Agendas are available on the City Website
https://www.ridgecrest-ca.gov/council-agendas
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
AGENDA
March 18, 2026
Regular Session 6:00 p.m.
City Hall, Council Chambers
100 100 West California Avenue
Ridgecrest CA 93555
Ricca Charlon, CMC
City Clerk
[email protected]
(760) 499-5002
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you are a disabled person and you need a disability-related modification or accommodation to participate in the meeting, please contact Ricca Charlon at (760) 499-5002. Requests must be made as early as possible and at least one full business day before the start of the meeting.
Watch meetings on-line:
All of our meetings are streamed live at https://ridgecrest-ca.gov/369/Watch or on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/cityofridgecrest/live and are also available for playback after the meeting.
Call in for public comments:
To participate with verbal comments, please call (760) 499-5010. This phone line will allow only one caller at a time, so if the line is busy, please continue to dial. We will be allowing a 20-30 second delay between callers to give time for media delays and callers to dial in. If you wish to comment on multiple items you will need to call in as each item is presented.
CITY COUNCIL
Travis Endicott, Mayor
Kyle Blades, Mayor Pro-Tem
Solomon P. Rajaratnam, Vice Mayor
L. Scott Hayman, Council Member
John ‘Skip’ Gorman, Council Member
Travis Reed, City Manager
Keith Lemieux, City Attorney
Martin Koczanowicz, City Attorney
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RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL
SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
FINANCING AUTHORITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY
AGENDA
Wednesday, March 18, 2026 Regular Session – 6:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
REGULAR SESSION
• Pledge Of Allegiance
• Invocation
PRESENTATIONS
1. National Transit Driver Appreciation Day
2. Finance Appreciation Week
3. Red Cross Month
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA - Persons wishing to address the Council on matters that are within the Council’s jurisdiction and DO NOT ALREADY APPEAR ON THE AGENDA, may do so at this time.
COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS/DIRECTION
CONSENT CALENDAR – All Matters Listed Under The Consent Calendar Are To Be Considered Routine And Enacted By One Motion Unless Pulled By A Council Member Or A Member Of The Public.
4. Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Regular Ridgecrest City Council Meeting Dated March, 4, 2026 Charlon
DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS
5. A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest Endorsing The Sierra Sands Unified School District Community Social Contract
6. Proposed Approval Of Increased Appropriations To The Fiscal Year 2026 Budget For The Drilling Of A New Well And Converting The Existing Well Into A Monitoring Well At The Leroy Jackson Sports Complex And Authorize The City Manager To Execute A Contract In Content And Format Approved By The City Attorney And City Manager Wegener
7. Proposed Approval For Increased Appropriations In The Annual Budget For Electrical Service Installation By Southern California Edison At The Sgt. John Pinney Pool Complex Roberts
AGENDA - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – March 18, 2026
ORDINANCES
8. Introduction Of A Resolution To Amend The Land Use And Military Sustainability Elements Of The City Of Ridgecrest General Plan; And First Reading And Motion To Introduce, By Title Only, An Ordinance Of The City Council Of Ridgecrest, California An Ordinance Amending The Zoning Map, Thereby Adding Priorities To The Military Influence Area Overlay District; And First Reading And Motion To Introduce, By Title Only, An Ordinance Amending The Municipal Code Regarding Outdoor Lighting And The Military Area Overlay District Spurlock
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Economic Development Committee
Members: Kyle Blades and Solomon Rajaratnam
Meeting: 1st Monday of the month @ 5:15 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1st Floor
➢ Next meeting April 6, 2026
Finance Committee
Members: Solomon Rajaratnam and Scott Hayman
Meeting: 2nd Tuesday every other month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1st Floor
➢ Next meeting April 14, 2026
Infrastructure Committee
Members: Mayor Endicott and Kyle Blades
Meeting: 4th Thursday each month at 5:00 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1st Floor
➢ Next meeting March 26, 2026
Parks, Recreation, and Quality of Life Committee
Members: Mayor Endicott and Scott Hayman
Meeting: 1st Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Next meeting April 7, 2026
OTHER COMMITTEES, BOARDS, OR COMMISSIONS
CITY MANAGER REPORT
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT
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A Proclamation of
The City of Ridgecrest, California
Honoring National Transit Driver Appreciation Day
March 18, 2026
WHEREAS, Transit Operators manage to keep a schedule, check fares, give directions, announce and remember stops: and,
WHEREAS, they safely maneuver public transit vehicles through unpredictable traffic and adverse weather conditions; and,
WHEREAS, Transit Operators transport people to various places that include work sites, schools and shopping and leisure activities – providing citizens from all walks of life with personal mobility and freedom; and,
WHEREAS, the health, safety and comfort of many people in this community greatly depends on their ability to rely upon the transportation services provided by our Transit Operators; and, WHEREAS, the efficiency and effectiveness of these qualified and skilled professionals contribute to the quality of life that residents and visitors alike enjoy and rely upon; and, WHEREAS, Transit Operators don’t have an easy job; they just make it look that way.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED by the Ridgecrest City Council that we recognize and extend appreciation to our dedicated and skilled Transit Operators and hereby proclaim March 18, 2026 as “Transit Driver Appreciation Day."
Proclaimed this 18
th Day of March 2026
Travis Endicott
Mayor
Kyle Blades
Mayor Pro-Tem
Solomon P. Rajaratnam
Vice Mayor
L. Scott Hayman
Council Member
John ‘Skip’ Gorman
Council Member
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A Proclamation of
The City of Ridgecrest, California
Government Finance Professionals Week
March 23-27, 2026
WHEREAS, the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO) is the state’s leading professional organization dedicated to promoting excellence in financial management for California’s local governments; and, WHEREAS, government finance professionals serve cities, counties, special districts, and joint powers authorities, by ensuring transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of public funds; and, WHEREAS, these professionals play a critical role in managing complex budgets, complying with state and federal laws, maintaining accurate financial reporting in compliance with government accounting standards, administering utility rate processes and enterprise funds; and supporting long-term financial sustainability; and, WHEREAS, California’s financial landscape—shaped by Proposition 13, Proposition 218, the Gann Appropriations Limit, CalPERS pension obligations, and fluctuating economic conditions—requires expert analysis and sound financial leadership; and,
WHEREAS, finance professionals work diligently, often behind the scenes, to provide critical information that enables informed policy decisions and ensures the delivery of essential public services; and, WHEREAS, recognizing Government Finance Professionals Week during the last week of March helps highlight the dedication, integrity, and professionalism of these essential public servants.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest does hereby proclaim March 23-27, 2026 as Government Finance Professionals Week and encourages all residents to recognize and appreciate the hard work and contributions of the finance professionals who serve our community.
Proclaimed this 18
th Day of March 2026
Travis Endicott
Mayor
Kyle Blades
Mayor Pro-Tem
Solomon P. Rajaratnam
Vice Mayor
L. Scott Hayman
Council Member
John ‘Skip’ Gorman
Council Member
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A Proclamation of
The City of Ridgecrest, California
Red Cross Month
March 2026
In March, we celebrate American Red Cross Month by honoring our neighbors who make its humanitarian mission possible in the City of Ridgecrest. Every day, their acts of kindness change lives, bringing relief, comfort and hope when help can’t wait. This compassionate spirit runs deep in our community, just as it has for 145 years through the American Red Cross.
Home fires are one of the leading disasters experienced throughout our local communities. Red Cross, Kern County and Eastern Sierra Chapter volunteers have selflessly responded at all hours to assist those who have experienced and/or been displaced by home fire. During 2025, an average of $730 in assistance per household was provided, resulting in $207,390 in total assistance. Responding to 201 home fire events, Red Cross aided with 285 cases, which included 907 individuals assisted. Our volunteers also support fire prevention and preparedness events serving at multiple Sound-the-Alarm events as well as on-demand requests installing smoke detectors in homes at no cost and providing recipients with education on home fire safety best practices.
Today, those who serve with the Kern County and Eastern Sierra Chapter of the American Red Cross light the way during emergencies — whether it’s delivering shelter, food and comfort after disasters; providing a safe, lifesaving blood supply for patients facing conditions like cancer treatments, childbirth complications and traumatic injuries; assisting military members, veterans and their families with 24/7 global support; or empowering individuals with skills like first aid and CPR that save lives.
These collective efforts are a powerful reminder that the strength of our community lies in our shared commitment to one another. As we mark Red Cross Month, let’s celebrate our local heroes and resolve to continue lifting each other up, so no one faces an emergency alone.
NOW, THEREFORE, the CITY OF RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL, does hereby proclaim March 2026 as Red Cross Month and encourages all citizens of the City of Ridgecrest to reach out and support its humanitarian mission.
Proclaimed this 18
th Day of March 2026
Travis Endicott
Mayor
Kyle Blades
Mayor Pro-Tem
Solomon P. Rajaratnam
Vice Mayor
L. Scott Hayman
Council Member
John ‘Skip’ Gorman
Council Member
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Ridgecrest City Council Regular Meeting Dated March 4, 2026
PRESENTED BY: Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
SUMMARY:
Draft Minutes of the City Council / Successor Redevelopment Agency / Housing Authority / Financing Authority Regular Meeting Dated March 4, 2026 FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Approve minutes
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Ricca Charlon Action Date: March 18, 2026 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL
SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
FINANCING AUTHORITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY
DRAFT MINUTES
Wednesday, March 4, 2026 Regular Session – 6:00 p.m.
This meeting was recorded and will be on file in the Office of the City Clerk for a certain period of time from date of approval by the Ridgecrest City Successor Agency/Financing Authority/Housing Authority. Meetings are recorded solely for the purpose of preparation of minutes.
ROLL CALL
Council Present: Mayor Endicott; Mayor Pro-Tem Blades; Vice Mayor Rajaratnam; Council Member Hayman; Council Member Gorman
Absent: None
Staff Present: City Attorney M. Koczanowicz; City Manager Reed; City Clerk Charlon APPROVAL OF AGENDA - Motion To Approve – Blades – Rajaratnam – 5 ayes
REGULAR SESSION
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA - M. Licitra, J. Jones, M. Neel, M.
Sinnott
COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS/DIRECTION
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Regular Ridgecrest City Council Meeting Dated Feb. 18, 2026 Charlon
Motion To Approve Consent Calendar item 1 – Blades – Rajaratnam – 5 ayes
2. Update Of Community And Economic Development Manager Job Description Reed/Ysit Item 2 pulled – Rajaratnam
Chief reviewed staff report
Public comment – M. Neel
Motion To Approve Consent Calendar item 2– Blades – Rajaratnam – 5 ayes
DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS
3. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving An Amendment To The Professional Services Agreement With Flewelling & Moody, Inc., For Consulting Services Roberts Public Comment - None
Motion To Approve – Blades – Gorman – 5 ayes
4. Proposed Approval For Increased Appropriations In The Annual Budget To Install A Mini Split In The New Snack Bar At The Leroy Jackson Softball Fields Wegener Public Comment - None
Motion To Approve – Blades – Hayman – 5 ayes
DRAFT MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – March 4, 2026
5. Discussion Regarding Needed Appointments To Council Committees, Boards, And Commissions Charlon
• Mike Gross nominated by Mayor to Measure V
• Forest Lloyd nominated by Rajaratnam to Measure P
Council roll call vote to approve nominees – 5 ayes
PUBLIC HEARINGS
6. A Public Hearing And Resolution Approving The Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Annual Application Regarding The Kern County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Wegener
Staff report reviewed
Open Hearing – 7:02 p.m.
Public Comments – None
Close Hearing – 7:03 p.m.
Motion To Approve– Blades – Hayman – 5 ayes
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Economic Development Committee
Members: Kyle Blades and Solomon Rajaratnam
Meeting: 1st Monday of the month @ 5:15 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1st Floor
➢ Report from March 2, 2026
Finance Committee
Members: Solomon Rajaratnam and Scott Hayman
Meeting: 2nd Tuesday every other month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1st Floor
➢ Next meeting April 14, 2026
Infrastructure Committee
Members: Mayor Endicott and Kyle Blades
Meeting: 4th Thursday each month at 5:00 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1st Floor
➢ Next meeting March 26, 2026
Parks, Recreation, and Quality of Life Committee
Members: Mayor Endicott and Scott Hayman
Meeting: 1st Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Next meeting April 7, 2026
OTHER COMMITTEES, BOARDS, OR COMMISSIONS
CITY MANAGER REPORT
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT – 7:15 p.m.
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest Endorsing The Sierra Sands Unified School District Community Social Contract PRESENTED BY: City Council
SUMMARY:
The proposed resolution adopts the Sierra Sands Unified School District (SSUSD) Community Social Contract, a shared commitment developed with input from staff and community members that outlines expectations for respectful communication, active listening, dignity, and constructive problem-solving among students, staff, parents/guardians, and community members.
This Social Contract is an extension of the District’s ongoing implementation of Capturing Kids’ Hearts, an approach that emphasizes relationship-building, trust, and respectful interactions. The principles of Capturing Kids’ Hearts are modeled daily in classrooms, across district schools and offices, and in meetings at all levels - including City Council meetings.
By formally adopting the SSUSD Community Social Contract, the Council reinforces these practices districtwide and communitywide, promotes greater civility among both adults and students, and affirms a shared responsibility for creating a positive, safe, and inclusive culture in all district-related interactions.
FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Adopt Resolution
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Ricca Charlon Action Date: March 18, 2026 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RESOLUTION NO. 26-
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST
ENDORSING THE SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT COMMUNITY
SOCIAL CONTRACT
WHEREAS, the City of Ridgecrest is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students, staff, families, and community members; and, WHEREAS, positive community climates are strengthened when individuals interact with civility, dignity, respect, and a shared sense of responsibility; and, WHEREAS, the City of Ridgecrest recognizes that respectful communication, thoughtful listening, and constructive problem-solving are essential to community success, staff well-being, and public trust; and,
WHEREAS, increasing polarization and incivility in communities can negatively impact relationships, learning environments, and the social-emotional development of students; and, WHEREAS, the District has collaboratively developed a SSUSD Community Social Contract with input from staff and community members that articulates shared commitments for how individuals treat one another, including, treating others with dignity, listening without interruption, speaking respectfully, and addressing concerns through appropriate and constructive channels; and,
WHEREAS, the SSUSD Community Social Contract emphasizes a shared commitment to ensuring that every individual feels valued, safe, respected, and connected within the school district and broader community; and,
WHEREAS, endorsing a community-wide Social Contract reinforces the City of Ridgecrest’s expectation that adults and students alike model respectful behavior and contribute to a culture of mutual respect and accountability.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest hereby endorses the SSUSD Community Social Contract as a guiding framework for civility, communication, and interaction across the City and community; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the purpose of the SSUSD Community Social Contract is to promote civility, strengthen relationships, support student learning, and foster a positive and respectful culture among students, staff, parents/guardians, and community members; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council encourages all staff, students, parents/guardians, and community members to endorse, model, and follow the commitments outlined in the SSUSD Community Social Contract in schools, at events, and in the broader community, both in person and online; and,
Reso 26-Xx Page 2 of 2
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City administration is encouraged to share and promote the SSUSD Community Social Contract through appropriate communication channels and to integrate its principles into ongoing efforts to strengthen community climate, community engagement, and respectful dialogue; and,
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the City Council affirms its commitment to leading by example and supporting a culture of respect, dignity, and connection throughout the City of Ridgecrest.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 18th day of March, 2026 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Proposed Approval Of Increased Appropriations To The Fiscal Year 2026 Budget For The Drilling Of A New Well And Converting The Existing Well Into A Monitoring Well At The Leroy Jackson Sports Complex And Authorize The City Manager To Execute A Contract In Content And Format Approved By The City Attorney And City Manager
PRESENTED BY: Nerissa Wegener, Parks and Recreation Director SUMMARY: In August 2025 the well at Leroy Jackson Sports Complex had failed. Upon further inspection, staff discovered burned wiring inside the control panel for the primary well. In response, Independent Well Drilling, was dispatched to assess the situation and the team confirmed that both the pump and motor had suffered severe burn damage and required full replacement, which did take place.
In December 2025, City maintenance staff were conducting a routine inspection of the irrigation and noticed that the valves were sticking which is an indication that the well is pulling in silt. At this point they drained the tank and opened it up to find 2-3 feet of silt in the tank. This condition can indicate deterioration of the well screen, casing issues, or problems with the surrounding gravel pack, all of which can negatively impact water quality and the longevity of pumping equipment.
Maintenance staff immediately reported the issue to their supervisor, and staff began monitoring the well to determine whether the silt intrusion was temporary or an ongoing operational issue. Over the following weeks, staff continued to observe that silt was consistently present during pumping operations, indicating that the problem was persistent rather than temporary.
Due to the continued presence of silt, City staff contacted a professional well contractor to perform a detailed inspection of the well. The contractor removed the pumping equipment and conducted a downhole camera inspection to evaluate the condition of the well casing, screen, and surrounding structure.
Following the inspection, several discussions took place between the well contractor and City staff regarding potential repair options. City staff involved in these discussions included the Parks and Recreation Director, Travis Reed, Public Works Director, Parks Supervisor Nick Humphrey and City Manager Ron Strand.
Based on the findings of the inspection and consultation with the contractor, staff determined that repairing the existing well would not provide a reliable long-term solution and could result in continued maintenance issues and additional costs. After evaluating the available options, staff concluded that the most cost-effective and reliable long-term solution is to drill a new production well and convert the existing well into a monitoring well.
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
Without reliable water supply, the sports complex could experience:
• Damage or loss of athletic fields
• Deterioration of landscaping and mature trees
• Increased maintenance and restoration costs
• Potential impacts to recreational programming and community use • Creates the potential for irrigation failure.
To address these concerns, staff is proposing the construction of a new groundwater production well and conversion of the existing well into a monitoring well. The monitoring well will allow the City to observe groundwater levels and conditions while maintaining irrigation reliability through the new production well.
The proposed project includes the following drilling and well construction activities:
• Mobilization of drilling equipment and drill rig to the project site • Drilling a pilot hole to approximately 400 feet
• Conducting geophysical logging and soil sampling at 5-foot intervals • Final reaming of the borehole to approximately 14 inches in diameter • Pre-casing well development, cleaning, and flushing of the borehole • Installation of up to 8-inch well casing
• Performing sieve analysis to determine appropriate gravel pack sizing • Installation of a gravel filter pack
• Construction of a sanitary seal up to 50 feet
• Final well development, testing, and preparation for pump installation Once the well construction is complete, the following improvements will be performed:
• Removal of the existing pumping system from the current well • Installation of the existing 250-gallon-per-minute pump into the new production well • Installation of a new water meter
• Conversion of the existing well into a groundwater monitoring well To ensure reliable water delivery and system efficiency, the project will also include several supporting infrastructure upgrades:
• Installation of a new 119-gallon bladder tank for the existing booster system • Construction of approximately 130 linear feet of 6-inch pipeline to connect the new well to the existing irrigation system
• Installation of approximately 130 linear feet of 2-inch electrical conduit within a trench to support power and controls
• Installation of tees, valves, and flanges to connect to the existing storage tank and allow integration of additional tank capacity
• Installation of a new approximately 16,000-gallon storage tank, including foundation pad and associated plumbing
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
These improvements will enhance the reliability and capacity of the irrigation system serving the sports complex.
Completion of this project will provide several operational benefits such as:
• Restoring redundancy in the irrigation water supply
• Reduce strain on the remaining operational well
• Improve groundwater monitoring capability through the converted monitoring well • Enhance water storage and distribution capacity
• Protect the City's investment in park infrastructure and landscaping Construction of a new well and conversion of the existing well into a monitoring well will provide a reliable and sustainable irrigation water source for the Leroy Jackson Sports Complex. The proposed improvements will protect the City’s Park infrastructure and ensure continued recreational use for the community.
Staff recommends approval of the project.
The Parks and Recreation Department is requesting City Council approval for a $492,000 allocation from the General Fund Reserve. This amount includes a construction contingency to cover potential unforeseen issues that may arise during construction.
This will be a sole source vendor repair due to the risk to City property.
FISCAL IMPACT: $492,000 from unallocated General Fund
ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Allocate unallocated General Fund Reserve in the Amount of $492,000 for the drilling of a new well and converting the existing well into a monitoring well at the Leroy Jackson Sports Complex.
2. Authorize the Finance Director to amend the budget for account 100.63.6306.5103.301 using general fund reserves in the amount of $492,000 for drilling of a new well, adding an additional water tank and pad and converting the existing well into a monitoring well.
3. Authorizes The City Manager, Travis Reed, To Execute all Contracts & Agreements in content and format approved by the City Attorney and City Manager.
4. Request that council waive the BID process due to the urgency and risk to City Property.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Nerissa Wegener, Parks and Recreation Director Action Date: March 18, 2026 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RESOLUTION NO. 26-
A RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL APPROVING
INCREASED APPROPRIATIONS IN THE ANNUAL BUDGET FOR THE
DRILLING OF A NEW WELL AND CONVERTING THE EXISTING WELL
INTO A MONITORING WELL AT THE LEROY JACKSON SPORTS
COMPLEX
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest has duly adopted its annual budget per resolution; and,
WHEREAS, resolution 21-30 spells out the circumstances whereby total fund appropriations may be and can be increased; and,
WHEREAS, certain increases in annual appropriations and estimated revenues to the budget require City Council Resolution prior to implementation; and, WHEREAS, The City of Ridgecrest Parks and Recreation Department is asking City Council to approve a $492,000 increase which includes a Construction Contingency for an emergency well replacement and converting the existing well into a monitoring well at the Leroy Jackson Sports Complex; and,
WHEREAS, the well needs to be replaced immediately to maintain the fields and trees at the park and as to not continue to put all the strain on the one well that is currently operational.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest does hereby:
1. Allocate unallocated General Fund Reserve in the Amount of $492,000 for the drilling of a new well and converting the existing well into a monitoring well at the Leroy Jackson Sports Complex.
2. Authorize the Finance Director to amend the budget for account 100.63.6306.5103.301 using general fund reserves in the amount of $492,000 for drilling of a new well and converting the existing well into a monitoring well
3. Authorizes The City Manager, Travis Reed, To Execute all Contracts & Agreements in content and format approved by the City Attorney and City Manager.
4. Request that council waive the BID process due to the urgency and risk to City Property.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED, this 18
th day of March 2026 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Proposed Approval For Increased Appropriations In The Annual Budget For Electrical Service Installation By Southern California Edison At The Sgt. John Pinney Pool Complex
PRESENTED BY: Terry J. Roberts
SUMMARY:
The City is working to rebuild the Sgt. John Pinney Pool Complex. As part of this project, the facility needs a new electrical meter and service.
Southern California Edison is the utility provider responsible for installing and connecting electrical service to the site. The work includes installing the meter and connecting the facility to the electrical grid so the pool complex can operate.
The services to be performed by Southern California Edison totals $115,606.20 for the installation of a new electrical meter and service for the project site.
This work is necessary for the pool complex to operate. Without electrical service, key systems such as lighting, pumps, and facility equipment cannot function.
The electrical service will support the long-term use of the pool complex for community recreation and programs.
FISCAL IMPACT: $115,606.20 of Measure P Funds.
ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Authorize the Finance Director to make the following adjustment in the FY26 budget:
Transfer $115,606.20 from Measure P Reserves to expenditure account number 101.62.6202.5101.302 for the Install of new electrical meter and service at the Sgt. John Pinney Pool Complex.
2. Authorizes Staff to create a purchase order in the amount of $115,606.20.00 for said services.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested.
Submitted by: Lovette Alligood Action Date: March 18, 2026 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RESOLUTION NO. 26-
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST
APPROVING INCREASED APPROPRIATIONS IN THE ANNUAL BUDGET FOR
ELECTRICAL SERVICE INSTALLATION BY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON AT THE SGT. JOHN PINNEY POOL COMPLEX
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest has duly adopted its annual budget per resolution; and,
WHEREAS, Resolution 25-29 spells out the circumstances whereby total fund appropriations may be and can be increased; and,
WHEREAS, certain increases in annual appropriations and estimated revenues to the budget require City Council Resolution prior to implementation; and, WHEREAS, The City of Ridgecrest Public Works Department is asking council to approve a $115,606.20 increase to account number 101.62.6202.5101.302 for the Install of new electrical meter and service at the Sgt. John Pinney Pool Complex; and,
WHEREAS, this was not a budgeted expense for the Fiscal Year 2026; and, WHEREAS, these funds will be used for the installation of a new electrical meter and service for the project site. The electrical service will support the long-term use of the pool complex for community recreation and programs.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest does hereby:
1. Authorize the Finance Director to make the following adjustment in the FY26 budget: Transfer $115,606.20 from Measure P Reserves to expenditure account number 101.62.6202.5101.302 for the Install of new electrical meter and service at the Sgt. John Pinney Pool Complex.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 18th day of March, 2026 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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Description Amount
Service Request Number: 3858320 Project:
205 S WARNER ST RIDGECREST CA 93555
Install - Billing Option: SCE INSTALL -
100 W CALIFORNIA AVE
RIDGECREST CA 93555
Telephone: (909)-274-1355
RIDGECREST, CITY OF
SCE Contact: Kimberly Nissen
Invoice Date: 01/27/2025
510 SOUTH CHINA LAKE BOULEVARD
RIDGECREST CA 93555
Southern California Edison Company
Document # 7590611258
Invoice # 571220
Item # 604478
Design #: 1799145
2351039 - NEW METER & SERVICE
Product: $115,606.20
Previous Payment $0.00
* Effective January 1, 2025 all projects containing Mixed Fuel will be billed as an estimate and then trued up to actual cost once construction is completed.
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8 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY/
HOUSING AUTHORITY/FINANCING AUTHORITY AGENDA ITEM
SUBJECT: Introduction of A Resolution To Amend The Land Use And Military Sustainability Elements Of The City Of Ridgecrest General Plan; And First Reading And Motion To Introduce, By Title Only, An Ordinance Of The City Council Of Ridgecrest, California An Ordinance Amending The Zoning Map, Thereby Adding Priorities To The Military Influence Area Overlay District; And First Reading And Motion To Introduce, By Title Only, An Ordinance Amending The Municipal Code Regarding Outdoor Lighting And The Military Area Overlay District PRESENTED BY: Heather Spurlock, Community Development Manager SUMMARY:
In April 2011, the United States Department of the Navy adopted a new Air Installations Compatible Use Zones (AICUZ) for the Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS), China Lake. The changes to the AICUZ are a result of a more expansive geographic area utilized by the Navy and more intense aircraft operation noise characteristics. The AICUZ analyzes safety concerns, noise impacts, and land use compatibility with operation of the NAWS adjacent to communities.
Additionally, the AICUZ recommends the City update their General Plan Military Sustainability Element to incorporate the salient details of the AICUZ and establish policies to restrict sensitive receptors from being located within the sound contours. The following amendments are proposed to implement the changes:
Military Sustainability Element – The amendments to this General Plan element include updates to the revised accident potential zone, flight paths, changes to restricted use airspace, and revised noise contours. Additionally, the amendments set policies for the establishment of the Military Influence Area (MIA) Overlay Zone.
Land Use Element – The amendments to the Land Use element include updating the General Plan Land Use Map to incorporate the revised Military Influence Area into the map. Additionally, pursuant to SB 1000 (Chapter 587, Statutes of 2016), the City is required to incorporate environmental justice policies into the General Plan. These policies have been included in the proposed amendment.
Code Amendment – The code amendment would add two new sections to the City’s Municipal Code. The first proposed amendment would add outdoor lighting and dark skies regulations.
Currently, the City relies on the County’s ordinance, this amendment would codify the regulations under the City’s code. The second proposed amendment would establish the Military Influence Area (MIA) Overlay Zone. This overlay includes permitted uses and development standards to minimize impacts from the Navy’s operations onto the community.
The Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing on the matter and has recommended adoption of the resolution and ordinances, thereby amending the Land Use and Military Sustainability Elements of the General Plan, the City of Ridgecrest Municipal Code and Official Zoning Map regarding the MIA Overlay Zone.
Proposed Amendments to the General Plan
The 2011 AICUZ expanded the safety zones and noise contours (see Figure 1) as a result of changes to air operations at NAWS China Lake. While the expanded safety zones don’t impact the City, the new noise contours extend further into the City boundaries. The proposed amendments would establish the expanded MIA within the Land Use Element and incorporate changes from the 2011 AICUZ into the Military Sustainability Element.
Figure 1 – Changes to Noise Contours
The following three new General Plan policies would be added to the Military Sustainability Element:
MIL-1.5 MIA Overlay Zone
The City will create an MIA overlay zone to provide land uses and development standards that are compatible with the AICUZ.
MIL-1.6 Dark Skies Ordinance
To minimize impacts on night-time flight operations, the City shall adopt a “dark skies ordinance” that will reduce night lighting for new uses and light sources.
MIL-3.9 Sensitive Uses
The City should address restrictions on the location of sensitive receptors, such as schools, day care centers, apartments, hospitals, nursing homes, and senior living facilities in relation to noise contours.
Whenever the City amends two or more general plan elements, SB 1000 (Chapter 587, Statutes of 2016) requires the City to identify disadvantaged communities and address environmental justice concerns within the General Plan. A SB 1000 analysis (attached) was prepared, which found that eight of the 22 census block groups would qualify as disadvantaged communities.
As such, the following environmental justice policies would be added to the Land Use Element:
LU-2.13 Lead Based Paint Removal
The City shall encourage local residential contractors to obtain certification as lead renovators to promote safe work practices and prevent lead contamination.
Additionally, the City shall provide information for homeowners, such as the EPA’s Renovate Right Program handouts at the Building Department counter and the City’s website. [Environmental Justice]
LU-2.14 New Housing Developments
The City shall require new housing proposals to incorporate setbacks, barriers, landscaping, ventilation systems or other measures to ensure that residents are not impacted by air pollution. [Environmental Justice]
LU-5.5 Truck Routes
The City shall prohibit the designation of new truck routes on residential and collector streets. [Environmental Justice]
LU-5.6 New Industrial and Warehouse Facilities
Require industrial and warehouse facilities to provide electrical connections for electric trucks and transport refrigeration units to prevent idling during docking operations. [Environmental Justice]
LU-5.7 Wastewater Facilities
The City shall prohibit the development of waste processing facilities and industries using toxic chemicals in areas where pollutants may come in contact with groundwater, floodwaters, creeks, or reservoir waters. [Environmental Justice]
Proposed Ordinance Amending Part II (Land Development) of the City of Ridgecrest Municipal Code
The code amendment would implement new General Plan policies MIL-1.5, MIL-1.6, and MIL3.9.
