zoning map): Not found in retrieved materials — verify with the planning department and official zoning map. § 9-3-3 .
Full text of each adopted PUD ordinance and the project‑level development standards for many named PUDs (only the table listing adopted PUDs is in the code snippets): Not fully reproduced in the retrieved materials; obtain the specific PUD ordinance/conditions of approval. § 9-9B-3 .
The code references the joint land use study and a figure for NASL overlay areas but the full map/image and base study details were not included in the retrieved text: Verify noise contours and APZs with city planning or the adopted joint land use study. § 9-9C-3(A) .

Source References

Lemoore Municipal Code, Title 9 — Overlay Zoning Districts: § 9-9A-1, § 9-9A-2, § 9-9A-3 (purpose, map designation, applicability) .
Planned Unit Development (PUD) Overlay: § 9-9B-1, § 9-9B-2, § 9-9B-3 (purpose, required PUD components, adopted PUD table) .
Naval Air Station Lemoore Overlay: § 9-9C-1, § 9-9C-2, § 9-9C-3 (purpose, applicability, overlay areas, 150 ft height limit, 45 dB CNEL interior standard) .
Zoning map and district depiction rules: § 9-3-3(D) (map symbology; overlay shown with base zone) .
PUD deviation and approval findings: § 9-2B-19(E–F) (deviations allowed only with findings; density/use restrictions) .

Sources

Retrieved passages

Lemoore Zoning Code (chapter 3) High relevance
Lemoore Zoning Code (section are) High relevance
CBC § 2013 (ARTICLE C.) High relevance
Lemoore Zoning Code (ARTICLE C.) High relevance
Lemoore Zoning Code (chapter 2) High relevance
Lemoore Zoning Code (title or) High relevance
Lemoore Zoning Code (CHAPTER 8) High relevance
Lemoore Zoning Code High relevance

Cited sections

Official Lemoore code library

Frequently asked questions

What does an overlay district change about my property's zoning in Lemoore?

An overlay adds location‑specific standards on top of the base zoning; the overlay controls if it conflicts with the base. If the overlay is silent on an issue, the base zone applies. See § 9-9A-3 for the controlling rule.

What is a PUD overlay and can it change allowed uses or density?

A PUD (Planned Unit Development) overlay creates project‑specific standards and can authorize deviations from physical standards (setbacks, height) when findings are made, but it may not allow land uses that are not permitted in the underlying zone nor increase the base density. See § 9-9B-2 and § 9-2B-19(E–F).

How do I know if my lot is inside the NASL overlay and which overlay area applies?

The NASL overlay is shown on the official zoning map and generally covers lands west of State Route 41 and south of the city limits in the military influence area; the code breaks the overlay into Overlay I/II/III by noise/APZ categories. Confirm your parcel on the zoning map and consult § 9-9C-2 and § 9-9C-3(A).

What are the height and noise rules in the NASL overlay?

No structure or tree may exceed 150 ft in the NASL overlay. Where outdoor aircraft noise exceeds 65 dB CNEL, new development must achieve an interior noise level of 45 dB CNEL; new residences must meet the city’s adopted building code noise‑attenuation standards. See § 9-9C-3(B–C).

Do PUDs change parking or landscaping rules?

A PUD must include performance requirements for parking and landscaping as part of its required components; however, unless a PUD expressly modifies them, the city’s standard parking and landscaping chapters apply. Check the PUD ordinance and the city's parking standards early. § 9-9B-2(B)(1); see Lemoore Parking.

If an overlay is silent about a setback or parking requirement, which rules apply?

If the overlay is silent the underlying base zone and the rest of Title 9 apply. Overlays only supersede the base code where they conflict or where they expressly modify a standard. § 9-9A-3.

Where can I find the adopted PUD standards for a named tract (e.g., Tract 935)?

The code lists adopted PUDs in Table 9‑9B‑3‑1; the table provides ordinance/resolution references and tract names. To get the exact standards (setbacks, phasing), obtain the PUD ordinance/conditions of approval listed in that table. § 9-9B-3.

Can the city approve reduced setbacks or taller buildings through a PUD?

Yes — the approving authority may grant deviations from development standards for a PUD if the project demonstrates superior design, environmental preservation, or public benefits; however, the PUD cannot increase density or change allowed uses of the base zone. See § 9-2B-19(E–F).

Do I still need design review for a project within an overlay?

Yes. Overlays often reference or require application of design standards and design review; PUDs and other overlays commonly include specific architectural requirements and the design review process may still apply. Check the overlay text and the city's design review rules. Lemoore Design Review

If my property is partly inside an overlay and partly outside, what then?

If a district boundary divides a parcel, each portion of the property is generally developed to the standards of the applied districts; the planning director will determine precise boundary location when not specified on the map. Verify with the planning director. § 9-3-3(E).

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