Section 106-40 (Outdoor Lighting/Dark Skies) would be added to Part II (Land Development) of the Municipal Code. The Outdoor Lighting/Dark Skies ordinance is necessary to reduce impact of light and glare on nighttime air operations at the base. The City currently enforces the County’s ordinance; however, this amendment would codify the regulations under the City’s direct jurisdiction.
Section 106-350 through 106-354 (Military Influence Area Overlay District) would be added to Part II (Land Development) of the Municipal Code. This new division establishes the Military Influence Area overlay. Permitted uses would be included to ensure the future development of property would not conflict with military operations. The permitted uses in the overlay are as follows:
(a) Permitted uses. The following uses shall be permitted in the MIA-1 and MIA-2 overlay zones:
(1) Any permitted use listed in the base zone, except the following:
a. Any use listed as a conditionally permitted use in Section 106-352(b). b. Any prohibited use listed in Section 106-352(c).
(b) Conditionally permitted uses. The following uses may be permitted in the MIA-1 and MIA-2 overlay zones, subject to the application for a conditional use permit per division 3 of article II of this chapter.
(1) Any conditionally permitted use listed in the base zone, except the following:
a. Any prohibited use listed in Section 106-353(c).
(2) Multifamily residential dwellings within the MIA-2 overlay zone. (3) Any use that is permitted in the base zone and would result in any of the following:
a. Generates electromagnetic emissions or radio frequencies. b. Release into the air any substance such as steam, dust and smoke. c. Produce light emissions, glare or distracting lights which could interfere with pilot vision or be mistaken for airfield lighting.
(c) Prohibited uses. The following use shall be prohibited in any portion of the MIA-1 or MIA-2 overlay zones:
(1) Any structure that would physically obstruct any portion of the Military Operations Area (MOA) due to relative height above ground level.
(2) Outdoor music shells and amphitheaters.
(3) Raising or keeping of pigeons or doves, including but not limited to, pedigreed homing, high-flying, or air-performing pigeons.
(4) Within the MIA-2 overlay zone, the following uses shall be prohibited:
a. Group Quarters.
b. Residential Hotels.
c. Mobile home parks or courts.
d. Nursing Homes.
e. Hotels, motels, and other transient lodging
Additional development standards are also included to restrict the height of structures to 35’ and ensure lighting and reflective surfaces would not interfere with pilot vision and/or air traffic control operations.
Proposed Ordinance Amending the Official Zoning Map of the City of Ridgecrest The proposed amendments would update the office Zoning Map to add the new MIA overlay (see Figure 2). The MIA-1 zone is primarily located on the western portions of the City. The MIA-2 zone is located on the northwest and northeast corners of the City. Boundaries of the overlay were defined using the revised noise contours for the MIA-1 zone and the safety zone boundaries for the MIA-2 zone.
Figure 2 – MIA Overlay Zone
Recommended Motions:
Introduction of a resolution of the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest, thereby amending the Military Sustainability and Land Use Elements of the General Plan. (to be approved at public hearing on April 15, 206) Requires a Second
Motion to waive reading in full and introduce, by title only, an ordinance of the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest, thereby adding Section 106-40 and Sections 106-350 through 106-354 to the Ridgecrest Municipal Code regarding the Outdoor Lighting/Dark Skies and the Military Influence Area Overlay Zone. Requires a Second
Motion to waive reading in full and introduce, by title only, an ordinance of the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest, thereby amending the Official Zoning Map to implement the Military Influence Area Overlay Zone. Requires a Second
FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Approve recommended motions.
CITY MANAGER ‘S RECOMMENDATION: Recommends Approval
Submitted by: Heather Spurlock Action Date: March 18, 2026 MIA-1 Zone
MIA-2 Zone
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EXHIBIT A –RESOLUTION FOR GENERAL PLAN ELEMENT
RESOLUTION NO. 26-__
A RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL APPROVING AN AMENDMENT
TO THE LAND USE AND MILITARY SUSTAINABILITY ELEMENTS OF THE CITY OF
RIDGECREST GENERAL PLAN
WHEREAS, Article 5 of Chapter 3 of Division 1 of Title 7 of the California Government Code empowers the City to adopt a comprehensive long term General Plan; and WHEREAS, in December 2009, the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest adopted a comprehensive update to the General Plan; and
WHEREAS, California Government Code Section 65302(a)(2) requires the City to consider the impact of new growth on military readiness activities carried out on military bases, installations, and operating and training areas within the General Plan; and WHEREAS, in April 2011, the United States Department of the Navy adopted a new Air Installations Compatible Use Zones (AICUZ) for the Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS), China Lake; and
WHEREAS, it is the City Council’s desire to amend the Land Use and Military Sustainability Elements of the General Plan to reflect the changes and recommendations of the AICUZ; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing to consider the matter on February 24, 2026. After accepting all testimony, reports, and facts, the Planning Commission adopted Planning Commission Resolution 26-__, thereby recommending approval of the General Plan Amendment; and
WHEREAS, on _________________, 2026, the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest conducted a duly noticed public hearing. After considering all testimony, reports, and facts regarding the General Plan Amendment, the City Council adopted this resolution.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest hereby finds and determines as follows:
1. The above recitals are true and correct.
2. Pursuant to CEQA Guideline Section 15378 (14 Cal. Code Regs. § 15378), this action is not subject to CEQA since it does not have the potential to result in a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.
3. The Land Use Element of the General Plan, as attached hereto, is hereby approved.
4. The Military Sustainability Element of the General Plan, as attached hereto, is hereby approved.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED, this 15
th day of April, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
____________________________________
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________________
Ricca Charlon, CMC, City Clerk
3 L an d Use Elemen t
3.1 Introduction
The Land Use Element, one of seven mandatory elements of the General Plan, has been required since 1955. It serves as the central element for the general plan and, in essence, brings together most of the concerns addressed in the other elements. It is the principal tool for guiding community growth and development and does so by designating the proposed general distribution, location and intensity of the use of land for both urban and non-urban activities.
Although the Land Use Element is most closely related to the physical development of the city, it also addresses social, economic and environmental issues through its policies.
The City of Ridgecrest Land Use Element also includes policies and goals concerning public services and facilities. The policies and development direction are for public buildings, grounds and facilities essential to meet community needs, as well as solid waste collection, sanitary sewer, water, schools and medical service. Other public services and facilities including parks, storm drains, public transit, fire service and police service are treated in the Circulation and Transportation, Safety, and Open Space Elements. Since several of the services and facilities covered by this element are not operated by the City, an important part of implementing the element will be strong coordination between the City and individual purveyors.
City of Ridgecrest
KEY TERMS
Airport Influence Area (AIA). The Airport Influence Area is an area around an airport that requires additional land use regulation to accommodate aircraft operations. The zone is identified in the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) and is subject to special use and development regulations including but not limited use, building height, low density residential uses, and other limiting factors. The runway will include helicopter take-off and landing zones if not on the primary runway.
Air Installation Compatible Use Zone (AICUZ) Study. The AICUZ is a Department of Defense (DOD) planning program that was developed in response to incompatible urban development and land use conflicts around military airfields. The AICUZ study seeks to develop a cooperative relationship between communities and military installations and provides land use compatibility guidelines designed to protect public health and safety as well as maintain military readiness. As designed, the AICUZ study evaluates three components: noise, vertical obstructions, and accident potential zones. An AICUZ study is maintained for operations at Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake.
Conditional Use Permit. A Conditional Use Permit (CUP) is used for specific land uses that due to their type of activities may create unique impacts that need to be addressed for each site. A CUP may require a public hearing, and if approval is granted, is usually subject to the fulfillment of certain conditions by the developer/operator.
Density. This term is applied to residential development in the Planning Area and is defined as the number of units per gross acre (dwelling units per acre or DU/A) on a given site.
Disadvantaged Community. A census tract, or portion thereof, that has or below 80% of the county median household income and is disproportionately affected by pollution and other environmental justice issues.
Floor Area Ratio (FAR). A floor area ratio is often used to describe the intensity of commercial, office, and industrial land usage. The FAR is a ratio created by dividing the total square footage of the building by the net square footage of the lot.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS). A system of hardware and software used for storage, retrieval, mapping, and analysis of geographic data. Spatial features are stored in a coordinate system (latitude/longitude, state plane, UTM, etc.), which references a particular place on the earth. Descriptive attributes in tabular form are associated with spatial features. Spatial data and associated attributes in the same coordinate system can then be layered together for mapping and analysis.
Gross Acreage. This term refers to the total area of a site.
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-3
Holding Capacity. The amount of growth that an area can support and sustain through available resources and services without causing undo strain on the community.
Infrastructure Master Plan. An infrastructure master plan determines which services, infrastructure and accesses require upgrading in an area or jurisdiction and establishes an equitable cost sharing formula to facilitate the plan.
Intensity. This term is applied to non-residential development in the Planning Area, including commercial and industrial uses. Intensity is defined using a floor area ratio.
LAFCO Sphere of Influence (SOI). A sphere of influence is the probable future service boundary of a city or special district that represents the area within which the city or district is expected to grow. The boundary discourages competition among agencies for developable land; it promotes orderly land use and service planning, and provides direction to landowners when and if they need a broader range or higher level of services.
Lot Coverage. This term refers to the amount of a lot that is allowed to be covered by the footprint of structures on that lot.
Mixed-use. Properties on which various uses, such as office, commercial, institutional, and residential, are combined in a single building or on a single site in an integrated development project with significant functional interrelationships and a coherent physical design. A "single site" may include contiguous properties.
Municipal Service Review. A Municipal Service Review is undertaken in accordance with the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 and as a response to the requirement that LAFCO complete a Municipal Service Review and make written determinations prior to updating the sphere of influence plan for an agency who provides a particular service and who is subject to LAFCO’s jurisdiction.
Net Acreage. Net acreage is calculated by taking the gross acreage of a site and subtracting portions of the site dedicated to public improvements, such as streets.
Planning Area. As stated in the General Plan Guidelines, a general plan must “cover the territory within the boundaries of the adopting city or county as well as ‘any land outside its boundaries which in the planning agency’s judgment bears relation to its planning’ (§65300).” For purposes of developing this General Plan, the City established a Planning Area early in the update process as part of the public involvement process.
The Planning Area established for the Ridgecrest General Plan is shown on Figure 1-1. A unique aspect of the Planning Area is that it incorporates lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and lands held by the City of Ridgecrest
Department of Defense as part of China Lake. The Planning Area covers a land area of approximately 40 square miles.
Redevelopment Project Area. A geographical boundary within which Community Redevelopment Law is utilized to attain revitalization of blighted structures, neighborhoods and communities.
Right-of-Way. A strip of land occupied or intended to be occupied by certain transportation and public use facilities, such as roads, railroads, and utility lines.
Setback. The required minimum horizontal distance between a structure and the front, side, and/or rear property line or another structure.
Special Districts. Limited purpose districts such as flood control, fire, irrigation, etc.
Urban Service Areas. An urban service area is the area around a jurisdiction or community that can adequately provide infrastructure expansion and public services at above a rural level. Such infrastructure and services include but are not limited to: streets, gutters, water, sewer, electricity and communications.
Land outside this area would be considered open space or rural.
Zoning. Zoning is the principal tool for implementing the general plan; it translates general plan land use recommendations and standards directly into enforceable regulations. In its most elementary form, zoning is the division of a community into districts and the specification of allowable uses and development standards for each of the districts. Typically, the zoning ordinance consists of text and a map delineating districts for such basic land uses as residential, commercial, and industrial and establishing special regulations for parking, floodplains, and other specific concerns. For each of the basic land uses, the zoning ordinance text typically includes an explanation of the purpose of the zoning district; a list of principal permitted uses; a list of uses allowed by conditional use permit; and standards for minimum lot size, density, height, lot coverage, and setback.
State law requires that zoning ordinances be consistent with the general plan.
A zoning ordinance is consistent with an adopted general plan only if the various land uses authorized by the zoning ordinance “are compatible with the objectives, policies, and general land uses and programs specified in such a plan” (Government Code Section 65860[a]). State law also provides that in the event that a zoning ordinance becomes inconsistent with a general plan by reason of amendment to such a plan, the zoning ordinance must be amended within a reasonable time so that it is consistent with the general plan as amended (Government Code Section 65860 [a]).
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-5
3.2 Existing Conditions
EXISTING LAND USE
The City of Ridgecrest’s existing land use summary was created based on data provided by the Kern Council of Governments (KernCOG) as taken from the Kern County Assessor’s Office tax use codes, which indicate existing land uses.
This data was then reviewed and refined by City staff for presentation here.
From the tax use codes, land use was grouped into the following broad categories: residential, commercial, industrial, open space and other. Each of these categories was further subdivided to better describe the land uses inside the City limits as well as the overall Planning Area.
As stated earlier, a unique aspect of the Planning Area is that it incorporates lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and lands held by the Department of Defense (DOD) as part of China Lake. The main community support area on China Lake (referred to as the “cantonment” area) is located within the Ridgecrest city limits. Although a portion of the installation is within the city limits, as federal lands, the City has no land use authority over this portion of the City. Of the 40 square mile Planning Area, almost 22 square miles is land managed by the BLM or DOD (China Lake).
Table 3-1 provides a breakdown of existing land use (2007) by land use type.
The table provides this breakdown in two formats: with and without federal lands.
In the following paragraphs, the percentages quoted are based on the percentages derived when excluding federally managed lands.
Residential. As the predominant urban land use, residential uses comprise slightly over 39 percent of the acreage within the Planning Area (non-federal lands). Over 85 percent of the residential acreage falls into the Single Family Residential category. Based on an analysis of undeveloped land, there is a substantial amount of undeveloped property land use categories that would expand this type of housing. While there is a large land area for residential, the placement of new development must be carefully assessed to ensure it is compatible with surrounding uses, infrastructure capabilities, and environmental constraints, such as noise associated with operations at NAWS China Lake.
Commercial. While Ridgecrest serves as the main urban and commercial center for the Indian Wells Valley, commercial land uses comprise just under two percent of the land within the Planning Area. This land is dispersed throughout the City and ranges from small, single parcel retail sites to large retail and office developments. Most commercial uses are concentrated along China Lake and Ridgecrest Boulevards, with some limited commercial uses located along Jacks Ranch Road. In recent years, new large-scale commercial development has occurred at both ends of China Lake Boulevard.
City of Ridgecrest
Industrial. Existing industrial lands constitute one percent of the total Planning Area. Within the industrial category, specific land uses include: heavy industrial, light industrial and business and research land uses. Industrial uses are primarily located on the edges of the City at the intersections of Jacks Ranch Road and Saratoga Road, San Bernardino Road and Bowman Road, and Inyokern Road and Brady Street.
Open Space. There are approximately 187 acres of recreational land uses within the Planning Area; about 104 acres are in active recreational facilities, such as parks. The abundance of open space is visually more apparent than actually exists. Undeveloped land, comprising almost one quarter of the Planning Area, creates the perception of openness within the City.
Other. With the exclusion of federal lands, the “Other” land uses in the Planning Area account for only about four percent of the Planning Area. The remaining lands in this category include institutional (such as schools) and utilities/infrastructure.
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-7
Table 3-1. Existing Land Use within the Planning Area (2007) Including Federal Lands Excluding Federal Lands
Land Use
Category Acres
Percent
in City
Limits Acres
Percent
in
Planning
Area (1) Acres
Percent
in City
Limits Acres
Percent
in
Planning
Area (1)
Residential 2,052.7 16.0% 4,561.9 17.9% 2,052.7 37.0% 4,561.9 39.1% Single Family
Residential 1,564.5 12.2% 3,963.0 15.6% 1,564.50 28.2% 3,963.0 34.0% Multiple Family
Residential 381.9 3.0% 449.6 1.8% 381.9 6.9% 449.6 3.9% Manufactured
Home Park 106.3 0.8% 149.3 0.6% 106.3 1.9% 149.3 1.3%
Commercial 367.5 2.9% 410.3 1.6% 367.5 6.6% 410.3 3.5%
Commercial 318.4 2.5% 361.2 1.4% 318.4 5.7% 361.2 3.1%
Office 49.1 0.4% 49.1 0.2% 49.1 0.9% 49.1 0.4%
Industrial 62.3 0.5% 121.7 0.5% 62.3 1.1% 121.7 1.0%
Industrial 62.3 0.5% 121.7 0.5% 62.3 1.1% 121.7 1.0%
Open Space 2,624.1 20.4% 6,122.2 24.0% 2,624.1 47.3% 6,122.2 52.5% Vacant Land 2,437.5 19.0% 5,935.2 23.3% 2,437.5 43.9% 5,935.2 50.9% Recreational 186.6 1.5% 187 0.7% 186.6 3.4% 187 1.6%
Other 7,729.4 60.2% 14,264.1 56.0% 442.4 8.0% 453.1 3.9% Institutional 243 1.9% 246.7 1.0% 243 4.4% 246.7 2.1%
Utilities and
Infrastructure 18.9 0.1% 25.9 0.1% 18.9 0.3% 25.9 0.2%
Navy 5,940.7 46.3% 9,740.7 38.2% 0.0% 0.0%
Other Federal 1,346.3 10.5% 4,070.3 16.0% 0.0% 0.0%
City and County 180.5 1.4% 180.5 0.7% 180.5 3.3% 180.5 1.5% TOTAL 12,836.00 100% 25,480.20 100% 5,549.00 100% 11,669.20 100% Notes: 1. Includes acres within city limits
Source: KernCOG and Matrix Design Group, 2007
City of Ridgecrest
EXISTING GENERAL PLAN
The City of Ridgecrest is characterized by low rise buildings (one or two stories), lower density residential, and commercial uses surrounded by vast open space. Most of the City’s higher intensity development (commercial, office, civic, and institutional uses) lies adjacent to primary thoroughfares such as Ridgecrest Boulevard, Highway 178, Bowman Road, and China Lake Boulevard. Location along these facilities concentrates nonresidential land uses into a largely linear urban form with focal points of intensive uses at the intersections of arterial streets. Less intensive land uses, including rural residential and natural open, are located on the urban fringe of the City.
The City currently classifies land into nine designations that fall into one of five broad categories: residential, commercial, industrial, open space and other.
The percentages shown in Table 3-2 are for the entire Planning Area, and include federally managed lands (BLM and NAWS China Lake).
Table 3-2. General Plan Land Use Designations in Planning Area Land Use Category Acres
Percent of Planning
Area
Residential 11,609.3 45.4%
Rural Density Residential 5,200.3 20.3%
Estate Residential 2,569.9 10.0%
Low Density Residential 2,843.8 11.1%
Medium Density Residential 995.3 3.9%
Commercial 1,308.5 5.1%
Commercial 1,308.5 5.1%
Industrial 1,250.2 4.9%
Industrial 1,250.2 4.9%
Open Space 8,932.9 34.9%
Open Space 8,932.9 34.9
Other 2,483.7 9.7%
Civic/Institutional 743.7 2.9%
Parks/Schools 1,740.0 6.8%
TOTAL 25,584.6 100%
Note: Total acreage in this table is slightly higher than the totals in Table 3-1 due to the different databases used.
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-9
3.3 Land Use Diagram and Standards
OVERVIEW
The General Plan Land Use Diagram (included at the back of this element) and Circulation Diagrams (Figures 6-1 and 6-3) graphically depict the major land use and circulation relationships of the General Plan. The policies contained in the General Plan, to the extent they can be graphically depicted (i.e., location of schools and parks, relationship of high-density residential areas and commercial areas to circulation corridors), are illustrated on the General Plan Land Use and Circulation Diagrams. The Land Use Diagram includes ten land use designations that cover residential, commercial, office, industrial, public uses, and open space.
The land use designations with the largest amount of acreage on the diagram are Rural and Estate Residential. These designations are primarily located along the outer edges of the Planning Area. These designations serve to mitigate impacts from aviation operations at China Lake and to transition to the rural areas within unincorporated Kern County.
Uses that serve residential development, such as schools and parks, are shown on the Land Use Diagram. Locations for future facilities are only shown to represent the general area for the facility. Final locations will be determined during site selection by the school district or City, respectively.
This section sets out the land use description depicted as the land use diagram.
Each description includes list of allowable uses, maximum net/gross dwelling units/acre (DUA) for residential uses and floor area ratio (FAR) for nonresidential uses.
State planning law requires general plans to establish “standards of population density and building intensity” for the various land use designations in the plan (Government Code Section 65302(a). To satisfy this requirement, the General Plan includes such standards for each land use designation appearing on the Land Use Diagram. These standards are stated differently for residential and non-residential development. Table 3-3 provides as summary of the land use designations and standards contained in City of Ridgecrest General Plan. The City’s zoning ordinance and zoning categories provide more detailed development standards and assist in the implementation of the General Plan.
There are 14 land use designations and two special study overlays. The General Plan Land Use Diagram provides the distribution, location and extent of the land use designations and special study overlays in the City.
City of Ridgecrest
Table 3-3. Land Use Designation Summary
Land Use Designations
Land Use
Label
Minimum Lot
Size
Dwelling Units
Per Gross Acre
Maximum
Floor Area Ratio
(FAR)
Residential
Residential Large Lot RX 2.5 acres 0.0 - 0.4 --
Residential Rural Density RR 40,000 Sq.Ft. 0.0 - 1.0 -- Residential Estate Density RE 20,000 Sq.Ft. 1.1 - 2.0 -- Residential Low Density RL 6,000 Sq.Ft. 2.1 - 5.0 --
Residential Medium Density RM 3,000 Sq.Ft. 5.1 - 14.0 -- Residential High Density RH 1,500 Sq.Ft. 14.1 - 29.0 -- Commercial / Industrial
Commercial C 20,000 Sq.Ft. 14.1 - 29.0
0.30 (no residential)
2.00 (w/residential)
Commercial Downtown CD N/A 14.1 - 29.0 2.0
Commercial Village CV 10,000 Sq.Ft. 14.1 - 29.0
0.3 (no residential)
2.0 (w/residential)
Industrial I 20,000 Sq.Ft. -- 0.4
Other
Institutional IS N/A -- 0.6
Military MIL N/A N/A N/A
Parks P N/A -- 0.2
Open Space OS 10 Acres 1 Unit/Lot 0.2
Overlays
Military Influence Area MIA N/A N/A N/A
The following summary explains how the land use designation standards operate.
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
Standards of development density for residential uses are stated as the allowable range of dwelling units per gross acre. The term “gross acre” includes all land (including streets and rights-of-way) designated for a particular residential use, while net acreage excludes streets and rights-of-way. In urban areas, net acreage is normally 20 to 25 percent less for a given area than gross acreage. In rural areas and open space areas, the difference between net and gross can be as low as five percent. Net acreage is the standard typically used in zoning, while gross acreage is more commonly used in general plan designations.
Standards of population density for residential uses can be derived by multiplying the maximum allowable number of dwelling units per gross acre by the average number of persons per dwelling unit assumed for the applicable residential designation. In 2007, the average household size was close to 3.1 persons per household.
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NON RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
Standards of building intensity for non-residential uses such as commercial and industrial development are stated as maximum floor-area ratios (FARs). A FAR is the ratio of the gross building square footage on a lot to the net square footage of the lot (or parcel).
For example, on a lot with 10,000 net square feet of land area, an FAR of 1.00 will allow 10,000 square feet of gross building floor area to be built, regardless of the number of stories in the building (e.g., 5,000 square feet per floor on two floors or 10,000 square feet on one floor). On the same 10,000-square-foot lot, an FAR of 0.5 would allow 5,000 square feet of floor area, and an FAR of 0.25 would allow 2,500 square feet. The diagram to the left shows graphically how various building configurations representing a FAR of 1.0 could cover a lot(each quadrant of the diagram has an FAR of 1.0).
OVERLAYS
Overlays are intended to be placed over the existing permitted land use to add specific policies, regulations, and/or standards to address a unique circumstance or characteristic. Overlays are not intended to replace a land use designation, but rather to supplement it to apply additional policies.
FAR 1.0 example
City of Ridgecrest
3.4 Goals and Policies
General
Goal
LU-1
To ensure that Ridgecrest’s future growth will proceed in an orderly manner, provide for an appropriate mix of land use opportunities, encourage and provide incentives for infill development, prevent urban sprawl, and promote the efficient and equitable provision of public services. [New Goal]
LU-1.1 Land Use Diagram
The City shall utilize and maintain the Land Use Diagram to designate the location and extent of each land use designation and special study overaly within the Planning Area. The Land Use Diagram is included at the back of this General Plan.
It is typical for the Land Use Diagram to be updated over time. Please check with the Community Development Department to ensure you have the current version.
LU-1.2 Land Use Designations / Special Use Overlay
The City will utilize the land use designations and special use overlay presented on the following pages for regulating future growth within the Planning Area.
RESIDENTIAL DESIGNATIONS
RESIDENTIAL LARGE LOT (RX)
This designation establishes areas for single-family residential development on large lots that involve the ownership of acreage. Uses typically include single family dwellings and mini-farms or ranchettes that may include agricultural activity. Lots within this designation are typically large enough to support independent wastewater disposal (septic) systems. This designation is compatible with current AICUZ land use compatibility guidance for areas outside of the Clear Zone and Accident Potential Zones (defined in Section 4).
Density Range: 0-0.4 DU/A
Minimum Lot Size: 2.5 acres
RESIDENTIAL RURAL DENSITY (RR)
This designation establishes areas for single-family residential development on large lots. Uses typically include single family dwellings and mini-farms or ranchettes where agricultural activity is secondary to the residential land use.
Lots within this designation are typically large enough to support independent wastewater disposal (septic) systems.
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February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-13
Density Range: 0-1.0 DU/A
Minimum Lot Size: 40,000 Sq.Ft.
RESIDENTIAL ESTATE DENSITY (RE)
This designation establishes areas for large lot single family estate dwellings.
Uses typically allowed include detached single family homes, secondary dwellings, and support uses (i.e., workshop, pool house).
Density Range: 1.1-2.0 DU/A
Minimum Lot Size: 20,000 Sq.Ft.
RESIDENTIAL LOW-DENSITY (RL)
This designation establishes areas for single family residences in a suburban configuration. Uses typically allowed include detached single family homes, secondary dwellings, and residential support uses such as churches, schools, and other necessary public utilities and safety facilities.
Density Range: 2.1-5.0 DU/A
Minimum Lot Size: 6,000 Sq.Ft.
RESIDENTIAL MEDIUM-DENSITY (RM)
This land designation establishes areas for single family and low density multifamily dwellings located near neighborhood serving uses such as grocery stores, schools, parks and other public services. Uses typically allowed include single family dwellings, second units, town homes, duplexes, triplexes and mobile home parks.
Density Range: 5.1-14.0 DU/A
Minimum Lot Size: 3,000 Sq.Ft.
RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY (RH)
This designation established areas for multi-family dwellings in urbanized areas with access to public transportation and residential serving uses (i.e., coffee shops and drug stores). Uses typically allowed include duplexes, tri-plexes, townhomes and apartments near schools, parks and other public services.
Maximum Density: 14.1-29.0 DU/A
Minimum Lot Size: 1,500 Sq.Ft.
City of Ridgecrest
COMMERCIAL / INDUSTRIAL DESIGNATIONS
COMMERCIAL (C)
This designation establishes the more intensive commercial retail and shopping service uses adjacent to residential neighborhoods. A broad mix of uses, including offices and high density residential are also encouraged within or adjacent to these areas in order to provide “active” centers in which many uses may be accessed on foot from residential areas or lodging areas. Uses typically allowed include regional malls and outlet centers, supermarkets, drug stores, other residential serving uses as well as office uses.
High density residential uses are permitted within the Commercial designation provided these residential activities are located on the second floor or above along building frontages. Residential may be included on the first floor if the total residential square footage does not exceed 50% of the total square footage. Therefore, all Commercial designations provide for a vibrant mixed use of compatible land uses further regulated by the provisions of the zoning code. Larger centers may include community commercial centers, shopping centers, shopping plazas, and shopping centers that include a junior department store, or a large variety, discount or department store with direct and convenient arterial access and access for pedestrians, bicyclists, and public transit.
Maximum Intensity: 0.30 FAR (no residential)
2.00 FAR (if residential included)
Minimum Development Size: 20,000 Sq.Ft.
COMMERCIAL DOWNTOWN (CD)
This designation provides for a vibrant mix of compatible land uses in the Olde Towne area that can include residential, administrative and professional offices, retail and commercial service uses, and public and quasi-public facilities.
Development standards would be determined through a Design Review.
Maximum Density: 0.0-29.0 DU/A
Maximum Intensity: 3.0 FAR
Minimum Lot Size: None
COMMERCIAL VILLAGE (CV)
This designation establishes the small areas where residents can shop, socialize or recreate. Allowed land uses would include commercial uses that would be appropriate along major thoroughfares and adjacent to medium and high density residential areas. Different Commercial Village land uses can be located in the same building, (including residential or office uses located above a commercial use) or on the same site, and include retail, child care, convenience markets, office and personal services. All Commercial Village uses shall be subject to the provisions of the zoning ordinance which shall ensure compatibility with the activities proposed and surrounding neighborhood.
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February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-15
Maximum Intensity: 0.30 FAR (no residential)
2.00 FAR (if residential included)
Minimum Development Size: 10,000 Sq.Ft.
INDUSTRIAL (I)
This designation establishes areas for a range of non-intensive business park, industrial park, and warehouse uses that do not have detrimental noise or odor impacts on surrounding uses. Uses typically allowed include warehousing, welding and fabrication shops, manufacturing, processing, fabrication, trucking terminals, and business support uses such as retail or eating establishments that serve adjacent light industrial uses and employees.
Maximum Density: 0.40
Minimum Lot Size: 20,000 Sq.Ft.
OTHER DESIGNATIONS
INSTITUTIONAL (IS)
This designation establishes areas for public and institutional uses that serve the local community. Uses typically allowed include government facilities, schools, libraries, churches, municipal corporation yards, sewer and water facilities, police and fire stations, and hospitals located throughout the community to serve neighborhoods and businesses and promote public safety.
Maximum Intensity: 0.6 FAR
Minimum Lot Size: None
MILITARY (MIL)
The Military designation is applied to land owned or leased by a military entity and is intended for uses related to NAWS China Lake. As military property, the City does not have land use authority, therefore, no use intensity standards are provided.
Maximum Intensity: N/A
Minimum Lot Size: N/A
PARKS (P)
This designation establishes areas for outdoor recreation facilities that serve local and regional users. Uses typically allowed in this designation include pocket, neighborhood, community, regional, natural parks, and other outdoor recreation facilities, such as, golf courses, trails, and open space/habitat preserves. Recreation facilities should be connected with accessibility to pedestrians and bicyclists.
Maximum Intensity: 0.20 FAR
Minimum Lot Size: None
City of Ridgecrest
OPEN SPACE (OS)
The purpose of this designation is to conserve lands that should remain as open space for passive and active recreation uses, resource management, flood control management and public safety. Uses that would typically be appropriate in this land use designation include but are not limited to public parks, playgrounds, and parkways; vista areas, wetlands, wildlife habitats and outdoor nature laboratories; stormwater management facilities; and buffer zones separating urban development and ecologically-sensitive resources.
Such land areas are primarily publicly owned, but may include private property.
The FAR for non-residential uses shall not exceed 0.10.
Maximum Intensity: 0.10 FAR
Minimum Lot Size: None
SPECIAL USE OVERLAYS
Special use overlays are established in combination with the underlying land use designation in order to achieve specific land use objectives for a given area.
SPECIFIC PLAN (SP)
The SP overlay designation is established where infrastructure needs, land use patterns, or other substantial land use related issues indicate a need to require the preparation and adoption of a Specific Plan, as defined by California Government Code sections 65450 et seq. Although the SP overlay does not itself modify the General Plan land use designation on a property within the overlay area, the adoption of a specific plan can modify the underlying zoning district(s) and their requirements.
MILITARY INFLUENCE AREA (MIA) OVERLAY
The MIA overlay defines specific areas requiring additional controls on the types of land use designations and densities / intensities appropriate in areas near NAWS China Lake and its approach and departure zones. These additional considerations are necessary to protect public safety and maintain the operational capabilities of NAWS China Lake. Refer to Policy LU-7.1 and the goals, policies, and implementation measures in Section 4, Military Sustainability Element.
LU-1.3 Compact Development
The City shall promote development patterns that are compact and use space in an efficient but aesthetic manner to promote more walking, biking and use of public transit.
LU-1.4 Encourage Infill Development
The City shall encourage infill development of vacant parcels and the intensifying of land uses on parcels that are underutilized in order to better R-2508 JLUS
R-2508 JLUS
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February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-17
utilize the existing public services and facilities. [Source: Modified Policy 1.1.1 and Policy 1.4.2, Land Use Element, JLUS Strategy #41]
LU-1.5 Determine the Optimum Population Size
The City shall, for planning purposes, define a buildout population of 50,000 persons for the time period covered by this General Plan.
LU-1.6 Partner for BLM Lands
The City of Ridgecrest will work with BLM to identify and evaluate BLM lands within the Planning Area that may be suitable for BLM land transfers.
Properties of interest will be those that:
▪ Can reduce the impact on military operations by protecting land in incompatible areas for private development through a mutually agreeable land transfer
▪ Can provide opportunities for private development in areas adjacent to the developed portions of the community
▪ Allow BLM to aggregate lands into more cohesive federal management areas that allow for the provision of public use areas accessible to City residents.
Residential Development
Goal
LU-2
To promote a variety of housing types and densities throughout the City to address the housing needs of various age and socio-economic groups. [New Goal]
LU-2.1 Housing Choices
The City shall promote land use designs that provide a variety of places where residents can live, including apartments, condominiums, townhouses and single family attached and detached.
LU-2.2 Neighborhood Housing Mix
The City shall encourage mixed density residential neighborhoods that contain a variety of housing types and densities to help create an overall healthy, balanced community.
LU-2.3 Local Housing Needs
The City shall work to meet the increase of local housing needs for low and moderate income households. The City will work with developers and local housing advocacy groups to meet the City's regional share of low and moderate income housing. [Source: Modified Policy 1.1.5, Land Use Element] R-2508 JLUS
City of Ridgecrest
LU-2.4 Neighborhood Protection
The City shall seek to prevent residential blight and promote healthy neighborhoods through public and private resources/programs (e.g., enforcement of all codes, neighborhood rehabilitation programs, and redevelopment agency actions).
LU-2.5 Future Residential Development
The City shall direct future residential development to areas adjacent or in close proximity to existing and future neighborhoods and neighborhood commercial areas to further Ridgecrest as a self-sufficient, full-service city.
LU-2.6 Medium and High Density Residential Locations
The City shall encourage the development of higher density housing near commercial services, employment centers, principal arterial routes, and public transportation.
LU-2.7 Varied Lot Sizes
The City shall encourage developments with varied lot sizes to deter from a “cookie cutter” neighborhood image.
LU-2.8 Incompatible Uses
The City shall protect existing residential neighborhoods from the encroachment of incompatible activities and land uses (i.e., traffic, noise) and environmental hazards (i.e., flood, soil instability).
LU-2.9 Planned Development
The City shall encourage the use of planned development provisions in residential developments to provide flexibility, to meet various socio-economic needs, and to address environmental and site design constraints.
LU-2.10 Golf Oriented Residential
The City shall promote the development of planned unit developments that incorporates a golf course and associated residential uses. Both age restricted and unrestricted developments are appropriate.
LU-2.11 Senior Housing Development
The City shall encourage new senior housing developments in areas where public transportation, commercial services, health and community facilities are easily accessible and in close proximity.
LU-2.12 Integrate Housing, Educational, and Recreational Uses The City shall work with the Sierra Sands Unified School District to integrate housing, educational and recreational uses. [Source: Policy 1.3.5, Land Use Element]
LU-2.13 Lead Based Paint Removal
The City shall encourage local residential contractors to obtain certification as lead renovators to promote safe work practices and prevent lead
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February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-19
contamination. Additionally, the City shall provide information for homeowners, such as the EPA’s Renovate Right Program handouts at the Building Department counter and the City’s website. [Environmental Justice] LU-2.14 New Housing Developments
The City shall require new housing proposals to incorporate setbacks, barriers, landscaping, ventilation systems or other measures to ensure that residents are not impacted by air pollution. [Environmental Justice]
Commercial Development
Goal
LU-3
To promote commercial development that meets present and future needs of Ridgecrest residents, the regional community, and visitors and to enhance economic vitality and sustainability. [New Goal] LU-3.1 Neighborhood Commercial
The City shall encourage the distribution of neighborhood commercial centers throughout the city to ensure convenient access to Ridgecrest residents and promote Ridgecrest as a sufficient, full service community.
LU-3.2 Retail Tax Base
The City shall strive to maintain and improve the City’s retail and service commercial tax base.
LU-3.3 Meeting Consumer Demand
The City shall encourage commercial development which provides for needed commercial opportunities and services currently not available in Ridgecrest.
LU-3.4 Regional Retail Center
The City shall continue to promote the development of regional commercial opportunities. Locations along China Lake Boulevard and Bowman Road near Highway 395 would be appropriate locations. The City shall facilitate provision of the necessary municipal services to accommodate these opportunities.
LU-3.5 Future Commercial Development
The City shall reserve appropriate locations, such as major intersections, for anticipated commercial needs beyond the 2030 timeframe.
LU-3.6 Grouping Commercial Development
The City shall avoid continuous "strip commercial" in new development areas by encouraging the clustering of commercial land uses in appropriate locations.
LU-3.7 Buffer Commercial Land Uses
The City shall require buffers between commercial and residential land uses through techniques such as landscaping, soundwalls, berms, fencing, open space setbacks/greenbelts, and building orientation.
City of Ridgecrest
LU-3.8 Entertainment and Tourism
The City shall promote the development of a regional entertainment venue in the City to increase tourism and provide additional activities to residents.
LU-3.9 Regional Auto Mall
The City shall actively promote the development of a regional automall to provide additional shopping opportunities to residents and the region.
LU-3.10 Commercial Center Revitalization
The City shall encourage and promote the reuse and revitalization of existing underutilized commercial areas and shopping centers.
LU-3.11 Commercial Signage
The City shall require that signage in commercial development complement, rather than detract, from the visual quality of the commercial development and surrounding neighborhoods.
LU-3.12 Incorporation of Alternative Transportation
Commercial facilities should be designed to encourage and promote transit, pedestrian, and bicycle access. The City shall require, when feasible, that new commercial development be designed to encourage and facilitate pedestrian circulation within and between commercial sites and nearby residential areas.
LU-3.13 Minimize Visual Impact
The City shall require new commercial development to be designed to minimize the visual impact of parking areas on public roadways.
Olde Towne Redevelopment
Goal
LU-4
To maintain and enhance the Olde Towne area as a viable business, service commercial, specialty retail, office, cultural, and civic center and source of community pride. [New Goal]
LU-4.1 Olde Towne as Asset
The City shall continue to recognize Olde Towne as an important asset and seek to strengthen and revitalize it by encouraging appropriate land uses and activities in the area.
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LU-4.2 Pedestrian Dependent Uses
The City shall encourage the concentration of pedestrian dependent commercial uses (e.g., general merchandise, comparative shopping, specialty goods, restaurants) and high density residential units in the Olde Towne area that will generate both daytime and nighttime pedestrian traffic.
LU-4.3 Adaptive Reuse
The City shall encourage and promote the adaptive reuse of Ridgecrest’s historic resources, in order to preserve the historic resources that are a part of the City’s heritage.
LU-4.4 Historic Buildings and Areas
The City shall preserve buildings and areas with special and recognized historic, architectural, or aesthetic value especially in the Olde Towne area. New development should respect architecturally and historically significant buildings and areas.
LU-4.5 Contextual and Compatible Design
The City shall ensure that new development respects Ridgecrest’s heritage by requiring that new development respond to its context and be compatible with the traditions and character of Ridgecrest, and shall promote orderly development which is compatible with its surrounding scale and which protects the privacy, and access to light and air of surrounding properties.
LU-4.6 Olde Towne Design Enhancement
The City will work with Olde Towne land and business owners to enhance the appearance of the area.
LU-4.7 Mutually-Supportive Olde Towne Uses
The City shall encourage the development of a mixture of complementary or mutually-supportive land uses in the Olde Towne area, including recreational and cultural facilities, restaurants, and higher density residential, and other development that provides increased daytime and nighttime activity in the area.
LU-4.8 Mixed Use Development – Olde Towne
The City shall encourage mixed use development near and in Olde Towne and adjacent to existing transit routes.
LU-4.9 Reuse of Buildings for Mixed Use Projects
The City shall promote the renovation and reuse of existing buildings in Olde Towne as mixed use areas.
City of Ridgecrest
LU-4.10 Professional/Administrative Services
The City shall encourage increased professional and administrative office development in the Olde Towne area to complement shopping and commercial service activities, intensify land uses, encourage adaptive re-use of existing structures and bring people into the area.
LU-4.11 Olde Towne Gateways
The City shall identify key entry points on the edges of the Olde Towne area and support programs and projects that enhance gateways and transitional zones between Olde Towne and the surrounding neighborhoods to make the area more inviting for residents and visitors.
LU-4.12 Improvements
The City shall work with Olde Towne merchants to plan for common improvements to Olde Towne to make it a visually distinct and pleasant place which projects a positive image of the City and attracts residents and visitors to the Olde Towne area.
Industrial Development
Goal
LU-5
To attract industrial development that provides a stable, long-term, and diverse economic and employment base for Ridgecrest residents. [New Goal]
LU-5.1 Adequate Land Supply
The City shall maintain an adequate inventory of industrial land attractive to industry with respect to location, access, price, public services, work force, and environmental compatibility.
LU-5.2 Industrial Transportation Access
The City shall encourage new industrial uses with high truck and goods movement needs to locate along major transportation routes (e.g., near major highways, rail, and so forth) to maximize the efficient movement of goods.
LU-5.3 Transitional Uses
The City shall locate light industrial or office uses between heavy industrial uses and residential uses to act as a buffer.
LU-5.4 Buffer Incompatible Uses
The City shall require that industrial land uses be buffered from incompatible land uses and protected from encroachment by residential or other incompatible land uses through the use of techniques including, but not limited to, dense landscaping, soundwalls, berms, fencing, open space setbacks, greenbelts, and building orientation.
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LU-5.5 Truck Routes
The City shall prohibit the designation of new truck routes on residential and collector streets. [Environmental Justice]
LU-5.6 New Industrial and Warehouse Facilities
Require industrial and warehouse facilities to provide electrical connections for electric trucks and transport refrigeration units to prevent idling during docking operations. [Environmental Justice]
LU-5.7 Wastewater Facilities
The City shall prohibit the development of waste processing facilities and industries using toxic chemicals in areas where pollutants may come in contact with groundwater, floodwaters, creeks, or reservoir waters. [Environmental Justice]
Mixed Use
Goal
LU-6
To promote the development of mixed-use projects to promote the efficient use of land, reduce reliance on the automobile, and provide a variety of housing and commercial options. [New Goal]
LU-6.1 Mixed Use Development – Use of Vacant Land
The City shall promote efficient use of larger vacant parcels and vacant areas of the City by encouraging mixed use development.
LU-6.2 Vertical/Horizontal Mixture of Uses
The City shall encourage the development of both horizontal and vertical mixed use projects that incorporate housing with commercial or employment uses to reduce reliance on automobiles and provide new sources of housing.
LU-6.3 Adaptive Reuse
The City shall encourage the development of mixed use projects in vacant buildings that are no longer suitable for their originally designed use.
Military Compatibility
Goal
LU-7
To enhance land use compatibility between China Lake and property in the City of Ridgecrest and to protect public health and safety. [New Goal] LU-7.1 Military Influence Area (MIA) Overlay
The City of Ridgecrest will define and maintain a Military Influence Area (MIA) overlay on the General Plan Land Use Diagram and Zoning map. The MIA will be defined based on noise and safety guidance from the current AICUZ study R-2508 JLUS City of Ridgecrest
as well as other compatibility factors evaluated in the R-2508 JLUS program (see Section 4 for details).
The MIA is designated to accomplish the following purposes. ▪ Promote an orderly transition between community and military land uses so that land uses remain compatible.
▪ Protect public health, safety, and welfare.
▪ Maintain operational capabilities of military installations and areas. ▪ Promote the awareness of the size and scope of military training areas to protect areas separate from the actual military installation (such as critical air space) used for training purposes.
The MIA shall, at a minimum, reflect the current mission 60 CNEL contour, but may be expanded to address additional issues relative to safety, overflight, light and glare, vertical hazard potential, and other related compatibility issues as identified in the R-2508 JLUS or follow on assessments.
Within the MIA, land use density / intensity is to remain low and in keeping with the land use compatibility guidance contained in the current China Lake AICUZ study. Unless already permitted as part of an existing development, subdivision or development approval, only the following land use designations shall be used on the City’s Land Use Diagram within the MIA overlay: Large Lot Residential (RX), Rural Residential Density (RR), Commercial (C) and Industrial (I) designations (with an intensity of use consistent with the current Navy AICUZ land use compatibility guidelines and FAA Part 77 compliance), public/quasi-public uses primarily designed to house infrastructure systems, and Open Space (OS).
See also the policies under Section 4, Military Sustainability Element.
Regional Coordination
Goal
LU-8
To ensure that land use decisions by the City of Ridgecrest and Kern County are coordinated. [New Goal]
LU-8.1 City / County Uniform Land Use Policy
The City shall work with Kern County to develop a process for coordination of land uses for areas within the City’s future sphere of influence.
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LU-8.2 Sphere of Influence
The City shall work with the Kern County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO), Kern County, and China Lake to define and maintain a sphere of influence (SOI) line that provides adequate capacity for growth and assists in implementing the General Plan.
LU-8.3 Rural Density Development in Unincorporated Areas The City shall encourage rural density development (minimum of 0.4 units per acre) in adjacent unincorporated areas and encourage the location of urbanized uses within the city limits of Ridgecrest. [Source: Policy 1.1.4, Land Use Element]
LU-8.4 Regional Cooperation
The City shall maintain a cooperative relationship with Kern County and other local governments to address regional issues and opportunities related to growth, transportation, infrastructure, and other planning issues. Special consideration for cooperation shall be applied when reviewing peripheral development proposals within or adjacent to the City's Planning Area.
LU-8.5 Regional Planning
The City shall continue to participate in KernCOGs blueprint process and other regional planning programs.
LU-8.6 Update ALUCP to Reflect Military Air Facilities and Airspace Fully integrate military air facilities and airspace in Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) updates. These updated ALUCPs will be used to update land use guidance in local jurisdiction general plans and zoning ordinances. ALUCPs may not be the correct tool to use for areas within lowlevel flight corridors and special use airspace areas that are not near a public use airport. In these cases, similar types of plans may be appropriate to address military concerns.
General Plan Implementation and Maintenance
Goal
LU-9
To provide for the ongoing administration and implementation of the General Plan. [New Goal]
LU-9.1 Zoning and GP Consistency
The City shall amend the zoning code, subdivision ordinance, and other land use regulations to make them consistent with the adopted or amended general plan.
R-2508 JLUS
City of Ridgecrest
LU-9.2 Annual General Plan Review
The City shall review and report to the Planning Commission and City Council on the status of implementation of the General Plan annually as required by State law.
LU-9.3 General Plan Amendments
The City shall not amend the General Plan more than four times per calendar year unless additional amendments are allowed by changes in State law. Each amendment, however, may include multiple changes. All General Plan amendments will require public hearings and approval by both the Planning Commission and City Council.
LU-9.4 General Plan Update
The City shall conduct a review of the General Plan elements every five years and update them as deemed necessary. The City’s Housing Element will be updated as mandated by the State of California.
LU-9.5 Implementing New AICUZ Studies
The City shall review and consider a General Plan update and Zoning Code amendment to incorporate new AICUZ studies that are released to the public.
This will include consideration of modifications to:
▪ The MIA overlay on the City’s General Plan Land Use Diagram ▪ Modification of land use designations to reflect land use and safety guidance in the current AICUZ study
▪ The MIA overlay on the City’s Zoning map
▪ Modification of appropriate zoning regulations to reflect land use and safety guidance in the new AICUZ study
▪ Modification of other planning tools and procedures, as appropriate, to reflect changes in the new AICUZ study
LU-9.6 Citizen Participation
The City shall establish permanent procedures for citizen participation in the annual review of land use planning and plan implementation. [Source:
Policy 1.2.6, Land Use Element]
LU-9.7 Involve Military in General Plan Update Process
Ensure that the military is aware and encouraged to be involved early in the general plan process for major updates and amendments. For jurisdictions outside the R-2508 Complex, early notification to the military is encouraged.
LU-9.8 Land Use Policy Coordinating Committee
The City shall continue to participate in the Land Use Policy Coordinating Committee, or similar committee, to integrate the planning processes of the City of Ridgecrest and NAWS China Lake. [Source: Policy 1.2.1, Land Use Element]
R-2508 JLUS
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LU-9.9 Encourage Resident and Neighborhood Participation By implementing neighborhood programs, the City shall encourage active involvement of individuals and neighborhood committees to maintain and upgrade existing residential neighborhoods.
Public Services & Facilities
Goal
LU-10
To provide necessary public facilities and services that are convenient, economical and reinforce community identity. [Source: Land Use Element Goal 1.3]
LU-10.1 Adequate Municipal Services
The City shall only approve new development when it can be demonstrated by the applicant that adequate public service capacity in the area is or will be available to handle increases related to the project. School capacity will be discussed in the review of each development, and the City will ensure early coordination with the school districts serving the site. School capacity will be addressed as allowed under State law.
LU-10.2 Adequate Infrastructure Capacity
The City shall only approve new development when it can be demonstrated by the applicant that adequate system capacity in the service area is or will be available to handle increases related to the project.
LU-10.3 Efficient Provision of Municipal Services
The City shall maintain a development pattern that allows for efficient provision of municipal services.
LU-10.4 System Expansion
The City shall require new development be responsible for expansion of existing water, sewer, and storm drainage systems made necessary by their construction.
LU-10.5 Multipurpose Detention Facilities
The City shall utilize stormwater detention facilities to mitigate drainage impacts and reduce storm drainage system costs. To the extent practical, stormwater detention facilities should be designed for multiple purposes, including recreational and/or stormwater quality improvement. Sumps are discouraged as part of new developments or renovations.
LU-10.6 Fair Share Improvements
The City shall ensure new development required to participate on a fair-share basis in the completion of improvements to the existing sewer system, and/or the construction of new sewer trunk lines as described in the City’s adopted Sewer Master Plan.
City of Ridgecrest
LU-10.7 Solid Waste
The City shall promote maximum use of solid waste source reduction, recycling, composting, and environmentally-safe transformation of wastes.
LU-10.8 Dedicated Sites
The City shall negotiate with proponents of future development projects to secure the dedication of adequate sites for future fire and police stations.
LU-10.9 School Site Dedication
The City shall negotiate with proponents of future development projects to secure the dedication of adequate sites for future school construction to meet anticipated future elementary, junior high, and high school expansion needs.
LU-10.10 Co-location of School and Community Facilities The City shall encourage community facilities (such as community centers, schools, parks, libraries, fire stations with community rooms), when proposed in the same area, to be co-located to form a stronger activity node within the neighborhood.
LU-10.11 Accessibility of Public Buildings
The City shall ensure that public buildings are easily identifiable in the community and are easily accessible by all modes of transportation to all Ridgecrest residents or visitors in order to support community design goals. [Source: Modified Policy 1.4.4 Land Use Element]
LU-10.12 Provision of City Services to Unincorporated Areas The City shall discourage the extension or provision of City services and utilities into unincorporated areas without a satisfactory annexation agreement. [Source: modified Policy 1.4.5, Land Use Element]
LU-10.13 Ensure Water Impacts in Plan Development / Updates The City shall ensure General Plan updates, specific plans, planned developments consider impacts to water availability and quality via policy or other development regulations.
LU-10.14 Sewer Service within City Limits
The City shall require all new developments within the City to connect to the sewer system. [Source: Policy 1.4.7, Land Use Element]
LU-10.15 Medical and Emergency Services
The City shall support the efforts of local medical and emergency providers to maintain an adequate level of services for Ridgecrest residents. [Source: Policy
1.4.8, Land Use Element]
LU-10.16 Educational Master Planning Programs
The City shall support educational master planning programs as they are consistent with the General Plan. [Source: Policy 1.4.9, Land Use Element] R-2508 JLUS
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-29
LU-10.17 Child Care
Encourage the development of child care facilities and services, including collaboration between schools and parks, faith based institutions, community centers, senior centers, and unused public and private facilities.
3.5 Implementation Measures
Table 3-4, Land Use Implementation Measures, identifies the implementation measures the City should take to implement the goals and policies of this General Plan. The implementation program lists each specific implementation measure, a reference to which General Plan policy it is implementing, who is responsible to implement the program, and the timeframe for implementation.
Table 3-4. Land Use Implementation Measures
Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
1.0 The City shall develop zoning incentives
to encourage innovative design in both
infill and newly developing areas that
optimizes the use of vacant land
through flexible development
standards, shared parking, landscaping,
and site amenities. [New
Implementation Measure]
LU-1.3
LU-1.4
LU-4.3
LU-4.9
Community
Development
◼
2.0 The City shall develop and maintain an
inventory of available vacant sites that
have potential for infill development.
[New Implementation Measure]
LU-1.3
LU-1.4
Redevelopment ◼
3.0 During next Housing Element update,
include a separate discussion of military
housing needs and programs to address
these needs. Work collaboratively with
military installations and local entities to
address their needs as required by state
law to look at military readiness.
LU-2.3
LU-9.4
LU-9.6
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼
4.0 The City shall conduct a study to
determine the feasibility and a suitable
location for a regional auto mall in the
city. [New Implementation Measure]
LU-3.2
LU-3.3
LU-3.4
LU-3.9
Redevelopment
Community
Development
◼ ◼
5.0 The City will identify buildings within the
Olde Towne area that could be
enhanced through a façade
revitalization program [Source:
Downtown Revitalization Plan]
LU-4.3
LU-4.4
LU-4.6
LU-4.9
Community
Development
◼
6.0 The City will work with Olde Towne land
and business owners to apply for grant
funding to support a façade
improvement program. [New
Implementation Measure, Downtown
Revitalization Plan]
LU-4.3
LU-4.4
LU-4.6
LU-4.8
Community
Development
◼
City of Ridgecrest
Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
7.0 The City shall authorize developments in
the Mixed Use designation on vacant
sites subject to approval of a Master
Development Plan and redesignation of
the area to a MU General Plan
designation and zoning district. Land
uses proposed for a mixed use
development shall support each other
by including one or more industries,
services, offices, retail uses, with
residential uses for the common needs
of the occupants and users of the mixed
use development.
LU-4.8
LU-6.2
Community
Development
◼
8.0 The City shall develop zoning incentives
that encourage mixed use
redevelopment in the Olde Towne area
through the reuse of existing buildings.
LU-4.8 Community
Development
◼
9.0 The City shall coordinate on a routine
basis with the military to reexamine the
land use type, density, and intensity
limitations within flight corridors. [New
Implementation Measure, JLUS
Strategy #52, 56, and 57]
LU-7.1
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼
10.0 City of Ridgecrest, in coordination with
Kern County and China Lake, to evaluate
its sphere of influence to accurately
reflect development potential with
appropriate changes in Ridgecrest's
General Plan and zoning designations.
[New Implementation Measure, JLUS
Strategy #43]
LU-8.2
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼ ◼
11.0 The City will work with Kern County to
develop an appropriate tax sharing
agreement for urban residential land
and development to be moved into the
city limits without undo penalty on the
City for the provision of services to
these areas. [New Implementation
Measure]
LU-8.2
LU-10.12
Administration ◼
12.0 The City shall review and amend, as
necessary, applicable ordinances and
regulations referenced herein to ensure
consistency with the General Plan.
These shall include the following:
a. Zoning Ordinance
b. Subdivision Ordinance
c. Development standards
[New Implementation Plan]
LU-9.1 Community
Development
◼
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-31
Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
13.0 The Planning Commission shall review
the General Plan annually, focusing
principally on actions undertaken in the
previous year to carry out the
implementation programs of the Plan.
The Planning Commission’s report to
the City Council shall include, as the
Commission deems appropriate,
recommendations for amendments to
the General Plan. This review shall also
be used to satisfy the requirements of
Public Resources Code §21081.6 for a
mitigation monitoring program. [New
Implementation Measure]
LU-9.2 Community
Development
◼
14.0 Based on the population estimate
established in the General Plan EIR
analysis and evaluating the City’s Capital
Improvement Budget, the City shall
coordinate with appropriate agencies to
investigate the expansion of all public
services and facilities (sewer, police,
fire, water, schools, and solid waste) to
service this population. [Source:
Modified Policy 1.4.3, Land Use
Element]
LU-10.1
LU-10.2
LU-10.3
LU-10.4
Public Works ◼
15.0 Prior to extending City services or
infrastructure to unincorporated areas,
the following findings must be made:
◼ The property owner must
agree to support annexation to
the City if requested by the City
◼ The land use must be
compatible with the land use
compatibility guidance
provided in the Kern County
ALUCP and the current China
Lake AICUZ.
[New Implementation Measure]
LU-10.12 Community
Development
◼
City of Ridgecrest
3.1 Introduction.......................................................................................... 1
3.2 Existing Conditions...............................................................................5
3.3 Land Use Diagram and Standards .......................................................9
3.4 Goals and Policies ................................................................................12
3.5 Implementation Measures.................................................................29 Table 3-1. Existing Land Use within the Planning Area (2007) ......................7 Table 3-2. General Plan Land Use Designations in Planning Area ..................8 Table 3-3. Land Use Designation Summary.................................................. 10 Table 3-4. Land Use Implementation Measures........................................... 29
z
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-1
4 Militar y Su stain abil ity El emen t
4.1 Introduction
As the closest urban area to Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake, Ridgecrest enjoys a symbiotic relationship with the installation. The Navy is the largest employer in the Indian Wells Valley, providing a significant economic thrust for the Valley and adding to the economic base of the City of Ridgecrest.
China Lake provides direct employment for 620 military personnel and 4,166 civilians. Additionally, the installation provides employment for over 1,734 contract civilians, located both on and off the installation. In return, the City of Ridgecrest provides housing, support services, and a range of community services to these employees.
China Lake is also a unique land use with planning challenges related to airfield and test and research activities at the installation and surrounding airspace. As an urban area in proximity to a vital military installation, development decisions occurring locally have the potential to impact the installation. In addition to the many positive interactions occurring as a function of this relationship, development decisions can result in land use conflicts that can have negative impacts on community safety, economic development, and sustainment of military readiness activities. Nationwide, incompatible development has been a factor in curtailing training operations, moving (realigning) mission-critical components to other installations, and, in extreme cases, closing installations.
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-2
The purpose of the Military Sustainability Element is to demonstrate the City’s commitment to and support of current and future missions at NAWS China Lake. This element considers the impact of new growth on military readiness activities. In particular, the ability to balance the protection of the Navy’s current and future missions with the ability for the community to grow and prosper is the objective for this element.
It is important to note that many of the issues related to military sustainment are covered as part of other elements in the General Plan. For instance, the location of future development is controlled by policies in the Land Use Element, and noise impacts are covered in the Health and Safety Element.
KEY TERMS - GENERAL
Accident Potential Zones. Every Navy runway has a set of aircraft safety zones designated for each runway (see Figure 4.1). These zones are referred to as the Primary Surface (PS), Clear Zone (CZ), Accident Potential Zone I (APZ I) and Accident Potential Zone II (APZ II). Each zone was developed based on a statistical review of aircraft accidents. The Navy provides guidance on land uses considered to be consistent within these zones as part of their Air Installation Compatible Use Zone (AICUZ) studies. With exception of a portion of APZ II, which is not within City boundaries, all of the aircraft safety zones related to runways at China Lake fall within the installation’s boundaries. ▪ Primary Surface. A surface on the ground centered lengthwise on the runway and extending 200 feet (61 meters) beyond each end of the runway and a width of 1,500 feet.
▪ Clear Zone. A trapezoidal area lying immediately beyond the end of the runway and outward along the extended runway centerline for a distance of 3,000 feet. For U.S. Navy and Marine Corps installations, the dimensions are 1,500 feet wide at the runway threshold and 2,284 feet wide at the outer edge.
▪ APZ I. A rectangular area beyond the Clear Zone, which has a measurable potential for aircraft accidents relative to the Clear Zone.
APZ I is typically 3,000 feet wide by 5,000 feet long and may be rectangular or curved to conform to the shape of the predominant flight route.
▪ APZ II. A rectangular area beyond APZ I which has a measurable potential for aircraft accidents relative to APZ I or the Clear Zone. The dimensions of APZ II are typically 3,000 feet wide by 7,000 feet long and, like APZ I, may be curved to correspond with the predominant flight route.
After adoption of the
2011 AICUZ, the length
of runway 8/26 was
extended from 7,000
feet to 12,000 feet and
widened from 75 feet
to 200 feet. The
additional runway
length was added to
the west side of the
runway. The revised
accident potential
zones are not
reflected in Figure 4.1,
but would remain
within the base
boundaries and not
impact the City.
4. Military Sustainability Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-3
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-4
Airport Influence Area (AIA). The Airport Influence Area is an area around an airport that requires additional land use regulation to accommodate aircraft operations. The zone is identified in the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) and is subject to special use and development regulations including but not limited use, building height, low density residential uses, and other limiting factors. The runway will include helicopter take-off and landing zones if not on the primary runway.
Avigation Easement. An easement that grants one of the following rights: the right of flight; the right to cause noise, dust, etc. related to aircraft flight; the right to restrict or prohibit certain lights, electromagnetic signals, and birdattracting land uses; the right to unobstructed airspace over the property above a specified height; and the right of ingress/egress upon the land to exercise those rights.
Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL). CNEL is used to characterize average sound levels over a 24-hour period, with weighting factors included for evening and nighttime sound levels. Leq values (equivalent sound levels measured over a 1-hour period - see below) for the evening period (7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) are increased by 5 dB, while Leq values for the nighttime period (10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) are increased by 10 dB. For a given set of sound measurements, the CNEL value will usually be about 1 dB higher than the Ldn value (average sound exposure over a 24-hour period – see below). In practice, CNEL and Ldn are often used interchangeably.
Day-Night Average Sound Level (Ldn). Ldn represents an average sound exposure over a 24-hour period. Ldn values are calculated from hourly Leq values, with the Leq values for the nighttime period (10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) increased by 10 dB to reflect the greater disturbance potential from nighttime noises.
Decibel, A-weighted (dBA). A unit of measurement for noise having a logarithmic scale and measured using the A-weighted sensory network on a noise-measuring device. An increase or decrease of 10 decibels corresponds to a tenfold increase or decrease in sound energy. A doubling or halving of sound energy corresponds to a 3-dBA increase or decrease.
Military Influence Area. In general, an MIA covers the areas where military operations may impact local jurisdictions and, conversely, where local activities may affect the military’s ability to carry out its mission. The development of an MIA should consider the current land uses and future development goals of the City as well as the current and future operational characteristics and requirements of the Base. The purpose of establishing an MIA is to identify a focus area for effective implementation of planning strategies and land use controls that will help avoid or reduce encroachment by minimizing the influence of specific types of encroachment challenges.
A more concise definition of the MIA is contained in the following text box on the next page.
The MIA was
established in the
2007 AICUZ; however,
the 2011 AICUZ
expanded the Noise
Zone 1 boundaries
beyond the
boundaries of the
MIA.
4. Military Sustainability Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-5
Definition of MIA
According to the 2011 AICUZ and the 2016 California Advisory Handbook for Community and Military Compatibility Planning, which was published by the Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (formerly the Office of Planning and Research), a Military Influence Area (MIA) is a formally designated geographic planning area where military operations may impact local communities and, conversely, where local activities may affect the military’s ability to carry out its mission. The MIA is a useful planning tool for accomplishing the following purposes:
▪ Promote an orderly transition between community and military land uses so that land uses remain compatible.
▪ Protect public health, safety, and welfare.
▪ Maintain operational capabilities of military installations and areas. ▪ Promote the awareness of the size and scope of military training areas in order to protect areas separate from the actual military installation (i.e., critical air and sea space) used for training purposes.
▪ Establish compatibility requirements within the designation area, such as requirements for sound attenuation, real estate disclosure, and navigation easements.
According to the LCI, an MIA should be incorporated into the local planning process through a community’s general plan and zoning ordinance. NAWS recommends the designation of an MIA that is larger than the traditional AICUZ footprint in order to address flight safety issues beneath flight corridors and to encourage retention of a buffer zone of compatible land use in case of future expansion of the NAWS mission.
As defined for this AICUZ, the MIA includes all land within the 60 dB CNEL contour (Noise Zone 1) and any portion of the primary flight corridors used by arriving and departing aircraft. Noise Zone 1 is included in the MIA as a proxy for potential expansion of the noise contours should NAWS experience future increases in operational tempo (no such increases beyond the “prospective” operations evaluated in this AICUZ study are currently planned). The geographical location and extent of any such shift in future noise contours would of course depend on the specific nature of the increased operations (e.g., runway distribution, aircraft type, type of operation, etc.), but if other variables remained constant and only the number and frequency of operations were to increase, the 65-dB noise contour would tend to expand toward the current 60-dB contour.
Portions of the primary flight corridors (beyond the standard APZs) are also included in the MIA in an effort to minimize the risks of aircraft accidents that can occur beyond the runway environment. The establishment of criteria that limits the maximum number of dwellings or people in this area is encouraged as a method of reducing the potential severity of an aircraft accident. Despite NAWS’ efforts to establish and conform to specific flight routes that maximize avoidance of developed areas, some variation or deviation from established flight routes should be expected to occur in response to weather conditions, ambient temperature, mission loading of aircraft, and other factors.
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-6
KEY TERMS - AIRSPACE
Designated areas of airspace are critical for military testing and training associated with NAWS China Lake. While several of the airspace designations described below do not occur in the Planning Area, they are corridors or destinations utilized by aircraft using NAWS China Lake.
The Interagency Airspace Coordination Guide provides a wealth of information on the definition and use of airspace. The following terms are based on information from the following source:
https://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/dc/nmsdc/documents/Dispatch/Reference/2003- iasc-interagency-airspace-coordination-guide.pdf
Air Traffic Control Assigned Airspace (ATCAA’s). ATCAAs were established to permit the continuation of MOA activities above 18,000’ MSL. From the standpoint of the MOA “user,” MOA and ATCAA are combined into one piece of airspace, with 18,000’ MSL acting as an administrative boundary. Usually, the ATCAA is activated concurrently with the MOA. VFR aircraft are permitted to enter a MOA, but are not permitted to enter most ATCAAs because they are not permitted to fly VFR above 18,000’ MSL. MOAs are depicted on aeronautical charts, but ATCAAs are not depicted. Ridgecrest is located within the Isabella ATCAA.
Military Training Routes (MTRs). MTRs are similar to complex systems of interrelated and interdependent highways in the sky that connect military installations, ranges, and operation areas. They are used by the Department of Defense (DOD) to conduct low-altitude navigation and tactical training at airspeeds in excess of 250 knots and at altitudes as low as just above surface level. These low-level, high-speed routes allow pilots to develop the skills necessary to avoid detection by enemy radar. This includes “Low-level flight paths”, as defined in California Public Resource Code §21098(a), any flight path for any aircraft owned, maintained, or that is under the jurisdiction of the United States Department of Defense that flies lower than 1,500 feet above ground level.
Special Use Airspace (SUA). This special designation is designed to alert users about areas of military activity, unusual flight hazards, or national security concerns and is used to segregate that activity from other airspace users to enhance safety. Special Use Airspace is established by the FAA.
There are six different kinds of SUAs, but only two are relevant to planning in the City of Ridgecrest Planning Area: Military Operations Area (MOA) and Restricted Areas.
▪ Military Operations Area. A MOA is airspace established to segregate certain non-hazardous flight activities from Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) traffic and to identify Visual Flight Rules (VFR) traffic. Within these areas, the military conducts flight activities, such as acrobatic or abrupt flight maneuvers, intercepts, air combat maneuvering MOA…
The City of Ridgecrest is
inside the Isabella MOA, as is
much of the Indian Wells
Valley.
Flight levels are
expressed in three
digits that represent
hundreds of feet. For
example, flight level
180 (written as FL180)
represents a
barometric altimeter
indication of 18,000
4. Military Sustainability Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-7
missions, research and development, and aerial refueling. In addition to maintaining military readiness in the air, these areas are used to train student pilots.
MOAs are three dimensional areas. In addition to the mapped boundaries, MOAs have a defined floor (minimum altitude) and ceiling (maximum altitude). In the R-2508 Complex, these altitudes range from 200 feet above ground level (AGL) up to the maximum ceiling of 17,999 feet above mean sea level (MSL). The minimum altitude varies above populated areas and wilderness areas. On aviation sectional charts, instrument flight rule (IFR) enroute charts, and terminal area charts, MOAs are identified in magenta lettering that states a specific name followed by the letters “MOA”.
The City of Ridgecrest is inside the Isabella MOA, as is much of the Indian Wells Valley.
▪ Restricted Areas. Restricted Areas are an important asset to the DOD because they allow for the use of weapons for training and testing purposes. These areas are necessary for ground weapons and artillery firing, aerial gunnery, live and inert practice bomb drops, and guided missile testing. Restricted Areas provide locations for training and testing to support combat readiness of aviation and ground combat units while separating these activities from the public and general aviation users. These areas are identified by the letter “R” followed by a number on sectional charts, instrument flight rule (IFR) enroute charts, and terminal area charts. The floor and ceiling altitudes, operating hours, and controlling agency can be found in the sectional chart legend.
There are seven restricted airspace areas in the R-2508 Complex. A portion of the Planning Area, primarily south of Ridgecrest Boulevard and west of Downs Street, is inside of Restricted Area 2506 (R-2506).
The portions of the Planning Area north of this area are inside of R-2505. See the discussion of MOAs and Restricted Areas for more information.
R-2508 Complex. The R-2508 Complex provides the largest single area of Special Use Airspace (SUA) over land in the United States, covering a land area of 20,000 square miles. The complex consists of restricted areas (R-2508, R2502N, R-2502E, R 2505, R-2506, R-2511, R-2515, and R-2524), 10 Military Operations Areas (MOA), Air Traffic Control Assigned Airspace (ATCAA) areas, Controlled Firing Areas (CFAs), and other special airspace such as, the CORDS Road, the Precision Impact Range Area, the Black Mountain Supersonic Corridor, the North Hypersonic Corridor, the South Hypersonic Corridor and the Airfield Approach and Departure Corridors. Figure 4-2 illustrates the area covered by the R-2508 Complex.
Restricted Areas…
Most of the City of
Ridgecrest is under two
restricted areas: R-2505 and
R-2506.
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-8
4. Military Sustainability Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-9
LEGISLATION RELATED TO MILITARY PROTECTIONS
The following is an overview of existing State legislation that impacts military compatibility planning.
Assembly Bill 1108
California Assembly Bill (AB) 1108 (Chapter 638, Statutes of 2002) added Section 21098 to the Public Resources Code to require CEQA lead agencies to notify military installations when a project meets certain criteria. The criteria includes property located within an established operational area, a general plan amendment, or is of statewide, regional, or area-wide significance, or is required to be referred to the local ALUC. The purpose of AB 1108 is to ensure military notification of proposed projects potentially impacting military operations though the CEQA process.
AB 1108 amends CEQA to provide military agencies with early notice of proposed projects within two miles of installations or underlying training routes and SUA.
Assembly Bill 2776
AB 2776 (Chapter 496, Statues of 2002) amends the real estate transfer disclosure statute (California Civil Code, Division 2 – Property, Part 4 – Acquisition of Property, Title 4, Chapter 2 –Transfer of Real Property) to require sellers or leasers to disclose the fact that a house for sale or lease is near an airport if the house falls within an airport influence area (that could be several miles from an existing or proposed airport). An airport influence area is defined as the area in which current or future airport-related noise, overflight, safety, or airspace protection factors may significantly affect land uses or necessitate restrictions on those uses. The intent of the legislation is to notify buyers that they could experience airport noise, vibration, odor, annoyances, or other inconveniences at some time in the future as a result of the normal operation of an existing or proposed airport.
Senate Bill 1462
SB 1462 (Chapter 907, Statutes of 2004) amended Sections 65352, 65404, 65940, and 65944 of the Government Code to expand the requirements for local government to notify military installations of proposed development and planning activities. This Bill states that “prior to action by a legislative body to adopt or substantially amend a general plan, the planning agency shall refer the proposed action to . . . the branches of the Armed Forces when the proposed project is located within 1,000 feet of a military installation, beneath a low-level flight path, or within Special Use Airspace (SUA) . . .”.
The purpose of SB 1462 is to require public agencies to provide a complete copy of a development application of the proposed development that is located within 1,000 feet of a military installation, SUA, or a low-level flight path.
Furthermore, it authorizes any branch of the United States Armed Forces “to request consultation” to avoid potential conflict and to discuss “alternatives, mitigation measures, and the effects of the proposed project on military installations.” Also, SB 1462 requires military review of proposed actions AB 1108…
Provides military agencies
with early notice of
proposed projects during
the CEQA process.
AB 2776…
Provides for real estate
disclosure for residences
within airport influence
areas.
SB 1462…
Requires coordination on
updates or amendments to
general plans.
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-10
potentially impacting mission operations of the installation, decreases potential for incompatible land use development and provides military installations the opportunity to comment on proposed development and express concerns with potential impacts to the installation.
Senate Bill 1468
SB 1468 (Chapter 971, Statutes of 2002) requires the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI), formerly the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to include guidance on how military compatibility can be addressed in a general plan, and how a general plan can consider the impact of growth on military readiness activities carried out on military bases, installations, and operating and training areas. The bill includes the following methods to address military compatibility in a general plan:
▪ In the land use element, consider the impact of new growth on military readiness activities carried out on military bases, installations, and operating and training areas, when proposing zoning ordinances or designating land uses covered by the general plan for land or other territory adjacent to those military facilities, or underlying designated military aviation routes and airspace.
▪ In the open-space element, open-space land is defined to include areas adjacent to military installations, military training routes, and restricted airspace.
▪ In the circulation element, include the general location and extent of existing and proposed military airports and ports.
SB 1468 is part of a State policy package to promote the development of a partnership between communities and the military that allows for collaboration on land use compatibility issues. OPR encourages local jurisdictions near military installations, and under military training routes or restricted airspace, to incorporate the above items into their general plans.
However, local governments are not currently required by law to include the SB 1468 military compatibility issues in their general plans. The bill specifies that if a funding agreement is reached between OPR and the military to support these efforts, the inclusion of military compatibility issues in a general plan will become mandatory.
4.2 Existing Conditions
NAWS CHINA LAKE OVERVIEW
China Lake is located on 1.1 million acres of land in California’s upper Mojave Desert and accounts for approximately one-third of the Navy’s total land holdings. The land, ranging in altitude from 2,100 to 8,900 feet, varies from flat dry lakebeds to rugged piñon pine covered mountains. The majority of the land area is undeveloped and provides habitat for more than 340 species of wildlife and 650 plant types. The installation also has a rich cultural heritage, SB 1468…
Requires the State to
provide guidance on
incorporating military
compatibility into a
jurisdiction’s general plan.
These are considered to be
recommendations at this
time, pending funding.
4. Military Sustainability Element
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represented by Native American sites to locations and structures used by early miners and settlers.
The installation is divided into two major land areas: the North Range, encompassing 606,926 acres, and the South Range, encompassing 503,510 acres (see Figure 4-3). The North Range lies in portions of Inyo, Kern, and San Bernardino Counties, while the South Range is located entirely within San Bernardino County. NAWS China Lake consists primarily of remote, unpopulated desert land; however, the North Range contains several developed areas, including Armitage Airfield, Mainsite, Propulsion Laboratories, and geothermal development. The western portion of the North Range includes Baker Range, which is approximately 121 square miles and is used primarily for military test and evaluation and training for air-to-surface weapon systems (e.g., rockets, bombs, guns). The main community support area on the installation (referred to as the “cantonment” area) is located within the Ridgecrest city limits. Although a portion of the installation is within the city limits, as federal lands, the City has no land use authority over this portion of the City.
As a component of the Navy Region Southwest, San Diego, China Lake is under the Commander, Navy Installation Command (CNIC). China Lake serves as the host for Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) under the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), along with other assigned tenants, activities, and assigned units. Testing and training functions performed on-base include delivery of munitions, tactics, electronic warfare, and Special Forces training. NAWS operates and maintains the base’s facilities and provides support services, including airfields, and is responsible for managing all lands within the base’s boundaries to support the mission of NAWCWD and other activities, maintaining environmental compliance, exercising responsible stewardship of public lands, providing safety and security services, and implementing the Navy’s AICUZ program..
F-18s near Ridgecrest
City of Ridgecrest
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4. Military Sustainability Element
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CHINA LAKE AIR OPERATIONS
The 2011 AICUZ estimates annual flights operations would total 22,763, 90% of which occur between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Arrivals. The generalized arrival flight tracks approach in a common corridor from the south over lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), east of the City (see Figure 4-4). The tracks split from each other for final approach once over China Lake itself. Arrivals include:
• Straight In Arrivals. An aircraft landing on a runway from a direct approach.
• Overhead Arrivals. An expeditious arrival using visual flight rules. An aircraft generally approaches the runway 800 feet above ground level.
Approximately halfway down the runway, the aircraft performs a 180- degree descending left turn to enter the landing pattern. Once established in the pattern, the aircraft lowers landing gear and flaps and performs a 180-degree descending left turn to land on the runway (see figure 4-6).
• Carrier Break Arrival. The maneuver is the same as the Overhead Arrival, except it is performed at 800 feet - simulating the standard approach made to an aircraft carrier.
• TACAN Arrival. The TACAN approach is flown using instruments in the cockpit that receive bearing and distance information from a ground unit.
• RNAV Arrival. An approach that is flown using instruments in the cockpit that receive bearing and distance mainly from satellite-based navigation systems.
Departures. Four of the six runways are used for departures (see Figure 4-5).
Each of these runways has three departure tracts, which depart from their runways and turn south. These tracks continue south over a mix of BLM and private property, staying just outside the west side of the City of Ridgecrest, before splitting into three additional routes. On of the departure routes traverses over the northwest corner of the City of Ridgecrest.
Touch and Go. An aircraft lands and takes off on a runway without coming to a full stop (see Figure 4-6). After touching down, the pilot immediately goes to full power and takes off again. The touch and go flight patterns do not remain b=above NAWS China Lake.
Armitage Airfield at NAWS
China Lake
City of Ridgecrest
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4. Military Sustainability Element
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City of Ridgecrest
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4. Military Sustainability Element
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CHINA LAKE AIR INSTALLATION COMPATIBLE USE ZONE (AICUZ) STUDY For China Lake, a critical planning document is the AICUZ study. The AICUZ is a DOD planning program that was developed in response to incompatible urban development and land use conflicts around military airfields. The AICUZ study seeks to develop a cooperative relationship between communities and military installations and provides land use compatibility guidelines designed to protect public health and safety, as well as maintain military readiness. As designed, the AICUZ study evaluates three primary components: noise, vertical obstructions, and accident potential zones.
The current China Lake AICUZ study was released in April 2011. The previous AICUZ was approved in 2007, in which the City of Ridgecrest evaluated that document and enacted the AICUZ compatible land use provisions into their general plans.
When looking at an AICUZ study, two caveats should be noted:
1. AICUZ are not static documents, and the AICUZ study is updated as needed to reflect current operations, or for some installations, current and projected operations. While the 2011 AICUZ reflects current operations, the Navy may reevaluate the AICUZ study parameters to reflect other aircraft operations at the installation. It is therefore important that the General Plan refers to the current AICUZ (such as a specific noise contour line) instead of memorializing a specific diagram.
2. Whether noise contour lines or accident potential zones, these lines are not definitive boundaries where one side of the line has an issue and the other side of the line is not constrained. These lines are averages, and should be used as representations of statistical occurrences, not definitive boundaries.
Most compatibility challenges that occur between military facilities and adjoining communities are anthropogenic. These challenges can include the military impact on the development of the City and the community’s impact on military readiness.
Navy and Air Force installation with air operations has delineated at both ends of all active runways a set of three accident potential zones referred to as the Clear Zone (CZ), Accident Potential Zone I (APZ I), and Accident Potential Zone II (APZ II). These areas are determined based on a statistical analysis of all DOD aircraft accidents and shows in Figure 4-1.
As part of the 2011 AICUZ, noise impacts on Ridgecrest were reevaluated. This included noise generated by aircraft arrivals and departures, aircraft/engine testing, and Baker Range activity. Noise is generally defined as unwanted sound. Sound is a physical phenomenon consisting of vibrations that travel through a medium, such as air, and are sensed by the ear. Whether sound is interpreted as pleasant (e.g., music) or unpleasant (e.g., jackhammers) depends largely on the listener's current activity, past experience, and Understanding Noise…
A more detailed explanation
on how noise is described is
provided in the Health &
Safety Element.
Sound Levels of Typical Sources
and Environments
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-18
attitudes toward the source of the sound. The impact of aircraft noise is therefore a factor in the planning of future land use near airfields.
The AICUZ has three general noise exposure zones: Noise Zone 1 includes areas between 60 and 65 dB CNEL; Noise Zone 2 encompasses areas between 65 and 74 dB CNEL; and Noise Zone 3 covers areas exposed to 75 dB CNEL and higher (see Figure 4-7).
Considerations to ensure land use compatibility shall include the following:
• Sensitive Uses: Sensitive land uses may include residential housing, schools, nursing homes, retirement communities, health care facilities, and others. These types of uses are the most sensitive relative to military activities due to concerns about noise and safety. As public complaints about military noise sources increase, impacts to military operations and readiness may include the creation of avoidance areas, prohibition of training events, restricted flight
altitudes/airspeeds/timing, and suspensions or delays in conducting testing or training events.
• Building Height: The height of buildings and other structures that encroach into the navigable airspace used by military operations present a safety hazard to both the public and military personnel and potentially impacting military readiness. Zoning regulations should avoid such obstructions that increase flight safety risks, as pilots are frequently flying at very low altitudes and very high speeds. • Dust, Smoke, or Steam: Dust created by grading activities or agriculture, and smoke, steam, or other airborne emissions from industrial facilities can reduce visibility and thereby impact military operations. While air quality impacts are usually temporary and intermittent, the fact that they are unpredictable creates concerns for operators.
• Light and Glare: Light sources from commercial, industrial, and residential uses at night can cause excessive glare and illumination, which impacts the use of military night vision devices, nighttime aircraft operations and other light- sensitive activities.
4. Military Sustainability Element
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City of Ridgecrest
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4.3 Goals and Policies
This element provides goals and policies specifically related to the balance of community and military needs and the overall protection of public health and safety. A number of other policies are included in other elements that support military compatibility planning.
See also the policies and implementation measures under Goal LU-7 concerning the definition of the Military Influence Area (MIA) for Ridgecrest.
General
Goal
MIL-1
To ensure that future land uses are compatible with the continued operation of China Lake and avoid risk to life, property and the well-being of City residents from hazards associated with aircraft operations.
MIL-1.1 Role of China Lake
Continue to support the role of China Lake as a significant contributor to the economic base of the community.
MIL-1.2 Kern County ALUCP
Proposed land uses and development proposals shall be consistant with the land use compatibility policies and criteria of the Kern County ALUCP relative to China Lake.
MIL-1.3 Development Constraints
The City shall not allow development in areas where the risks to potential health and safety cannot be mitigated to an acceptable level. [ MIL-1.4 Local Supplies and Services
The City will work with China Lake to enhance the use local contractors and services, and to purchase material, equipment, and supplies from in-City sources. The City should identify and support development of businesses and suppliers to the military and their contractors.
MIL-1.5 MIA Overlay Zone
The City will create an MIA overlay zone to provide land uses and development standards that are compatible with the AICUZ.
MIL-1.6 Dark Skies Ordinance
To minimize impacts on night-time flight operations, the City shall adopt a “dark skies ordinance” that will reduce night lighting for new uses and light sources.
4. Military Sustainability Element
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Communications / Coordination
Goal
MIL-2
To provide opportunities for the City, China Lake, residents, industry, and agencies to collectively participate in all phases of a well-defined planning process.
MIL-2.1 Coordinate with on JLUS Implementation
The City shall coordinate closely with jurisdictions, agencies, organizations, and Native American tribal governments in and near the Planning Area to ensure their policies and regulations are consistent with the City's General Plan, the China Lake AICUZ, and the R-2508 JLUS.
MIL-2.2 Increase Public Awareness
Provide property owners in proximity to NAWS China Lake education on the installation’s mission, potential impacts associated with military aviation operations, land use constraints, and potential mitigations for appropriate development.
MIL-2.3 Development Review
Development proposals shall be reviewed for hazards to aircraft in flight, including: uses that release into the air any substance such as steam, dust and smoke which would impair pilot visibility; uses that produce light emissions, glare or distracting lights which could interfere with pilot vision or be mistaken for airfield lighting; sources of electrical emissions which would interfere with aircraft communications or navigation; and uses which would attract birds or waterfowl to the extent that they would pose a danger to aircraft operation in the vicinity of the China Lake.
MIL-2.4 Information Exchange with China Lake
The City shall work with China Lake to establish an on-going consultation mechanism between the City and China Lake on issues of mutual concern. This will include:
▪ Early notification by the City to China Lake officials of development applications
▪ Early notification by China Lake to the City of potential changes in aircraft operations (patterns, number, etc.)
MIL-2.5 Military Involvement and Review Process
The City shall continue to provide CEQA notifications to NAWS China Lake for review and comment on City discretionary land use actions to include, but not limited to, General/Specific Plan amendments, zone changes, tract maps, parcel maps, Specific Development Plans, and Conditional Use Permits.
R-2508 JLUS
R-2508 JLUS
R-2508 JLUS
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-22
MIL-2.6 Evaluate Rerouting of Military Flight Patterns
Provide support to China Lake as needed to evaluate the feasibility of rerouting military flight operations from over private lands to federal lands while still meeting mission requirements.
MIL-2.7 Coordinate Military Compatibility Planning with Kern County The Community Development Department shall maintain close contact with their counterparts in Kern County to coordinate military compatibility planning and management activities.
MIL-2.8 Meeting Military Housing Needs
The City will work with China Lake officials in identifying strategies to meet the housing needs of military personnel during preparation of the City’s General Plan Housing Element.
MIL-2.9 Enhanced Real Estate Disclosure
Develop an enhanced Real Estate Disclosure Ordinance to ensure appropriate information about the missions and operations at China Lake and the R-2508 Complex are fully disclosed at the earliest possible point in the interaction between realtor / real estate agent and a buyer or renter.
MIL-2.10 Staff Training on Military Compatibility Planning The City and China Lake shall cooperate to provide City staff with on-going training opportunities to maintain their awareness of the latest technology and regulations concerning military compatibility issues.
MIL-2.11 Infrastructure / Service Plans
The projected need for additional infrastructure and other municipal services by China Lake should be considered in the development of new infrastructure master plans.
R-2508 JLUS
R-2508 JLUS
4. Military Sustainability Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-23
Mitigating Compatibility Issues
Goal
MIL-3
To mitigate encroachment issues associated with land uses and development. [New Goal].
MIL-3.1 Avigation Easements
The City shall require the dedication of avigation easements when development is proposed on property within identified airport safety zones.
MIL-3.2 Major Plan Coordination with Military
Require that specific plans, area plans, and other regional plans (either new plans or updates/revisions) in the R-2508 Complex address a number of compatibility issues involving the military, such as dark skies, water availability and quality, density, cluster development, and other development design issues.
MIL-3.3 Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan
The City shall work closely with appropriate agencies, including the Kern County Planning Department, to ensure development is compatible with aircraft facilities and operations, to include NAWS China Lake. To this end, the City shall, as applicable, incorporate findings and recommendations identified in the Kern County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP).
MIL-3.4 NAWS China Lake AICUZ Recommendations
The City shall review and, to the greatest extent possible, take actions to implement the recommendations provided in the current and future NAWS China Lake AICUZ studies.
MIL-3.5 Vertical Obstructions
All new development in the City shall conform to FAR Part 77 height limits. [New Policy]
MIL-3.6 Cellular Tower Collocation / Consolidation
Encourage the collocation of cellular towers within the R-2508 Complex.
MIL-3.7 Outdoor Lighting
The City shall ensure that future development includes provisions for the design of outdoor light fixtures to be directed / shielded downward and screened to avoid nighttime lighting spillover effects on adjacent land uses and nighttime sky conditions.
MIL-3.8 Lighting
The City shall continue to improve and maintain proper lighting at City facilities and assist in reducing undue nuisance light and glare spillage on adjoining areas from development.
R-2508 JLUS
R-2508 JLUS
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-24
MIL-3.9 Sensitive Uses
The City should address restrictions on the location of sensitive receptors, such as schools, day care centers, apartments, hospitals, nursing homes, and senior living facilities in relation to noise contours. Implementation Measures
4.4 Implementation Measures
Table 4-1, Military Sustainability Implementation Measures, identifies the implementation measures the City should take to implement the goals and policies of this General Plan. The implementation program lists each specific implementation measure, a reference to which General Plan policy it is implementing, who is responsible to implement the program, and the timeframe for implementation.
Table 4-1. Military Sustainability Implementation Measures Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
1.0 Prior to approval of a proposal involving
any type of land use development,
specific findings shall be made that such
development is compatible with the
training and operational missions of the
military aviation installations.
Incompatible land uses that result in
significant impacts to the military
mission of Department of Defense
installations or to the Joint Service
Restricted R-2508 Complex that can not
be mitigated, shall not be considered
consistent with this plan. [Source: Kern
County ALUCP, Policy 1.7 c]
MIL-1.2
MIL-1.3
Community
Development
◼
2.0 Review discretionary land use
development applications within the
military installation’s operating area as
shown in the Kern County ALUCP for
consistency. [New Implementation]
MS-1.2 Community
Development
◼
3.0 The City shall work with other
jurisdictions, agencies, organizations,
and Native American tribal
governments in the establishment and
support of a JLUS Coordinating
Committee. The Committee will support
implementation of the JLUS strategies,
providing on-going technical
support/assistance to other members.
[New Implementation, JLUS
Strategy #9]
MIL-2.1
R-2508
JLUS
City Council
Community
Development
◼
4. Military Sustainability Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-25
Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
4.0 The City shall develop an avigation
easement program, which will include
sample easement language, designates
where avigation easements should be
required, and determines the
appropriate agency or organization to
hold such easements. [New
Implementation, JLUS Strategy #3]
MIL-3.1
R-2508
JLUS
◼
5.0 Work with China Lake to establish
procedures for consultation between
the base and the City relative to
planning review and comment. This will
include:
◼ Definition of projects types
that require review by the
China Lake officials
◼ Identification of the Points of
Contact for all coordination
◼ Provision of opportunities for
China Lake personnel to be
involved in pre-application
meetings for significant
projects
◼ Establishing a formal procedure
for requesting and receiving
comments
◼ Establishing a standard timeline
for responses, keeping in mind
mandated review time periods
as specified by State law and
local procedures
◼ Develop outreach plan
◼ Providing notice to China Lake
on all public hearings regarding
projects identified for
coordination
◼ Establish procedures for the
review and monitoring of
frequency spectrum conflicts,
as they are identified
MIL-2.3
MIL-2.4
MIL-2.5
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼
6.0 If proposed by China Lake, provide
input on the impacts associated with
potential acquisitions or land transfers,
including loss of property from tax rolls.
[New Implementation, Strategy #1]
MIL 2.4
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-26
Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
7.0 For enhanced real estate disclosure, the
City shall:
◼ Work with State Real Estate
Board and local real estate
representatives to develop and
implement adequate language
for inclusion in disclosure
notices.
◼ Work with State real estate
board and local real estate
representatives to ensure
compliance with notification
requirements.
◼ The City and China Lake should
work cooperatively to make
available the information
required for real estate
disclosure (as defined by
implementation measure)
regarding operational issues at
China Land and the R-2508
Complex (aircraft, gunnery, and
explosive noise potential;
overflight; light and glare; etc.).
◼ Review periodically and update
as needed to reflect current
issues and military operations.
MIL-2.9
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼ ◼
8.0 Review and revise, as-needed, truth-insales and rental ordinances to ensure adequacy in providing public disclosure
of NAWS China Lake operations and
impacts as they pertain to existing
residential uses, proposed residential
development, and subdivision
approvals.
MS-2.9 Community
Development
◼ ◼
9.0 Coordinate with military representatives
to ensure information on Special Use
Airspace (floors, ceilings, time of
operations, etc) is understood and
available for disclosure.
MIL-2.9
MIL-2.10
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼ ◼
10.0 Work with Governor’s Office of Land
Use and Climate Innovation (LCI) to
define information that would be useful
for planners concerning military
compatibility.
MIL-2.10
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼
4. Military Sustainability Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-27
Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
11.0 In an effort to protect the operations of
NAWS China Lake, the City shall require
that all new development west of
Mahan Street grant an avigation
easement on behalf of NAWS China
Lake and shall implement procedures
concerning notice and disclosure of
aircraft operations impacts (including
over flights and noise).
MS-3.1 Community
Development
◼
12.0 Initiate a light and glare working group
to evaluate appropriate lighting
standards, including the development
of a dark sky ordinance/simplified
constraints map similar to Kern
County's Red/Yellow/Green map
developed for height obstructions,
within applicable development codes to
protect military operations from the
impacts associated with light and glare.
MIL-3.7
MIL-3.8
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼ ◼
13.0 For portions of the R-2508 area
identified by the military as critical to
dark sky initiatives, evaluate funding
sources available to assist in lighting
retrofit programs.
MIL-3.8
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼ ◼
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-28
4.1 Introduction.......................................................................................... 1
4.2 Existing Conditions.............................................................................10
4.3 Goals and Policies ...............................................................................20
4.4 Implementation Measures.................................................................24 Table 4-1. Military Sustainability Implementation Measures...................... 24 Figure 4-1. Accident Potential Zones ..............................................................3 Figure 4-2. Special Use Airspace.................................................................... 10 Figure 4-3. Regional Locaiton NAWS China Lake........................................... 14 Figure 4-4. Arrival Routes.............................................................................. 16 Figure 4-5. Departure Routes.........................................................................17 Figure 4-6. Touch and Go/Overhead and Carrier Break Flight Patterns........ 18 Figure 4.7. Noise Contours............................................................................ 25 Ordinance 26-Xx Page 1 of 15
ORDINANCE NO. 26-__
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST AMENDING
THE RIDGECREST MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING OUTDOOR LIGHTING AND THE
MILITARY INFLUENCE AREA OVERLAY DISTRICT
WHEREAS, California Constitution Article XI, Section 7, enables the City of Ridgecrest (the “City”) to enact local planning and land use regulations; and WHEREAS, in April 2011, the United States Department of the Navy adopted a new Air Installations Compatible Use Zones (AICUZ) for the Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS), China Lake; and
WHEREAS, in response to the AICUZ, the following policies have been added to the Military Sustainability Element of the General Plan:
MIL-1.5 MIA Overlay Zone
The City will create an MIA overlay zone to provide land uses and development standards that are compatible with the AICUZ.
MIL-1.6 Dark Skies Ordinance
To minimize impacts on night-time flight operations, the City shall adopt a “dark skies ordinance” that will reduce night lighting for new uses and light sources; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing to consider the matter on February 24, 2026. After accepting all testimony, reports, and facts, the Planning Commission adopted Planning Commission Resolution 26-04, thereby recommending approval of the Code Amendment; and
WHEREAS, on March 18, 2026, the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest conducted a duly noticed public hearing. After considering all testimony, reports, and facts regarding the Code Amendment, the City Council introduced this ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST, CALIFORNIA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The recitals above are true and correct and incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 2. Section 106-40 (Outdoor Lighting/Dark Skies) is hereby added to Article I (In General) of Chapter 106 (Zoning) of Part II (Land Development) of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code to read as follows:
“Sec. 106.40. - OUTDOOR LIGHTING/DARK SKIES
(a) Purpose and Intent. Residents in many areas of Ridgecrest currently enjoy a dark night sky and have expressed interest in continued access to natural dark skies. In order to maintain the existing character of the city, a minimal approach shall be taken to outdoor lighting, as excessive illumination can create a glow that may obscure the night sky and excessive illumination or glare may constitute a nuisance. The purpose of this section is to provide requirements for outdoor lighting in order to accomplish the following objectives:
(1) Encourage a safe, secure, and less light-oriented nighttime environment for residents, businesses, and visitors.
(2) Promote a reduction in unnecessary light intensity and glare, and to reduce light spillover onto adjacent properties and upon nighttime flight operations at the NAWS China Lake. (3) Protect the ability to view the night sky by restricting unnecessary upward projections of light.
(4) Promote energy conservation and a reduction in the generation of greenhouse gases by reducing wasted electricity that can result from excessive or unwanted outdoor lighting. (b) Conflict. Should a conflict arise between this section and the California Green Building Standards Code, the more restrictive of the two shall apply. (c) Definitions. For the purposes of carrying out the intent of this section, the following words, phrases, and terms shall be deemed to have the meaning ascribed to them below. Words, phrases, and terms not defined in this section shall have the meaning as defined elsewhere in this Chapter, or if lacking thereof as commonly or logically associated therewith.
Architectural Feature means a unique roofline, gable, mast, extension, overhang, or other architectural embellishment intended to add architectural interest to a building or structure.
Attached Lighting means a light fixture that is attached to a building or structure. Any light fixture that is directly or indirectly attached to a structure with a diameter and/or width of more than twelve (12) inches is considered attached lighting.
Fixture means a complete lighting unit including the lamp and parts designed to distribute the light, position and protect the lamp, and connect the lamp to a power source. Also referred to as a luminaire. The fixture may include an assembly housing, a mounting bracket or polo socket, lamp holder, ballast, a reflector or mirror, and a refractor or lens.
Floodlight means an outdoor lighting fixture intended to illuminate a large area. Often utilized to broadcast light over a substantial area for security and recreational purposes.
Freestanding Lighting means a light fixture that is not attached to a building or structure. Any light fixture attached to a structure with a diameter and/or width of twelve (12) inches or less (such as a pole) is considered freestanding lighting.
Fully Shielded means an outdoor lighting fixture that is shielded with a non-translucent barrier or constructed in such a manner that the light rays emitted by the fixture, either directly from the lamp or indirectly from the fixture, are projected below a horizontal plane passing through the lowest point of the fixture where light is emitted. Light rays emitted by a fully-shielded fixture shall not cast direct light onto any adjacent property other than a common solid fence.
Glare means a direct and unshielded light striking the eye to result in reduced visual performance.
Incandescent means a light produced by a filament heated to a high temperature by electric current.
Internally Illumined Signage means a sign illuminated by a light source internal to sign enclosure and not directly visible externally.
Lamp/Bulb means a generic term for an artificial light source typically installed in the socket portion of a fixture. Commonly referred to as a bulb.
Light Pollution means any adverse effect of artificial light sources including, but not limited to, discomfort to the eye or diminished vision due to glare, uncontrolled uplighting, uncomfortable distraction to the eye, or any artificial light that substantially diminishes the view of the night sky.
Lumen means a unit of standard measurement used to describe the amount of light that is produced; a measurement of the brightness/intensity of a light source.
Low Voltage Landscape Lighting means freestanding electric lighting powered fifteen (15) volts or less and limited to sixty (60) watts or seven hundred fifty (750) lumens, whichever is less, per fixture, for the purpose of illuminating trees, shrubbery, and other natural external elements.
Night Sky means the overhead sky, between dusk and dawn; ideally allows view of stars, despite necessary or desired illumination of private and public property.
Outdoor Lighting Fixture means any lighting fixture that is installed, located, or used in such a manner to provide illumination of objects or activities outside. Outdoor lighting fixtures
include all fixtures mounted to the exterior of a structure, poles, or other freestanding structures, or placed so as to provide direct illumination on any exterior area or activity.
Outdoor Performance/Sport/Recreational Facilities means a public or private facilities designed for the conduct of sports, leisure activities, and other customary recreational activities.
Partially Shielded Fixture means a fixture employing a top shield to eliminate all direct upward light, but otherwise does not shield the lamp from view. May allow some light to pass through a semi-translucent barrier, and/or may allow visibility of the lamp/bulb from certain perspectives.
Seasonal Lighting means seasonal displays of forty-five (45) days or less within one (1) calendar year.
Temporary lighting means lighting that is intended to be used for a special event for twelve (12) days or less per calendar year.
Uplight means light emitted from a fixture into the hemisphere at or above the horizontal plane.
(d) Applicability.
(1) New Outdoor Lighting. All new temporary or permanent outdoor lighting fixtures that is both permitted and installed on and after the effective date of this section shall conform to the requirements established by this section.
(2) Existing Outdoor Lighting. All existing outdoor lighting fixtures installed prior to the effective date of this section shall be addressed as follows:
a. Legal, nonconforming: All outdoor light fixtures which are existing and legally installed prior to the date of adoption of this section are legal, nonconforming uses and are exempt from the requirements of this section.
b. Additions or Alterations to Property: When an addition of fifty percent (50%) or more in terms of additional dwelling units, gross floor area, cumulative seating capacity, parking spaces, either with a single addition or with cumulative additions occurs on any property, all existing nonconforming lighting fixtures on the entire property shall be made to comply with the requirements of this section. Additionally, all new outdoor lighting fixtures shall meet the requirements of this chapter. (e) General requirements. The following general standards apply to all outdoor lighting fixtures subject to this ordinance.
(1) Shielding. All outdoor lighting fixtures which utilize one hundred (100) watts or more (including equivalent wattage) or emit one thousand six hundred (1,600) lumens or more per fixture, shall be fully shielded per the definition listed in this section, unless the fixture is exempted by this section.
(2) Floodlights. All floodlights which utilize less than one hundred (100) watts per fixture (including equivalent wattage) must be at least shielded to eliminate light spillover onto adjacent properties. Additionally, the light source within all lighting fixtures shall be oriented downward to prevent direct uplighting.
(3) Prohibited Light Source Types. The following exterior light source types shall be prohibited:
a. Metal halide, mercury vapor, and quartz bulbs in or within twenty-five (25) feet of any residential or mixed-use zone districts.
b. Uplighting, except as permitted by Section 106.40(f) below. (4) Maintenance. Outdoor light fixtures shall be kept in good working order and shall be continuously maintained in a manner that serves the original design intent of the system and ensures continued compliance with this section.
(5) Fixture Height. All light fixtures that are mounted on a building or structure (attached lighting) and all lighting fixtures that are not attached (freestanding lighting) shall conform to the mounting height limitations as listed in Table 106.40. Maximum fixture height shall be measured from the finished interior grade of the mounting area to the top point of the lighting fixture.
Table 106.40 – Fixture Height
Residential and
Mixed-Use
Zones
All Other
Zones
Floodlights Used for
"Outdoor
Performance,
Sport &
Recreation
Facilities"
Freestanding
Lighting
20 feet 30 feet As approved by the
Director
Attached Lighting Shall not exceed height of structure
(6) Fixture Types. The following figures illustrate examples of fully shielded and not fully shielded outdoor lighting fixtures. Note: Even those types of fixtures shown as fully shielded must be installed and aimed properly to comply with this chapter.
(f) Uplighting And Lighting Aimed Against Structures Or Landscaping. Direct upward lighting and lighting aimed at structures shall be prohibited except as follows:
(1) Accent lighting of architectural features: Architectural features may be illuminated by vertical uplighting, provided that no glare or off-site light spillover is produced. Lamps used for this type of accent lighting shall be low intensity to produce a subtle lighting effect and shall utilize less than one hundred (100) watts and shall emit less than one thousand six hundred (1,600) lumens per fixture.
(2) Accent lighting of other objects: For statues, public art, or other objects of interest where the light cannot be effectively contained by the structure and where objects cannot be illuminated with down lighting, upward lighting may be used in the form of narrow-cone spotlights that utilize less than one hundred (100) watts and emit less than one thousand six hundred (1,600) lumens and confine the illumination to the object of interest. (3) Unrestricted uplighting of a displayed United States Flag or the State of California State Flag shall be permitted.
(4) All other lighting aimed against structures: An outdoor lighting fixture may be aimed against a structure only if all the following apply:
a. The light is effectively contained by the structure. b. No glare is visible from off site.
c. The fixture is fully shielded so that none of the light which is emitted above the horizontal plane crosses over the property line of the parcel where the subject light is located.
d. Low voltage landscape light: Low voltage landscape lighting such as that used to illuminate fountains, shrubbery, trees, walkways, etc., shall be permitted provided that such lighting is limited to fixtures utilizing a maximum of sixty (60) watts (or seven hundred fifty (750) lumens, whichever is or less), per fixture, the fixture is not mounted to poles or buildings, and the fixture is shielded to eliminate glare and light spillover onto adjacent properties.
(g) Outdoor Performance, Sport And Recreational Facilities. (1) Where playing fields or other special activity areas are to be illuminated by floodlight, lighting fixtures shall be mounted, aimed, and shielded so that their beams fall within the primary playing area and immediate surroundings, and so that off-site light spillover onto any residentially zoned property is minimized. This subsection shall not apply to legal, nonconforming fixtures.
(2) Recreational facilities shall be illuminated for public or private use only when the facility is being utilized, except for security lighting authorized by Section 106.40(j). All nonsecurity lighting must be turned off no later than 11:00 p.m. or thirty (30) minutes after the termination of the event and/or use, whichever occurs last. At the conclusion of the event and/or use, a reduced-level lighting system shall be used to facilitate patrons leaving the facility, cleanup, nighttime maintenance, and other closing activities. This subsection shall not apply to legal, nonconforming fixtures and illumination patterns. (h) New Off-Site And On-Site Outdoor Advertising Signs. New off-site outdoor advertising signs installed after the effective date of this chapter and which include externally mounted light fixtures shall be subject to the following:
(1) The externally mounted light fixtures shall be mounted to the top of the advertising structure, shall be oriented downward and shall be fully shielded, except for fixtures utilizing less than one hundred (100) watts and emitting less than one thousand six hundred (1,600) lumens per fixture. Externally mounted light bulbs or lighting tubes that are not filled with neon, argon, or krypton shall not be visible from any portion of an adjacent public right-of-way or adjoining property.
(2) Internally illuminated signs shall be exempt from this chapter and shall be regulated as set forth by Article VI of Chapter 106 of Part II of this Code. (i) Searchlights and Laser Lights. Searchlights and laser lights shall be prohibited except in cases of emergencies, by/at the direction of police department, fire department, or other emergency personnel.
(j) Hours Of Operation (Curfew) And Security Lighting.
(1) Outdoor light fixtures located anywhere within a residential zone district (or within any other zone district where the new fixture is located within twenty-five (25) feet of an existing single-family residence, shall adhere to the following:
a. Lighting fixtures (such as carriage lights, under-eave lights and porch lights) that utilize less than one hundred (100) watts and emit less than one thousand six hundred (1,600) lumens per fixture and that do not project light above the horizontal plane shall not be subject to an illumination curfew.
b. Security lighting fixtures that utilize one hundred (100) watts or more (or emit one thousand six hundred (1,600) lumens or more) shall be controlled by a motion-sensor device if used after 11:00 p.m., and the fixture shall only be illuminated when activated by the device. The motion sensor device shall be programmed so that the fixture remains illuminated for no more than ten (10) minutes if activated by the device. Each fixture shall conform to all other provisions of this chapter, including shielding requirements.
c. All other non-exempt outdoor lighting fixtures shall be turned off between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and sunrise.
(2) Outdoor lighting fixtures located outside of a residential zone district, or located more than twenty-five (25) feet from any existing single-family residence within any other zone district shall adhere to the following:
a. All lighting fixtures shall be subject to the shielding provisions listed in this Section. b. Lighting fixtures listed under this provision shall not be subject to an illumination curfew.
(k) Exemptions. The following are permanently exempt from the provisions of this chapter:
(1) Outdoor lighting specifically approved in conjunction with a discretionary permit. (2) Federal and State Facilities: Outdoor light fixtures on, in, or in connection with facilities and land owned or operated by the government of the United States of America or the
State of California; however, these agencies are encouraged to comply with the provisions of this chapter.
(3) Airports and Other Lighting Required by the Federal Aviation Administration: Outdoor lighting for public and private airports and any other uses that are regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration.
(4) Correctional Institutions: Outdoor lighting for federal, state, and county-owned or operated correctional institutions; however, voluntary compliance with the intent and provisions of this chapter is encouraged.
(5) Emergency Light: Temporary emergency lighting needed by the sheriff's department, police department, fire department, public utility, rescue operation or in conjunction with any other emergency service.
(6) Temporary Construction: All temporary lighting used for the construction or repair of roadways, utilities, and other public infrastructure.
(7) Internally Illuminated Signs: All internally illuminated signs, including those used for onsite and off-site advertising purposes. Such signs are regulated by the provisions of Article VI of Chapter 106 of Part II of the Municipal Code.
(8) Neon, Argon, or Krypton: All fixtures illuminated solely by neon, argon, or krypton. (9) United States Flag and State of California Flag: Lighting used to illuminate a properly displayed United States Flag and/or the State of California Flag. (10) Lighting Required by Building Codes or other Regulations: Communication towers, exit signs, lighting for stairs/ramps, lighting for points of ingress/egress to buildings, and all other illumination required by air navigation safety provisions, building codes, OSHA standards, and other permitting requirements from State or federal agencies. (11) Fossil Fuel Light: All outdoor light fixtures producing light directly by the combustion of fossil fuels (such as kerosene lanterns, gas lamps, etc.) (12) Street Lighting: Lighting equipment within a public or private right-of-way or easement for the principal purpose of illuminating streets, roadways, and/or other areas open to transport by vehicle or pedestrian traffic.
(13) Seasonal Displays: Displays using multiple low wattage bulbs or lasers, provided that they do not constitute a fire hazard, create a nuisance, and are maintained in a safe condition. Such displays shall not be illuminated for more than forty-five (45) days per calendar year.
(14) Water Features: Lighting in swimming pools and other water features governed by Article 680 of the National Electrical Code.
(l) Outdoor lighting plans. An outdoor lighting plan shall be submitted in conjunction with any application for a building permit within a commercial or industrial zone district where new outdoor lighting fixtures will be installed as a part of the project for which the building permit is required. At minimum, an outdoor lighting plan shall include the following:
(1) Manufacturer specification sheets, cut sheets, or other manufacturer provided information for all proposed outdoor lighting fixtures to show fixture diagrams, light source type, and light output levels (in watts or lumens per fixture). (2) The proposed location, mounting height, and aiming point of all outdoor lighting fixtures (3) If building elevations are proposed for illumination, the plan shall include drawings for all relevant building elevations showing the placement of fixtures, the portions of the elevations to be illuminated, and the aiming point for any remote light fixture. (4) The outdoor lighting plan shall be correlated with any required landscaping plan that is submitted with the building permit application package and shall demonstrate that outdoor lighting shall not be unreasonably obscured or obstructed by existing or future foliage growth.
(m) Violations. All outdoor lighting fixtures installed after the effective date of this Section shall conform to the requirements established by this chapter. It shall be unlawful and a nuisance to install or operate any new outdoor lighting fixture in violation of this chapter.” SECTION 3. Section 106-285 (Designation of Zones) of Article III (Precise Zone Plan and Zone Map) of Chapter 106 (Zoning) of Part II (Land Development) of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code is hereby modified to add the following overlay zones to the table of Zone Classifications:
MIA-1 Military Influence Area Overlay Zone 1
MIA-2 Military Influence Area Overlay Zone 2
SECTION 4. Division 3 (Military Influence Ara Overlay District) is hereby added to Article IV (Zoning District Regulations) of Chapter 106 (ZONING) of Ridgecrest Municipal Code to read as follows:
“Sec. 106-350 – PURPOSE AND INTENT
It is the purpose of this chapter to prevent incompatible land uses in the vicinity of Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake consistent with the recommendations of the NAWS China
Lake 2011 Air Installation Compatible Use Zone Study (AICUZ) and the goals and policies of the General Plan. The unique operational characteristics of NAWS China Lake necessitate a modified approach to the regulation of vicinity land uses. These characteristics include but are not limited to military aircraft approach and departure operations affecting a more expansive geographic area and more intense aircraft operation noise characteristics resulting from the staging of unique events such as air shows and special military preparedness operations, and periodic visits by aircraft from other military installations.
Sec. 106-351 – APPLICABILITY
This division shall apply to every property shown on the official zoning map within the MIA-1 or MIA-2 overlay zones. Where this division and any other portion of this code conflict, this division shall apply.
Sec. 106-352 – REVIEW AND NOTICE
(a) All new discretionary entitlement applications for projects within the MIA-1 or MIA-2 overlay zones shall be sent to the NAWS China Lake Encroachment office for comment as part of the interdepartmental review process.
(b) Notice of any public hearing for discretionary entitlement application within the MIA-1 or MIA-2 overlay zones shall be provided at least ten days prior to the hearing to the NAWS China Lake Encroachment office.
Sec. 106-353 – PERMITTED USES
(a) Permitted uses. The following uses shall be permitted in the MIA-1 and MIA-2 overlay zones:
(1) Any permitted use listed in the base zone, except the following:
a. Any use listed as a conditionally permitted use in Section 106-353(b). b. Any prohibited use listed in Section 106-353(c).
(b) Conditionally permitted uses. The following uses may be permitted in the MIA-1 and MIA-2 overlay zones, subject to the application for a conditional use permit per division 3 of article II of this chapter.
(1) Any conditionally permitted use listed in the base zone, except the following:
a. Any prohibited use listed in Section 106-353(c).
(2) Multifamily residential dwellings within the MIA-2 overlay zone. (3) Any use that is permitted in the base zone and would result in any of the following:
a. Any transmissions operating at a gain and frequencies sufficient to interfere with testing or operations on China Lake.
b. Release into the air any substance such as steam, dust and smoke.
c. Produce light emissions, glare or distracting lights which could interfere with pilot vision or be mistaken for airfield lighting.
(c) Prohibited uses. The following use shall be prohibited in any portion of the MIA-1 or MIA-2 overlay zones:
(1) Any structure that would physically obstruct any portion of the military operations area due to relative height above ground level.
(2) Outdoor music shells and amphitheaters.
(3) Raising or keeping of pigeons or doves, including but not limited to, pedigreed homing, high-flying, or air-performing pigeons.
(4) Within the MIA-2 overlay zone, the following uses shall be prohibited:
a. Group Quarters.
b. Residential Hotels.
c. Mobile home parks or courts.
d. Nursing Homes.
e. Hotels, motels, and other transient lodging.
Sec. 106-353 – DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
In addition to the development standards within the base zone, the following standards shall apply:
(a) Height. Per base zone, however, no portion of a structure, building, pole, mast, or other improvement shall exceed 35’ unless the NAWS China Lake Encroachment office confirms in writing that said portions of the structure, building, pole, mast, or other improvement that exceed 35’ will not impact the military operations and mission. (b) Lighting. All lighting should be downcast or shielded in a manner that would not impair pilot vision. The following lighting shall be prohibited:
(1) Uplighting of any landscaping, structure, building, pole, mast, or other improvement. (2) Spot, search, or laser lights.
(c) Reflective surfaces. The design and construction of structures, buildings, poles, masts, or other improvements shall not produce glare, either direct or indirect (reflective), that would interfere with pilot vision and/or air traffic control operations. (d) Solar Energy Systems. The solar panels shall be composed of anti-reflective material and/or treated with anti-reflective coating and shall not produce glare, either direct or indirect (reflective).
Sec. 106-354 – FINDINGS
(a) In addition to the required findings set forth in Section 106-131, planning commission shall, on the basis of the application and the evidence submitted, make the following finding:
(1) Approval of the proposed use will not be detrimental to military operations and mission.” SECTION 5. This Ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under the following provisions of the CEQA Guidelines: Section 15378 (14 Cal. Code Regs. § 15378), this action is not subject to CEQA since it does not have the potential to result in a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.
SECTION 6. Any provision of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code or appendices thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to the extent necessary to implement the provisions of his Ordinance.
SECTION 7. If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance, or any part thereof is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance or any part thereof. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 8. The Mayor shall sign and the City Clerk shall attest to the passage of this Ordinance. The City Clerk shall cause the same to be published once in the official newspaper within fifteen (15) days after its adoption. This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days after adoption.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest at the regular meeting of this 15
th day of April, 2026.
Signatures on next page
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_
Martin Koczanowicz, City Attorney
APPROVED AND ADOPTED: This ___ day of ___________, 2026 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
ORDINANCE NO. 26-__
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST AMENDING
THE ZONING MAP, THEREBY ADDING PROPERTIES TO THE MILITARY INFLUENCE
AREA OVERLAY DISTRICT
WHEREAS, California Constitution Article XI, Section 7, enables the City of Ridgecrest (the “City”) to enact local planning and land use regulations; and WHEREAS, in April 2011, the United States Department of the Navy adopted a new Air Installations Compatible Use Zones (AICUZ) for the Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS), China Lake; and
WHEREAS, in response to the AICUZ, the following policy have been added to the Military Sustainability Element of the General Plan:
MIL-1.5 MIA Overlay Zone
The City will create an MIA overlay zone to provide land uses and development standards that are compatible with the AICUZ.
WHEREAS, Ridgecrest Municipal Code Sections 106-350 through 106-354 establish the permitted uses and regulations for the Military Influence Area (MIA) Overlay District; and WHEREAS, it is the City’s desire to locate specific properties within the MIA overlay; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing to consider the matter on February 24, 2026. After accepting all testimony, reports, and facts, the Planning Commission adopted Planning Commission Resolution 26-04, thereby recommending approval of the Zoning Map Amendment; and
WHEREAS, on March 18, 2026, the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest conducted a duly noticed public hearing. After considering all testimony, reports, and facts regarding the Code Amendment, the City Council introduced this ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST, CALIFORNIA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The recitals above are true and correct and incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 2. The Zoning Map of the City of Ridgecrest is amended as attached hereto.
SECTION 3. This Ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under the following provisions of the CEQA Guidelines: Section 15378 (14 Cal. Code Regs. § 15378), this action is not subject to CEQA since it does not have the potential to result in a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.
SECTION 4. If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance, or any part thereof is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance or any part thereof. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 5. The Mayor shall sign and the City Clerk shall attest to the passage of this Ordinance. The City Clerk shall cause the same to be published once in the official newspaper within fifteen (15) days after its adoption. This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days after adoption.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest at the regular meeting of this 15
th day of April, 2026.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_
Martin Koczanowicz, City Attorney
APPROVED AND ADOPTED: This ___ day of ___________, 2026 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
3 L an d Use Elemen t
3.1 Introduction
The Land Use Element, one of seven mandatory elements of the General Plan, has been required since 1955. It serves as the central element for the general plan and, in essence, brings together most of the concerns addressed in the other elements. It is the principal tool for guiding community growth and development and does so by designating the proposed general distribution, location and intensity of the use of land for both urban and non-urban activities.
Although the Land Use Element is most closely related to the physical development of the city, it also addresses social, economic and environmental issues through its policies.
The City of Ridgecrest Land Use Element also includes policies and goals concerning public services and facilities. The policies and development direction are for public buildings, grounds and facilities essential to meet community needs, as well as solid waste collection, sanitary sewer, water, schools and medical service. Other public services and facilities including parks, storm drains, public transit, fire service and police service are treated in the Circulation and Transportation, Safety, and Open Space Elements. Since several of the services and facilities covered by this element are not operated by the City, an important part of implementing the element will be strong coordination between the City and individual purveyors.
City of Ridgecrest
KEY TERMS
Airport Influence Area (AIA). The Airport Influence Area is an area around an airport that requires additional land use regulation to accommodate aircraft operations. The zone is identified in the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) and is subject to special use and development regulations including but not limited use, building height, low density residential uses, and other limiting factors. The runway will include helicopter take-off and landing zones if not on the primary runway.
Air Installation Compatible Use Zone (AICUZ) Study. The AICUZ is a Department of Defense (DOD) planning program that was developed in response to incompatible urban development and land use conflicts around military airfields. The AICUZ study seeks to develop a cooperative relationship between communities and military installations and provides land use compatibility guidelines designed to protect public health and safety as well as maintain military readiness. As designed, the AICUZ study evaluates three components: noise, vertical obstructions, and accident potential zones. An AICUZ study is maintained for operations at Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake.
Conditional Use Permit. A Conditional Use Permit (CUP) is used for specific land uses that due to their type of activities may create unique impacts that need to be addressed for each site. A CUP may require a public hearing, and if approval is granted, is usually subject to the fulfillment of certain conditions by the developer/operator.
Density. This term is applied to residential development in the Planning Area and is defined as the number of units per gross acre (dwelling units per acre or DU/A) on a given site.
Disadvantaged Community. A census tract, or portion thereof, that has or below 80% of the county median household income and is disproportionately affected by pollution and other environmental justice issues.
Floor Area Ratio (FAR). A floor area ratio is often used to describe the intensity of commercial, office, and industrial land usage. The FAR is a ratio created by dividing the total square footage of the building by the net square footage of the lot.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS). A system of hardware and software used for storage, retrieval, mapping, and analysis of geographic data. Spatial features are stored in a coordinate system (latitude/longitude, state plane, UTM, etc.), which references a particular place on the earth. Descriptive attributes in tabular form are associated with spatial features. Spatial data and associated attributes in the same coordinate system can then be layered together for mapping and analysis.
Gross Acreage. This term refers to the total area of a site.
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-3
Holding Capacity. The amount of growth that an area can support and sustain through available resources and services without causing undo strain on the community.
Infrastructure Master Plan. An infrastructure master plan determines which services, infrastructure and accesses require upgrading in an area or jurisdiction and establishes an equitable cost sharing formula to facilitate the plan.
Intensity. This term is applied to non-residential development in the Planning Area, including commercial and industrial uses. Intensity is defined using a floor area ratio.
LAFCO Sphere of Influence (SOI). A sphere of influence is the probable future service boundary of a city or special district that represents the area within which the city or district is expected to grow. The boundary discourages competition among agencies for developable land; it promotes orderly land use and service planning, and provides direction to landowners when and if they need a broader range or higher level of services.
Lot Coverage. This term refers to the amount of a lot that is allowed to be covered by the footprint of structures on that lot.
Mixed-use. Properties on which various uses, such as office, commercial, institutional, and residential, are combined in a single building or on a single site in an integrated development project with significant functional interrelationships and a coherent physical design. A "single site" may include contiguous properties.
Municipal Service Review. A Municipal Service Review is undertaken in accordance with the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 and as a response to the requirement that LAFCO complete a Municipal Service Review and make written determinations prior to updating the sphere of influence plan for an agency who provides a particular service and who is subject to LAFCO’s jurisdiction.
Net Acreage. Net acreage is calculated by taking the gross acreage of a site and subtracting portions of the site dedicated to public improvements, such as streets.
Planning Area. As stated in the General Plan Guidelines, a general plan must “cover the territory within the boundaries of the adopting city or county as well as ‘any land outside its boundaries which in the planning agency’s judgment bears relation to its planning’ (§65300).” For purposes of developing this General Plan, the City established a Planning Area early in the update process as part of the public involvement process.
The Planning Area established for the Ridgecrest General Plan is shown on Figure 1-1. A unique aspect of the Planning Area is that it incorporates lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and lands held by the City of Ridgecrest
Department of Defense as part of China Lake. The Planning Area covers a land area of approximately 40 square miles.
Redevelopment Project Area. A geographical boundary within which Community Redevelopment Law is utilized to attain revitalization of blighted structures, neighborhoods and communities.
Right-of-Way. A strip of land occupied or intended to be occupied by certain transportation and public use facilities, such as roads, railroads, and utility lines.
Setback. The required minimum horizontal distance between a structure and the front, side, and/or rear property line or another structure.
Special Districts. Limited purpose districts such as flood control, fire, irrigation, etc.
Urban Service Areas. An urban service area is the area around a jurisdiction or community that can adequately provide infrastructure expansion and public services at above a rural level. Such infrastructure and services include but are not limited to: streets, gutters, water, sewer, electricity and communications.
Land outside this area would be considered open space or rural.
Conditional Use Permit. A Conditional Use Permit (CUP) is used for specific land uses that due to their type of activities may create unique impacts that need to be addressed for each site. A CUP may require a public hearing, and if approval is granted, is usually subject to the fulfillment of certain conditions by the developer/operator.
Zoning. Zoning is the principal tool for implementing the general plan; it translates general plan land use recommendations and standards directly into enforceable regulations. In its most elementary form, zoning is the division of a community into districts and the specification of allowable uses and development standards for each of the districts. Typically, the zoning ordinance consists of text and a map delineating districts for such basic land uses as residential, commercial, and industrial and establishing special regulations for parking, floodplains, and other specific concerns. For each of the basic land uses, the zoning ordinance text typically includes an explanation of the purpose of the zoning district; a list of principal permitted uses; a list of uses allowed by conditional use permit; and standards for minimum lot size, density, height, lot coverage, and setback.
State law requires that zoning ordinances be consistent with the general plan.
A zoning ordinance is consistent with an adopted general plan only if the various land uses authorized by the zoning ordinance “are compatible with the objectives, policies, and general land uses and programs specified in such a plan” (Government Code Section 65860[a]). State law also provides that in the event that a zoning ordinance becomes inconsistent with a general plan by reason of amendment to such a plan, the zoning ordinance must be amended within a reasonable time so that it is consistent with the general plan as amended (Government Code Section 65860 [a]).
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-5
3.2 Existing Conditions
EXISTING LAND USE
The City of Ridgecrest’s existing land use summary was created based on data provided by the Kern Council of Governments (KernCOG) as taken from the Kern County Assessor’s Office tax use codes, which indicate existing land uses.
This data was then reviewed and refined by City staff for presentation here.
From the tax use codes, land use was grouped into the following broad categories: residential, commercial, industrial, open space and other. Each of these categories was further subdivided to better describe the land uses inside the City limits as well as the overall Planning Area.
As stated earlier, a unique aspect of the Planning Area is that it incorporates lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and lands held by the Department of Defense (DOD) as part of China Lake. The main community support area on China Lake (referred to as the “cantonment” area) is located within the Ridgecrest city limits. Although a portion of the installation is within the city limits, as federal lands, the City has no land use authority over this portion of the City. Of the 40 square mile Planning Area, almost 22 square miles is land managed by the BLM or DOD (China Lake).
Table 3-1 provides a breakdown of existing land use (2007) by land use type.
The table provides this breakdown in two formats: with and without federal lands.
In the following paragraphs, the percentages quoted are based on the percentages derived when excluding federally managed lands.
Residential. As the predominant urban land use, residential uses comprise slightly over 39 percent of the acreage within the Planning Area (non-federal lands). Over 85 percent of the residential acreage falls into the Single Family Residential category. Based on an analysis of undeveloped land, there is a substantial amount of undeveloped property land use categories that would expand this type of housing. While there is a large land area for residential, the placement of new development must be carefully assessed to ensure it is compatible with surrounding uses, infrastructure capabilities, and environmental constraints, such as noise associated with operations at NAWS China Lake.
Commercial. While Ridgecrest serves as the main urban and commercial center for the Indian Wells Valley, commercial land uses comprise just under two percent of the land within the Planning Area. This land is dispersed throughout the City and ranges from small, single parcel retail sites to large retail and office developments. Most commercial uses are concentrated along China Lake and Ridgecrest Boulevards, with some limited commercial uses located along Jacks Ranch Road. In recent years, new large-scale commercial development has occurred at both ends of China Lake Boulevard.
City of Ridgecrest
Industrial. Existing industrial lands constitute one percent of the total Planning Area. Within the industrial category, specific land uses include: heavy industrial, light industrial and business and research land uses. Industrial uses are primarily located on the edges of the City at the intersections of Jacks Ranch Road and Saratoga Road, San Bernardino Road and Bowman Road, and Inyokern Road and Brady Street.
Open Space. There are approximately 187 acres of recreational land uses within the Planning Area; about 104 acres are in active recreational facilities, such as parks. The abundance of open space is visually more apparent than actually exists. Undeveloped land, comprising almost one quarter of the Planning Area, creates the perception of openness within the City.
Other. With the exclusion of federal lands, the “Other” land uses in the Planning Area account for only about four percent of the Planning Area. The remaining lands in this category include institutional (such as schools) and utilities/infrastructure.
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-7
Table 3-1. Existing Land Use within the Planning Area (2007) Including Federal Lands Excluding Federal Lands
Land Use
Category Acres
Percent
in City
Limits Acres
Percent
in
Planning
Area (1) Acres
Percent
in City
Limits Acres
Percent
in
Planning
Area (1)
Residential 2,052.7 16.0% 4,561.9 17.9% 2,052.7 37.0% 4,561.9 39.1% Single Family
Residential 1,564.5 12.2% 3,963.0 15.6% 1,564.50 28.2% 3,963.0 34.0% Multiple Family
Residential 381.9 3.0% 449.6 1.8% 381.9 6.9% 449.6 3.9% Manufactured
Home Park 106.3 0.8% 149.3 0.6% 106.3 1.9% 149.3 1.3%
Commercial 367.5 2.9% 410.3 1.6% 367.5 6.6% 410.3 3.5%
Commercial 318.4 2.5% 361.2 1.4% 318.4 5.7% 361.2 3.1%
Office 49.1 0.4% 49.1 0.2% 49.1 0.9% 49.1 0.4%
Industrial 62.3 0.5% 121.7 0.5% 62.3 1.1% 121.7 1.0%
Industrial 62.3 0.5% 121.7 0.5% 62.3 1.1% 121.7 1.0%
Open Space 2,624.1 20.4% 6,122.2 24.0% 2,624.1 47.3% 6,122.2 52.5% Vacant Land 2,437.5 19.0% 5,935.2 23.3% 2,437.5 43.9% 5,935.2 50.9% Recreational 186.6 1.5% 187 0.7% 186.6 3.4% 187 1.6%
Other 7,729.4 60.2% 14,264.1 56.0% 442.4 8.0% 453.1 3.9% Institutional 243 1.9% 246.7 1.0% 243 4.4% 246.7 2.1%
Utilities and
Infrastructure 18.9 0.1% 25.9 0.1% 18.9 0.3% 25.9 0.2%
Navy 5,940.7 46.3% 9,740.7 38.2% 0.0% 0.0%
Other Federal 1,346.3 10.5% 4,070.3 16.0% 0.0% 0.0%
City and County 180.5 1.4% 180.5 0.7% 180.5 3.3% 180.5 1.5% TOTAL 12,836.00 100% 25,480.20 100% 5,549.00 100% 11,669.20 100% Notes: 1. Includes acres within city limits
Source: KernCOG and Matrix Design Group, 2007
City of Ridgecrest
Industrial. Existing industrial lands constitute one percent of the total Planning Area. Within the industrial category, specific land uses include: heavy industrial, light industrial and business and research land uses. Industrial uses are primarily located on the edges of the City at the intersections of Jacks Ranch Road and Saratoga Road, San Bernardino Road and Bowman Road, and Inyokern Road and Brady Street.
Open Space. There are approximately 187 acres of recreational land uses within the Planning Area; about 104 acres are in active recreational facilities, such as parks. The abundance of open space is visually more apparent than actually exists. Undeveloped land, comprising almost one quarter of the Planning Area, creates the perception of openness within the City.
Other. With the exclusion of federal lands, the “Other” land uses in the Planning Area account for only about four percent of the Planning Area. The remaining lands in this category include institutional (such as schools) and utilities/infrastructure.
EXISTING GENERAL PLAN
The City of Ridgecrest is characterized by low rise buildings (one or two stories), lower density residential, and commercial uses surrounded by vast open space. Most of the City’s higher intensity development (commercial, office, civic, and institutional uses) lies adjacent to primary thoroughfares such as Ridgecrest Boulevard, Highway 178, Bowman Road, and China Lake Boulevard. Location along these facilities concentrates nonresidential land uses into a largely linear urban form with focal points of intensive uses at the intersections of arterial streets. Less intensive land uses, including rural residential and natural open, are located on the urban fringe of the City.
The City currently classifies land into nine designations that fall into one of five broad categories: residential, commercial, industrial, open space and other.
The percentages shown in Table 3-2 are for the entire Planning Area, and include federally managed lands (BLM and NAWS China Lake).
Table 3-2. General Plan Land Use Designations in Planning Area Land Use Category Acres
Percent of Planning
Area
Residential 11,609.3 45.4%
Rural Density Residential 5,200.3 20.3%
Estate Residential 2,569.9 10.0%
Low Density Residential 2,843.8 11.1%
Medium Density Residential 995.3 3.9%
Commercial 1,308.5 5.1%
Commercial 1,308.5 5.1%
Industrial 1,250.2 4.9%
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February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-9
3.3 Land Use Diagram and Standards
OVERVIEW
The General Plan Land Use Diagram (included at the back of this element) and Circulation Diagrams (Figures 6-1 and 6-3) graphically depict the major land use and circulation relationships of the General Plan. The policies contained in the General Plan, to the extent they can be graphically depicted (i.e., location of schools and parks, relationship of high-density residential areas and commercial areas to circulation corridors), are illustrated on the General Plan Land Use and Circulation Diagrams. The Land Use Diagram includes ten land use designations that cover residential, commercial, office, industrial, public uses, and open space.
The land use designations with the largest amount of acreage on the diagram are Rural and Estate Residential. These designations are primarily located along the outer edges of the Planning Area. These designations serve to mitigate impacts from aviation operations at China Lake and to transition to the rural areas within unincorporated Kern County.
Uses that serve residential development, such as schools and parks, are shown on the Land Use Diagram. Locations for future facilities are only shown to represent the general area for the facility. Final locations will be determined during site selection by the school district or City, respectively.
This section sets out the land use description depicted as the land use diagram.
Each description includes list of allowable uses, maximum net/gross dwelling units/acre (DUA) for residential uses and floor area ratio (FAR) for nonresidential uses.
State planning law requires general plans to establish “standards of population density and building intensity” for the various land use designations in the plan (Government Code Section 65302(a). To satisfy this requirement, the General Plan includes such standards for each land use designation appearing on the Land Use Diagram. These standards are stated differently for residential and non-residential development. Table 3-3 provides as summary of the land use designations and standards contained in City of Ridgecrest General Plan. The Industrial 1,250.2 4.9%
Open Space 8,932.9 34.9%
Open Space 8,932.9 34.9
Other 2,483.7 9.7%
Civic/Institutional 743.7 2.9%
Parks/Schools 1,740.0 6.8%
TOTAL 25,584.6 100%
Note: Total acreage in this table is slightly higher than the totals in Table 3-1 due to the different databases used.
City of Ridgecrest
City’s zoning ordinance and zoning categories provide more detailed development standards and assist in the implementation of the General Plan.
There are 14 land use designations and two special study overlays. The General Plan Land Use Diagram provides the distribution, location and extent of the land use designations and special study overlays in the City.
Table 3-3. Land Use Designation Summary
Land Use Designations
Land Use
Label
Minimum Lot
Size
Dwelling Units
Per Gross Acre
Maximum
Floor Area Ratio
(FAR)
Residential
Residential Large Lot RX 2.5 acres 0.0 - 0.4 --
Residential Rural Density RR 40,000 Sq.Ft. 0.0 - 1.0 -- Residential Estate Density RE 20,000 Sq.Ft. 1.1 - 2.0 -- Residential Low Density RL 6,000 Sq.Ft. 2.1 - 5.0 --
Residential Medium Density RM 3,000 Sq.Ft. 5.1 - 14.0 -- Residential High Density RH 1,500 Sq.Ft. 14.1 - 29.0 -- Commercial / Industrial
Commercial C 20,000 Sq.Ft. 14.1 - 29.0
0.30 (no residential)
2.00 (w/residential)
Commercial Downtown CD N/A 14.1 - 29.0 2.0
Commercial Village CV 10,000 Sq.Ft. 14.1 - 29.0
0.3 (no residential)
2.0 (w/residential)
Industrial I 20,000 Sq.Ft. -- 0.4
Other
Institutional IS N/A -- 0.6
Military MIL N/A N/A N/A
Parks P N/A -- 0.2
Open Space OS 10 Acres 1 Unit/Lot 0.2
Overlays
Military Influence Area MIA N/A N/A N/A
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The following summary explains how the land use designation standards operate.
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
Standards of development density for residential uses are stated as the allowable range of dwelling units per gross acre. The term “gross acre” includes all land (including streets and rights-of-way) designated for a particular residential use, while net acreage excludes streets and rights-of-way. In urban areas, net acreage is normally 20 to 25 percent less for a given area than gross acreage. In rural areas and open space areas, the difference between net and gross can be as low as five percent. Net acreage is the standard typically used in zoning, while gross acreage is more commonly used in general plan designations.
Standards of population density for residential uses can be derived by multiplying the maximum allowable number of dwelling units per gross acre by the average number of persons per dwelling unit assumed for the applicable residential designation. In 2007, the average household size was close to 3.1 persons per household.
NON RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
Standards of building intensity for non-residential uses such as commercial and industrial development are stated as maximum floor-area ratios (FARs). A FAR is the ratio of the gross building square footage on a lot to the net square footage of the lot (or parcel).
For example, on a lot with 10,000 net square feet of land area, an FAR of 1.00 will allow 10,000 square feet of gross building floor area to be built, regardless of the number of stories in the building (e.g., 5,000 square feet per floor on two floors or 10,000 square feet on one floor). On the same 10,000-square-foot lot, an FAR of 0.5 would allow 5,000 square feet of floor area, and an FAR of 0.25 would allow 2,500 square feet. The diagram to the left shows graphically how various building configurations representing a FAR of 1.0 could cover a lot(each quadrant of the diagram has an FAR of 1.0).
OVERLAYS
Overlays are intended to be placed over the existing permitted land use to add specific policies, regulations, and/or standards to address a unique circumstance or characteristic. Overlays are not intended to replace a land use designation, but rather to supplement it to apply additional policies.
FAR 1.0 example
City of Ridgecrest
3.4 Goals and Policies
General
Goal
LU-1
To ensure that Ridgecrest’s future growth will proceed in an orderly manner, provide for an appropriate mix of land use opportunities, encourage and provide incentives for infill development, prevent urban sprawl, and promote the efficient and equitable provision of public services. [New Goal]
LU-1.1 Land Use Diagram
The City shall utilize and maintain the Land Use Diagram to designate the location and extent of each land use designation and special study overaly within the Planning Area. The Land Use Diagram is included at the back of this General Plan.
It is typical for the Land Use Diagram to be updated over time. Please check with the Community Development Department to ensure you have the current version.
LU-1.2 Land Use Designations / Special Use Overlay
The City will utilize the land use designations and special use overlay presented on the following pages for regulating future growth within the Planning Area.
RESIDENTIAL DESIGNATIONS
RESIDENTIAL LARGE LOT (RX)
This designation establishes areas for single-family residential development on large lots that involve the ownership of acreage. Uses typically include single family dwellings and mini-farms or ranchettes that may include agricultural activity. Lots within this designation are typically large enough to support independent wastewater disposal (septic) systems. This designation is compatible with current AICUZ land use compatibility guidance for areas outside of the Clear Zone and Accident Potential Zones (defined in Section 4).
Density Range: 0-0.4 DU/A
Minimum Lot Size: 2.5 acres
RESIDENTIAL RURAL DENSITY (RR)
This designation establishes areas for single-family residential development on large lots. Uses typically include single family dwellings and mini-farms or ranchettes where agricultural activity is secondary to the residential land use.
Lots within this designation are typically large enough to support independent wastewater disposal (septic) systems.
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-13
Density Range: 0-1.0 DU/A
Minimum Lot Size: 40,000 Sq.Ft.
RESIDENTIAL ESTATE DENSITY (RE)
This designation establishes areas for large lot single family estate dwellings.
Uses typically allowed include detached single family homes, secondary dwellings, and support uses (i.e., workshop, pool house).
Density Range: 1.1-2.0 DU/A
Minimum Lot Size: 20,000 Sq.Ft.
RESIDENTIAL LOW-DENSITY (RL)
This designation establishes areas for single family residences in a suburban configuration. Uses typically allowed include detached single family homes, secondary dwellings, and residential support uses such as churches, schools, and other necessary public utilities and safety facilities.
Density Range: 2.1-5.0 DU/A
Minimum Lot Size: 6,000 Sq.Ft.
RESIDENTIAL MEDIUM-DENSITY (RM)
This land designation establishes areas for single family and low density multifamily dwellings located near neighborhood serving uses such as grocery stores, schools, parks and other public services. Uses typically allowed include single family dwellings, second units, town homes, duplexes, triplexes and mobile home parks.
Density Range: 5.1-14.0 DU/A
Minimum Lot Size: 3,000 Sq.Ft.
RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY (RH)
This designation established areas for multi-family dwellings in urbanized areas with access to public transportation and residential serving uses (i.e., coffee shops and drug stores). Uses typically allowed include duplexes, tri-plexes, townhomes and apartments near schools, parks and other public services.
Maximum Density: 14.1-29.0 DU/A
Minimum Lot Size: 1,500 Sq.Ft.
City of Ridgecrest
COMMERCIAL / INDUSTRIAL DESIGNATIONS
COMMERCIAL (C)
This designation establishes the more intensive commercial retail and shopping service uses adjacent to residential neighborhoods. A broad mix of uses, including offices and high density residential are also encouraged within or adjacent to these areas in order to provide “active” centers in which many uses may be accessed on foot from residential areas or lodging areas. Uses typically allowed include regional malls and outlet centers, supermarkets, drug stores, other residential serving uses as well as office uses.
High density residential uses are permitted within the Commercial designation provided these residential activities are located on the second floor or above along building frontages. Residential may be included on the first floor if the total residential square footage does not exceed 50% of the total square footage. Therefore, all Commercial designations provide for a vibrant mixed use of compatible land uses further regulated by the provisions of the zoning code. Larger centers may include community commercial centers, shopping centers, shopping plazas, and shopping centers that include a junior department store, or a large variety, discount or department store with direct and convenient arterial access and access for pedestrians, bicyclists, and public transit.
Maximum Intensity: 0.30 FAR (no residential)
2.00 FAR (if residential included)
Minimum Development Size: 20,000 Sq.Ft.
COMMERCIAL DOWNTOWN (CD)
This designation provides for a vibrant mix of compatible land uses in the Olde Towne area that can include residential, administrative and professional offices, retail and commercial service uses, and public and quasi-public facilities.
Development standards would be determined through a Design Review.
Maximum Density: 0.0-29.0 DU/A
Maximum Intensity: 3.0 FAR
Minimum Lot Size: None
COMMERCIAL VILLAGE (CV)
This designation establishes the small areas where residents can shop, socialize or recreate. Allowed land uses would include commercial uses that would be appropriate along major thoroughfares and adjacent to medium and high density residential areas. Different Commercial Village land uses can be located in the same building, (including residential or office uses located above a commercial use) or on the same site, and include retail, child care, convenience markets, office and personal services. All Commercial Village uses shall be subject to the provisions of the zoning ordinance which shall ensure compatibility with the activities proposed and surrounding neighborhood.
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February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-15
Maximum Intensity: 0.30 FAR (no residential)
2.00 FAR (if residential included)
Minimum Development Size: 10,000 Sq.Ft.
INDUSTRIAL (I)
This designation establishes areas for a range of non-intensive business park, industrial park, and warehouse uses that do not have detrimental noise or odor impacts on surrounding uses. Uses typically allowed include warehousing, welding and fabrication shops, manufacturing, processing, fabrication, trucking terminals, and business support uses such as retail or eating establishments that serve adjacent light industrial uses and employees.
Maximum Density: 0.40
Minimum Lot Size: 20,000 Sq.Ft.
OTHER DESIGNATIONS
INSTITUTIONAL (IS)
This designation establishes areas for public and institutional uses that serve the local community. Uses typically allowed include government facilities, schools, libraries, churches, municipal corporation yards, sewer and water facilities, police and fire stations, and hospitals located throughout the community to serve neighborhoods and businesses and promote public safety.
Maximum Intensity: 0.6 FAR
Minimum Lot Size: None
MILITARY (MIL)
The Military designation is applied to land owned or leased by a military entity and is intended for uses related to NAWS China Lake. As military property, the City does not have land use authority, therefore, no use intensity standards are provided.
Maximum Intensity: N/A
Minimum Lot Size: N/A
PARKS (P)
This designation establishes areas for outdoor recreation facilities that serve local and regional users. Uses typically allowed in this designation include pocket, neighborhood, community, regional, natural parks, and other outdoor recreation facilities, such as, golf courses, trails, and open space/habitat preserves. Recreation facilities should be connected with accessibility to pedestrians and bicyclists.
Maximum Intensity: 0.20 FAR
Minimum Lot Size: None
City of Ridgecrest
OPEN SPACE (OS)
The purpose of this designation is to conserve lands that should remain as open space for passive and active recreation uses, resource management, flood control management and public safety. Uses that would typically be appropriate in this land use designation include but are not limited to public parks, playgrounds, and parkways; vista areas, wetlands, wildlife habitats and outdoor nature laboratories; stormwater management facilities; and buffer zones separating urban development and ecologically-sensitive resources.
Such land areas are primarily publicly owned, but may include private property.
The FAR for non-residential uses shall not exceed 0.10.
Maximum Intensity: 0.10 FAR
Minimum Lot Size: None
SPECIAL USE OVERLAYS
Special use overlays are established in combination with the underlying land use designation in order to achieve specific land use objectives for a given area.
SPECIFIC PLAN (SP)
The SP overlay designation is established where infrastructure needs, land use patterns, or other substantial land use related issues indicate a need to require the preparation and adoption of a Specific Plan, as defined by California Government Code sections 65450 et seq. Although the SP overlay does not itself modify the General Plan land use designation on a property within the overlay area, the adoption of a specific plan can modify the underlying zoning district(s) and their requirements.
MILITARY INFLUENCE AREA (MIA) OVERLAY
The MIA overlay defines specific areas requiring additional controls on the types of land use designations and densities / intensities appropriate in areas near NAWS China Lake and its approach and departure zones. These additional considerations are necessary to protect public safety and maintain the operational capabilities of NAWS China Lake. Refer to Policy LU-7.1 and the goals, policies, and implementation measures in Section 4, Military Sustainability Element.
LU-1.3 Compact Development
The City shall promote development patterns that are compact and use space in an efficient but aesthetic manner to promote more walking, biking and use of public transit.
LU-1.4 Encourage Infill Development
The City shall encourage infill development of vacant parcels and the intensifying of land uses on parcels that are underutilized in order to better R-2508 JLUS
R-2508 JLUS
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-17
utilize the existing public services and facilities. [Source: Modified Policy 1.1.1 and Policy 1.4.2, Land Use Element, JLUS Strategy #41]
LU-1.5 Determine the Optimum Population Size
The City shall, for planning purposes, define a buildout population of 50,000 persons for the time period covered by this General Plan.
LU-1.6 Partner for BLM Lands
The City of Ridgecrest will work with BLM to identify and evaluate BLM lands within the Planning Area that may be suitable for BLM land transfers.
Properties of interest will be those that:
▪ Can reduce the impact on military operations by protecting land in incompatible areas for private development through a mutually agreeable land transfer
▪ Can provide opportunities for private development in areas adjacent to the developed portions of the community
▪ Allow BLM to aggregate lands into more cohesive federal management areas that allow for the provision of public use areas accessible to City residents.
Residential Development
Goal
LU-2
To promote a variety of housing types and densities throughout the City to address the housing needs of various age and socio-economic groups. [New Goal]
LU-2.1 Housing Choices
The City shall promote land use designs that provide a variety of places where residents can live, including apartments, condominiums, townhouses and single family attached and detached.
LU-2.2 Neighborhood Housing Mix
The City shall encourage mixed density residential neighborhoods that contain a variety of housing types and densities to help create an overall healthy, balanced community.
LU-2.3 Local Housing Needs
The City shall work to meet the increase of local housing needs for low and moderate income households. The City will work with developers and local housing advocacy groups to meet the City's regional share of low and moderate income housing. [Source: Modified Policy 1.1.5, Land Use Element] R-2508 JLUS
City of Ridgecrest
LU-2.4 Neighborhood Protection
The City shall seek to prevent residential blight and promote healthy neighborhoods through public and private resources/programs (e.g., enforcement of all codes, neighborhood rehabilitation programs, and redevelopment agency actions).
LU-2.5 Future Residential Development
The City shall direct future residential development to areas adjacent or in close proximity to existing and future neighborhoods and neighborhood commercial areas to further Ridgecrest as a self-sufficient, full-service city.
LU-2.6 Medium and High Density Residential Locations
The City shall encourage the development of higher density housing near commercial services, employment centers, principal arterial routes, and public transportation.
LU-2.7 Varied Lot Sizes
The City shall encourage developments with varied lot sizes to deter from a “cookie cutter” neighborhood image.
LU-2.8 Incompatible Uses
The City shall protect existing residential neighborhoods from the encroachment of incompatible activities and land uses (i.e., traffic, noise) and environmental hazards (i.e., flood, soil instability).
LU-2.9 Planned Development
The City shall encourage the use of planned development provisions in residential developments to provide flexibility, to meet various socio-economic needs, and to address environmental and site design constraints.
LU-2.10 Golf Oriented Residential
The City shall promote the development of planned unit developments that incorporates a golf course and associated residential uses. Both age restricted and unrestricted developments are appropriate.
LU-2.11 Senior Housing Development
The City shall encourage new senior housing developments in areas where public transportation, commercial services, health and community facilities are easily accessible and in close proximity.
LU-2.12 Integrate Housing, Educational, and Recreational Uses The City shall work with the Sierra Sands Unified School District to integrate housing, educational and recreational uses. [Source: Policy 1.3.5, Land Use Element]
LU-2.13 Lead Based Paint Removal
The City shall encourage local residential contractors to obtain certification as lead renovators to promote safe work practices and prevent lead
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February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-19
contamination. Additionally, the City shall provide information for homeowners, such as the EPA’s Renovate Right Program handouts at the Building Department counter and the City’s website. [Environmental Justice] LU-2.14 New Housing Developments
The City shall require new housing proposals to incorporate setbacks, barriers, landscaping, ventilation systems or other measures to ensure that residents are not impacted by air pollution. [Environmental Justice]
Commercial Development
Goal
LU-3
To promote commercial development that meets present and future needs of Ridgecrest residents, the regional community, and visitors and to enhance economic vitality and sustainability. [New Goal] LU-3.1 Neighborhood Commercial
The City shall encourage the distribution of neighborhood commercial centers throughout the city to ensure convenient access to Ridgecrest residents and promote Ridgecrest as a sufficient, full service community.
LU-3.2 Retail Tax Base
The City shall strive to maintain and improve the City’s retail and service commercial tax base.
LU-3.3 Meeting Consumer Demand
The City shall encourage commercial development which provides for needed commercial opportunities and services currently not available in Ridgecrest.
LU-3.4 Regional Retail Center
The City shall continue to promote the development of regional commercial opportunities. Locations along China Lake Boulevard and Bowman Road near Highway 395 would be appropriate locations. The City shall facilitate provision of the necessary municipal services to accommodate these opportunities.
LU-3.5 Future Commercial Development
The City shall reserve appropriate locations, such as major intersections, for anticipated commercial needs beyond the 2030 timeframe.
LU-3.6 Grouping Commercial Development
The City shall avoid continuous "strip commercial" in new development areas by encouraging the clustering of commercial land uses in appropriate locations.
LU-3.7 Buffer Commercial Land Uses
The City shall require buffers between commercial and residential land uses through techniques such as landscaping, soundwalls, berms, fencing, open space setbacks/greenbelts, and building orientation.
City of Ridgecrest
LU-3.8 Entertainment and Tourism
The City shall promote the development of a regional entertainment venue in the City to increase tourism and provide additional activities to residents.
LU-3.9 Regional Auto Mall
The City shall actively promote the development of a regional automall to provide additional shopping opportunities to residents and the region.
LU-3.10 Commercial Center Revitalization
The City shall encourage and promote the reuse and revitalization of existing underutilized commercial areas and shopping centers.
LU-3.11 Commercial Signage
The City shall require that signage in commercial development complement, rather than detract, from the visual quality of the commercial development and surrounding neighborhoods.
LU-3.12 Incorporation of Alternative Transportation
Commercial facilities should be designed to encourage and promote transit, pedestrian, and bicycle access. The City shall require, when feasible, that new commercial development be designed to encourage and facilitate pedestrian circulation within and between commercial sites and nearby residential areas.
LU-3.13 Minimize Visual Impact
The City shall require new commercial development to be designed to minimize the visual impact of parking areas on public roadways.
Olde Towne Redevelopment
Goal
LU-4
To maintain and enhance the Olde Towne area as a viable business, service commercial, specialty retail, office, cultural, and civic center and source of community pride. [New Goal]
LU-4.1 Olde Towne as Asset
The City shall continue to recognize Olde Towne as an important asset and seek to strengthen and revitalize it by encouraging appropriate land uses and activities in the area.
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LU-4.2 Pedestrian Dependent Uses
The City shall encourage the concentration of pedestrian dependent commercial uses (e.g., general merchandise, comparative shopping, specialty goods, restaurants) and high density residential units in the Olde Towne area that will generate both daytime and nighttime pedestrian traffic.
LU-4.3 Adaptive Reuse
The City shall encourage and promote the adaptive reuse of Ridgecrest’s historic resources, in order to preserve the historic resources that are a part of the City’s heritage.
LU-4.4 Historic Buildings and Areas
The City shall preserve buildings and areas with special and recognized historic, architectural, or aesthetic value especially in the Olde Towne area. New development should respect architecturally and historically significant buildings and areas.
LU-4.5 Contextual and Compatible Design
The City shall ensure that new development respects Ridgecrest’s heritage by requiring that new development respond to its context and be compatible with the traditions and character of Ridgecrest, and shall promote orderly development which is compatible with its surrounding scale and which protects the privacy, and access to light and air of surrounding properties.
LU-4.6 Olde Towne Design Enhancement
The City will work with Olde Towne land and business owners to enhance the appearance of the area.
LU-4.7 Mutually-Supportive Olde Towne Uses
The City shall encourage the development of a mixture of complementary or mutually-supportive land uses in the Olde Towne area, including recreational and cultural facilities, restaurants, and higher density residential, and other development that provides increased daytime and nighttime activity in the area.
LU-4.8 Mixed Use Development – Olde Towne
The City shall encourage mixed use development near and in Olde Towne and adjacent to existing transit routes.
LU-4.9 Reuse of Buildings for Mixed Use Projects
The City shall promote the renovation and reuse of existing buildings in Olde Towne as mixed use areas.
City of Ridgecrest
LU-4.10 Professional/Administrative Services
The City shall encourage increased professional and administrative office development in the Olde Towne area to complement shopping and commercial service activities, intensify land uses, encourage adaptive re-use of existing structures and bring people into the area.
LU-4.11 Olde Towne Gateways
The City shall identify key entry points on the edges of the Olde Towne area and support programs and projects that enhance gateways and transitional zones between Olde Towne and the surrounding neighborhoods to make the area more inviting for residents and visitors.
LU-4.12 Improvements
The City shall work with Olde Towne merchants to plan for common improvements to Olde Towne to make it a visually distinct and pleasant place which projects a positive image of the City and attracts residents and visitors to the Olde Towne area.
Industrial Development
Goal
LU-5
To attract industrial development that provides a stable, long-term, and diverse economic and employment base for Ridgecrest residents. [New Goal]
LU-5.1 Adequate Land Supply
The City shall maintain an adequate inventory of industrial land attractive to industry with respect to location, access, price, public services, work force, and environmental compatibility.
LU-5.2 Industrial Transportation Access
The City shall encourage new industrial uses with high truck and goods movement needs to locate along major transportation routes (e.g., near major highways, rail, and so forth) to maximize the efficient movement of goods.
LU-5.3 Transitional Uses
The City shall locate light industrial or office uses between heavy industrial uses and residential uses to act as a buffer.
LU-5.4 Buffer Incompatible Uses
The City shall require that industrial land uses be buffered from incompatible land uses and protected from encroachment by residential or other incompatible land uses through the use of techniques including, but not limited to, dense landscaping, soundwalls, berms, fencing, open space setbacks, greenbelts, and building orientation.
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LU-5.5 Truck Routes
The City shall prohibit the designation of new truck routes on residential and collector streets. [Environmental Justice]
LU-5.6 New Industrial and Warehouse Facilities
Require industrial and warehouse facilities to provide electrical connections for electric trucks and transport refrigeration units to prevent idling during docking operations. [Environmental Justice]
LU-5.7 Wastewater Facilities
The City shall prohibit the development of waste processing facilities and industries using toxic chemicals in areas where pollutants may come in contact with groundwater, floodwaters, creeks, or reservoir waters. [Environmental Justice]
Mixed Use
Goal
LU-6
To promote the development of mixed-use projects to promote the efficient use of land, reduce reliance on the automobile, and provide a variety of housing and commercial options. [New Goal]
LU-6.1 Mixed Use Development – Use of Vacant Land
The City shall promote efficient use of larger vacant parcels and vacant areas of the City by encouraging mixed use development.
LU-6.2 Vertical/Horizontal Mixture of Uses
The City shall encourage the development of both horizontal and vertical mixed use projects that incorporate housing with commercial or employment uses to reduce reliance on automobiles and provide new sources of housing.
LU-6.3 Adaptive Reuse
The City shall encourage the development of mixed use projects in vacant buildings that are no longer suitable for their originally designed use.
Military Compatibility
Goal
LU-7
To enhance land use compatibility between China Lake and property in the City of Ridgecrest and to protect public health and safety. [New Goal] LU-7.1 Military Influence Area (MIA) Overlay
The City of Ridgecrest will define and maintain a Military Influence Area (MIA) overlay on the General Plan Land Use Diagram and Zoning map. The MIA will be defined based on noise and safety guidance from the current AICUZ study R-2508 JLUS City of Ridgecrest
as well as other compatibility factors evaluated in the R-2508 JLUS program (see Section 4 for details).
The MIA is designated to accomplish the following purposes. ▪ Promote an orderly transition between community and military land uses so that land uses remain compatible.
▪ Protect public health, safety, and welfare.
▪ Maintain operational capabilities of military installations and areas. ▪ Promote the awareness of the size and scope of military training areas to protect areas separate from the actual military installation (such as critical air space) used for training purposes.
The MIA shall, at a minimum, reflect the current mission 60 CNEL contour, but may be expanded to address additional issues relative to safety, overflight, light and glare, vertical hazard potential, and other related compatibility issues as identified in the R-2508 JLUS or follow on assessments.
Within the MIA, land use density / intensity is to remain low and in keeping with the land use compatibility guidance contained in the current China Lake AICUZ study. Unless already permitted as part of an existing development, subdivision or development approval, only the following land use designations shall be used on the City’s Land Use Diagram within the MIA overlay: Large Lot Residential (RX), Rural Residential Density (RR), Commercial (C) and Industrial (I) designations (with an intensity of use consistent with the current Navy AICUZ land use compatibility guidelines and FAA Part 77 compliance), public/quasi-public uses primarily designed to house infrastructure systems, and Open Space (OS).
See also the policies under Section 4, Military Sustainability Element.
Regional Coordination
Goal
LU-8
To ensure that land use decisions by the City of Ridgecrest and Kern County are coordinated. [New Goal]
LU-8.1 City / County Uniform Land Use Policy
The City shall work with Kern County to develop a process for coordination of land uses for areas within the City’s future sphere of influence.
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-25
LU-8.2 Sphere of Influence
The City shall work with the Kern County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO), Kern County, and China Lake to define and maintain a sphere of influence (SOI) line that provides adequate capacity for growth and assists in implementing the General Plan.
City of Ridgecrest
LU-8.3 Rural Density Development in Unincorporated Areas The City shall encourage rural density development (minimum of 0.4 units per acre) in adjacent unincorporated areas and encourage the location of urbanized uses within the city limits of Ridgecrest. [Source: Policy 1.1.4, Land Use Element]
LU-8.4 Regional Cooperation
The City shall maintain a cooperative relationship with Kern County and other local governments to address regional issues and opportunities related to growth, transportation, infrastructure, and other planning issues. Special consideration for cooperation shall be applied when reviewing peripheral development proposals within or adjacent to the City's Planning Area.
LU-8.5 Regional Planning
The City shall continue to participate in KernCOGs blueprint process and other regional planning programs.
LU-8.6 Update ALUCP to Reflect Military Air Facilities and Airspace Fully integrate military air facilities and airspace in Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) updates. These updated ALUCPs will be used to update land use guidance in local jurisdiction general plans and zoning ordinances. ALUCPs may not be the correct tool to use for areas within lowlevel flight corridors and special use airspace areas that are not near a public use airport. In these cases, similar types of plans may be appropriate to address military concerns.
General Plan Implementation and Maintenance
Goal
LU-9
To provide for the ongoing administration and implementation of the General Plan. [New Goal]
LU-9.1 Zoning and GP Consistency
The City shall amend the zoning code, subdivision ordinance, and other land use regulations to make them consistent with the adopted or amended general plan.
LU-9.2 Annual General Plan Review
The City shall review and report to the Planning Commission and City Council on the status of implementation of the General Plan annually as required by State law.
R-2508 JLUS
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-27
LU-9.3 General Plan Amendments
The City shall not amend the General Plan more than four times per calendar year unless additional amendments are allowed by changes in State law. Each amendment, however, may include multiple changes. All General Plan amendments will require public hearings and approval by both the Planning Commission and City Council.
LU-9.4 General Plan Update
The City shall conduct a review of the General Plan elements every five years and update them as deemed necessary. The City’s Housing Element will be updated as mandated by the State of California.
LU-9.5 Implementing New AICUZ Studies
The City shall review and consider a General Plan update and Zoning Code amendment to incorporate new AICUZ studies that are released to the public.
This will include consideration of modifications to:
▪ The MIA overlay on the City’s General Plan Land Use Diagram ▪ Modification of land use designations to reflect land use and safety guidance in the current AICUZ study
▪ The MIA overlay on the City’s Zoning map
▪ Modification of appropriate zoning regulations to reflect land use and safety guidance in the new AICUZ study
▪ Modification of other planning tools and procedures, as appropriate, to reflect changes in the new AICUZ study
LU-9.6 Citizen Participation
The City shall establish permanent procedures for citizen participation in the annual review of land use planning and plan implementation. [Source:
Policy 1.2.6, Land Use Element]
LU-9.7 Involve Military in General Plan Update Process
Ensure that the military is aware and encouraged to be involved early in the general plan process for major updates and amendments. For jurisdictions outside the R-2508 Complex, early notification to the military is encouraged.
LU-9.8 Land Use Policy Coordinating Committee
The City shall continue to participate in the Land Use Policy Coordinating Committee, or similar committee, to integrate the planning processes of the City of Ridgecrest and NAWS China Lake. [Source: Policy 1.2.1, Land Use Element]
LU-9.9 Encourage Resident and Neighborhood Participation By implementing neighborhood programs, the City shall encourage active involvement of individuals and neighborhood committees to maintain and upgrade existing residential neighborhoods.
R-2508 JLUS
City of Ridgecrest
Public Services & Facilities
Goal
LU-10
To provide necessary public facilities and services that are convenient, economical and reinforce community identity. [Source: Land Use Element Goal 1.3]
LU-10.1 Adequate Municipal Services
The City shall only approve new development when it can be demonstrated by the applicant that adequate public service capacity in the area is or will be available to handle increases related to the project. School capacity will be discussed in the review of each development, and the City will ensure early coordination with the school districts serving the site. School capacity will be addressed as allowed under State law.
LU-10.2 Adequate Infrastructure Capacity
The City shall only approve new development when it can be demonstrated by the applicant that adequate system capacity in the service area is or will be available to handle increases related to the project.
LU-10.3 Efficient Provision of Municipal Services
The City shall maintain a development pattern that allows for efficient provision of municipal services.
LU-10.4 System Expansion
The City shall require new development be responsible for expansion of existing water, sewer, and storm drainage systems made necessary by their construction.
LU-10.5 Multipurpose Detention Facilities
The City shall utilize stormwater detention facilities to mitigate drainage impacts and reduce storm drainage system costs. To the extent practical, stormwater detention facilities should be designed for multiple purposes, including recreational and/or stormwater quality improvement. Sumps are discouraged as part of new developments or renovations.
LU-10.6 Fair Share Improvements
The City shall ensure new development required to participate on a fair-share basis in the completion of improvements to the existing sewer system, and/or the construction of new sewer trunk lines as described in the City’s adopted Sewer Master Plan.
LU-10.7 Solid Waste
The City shall promote maximum use of solid waste source reduction, recycling, composting, and environmentally-safe transformation of wastes.
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-29
LU-10.8 Dedicated Sites
The City shall negotiate with proponents of future development projects to secure the dedication of adequate sites for future fire and police stations.
LU-10.9 School Site Dedication
The City shall negotiate with proponents of future development projects to secure the dedication of adequate sites for future school construction to meet anticipated future elementary, junior high, and high school expansion needs.
LU-10.10 Co-location of School and Community Facilities The City shall encourage community facilities (such as community centers, schools, parks, libraries, fire stations with community rooms), when proposed in the same area, to be co-located to form a stronger activity node within the neighborhood.
LU-10.11 Accessibility of Public Buildings
The City shall ensure that public buildings are easily identifiable in the community and are easily accessible by all modes of transportation to all Ridgecrest residents or visitors in order to support community design goals. [Source: Modified Policy 1.4.4 Land Use Element]
LU-10.12 Provision of City Services to Unincorporated Areas The City shall discourage the extension or provision of City services and utilities into unincorporated areas without a satisfactory annexation agreement. [Source: modified Policy 1.4.5, Land Use Element]
LU-10.13 Ensure Water Impacts in Plan Development / Updates The City shall ensure General Plan updates, specific plans, planned developments consider impacts to water availability and quality via policy or other development regulations.
LU-10.14 Sewer Service within City Limits
The City shall require all new developments within the City to connect to the sewer system. [Source: Policy 1.4.7, Land Use Element]
LU-10.15 Medical and Emergency Services
The City shall support the efforts of local medical and emergency providers to maintain an adequate level of services for Ridgecrest residents. [Source: Policy
1.4.8, Land Use Element]
LU-10.16 Educational Master Planning Programs
The City shall support educational master planning programs as they are consistent with the General Plan. [Source: Policy 1.4.9, Land Use Element] LU-10.17 Child Care
Encourage the development of child care facilities and services, including collaboration between schools and parks, faith based institutions, community centers, senior centers, and unused public and private facilities.
R-2508 JLUS
City of Ridgecrest
3.5 Implementation Measures
Table 3-4, Land Use Implementation Measures, identifies the implementation measures the City should take to implement the goals and policies of this General Plan. The implementation program lists each specific implementation measure, a reference to which General Plan policy it is implementing, who is responsible to implement the program, and the timeframe for implementation.
Table 3-4. Land Use Implementation Measures
Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
1.0 The City shall develop zoning incentives
to encourage innovative design in both
infill and newly developing areas that
optimizes the use of vacant land
through flexible development
standards, shared parking, landscaping,
and site amenities. [New
Implementation Measure]
LU-1.3
LU-1.4
LU-4.3
LU-4.9
Community
Development
◼
2.0 The City shall develop and maintain an
inventory of available vacant sites that
have potential for infill development.
[New Implementation Measure]
LU-1.3
LU-1.4
Redevelopment ◼
3.0 During next Housing Element update,
include a separate discussion of military
housing needs and programs to address
these needs. Work collaboratively with
military installations and local entities to
address their needs as required by state
law to look at military readiness.
LU-2.3
LU-9.4
LU-9.6
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼
4.0 The City shall conduct a study to
determine the feasibility and a suitable
location for a regional auto mall in the
city. [New Implementation Measure]
LU-3.2
LU-3.3
LU-3.4
LU-3.9
Redevelopment
Community
Development
◼ ◼
5.0 The City will identify buildings within the
Olde Towne area that could be
enhanced through a façade
revitalization program [Source:
Downtown Revitalization Plan]
LU-4.3
LU-4.4
LU-4.6
LU-4.9
Community
Development
◼
6.0 The City will work with Olde Towne land
and business owners to apply for grant
funding to support a façade
improvement program. [New
Implementation Measure, Downtown
Revitalization Plan]
LU-4.3
LU-4.4
LU-4.6
LU-4.8
Community
Development
◼
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-31
Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
7.0 The City shall authorize developments in
the Mixed Use designation on vacant
sites subject to approval of a Master
Development Plan and redesignation of
the area to a MU General Plan
designation and zoning district. Land
uses proposed for a mixed use
development shall support each other
by including one or more industries,
services, offices, retail uses, with
residential uses for the common needs
of the occupants and users of the mixed
use development.
LU-4.8
LU-6.2
Community
Development
◼
8.0 The City shall develop zoning incentives
that encourage mixed use
redevelopment in the Olde Towne area
through the reuse of existing buildings.
LU-4.8 Community
Development
◼
9.0 The City shall coordinate on a routine
basis with the military to reexamine the
land use type, density, and intensity
limitations within flight corridors. [New
Implementation Measure, JLUS
Strategy #52, 56, and 57]
LU-7.1
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼
10.0 City of Ridgecrest, in coordination with
Kern County and China Lake, to evaluate
its sphere of influence to accurately
reflect development potential with
appropriate changes in Ridgecrest's
General Plan and zoning designations.
[New Implementation Measure, JLUS
Strategy #43]
LU-8.2
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼ ◼
11.0 The City will work with Kern County to
develop an appropriate tax sharing
agreement for urban residential land
and development to be moved into the
city limits without undo penalty on the
City for the provision of services to
these areas. [New Implementation
Measure]
LU-8.2
LU-10.12
Administration ◼
12.0 The City shall review and amend, as
necessary, applicable ordinances and
regulations referenced herein to ensure
consistency with the General Plan.
These shall include the following:
a. Zoning Ordinance
b. Subdivision Ordinance
c. Development standards
[New Implementation Plan]
LU-9.1 Community
Development
◼
City of Ridgecrest
Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
13.0 The Planning Commission shall review
the General Plan annually, focusing
principally on actions undertaken in the
previous year to carry out the
implementation programs of the Plan.
The Planning Commission’s report to
the City Council shall include, as the
Commission deems appropriate,
recommendations for amendments to
the General Plan. This review shall also
be used to satisfy the requirements of
Public Resources Code §21081.6 for a
mitigation monitoring program. [New
Implementation Measure]
LU-9.2 Community
Development
◼
14.0 Based on the population estimate
established in the General Plan EIR
analysis and evaluating the City’s Capital
Improvement Budget, the City shall
coordinate with appropriate agencies to
investigate the expansion of all public
services and facilities (sewer, police,
fire, water, schools, and solid waste) to
service this population. [Source:
Modified Policy 1.4.3, Land Use
Element]
LU-10.1
LU-10.2
LU-10.3
LU-10.4
Public Works ◼
15.0 Prior to extending City services or
infrastructure to unincorporated areas,
the following findings must be made:
◼ The property owner must
agree to support annexation to
the City if requested by the City
◼ The land use must be
compatible with the land use
compatibility guidance
provided in the Kern County
ALUCP and the current China
Lake AICUZ.
[New Implementation Measure]
LU-10.12 Community
Development
◼ Formatted Table
3. Land Use Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 3-33
3.1 Introduction.......................................................................................... 1
3.2 Existing Conditions...............................................................................5
3.3 Land Use Diagram and Standards .......................................................9
3.4 Goals and Policies ................................................................................12
3.5 Implementation Measures.................................................................30 Table 3-1. Existing Land Use within the Planning Area (2007) ......................7 Table 3-2. General Plan Land Use Designations in Planning Area ..................8 Table 3-3. Land Use Designation Summary..................................................10 Table 3-4. Land Use Implementation Measures...........................................30
z
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-1
4 Militar y Su stain abil ity El emen t
4.1 Introduction
As the closest urban area to Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake, Ridgecrest enjoys a symbiotic relationship with the installation. The Navy is the largest employer in the Indian Wells Valley, providing a significant economic thrust for the Valley and adding to the economic base of the City of Ridgecrest.
China Lake provides direct employment for 767 620 military personnel and 3,3884,166 civilians. Additionally, the installation provides employment for over 2,4001,734 contract civilians, located both on and off the installation. In return, the City of Ridgecrest provides housing, support services, and a range of community services to these employees.
China Lake is also a unique land use with planning challenges related to airfield and test and research activities at the installation and surrounding airspace. As an urban area in proximity to a vital military installation, development decisions occurring locally have the potential to impact the installation. In addition to the many positive interactions occurring as a function of this relationship, development decisions can result in land use conflicts that can have negative impacts on community safety, economic development, and sustainment of military readiness activities. Nationwide, incompatible development has been a factor in curtailing training operations, moving (realigning) mission-critical components to other installations, and, in extreme cases, closing installations.
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-2
The purpose of the Military Sustainability Element is to demonstrate the City’s commitment to and support of current and future missions at NAWS China Lake. This element considers the impact of new growth on military readiness activities. In particular, the ability to balance the protection of the Navy’s current and future missions with the ability for the community to grow and prosper is the objective for this element.
It is important to note that many of the issues related to military sustainment are covered as part of other elements in the General Plan. For instance, the location of future development is controlled by policies in the Land Use Element, and noise impacts are covered in the Health and Safety Element.
KEY TERMS - GENERAL
Accident Potential Zones. Every Navy runway has a set of aircraft safety zones designated at for each end of the runway (see Figure 4.1). These zones are referred to as the Primary Surface (PS), Clear Zone (CZ), Accident Potential Zone I (APZ I) and Accident Potential Zone II (APZ II). Each zone was developed based on a statistical review of aircraft accidents. The Navy provides guidance on land uses considered to be consistent within these zones as part of their Air Installation Compatible Use Zone (AICUZ) studies. With exception of a portion of APZ II, which is not within City boundaries, Allall of the aircraft safety zones related to runways at China Lake fall within the installation’s boundaries. ▪ Primary Surface. A surface on the ground centered lengthwise on the runway and extending 200 feet (61 meters) beyond each end of the runway and a width of 1,500 feet.
▪ Clear Zone. A trapezoidal area lying immediately beyond the end of the runway and outward along the extended runway centerline for a distance of 3,000 feet. For U.S. Navy and Marine Corps installations, the dimensions are 1,500 feet wide at the runway threshold and 2,284 feet wide at the outer edge.
▪ APZ I. A rectangular area beyond the Clear Zone, which has a measurable potential for aircraft accidents relative to the Clear Zone.
APZ I is typically 3,000 feet wide by 5,000 feet long and may be rectangular or curved to conform to the shape of the predominant flight route.
▪ APZ II. A rectangular area beyond APZ I which has a measurable potential for aircraft accidents relative to APZ I or the Clear Zone. The dimensions of APZ II are typically 3,000 feet wide by 7,000 feet long and, like APZ I, may be curved to correspond with the predominant flight route.
After adoption of the
2011 AICUZ, the length
of runway 8/26 was
extended from 7,000
feet to 12,000 feet and
widened from 75 feet
to 200 feet. The
additional runway
length was added to
the west side of the
runway. The revised
accident potential
zones are not
reflected in Figure 4.1,
but would remain
within the base
boundaries and not
impact the City.
Formatted: Font: Not Bold
Formatted: Font: Not Bold
4. Military Sustainability Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-3
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-4
Airport Influence Area (AIA). The Airport Influence Area is an area around an airport that requires additional land use regulation to accommodate aircraft operations. The zone is identified in the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) and is subject to special use and development regulations including but not limited use, building height, low density residential uses, and other limiting factors. The runway will include helicopter take-off and landing zones if not on the primary runway.
Avigation Easement. An easement that grants one of the following rights: the right of flight; the right to cause noise, dust, etc. related to aircraft flight; the right to restrict or prohibit certain lights, electromagnetic signals, and birdattracting land uses; the right to unobstructed airspace over the property above a specified height; and the right of ingress/egress upon the land to exercise those rights.
Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL). CNEL is used to characterize average sound levels over a 24-hour period, with weighting factors included for evening and nighttime sound levels. Leq values (equivalent sound levels measured over a 1-hour period - see below) for the evening period (7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) are increased by 5 dB, while Leq values for the nighttime period (10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) are increased by 10 dB. For a given set of sound measurements, the CNEL value will usually be about 1 dB higher than the Ldn value (average sound exposure over a 24-hour period – see below). In practice, CNEL and Ldn are often used interchangeably.
Day-Night Average Sound Level (Ldn). Ldn represents an average sound exposure over a 24-hour period. Ldn values are calculated from hourly Leq values, with the Leq values for the nighttime period (10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) increased by 10 dB to reflect the greater disturbance potential from nighttime noises.
Decibel, A-weighted (dBA). A unit of measurement for noise having a logarithmic scale and measured using the A-weighted sensory network on a noise-measuring device. An increase or decrease of 10 decibels corresponds to a tenfold increase or decrease in sound energy. A doubling or halving of sound energy corresponds to a 3-dBA increase or decrease.
Military Influence Area. In general, an MIA covers the areas where military operations may impact local jurisdictions and, conversely, where local activities may affect the military’s ability to carry out its mission. The development of an MIA should consider the current land uses and future development goals of the City as well as the current and future operational characteristics and requirements of the Base. The purpose of establishing an MIA is to identify a focus area for effective implementation of planning strategies and land use controls that will help avoid or reduce encroachment by minimizing the influence of specific types of encroachment challenges.
A more concise definition of the MIA is contained in the following text box on the next page.
The MIA was
established in the
2007 AICUZ; however,
the 2011 AICUZ
expanded the Noise
Zone 1 boundaries
beyond the
boundaries of the
MIA.
Formatted: Font: (Default) Candara, 10.5 pt
4. Military Sustainability Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-5
These areas also are referred to as: Regions of Military Influence (RMIs), Military Influence Planning Districts (MIPDs), Military Influence Overlay Districts (MIODs), Military Influence Disclosure Districts (MIDDs), Airfield Influence Planning Districts (AIPDs), or Areas of Critical State Concern (ACSCs).
Depending on military and local needs, an installation or military operation area can have more than one MIA.
In the 2007 China Lake AICUZ, the Navy has incorporated a proposal for an MIA within the Ridgecrest Planning Area. The MIA contained in the 2007 AICUZ is a Navy recommendation for consideration by Ridgecrest and Kern County.
The MIA created by the Navy was based on the information contained in the following text box on the next page.
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-6
Navy Definition of MIA
According to the State’s OPR [Governor’s Office of Planning and Research]2011 AICUZ and the 2016 California Advisory Handbook for Community and Military Compatibility Planning, which was published by the Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (formerly the Office of Planning and Research), a Military Influence Area (MIA) is “a formally designated geographic planning area where military operations may impact local communities and, conversely, where local activities may affect the military’s ability to carry out its mission.” (State of California 2006). The MIA concept is included in the California Advisory Handbook for Community and Military Compatibility Planning (State of California 2006), where it is acknowledged as The MIA is a useful planning tool for accomplishing the following purposes:
▪ Promote an orderly transition between community and military land uses so that land uses remain compatible.
▪ Protect public health, safety, and welfare.
▪ Maintain operational capabilities of military installations and areas. ▪ Promote the awareness of the size and scope of military training areas in order to protect areas separate from the actual military installation (i.e., critical air and sea space) used for training purposes.
▪ Establish compatibility requirements within the designation area, such as requirements for sound attenuation, real estate disclosure, and navigation easements.
According to the OPRLCI, an MIA should be incorporated into the local planning process through a community’s general plan and zoning ordinance. NAWS recommends the designation of an MIA that is larger than the traditional AICUZ footprint in order to address flight safety issues beneath flight corridors and to encourage retention of a buffer zone of compatible land use in case of future expansion of the NAWS mission. The designation of an MIA is also consistent with Navy AICUZ Program guidelines as describedin OPNAVINST 11010.36B.
Figure 6-2 depicts the recommended MIA surrounding Armitage Airfield.
As defined for this AICUZ study, the MIA includes, in addition to the AICUZ footprint, allincludes all land within the 60 dB CNEL contour (Noise Zone 1) and anya larger portion of the primary flight corridors used by arriving and departing aircraft. Noise Zone 1 is included in the MIA as a proxy for potential expansion of the noise contours should NAWS experience future increases in operational tempo (no such increases beyond the “prospective” operations evaluated in this AICUZ study are currently planned). The geographical location and extent of any such shift in future noise contours would of course depend on the specific nature of the increased operations (e.g., runway distribution, aircraft type, type of operation, etc.), but if other variables remained constant and only the number and frequency of operations were to increase, the 65-dB noise contour would tend to expand toward the current 60-dB contour.
Portions of the primary flight corridors (beyond the standard APZs) are also included in the MIA in an effort to minimize the risks of aircraft accidents that can occur beyond the runway environment. The establishment of criteria that limits the maximum number of dwellings or people in this area is encouraged as a method of reducing the potential severity of an aircraft accident. Despite NAWS’ efforts to establish and conform to specific flight routes that maximize avoidance of developed areas, some variation or deviation from established flight routes should be expected to occur in response to weather conditions, ambient temperature, mission loading of aircraft, and other factors. discussed previously in Section 3.4. The width of the flight corridor segments in the MIA reflects this potential variation. The corridors are included because of the inherent risk of aircraft incidents (e.g., equipment drops, crashes, etc.) occurring within these corridors.
4. Military Sustainability Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-7
KEY TERMS - AIRSPACE
Designated areas of airspace are critical for military testing and training associated with NAWS China Lake. While several of the airspace designations described below do not occur in the Planning Area, they are corridors or destinations utilized by aircraft using NAWS China Lake.
The Interagency Airspace Coordination Guide provides a wealth of information on the definition and use of airspace. The following terms are based on information from this the following source:
https://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/dc/nmsdc/documents/Dispatch/Reference/2003- iasc-interagency-airspace-coordination-guide.pdf
(www.fs.fed.us/r6/fire/aviation/airspace/web/guide/):
Air Traffic Control Assigned Airspace (ATCAA’s). ATCAAs were established to permit the continuation of MOA activities above 18,000’ MSL. From the standpoint of the MOA “user,” MOA and ATCAA are combined into one piece of airspace, with 18,000’ MSL acting as an administrative boundary. Usually, the ATCAA is activated concurrently with the MOA. VFR aircraft are permitted to enter a MOA, but are not permitted to enter most ATCAAs because they are not permitted to fly VFR above 18,000’ MSL. MOAs are depicted on aeronautical charts, but ATCAAs are not depicted. Ridgecrest is located within the Isabella ATCAA. The ATCAAs are used to fill the airspace gap between the top of the Military Operations Areas (MOA) (FL180) and the base of R-2508 (FL200 or 20,000 feet). When R 2508 is not activated for military use, the ATCAAs may extend upward to FL600 (60,000 feet). ATCAAs are also located above the peripheral MOAs, outside the lateral boundaries of R-2508, to provide additional work areas up to FL600 for segregation of military operations from instrument flight rules (IFR) traffic (comprised of commercial and general aviation users).
Military Training Routes (MTRs). MTRs are similar to complex systems of interrelated and interdependent highways in the sky that connect military installations, ranges, and operation areas. They are used by the Department of Defense (DOD) to conduct low-altitude navigation and tactical training at airspeeds in excess of 250 knots and at altitudes as low as just above surface level. These low-level, high-speed routes allow pilots to develop the skills necessary to avoid detection by enemy radar. This includes “Low-level flight paths”, as defined in California Public Resource Code §21098(a), any flight path for any aircraft owned, maintained, or that is under the jurisdiction of the United States Department of Defense that flies lower than 1,500 feet above ground level. In California Law (AB 1108, Pavley, Chapter 638, Statutes of 2002), a low-altitude MTR is defined as a route where aircraft operate below 1,500 feet above mean sea level (MSL).
Special Use Airspace (SUA). This special designation is designed to alert users about areas of military activity, unusual flight hazards, or national security Flight levels are
expressed in three
digits that represent
hundreds of feet. For
example, flight level
180 (written as FL180)
represents a
barometric altimeter
indication of 18,000
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-8
concerns and is used to segregate that activity from other airspace users to enhance safety. Special Use Airspace is established by the FAA.
There are six different kinds of SUAs, but only two are relevant to planning in the City of Ridgecrest Planning Area: Military Operations Area (MOA) and Restricted Areas.
▪ Military Operations Area. A MOA is airspace established to segregate certain non-hazardous flight activities from Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) traffic and to identify Visual Flight Rules (VFR) traffic. Within these areas, the military conducts flight activities, such as acrobatic or abrupt flight maneuvers, intercepts, air combat maneuvering missions, research and development, and aerial refueling. In addition to maintaining military readiness in the air, these areas are used to train student pilots.
MOAs are three dimensional areas. In addition to the mapped boundaries, MOAs have a defined floor (minimum altitude) and ceiling (maximum altitude). In the R-2508 Complex, these altitudes range from 200 feet above ground level (AGL) up to the maximum ceiling of 17,999 feet above mean sea level (MSL). The minimum altitude varies above populated areas and wilderness areas. On aviation sectional charts, instrument flight rule (IFR) enroute charts, and terminal area charts, MOAs are identified in magenta lettering that states a specific name followed by the letters “MOA”.
The City of Ridgecrest is inside the Isabella MOA, as is much of the Indian Wells Valley.
▪ Restricted Areas. Restricted Areas are an important asset to the DOD because they allow for the use of weapons for training and testing purposes. These areas are necessary for ground weapons and artillery firing, aerial gunnery, live and inert practice bomb drops, and guided missile testing. Restricted Areas provide locations for training and testing to support combat readiness of aviation and ground combat units while separating these activities from the public and general aviation users. These areas are identified by the letter “R” followed by a number on sectional charts, instrument flight rule (IFR) enroute charts, and terminal area charts. The floor and ceiling altitudes, operating hours, and controlling agency can be found in the sectional chart legend.
There are seven restricted airspace areas in the R-2508 Complex. A portion of the Planning Area, primarily south of Ridgecrest Boulevard and west of Downs Street, is inside of Restricted Area 2506 (R-2506).
The portions of the Planning Area north of this area are inside of R-2505. See the discussion of MOAs and Restricted Areas for more information.
MOA…
The City of Ridgecrest is
inside the Isabella MOA, as is
much of the Indian Wells
Valley.
Restricted Areas…
Most of the City of
Ridgecrest is under two
restricted areas: R-2505 and
R-2506.
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R-2508 Complex. The R-2508 Complex provides the largest single area of Special Use Airspace (SUA) over land in the United States, covering a land area of 20,000 square miles. The complex consists of restricted areas (R-2508, R2502N, R-2502E, R 2505, R-2506, R-2511, R-2515, and R-2524), 10 Military Operations Areas (MOA), Air Traffic Control Assigned Airspace (ATCAA) areas, Controlled Firing Areas (CFAs), and other special airspace such as, the CORDS Road, the Precision Impact Range Area, the Black Mountain Supersonic Corridor, the North Hypersonic Corridor, the South Hypersonic Corridor and the Airfield Approach and Departure Corridors. Figure 4-24-1 illustrates the area covered by the R-2508 Complex.
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LEGISLATION RELATED TO MILITARY PROTECTIONS
The following is an overview of existing State legislation that impacts military compatibility planning.
Assembly Bill 1108
California Assembly Bill (AB) 1108 (Chapter 638, Statutes of 2002) amends CEQA law added Section 21098 to the Public Resources Code to require CEQA lead agencies to notify military installations when a project meets certain criteria.
The criteria includes property located within an established operational area, a general plan amendment, or is of statewide, regional, or area-wide significance, or is required to be referred to the local ALUC. The purpose of AB 1108 is to ensure military notification of proposed projects potentially impacting military operations though the CEQA process.
AB 1108 amends CEQA to provide military agencies with early notice of proposed projects within two miles of installations or underlying training routes and SUA.
Assembly Bill 2776
The Aviation Noise Disclosure legislation (AB 2776) was passed in the 2002– 2003 regular legislative session and was signed by the Governor. AB 2776 (Chapter 496, Statues of 2002) It amends the real estate transfer disclosure statute (California Civil Code, Division 2 – Property, Part 4 – Acquisition of Property, Title 4, Chapter 2 –Transfer of Real Property) to require sellers or leasers to disclose the fact that a house for sale or lease is near an airport if the house falls within an airport influence area (that could be several miles from an existing or proposed airport). An airport influence area is defined as the area in which current or future airport-related noise, overflight, safety, or airspace protection factors may significantly affect land uses or necessitate restrictions on those uses. The intent of the legislation is to notify buyers that they could experience airport noise, vibration, odor, annoyances, or other inconveniences at some time in the future as a result of the normal operation of an existing or proposed airport.
Senate Bill 1462
SB 1462 (Chapter 907, Statutes of 2004) amended Sections 65352, 65404, 65940, and 65944 of the Government Code to expanded the requirements for local government to notify military installations of proposed development and planning activities. This Bill states that “prior to action by a legislative body to adopt or substantially amend a general plan, the planning agency shall refer the proposed action to . . . the branches of the Armed Forces when the proposed project is located within 1,000 feet of a military installation, beneath a low-level flight path, or within Special Use Airspace (SUA) . . .”.
The purpose of SB 1462 is to require public agencies to provide a complete copy of a development application of the proposed development that is located within 1,000 feet of a military installation, SUA, or a low-level flight path.
Furthermore, it authorizes any branch of the United States Armed Forces “to request consultation” to avoid potential conflict and to discuss “alternatives, AB 1108…
Provides military agencies
with early notice of
proposed projects during
the CEQA process.
AB 2776…
Provides for real estate
disclosure for residences
within airport influence
areas.
SB 1462…
Requires coordination on
updates or amendments to
general plans.
City of Ridgecrest
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mitigation measures, and the effects of the proposed project on military installations.” Also, SB 1462 requires military review of proposed actions potentially impacting mission operations of the installation, decreases potential for incompatible land use development and provides military installations the opportunity to comment on proposed development and express concerns with potential impacts to the installation.
Senate Bill 1468
SB 1468 (Chapter 971, Statutes of 2002) requires the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI), formerly the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to include guidance on how military compatibility can be addressed in a general plan, and how a general plan can consider the impact of growth on military readiness activities carried out on military bases, installations, and operating and training areas. The bill includes the following methods to address military compatibility in a general plan:
▪ In the land use element, consider the impact of new growth on military readiness activities carried out on military bases, installations, and operating and training areas, when proposing zoning ordinances or designating land uses covered by the general plan for land or other territory adjacent to those military facilities, or underlying designated military aviation routes and airspace.
▪ In the open-space element, open-space land is defined to include areas adjacent to military installations, military training routes, and restricted airspace.
▪ In the circulation element, include the general location and extent of existing and proposed military airports and ports.
SB 1468 is part of a State policy package to promote the development of a partnership between communities and the military that allows for collaboration on land use compatibility issues. OPR encourages local jurisdictions near military installations, and under military training routes or restricted airspace, to incorporate the above items into their general plans.
However, local governments are not currently required by law to include the SB 1468 military compatibility issues in their general plans. The bill specifies that if a funding agreement is reached between OPR and the military to support these efforts, the inclusion of military compatibility issues in a general plan will become mandatory.
4.2 Existing Conditions
NAWS CHINA LAKE OVERVIEW
China Lake is located on 1.1 million acres of land in California’s upper Mojave Desert and accounts for approximately one-third of the Navy’s total land holdings. The land, ranging in altitude from 2,100 to 8,900 feet, varies from flat dry lakebeds to rugged piñon pine covered mountains. The majority of the land area is undeveloped and provides habitat for more than 340 species of wildlife SB 1468…
Requires the State to
provide guidance on
incorporating military
compatibility into a
jurisdiction’s general plan.
These are considered to be
recommendations at this
time, pending funding.
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and 650 plant types. The installation also has a rich cultural heritage, represented by Native American sites to locations and structures used by early miners and settlers.
The installation is divided into two major land areas: the North Range, encompassing 606,926 acres, and the South Range, encompassing 503,510 acres (see Figure 4-31). The North Range lies in portions of Inyo, Kern, and San Bernardino Counties, while the South Range is located entirely within San Bernardino County. NAWS China Lake consists primarily of remote, unpopulated desert land; however, the North Range contains several developed areas, including Armitage Airfield, Mainsite, Propulsion Laboratories, and geothermal development. The western portion of the North Range includes Baker Range, which is approximately 121 square miles and is used primarily for military test and evaluation and training for air-to-surface weapon systems (e.g., rockets, bombs, guns). The main community support area on the installation (referred to as the “cantonment” area) is located within the Ridgecrest city limits. Although a portion of the installation is within the city limits, as federal lands, the City has no land use authority over this portion of the City.
As a component of the Navy Region Southwest, San Diego, China Lake is under the Commander, Navy Installation Command (CNIC). China Lake serves as the host for Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) under the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), along with other assigned tenants, activities, and assigned units. Testing and training functions performed on-base include delivery of munitions, tactics, electronic warfare, and Special Forces training. NAWS operates and maintains the base’s facilities and provides support services, including airfields, and is responsible for managing all lands within the base’s boundaries to support the mission of NAWCWD and other activities, maintaining environmental compliance, exercising responsible stewardship of public lands, providing safety and security services, and implementing the Navy’s AICUZ program. Due to the integrated nature of the operational environment at China Lake, compatibility planning at China Lake is a coordinated effort between NAWS China Lake (who operates and maintains the installation’s facilities and provides support services to assigned tenants and transient units), NAVAIR (who manages the airspace), and CNIC (who owns the facilities). Together, the management team is responsible for sustaining operational capabilities for the installation’s air and land assets.
The installation currently serves as a station for the research, development, test and evaluation of weapons. There are several facilities on site to aid in the operation of missions such as the Weapons Survivability Laboratory, which conducts survivability testing to provide empirical data on the vulnerability of aircraft to threats, and the Missile Engagement Simulation arena, the station’s newest and most sophisticated simulation facility. China Lake also holds a comprehensive array of land, sea, electronic combat and ground test assets, including 1,700 square miles of dedicated land test ranges.
F-18s near Ridgecrest
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CHINA LAKE AIR OPERATIONS
The 2011 AICUZ estimates annual flights operations would total 22,763, 90% of which occur between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Arrivals.For arrivals, the The generalized arrival flight tracks approach in a common corridor from the south over lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), east ofthe City (see Figure 4-4). The tracks split from each other for final approach once over China Lake itself. Arrivals include:
• Straight In Arrivals. An aircraft landing on a runway from a direct approach.
• Overhead Arrivals. An expeditious arrival using visual flight rules. An aircraft generally approaches the runway 800 feet above ground level.
Approximately halfway down the runway, the aircraft performs a 180- degree descending left turn to enter the landing pattern. Once established in the pattern, the aircraft lowers landing gear and flaps and performs a 180-degree descending left turn to land on the runway (see figure 4-6).
• Carrier Break Arrival. The maneuver is the same as the Overhead Arrival, except it is performed at 800 feet - simulating the standard approach made to an aircraft carrier.
• TACAN Arrival. The TACAN approach is flown using instruments in the cockpit that receive bearing and distance information from a ground unit.
• RNAV Arrival. An approach that is flown using instruments in the cockpit that receive bearing and distance mainly from satellite-based navigation systems.
Departures. Four of the six runways are used for departures (see Figure 4-5).
Each of these runways has three departure tracts, which For departures, five general departure tracks are currently used, depending on the runway used (see Figure 4-2). Four of the tracks depart from their runways and turn south (to about 175°). These tracks continue south over a mix of BLM and private property, staying just outside the west side of the City of Ridgecrest, before splitting into three additional routes. The fifth departure track runs generally south also, but On of the departure routes traverses over lands inside the west edge of thethe northwest corner of the City of Ridgecrest. All of the departure tracks traverse through the General Plan Planning Area.
Touch and Go. An aircraft lands and takes off on a runway without coming to a full stop (see Figure 4-6). After touching down, the pilot immediately goes to full power and takes off again. The touch and go flight patterns do not remain b=above NAWS China Lake.
Armitage Airfield at NAWS
China Lake
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Existing Departure Tracks
Figure 4-2. 2007 AICUZ
Potential Departure Tracks
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In the 2007 AICUZ study, the Navy stated that “in the interests of reducing potential noise impacts and safety risks associated with airfield departures, NAWS China Lake proposed a potential consolidation and westward shift of these four flight routes. The proposal is to consolidate the aforementioned departure routes and align them along the west side of Jacks Ranch Road…” (Figure 4-2). At the time of the preparation of this General Plan, this change had not occurred.
While the 2007 AICUZ study (see section below) shows the generalized arrival and departure tracks used for assessing average noise, it is important to note that aircraft do not strictly follow these lines, and the aircraft typically arrive and depart within a corridor for which these tracks represent approximate “centerlines.” Arrival and departure tracks are also only part of the overflight picture at China Lake. Other overflight activity occurs in association with operations once the aircraft is airborne. Much of the Ridgecrest Planning Area can experience aircraft overflight.
The 2007 AICUZ looked at alternatives that would realign some of the departure tracks, but these are still in evaluation.
CHINA LAKE AIR INSTALLATION COMPATIBLE USE ZONE (AICUZ) STUDY For China Lake, a critical planning document is the AICUZ study. The AICUZ is a DOD planning program that was developed in response to incompatible urban development and land use conflicts around military airfields. The AICUZ study seeks to develop a cooperative relationship between communities and military installations and provides land use compatibility guidelines designed to protect public health and safety, as well as maintain military readiness. As designed, the AICUZ study evaluates three primary components: noise, vertical obstructions, and accident potential zones.
Every Navy and Air Force installation with air operations has delineated at both ends of all active runways a set of three accident potential zones referred to as the Clear Zone (CZ), Accident Potential Zone I (APZ I), and Accident Potential Zone II (APZ II). These areas are determined based on a statistical analysis of all DOD aircraft accidents.
The current China Lake AICUZ study was released in April 2011May 2007. The previous AICUZ was approved in 19772007, and Kern County and in which the City of Ridgecrest evaluated that document and enacted the AICUZ compatible land use provisions into their zoning ordinances and general plans at that time.
When looking at an AICUZ study, two caveats should be noted:
1. AICUZ are not static documents, and the AICUZ study is updated as needed to reflect current operations, or for some installations, current and projected operations. While the 2007 2011 AICUZ reflects current operations, the Navy mayis in the process of reevaluateing the AICUZ study parameters to reflect other aircraft operations at the installation.
It is therefore important that the General Plan refers to the current Understanding Noise…
A more detailed explanation
on how noise is described is
provided in the Health &
Safety Element.
2007 China Lake AICUZ
4. Military Sustainability Element
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AICUZ (such as a specific noise contour line) instead of memorializing a specific diagram.
2. Whether noise contour lines or accident potential zones, these lines are not definitive boundaries where one side of the line has an issue and the other side of the line is not constrained. These lines are averages, and should be used as representations of statistical occurrences, not definitive boundaries.
Most compatibility challenges that occur between military facilities and adjoining communities are anthropogenic. These challenges can include the military impact on the development of the City and the community’s impact on military readiness.
Navy and Air Force installation with air operations has delineated at both ends of all active runways a set of three accident potential zones referred to as the Clear Zone (CZ), Accident Potential Zone I (APZ I), and Accident Potential Zone II (APZ II). These areas are determined based on a statistical analysis of all DOD aircraft accidents and shows in Figure 4-1.
As part of the 2011 AICUZ, noise impacts on Ridgecrest were reevaluated. This included noise generated by aircraft arrivals and departures, aircraft/engine testing, and Baker Range activity. Noise is generally defined as unwanted sound. Sound is a physical phenomenon consisting of vibrations that travel through a medium, such as air, and are sensed by the ear. Whether sound is interpreted as pleasant (e.g., music) or unpleasant (e.g., jackhammers) depends largely on the listener's current activity, past experience, and attitudes toward the source of the sound. The impact of aircraft noise is therefore a factor in the planning of future land use near airfields.
The AICUZ has three general noise exposure zones: Noise Zone 1 includes areas between 60 and 65 dB CNEL; Noise Zone 2 encompasses areas between 65 and 74 dB CNEL; and Noise Zone 3 covers areas exposed to 75 dB CNEL and higher (see Figure 4-7).
Considerations to ensure land use compatibility shall include the following:
• Sensitive Uses: Sensitive land uses may include residential housing, schools, nursing homes, retirement communities, health care facilities, and others. These types of uses are the most sensitive relative to military activities due to concerns about noise and safety. As public complaints about military noise sources increase, impacts to military operations and readiness may include the creation of avoidance areas, prohibition of training events, restricted flight
altitudes/airspeeds/timing, and suspensions or delays in conducting testing or training events.
• Building Height: The height of buildings and other structures that encroach into the navigable airspace used by military operations present a safety hazard to both the public and military personnel and Sound Levels of Typical Sources
and Environments
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potentially impacting military readiness. Zoning regulations should avoid such obstructions that increase flight safety risks, as pilots are frequently flying at very low altitudes and very high speeds. • Dust, Smoke, or Steam: Dust created by grading activities or agriculture, and smoke, steam, or other airborne emissions from industrial facilities can reduce visibility and thereby impact military operations. While air quality impacts are usually temporary and intermittent, the fact that they are unpredictable creates concerns for operators.
• Light and Glare: Light sources from commercial, industrial, and residential uses at night can cause excessive glare and illumination, which impacts the use of military night vision devices, nighttime aircraft operations and other light- sensitive activities.
The 2007 AICUZ outlines noise and safety issues in relation to both the baseline (current) and prospective operational conditions of the base as laid out in the 2004 Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Proposed Military Operational Increases and Implementation of Associated Comprehensive Land Use and Integrated Natural Resources Management Plans. The proposed action in the EIS acts as a basis for the program laid out in the 2007 AICUZ. The installation’s cooperation with local government agencies is outlined in the introduction to the AICUZ, which states the responsibility of the Navy to inform and cooperate with the planning departments of Kern and San Bernardino Counties along with the City of Ridgecrest. As noted above, this study is an interim report, and after further evaluation, including the impact of the Joint Strike Fighter, an updated AICUZ may be released.
As part of the AICUZ study, the Navy proposed an expansion of the traditional AICUZ planning area, called a Military Influence Area (MIA), to address the higher safety risks in these areas. As with other AICUZ items, these are recommendations for consideration by local jurisdictions, and are not regulations.
R-2508 JOINT LAND USE STUDY
Although the interaction between the local communities and the military installations within the R-2508 Complex is very positive, the activities or actions of one entity can inadvertently impact the other and result in conflicts. As communities develop and expand in response to growth and market demands, land use decisions can push urban development closer to military installations and operational areas. This can result in land use and other compatibility issues, often referred to as encroachment, which can have negative impacts on community safety, economic development, and sustainment of military activities and readiness. This threat to military readiness activities is currently one of the military’s greatest concerns. At the same time, military activities can negatively impact the surrounding communities through factors such as noise, limits to renewable resources, and the use of local government services (i.e., roads, housing, and schools). Changes in mission as the military introduces new Formatted: Font: Not Bold
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aircraft, weapons, weapons systems and tactics that may require operation over non-DOD lands and private lands that may further constrain the ability of communities to provide for the population and infrastructure demands.
The R-2508 JLUS was a collaborative planning process between local governments, participating military installations, tribal governments, land owners, interested individuals, and representatives from agencies serving the area in and around the R-2508 Complex to address compatibility planning. The goal of the R-2508 JLUS is to protect the viability of current and future missions using the R-2508 Complex while at the same time accommodating growth, sustaining the economic health of the region, and protecting public health and safety.
A number of factors influence whether community and military plans, programs and activities are compatible or in conflict. To ensure a comprehensive look at compatibility, a list of 24 compatibility factors was used to characterize local issues (see Figure 4-3). These factors were divided into three broad categories: man-made, natural resource and competition for scarce resources.
The result of the R-2508 JLUS was a set of recommended strategies. It is important to note that the final JLUS is not an adopted plan, but rather, a recommended set of compatibility guidelines that can be implemented by local jurisdictions, Native American tribal governments, agencies and organizations.
While the strategies in the final JLUS are not mandatory obligations, the involvement of stakeholders (including representatives from the City of Ridgecrest) has provided a set of strategies designed to meet local needs.
Of the strategies contained in the final R-2508 JLUS, a number of strategies listed the City of Ridgecrest in a primary (responsible for implementation) or partner (supporting others in the implementation of a strategy) role. These strategies have been incorporated into this General Plan. To assist in locating Figure 4-3. Compatibility Factors
Man-Made
Land Use
Safety Zones
Vertical Obstruction
Local Housing Availability
Infrastructure Extensions
Anti-Terrorism / Force Protection
Noise
Vibration
Dust
Light and Glare
Alternative Energy Development
Air Quality
Frequency Spectrum
Impedance and Interference
Public Trespassing
Cultural Sites
Legislative Initiatives
Interagency Coordination
Natural Resources
Water Quality/Quantity
Threatened and Endangered
Species
Marine Environments
Competition for Scarce Resources
Scarce Natural Resources
Land, Air and Sea Spaces
Frequency Spectrum Capacity
Ground Transportation Capacity
11 2
3 4
5 6
7 8
9 10
11 12
13 14
15 16
17 18
19 20
21 22
23 24
Man-Made
Land Use
Safety Zones
Vertical Obstruction
Local Housing Availability
Infrastructure Extensions
Anti-Terrorism / Force Protection
Noise
Vibration
Dust
Light and Glare
Alternative Energy Development
Air Quality
Frequency Spectrum
Impedance and Interference
Public Trespassing
Cultural Sites
Legislative Initiatives
Interagency Coordination
Natural Resources
Water Quality/Quantity
Threatened and Endangered
Species
Marine Environments
Competition for Scarce Resources
Scarce Natural Resources
Land, Air and Sea Spaces
Frequency Spectrum Capacity
Ground Transportation Capacity
11 2
3 4
5 6
7 8
9 10
11 12
13 14
15 16
17 18
19 20
21 22
23 24
R-2508 JLUS
City of Ridgecrest
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compatibility planning policies related to the recommendations in the JLUS, these are highlighted with JLUS icon, as shown to the left of this paragraph.
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City of Ridgecrest
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4.3 Goals and Policies
This element provides goals and policies specifically related to the balance of community and military needs and the overall protection of public health and safety. A number of other policies are included in other elements that support military compatibility planning.
See also the policies and implementation measures under Goal LU-7 concerning the definition of the Military Influence Area (MIA) for Ridgecrest.
General
Goal
MIL-1
To ensure that future land uses are compatible with the continued operation of China Lake and avoid risk to life, property and the well-being of City residents from hazards associated with aircraft operations. [Source:
Modified Goal S-1, Safety Element]
MIL-1.1 Role of China Lake
Continue to support the role of China Lake as a significant contributor to the economic base of the community. [New Policy]
MIL-1.2 Kern County ALUCP
Proposed land uses and development proposals shall be consistant with the land use compatibility policies and criteria of the Kern County ALUCP relative to China Lake. [New Policy]
MIL-1.3 Development Constraints
The City shall not allow development in areas where the risks to potential health and safety cannot be mitigated to an acceptable level. [Source: Policy S2.7, Safety Element – revised] MIL-1.4 Local Supplies and Services
The City will work with China Lake to enhance the use local contractors and services, and to purchase material, equipment, and supplies from in-City sources. The City should identify and support development of businesses and suppliers to the military and their contractors. [New Policy] MIL-1.5 MIA Overlay Zone
The City will create an MIA overlay zone to provide land uses and development standards that are compatible with the AICUZ.
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MIL-1.6 Dark Skies Ordinance
To minimize impacts on night-time flight operations, the City shall adopt a “dark skies ordinance” that will reduce night lighting for new uses and light sources.
Communications / Coordination
Goal
MIL-2
To provide opportunities for the City, China Lake, residents, industry, and agencies to collectively participate in all phases of a well-defined planning process. [New Goal]
MIL-2.1 Coordinate with on JLUS Implementation
The City shall coordinate closely with jurisdictions, agencies, organizations, and Native American tribal governments in and near the Planning Area to ensure their policies and regulations are consistent with the City's General Plan, the China Lake AICUZ, and the R-2508 JLUS. [New Policy]
MIL-2.2 Increase Public Awareness
Provide property owners in proximity to NAWS China Lake education on the installation’s mission, potential impacts associated with military aviation operations, land use constraints, and potential mitigations for appropriate development. [Source: Policy S-2.9, Safety Element – revised, JLUS Strategy #13]
MIL-2.3 Development Review
Development proposals shall be reviewed for hazards to aircraft in flight, including: uses that release into the air any substance such as steam, dust and smoke which would impair pilot visibility; uses that produce light emissions, glare or distracting lights which could interfere with pilot vision or be mistaken for airfield lighting; sources of electrical emissions which would interfere with aircraft communications or navigation; and uses which would attract birds or waterfowl to the extent that they would pose a danger to aircraft operation in the vicinity of the China Lake. [New Policy, JLUS Strategy #16] MIL-2.4 Information Exchange with China Lake
The City shall work with China Lake to establish an on-going consultation mechanism between the City and China Lake on issues of mutual concern. This will include:
▪ Early notification by the City to China Lake officials of development applications
▪ Early notification by China Lake to the City of potential changes in aircraft operations (patterns, number, etc.)
R-2508 JLUS
R-2508 JLUS
R-2508 JLUS
City of Ridgecrest
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MIL-2.5 Military Involvement and Review Process
The City shall continue to provide CEQA notifications to NAWS China Lake for review and comment on City discretionary land use actions to include, but not limited to, General/Specific Plan amendments, zone changes, tract maps, parcel maps, Specific Development Plans, and Conditional Use Permits. [New Policy] MIL-2.6 Evaluate Rerouting of Military Flight Patterns
Provide support to China Lake as needed to evaluate the feasibility of rerouting military flight operations from over private lands to federal lands while still meeting mission requirements. [New Policy, JLUS Strategy #51] MIL-2.7 Coordinate Military Compatibility Planning with Kern County The Community Development Department shall maintain close contact with their counterparts in Kern County to coordinate military compatibility planning and management activities. [New Policy]
MIL-2.8 Meeting Military Housing Needs
The City will work with China Lake officials in identifying strategies to meet the housing needs of military personnel during preparation of the City’s General Plan Housing Element. [New Policy]
MIL-2.9 Enhanced Real Estate Disclosure
Develop an enhanced Real Estate Disclosure Ordinance to ensure appropriate information about the missions and operations at China Lake and the R-2508 Complex are fully disclosed at the earliest possible point in the interaction between realtor / real estate agent and a buyer or renter. [New Policy, JLUS Strategy #33]
MIL-2.10 Staff Training on Military Compatibility Planning The City and China Lake shall cooperate to provide City staff with on-going training opportunities to maintain their awareness of the latest technology and regulations concerning military compatibility issues. [New Policy] MIL-2.11 Infrastructure / Service Plans
The projected need for additional infrastructure and other municipal services by China Lake should be considered in the development of new infrastructure master plans. [New Policy]
R-2508 JLUS
R-2508 JLUS
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Mitigating Compatibility Issues
Goal
MIL-3
To mitigate encroachment issues associated with land uses and development. [New Goal].
MIL-3.1 Avigation Easements
The City shall require the dedication of avigation easements when development is proposed on property within identified airport safety zones. [New Policy]
MIL-3.2 Major Plan Coordination with Military
Require that specific plans, area plans, and other regional plans (either new plans or updates/revisions) in the R-2508 Complex address a number of compatibility issues involving the military, such as dark skies, water availability and quality, density, cluster development, and other development design issues. [New Policy, JLUS Strategy #30]
MIL-3.3 Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan
The City shall work closely with appropriate agencies, including the Kern County Planning Department, to ensure development is compatible with aircraft facilities and operations, to include NAWS China Lake. To this end, the City shall, as applicable, incorporate findings and recommendations identified in the Kern County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP). [New Policy] MIL-3.4 NAWS China Lake AICUZ Recommendations
The City shall review and, to the greatest extent possible, take actions to implement the recommendations provided in the current and future NAWS China Lake AICUZ studies. [New Policy]
MIL-3.5 Vertical Obstructions
All new development in the City shall conform to FAR Part 77 height limits. [New Policy]
MIL-3.6 Cellular Tower Collocation / Consolidation
Encourage the collocation of cellular towers within the R-2508 Complex. [New Policy, JLUS Strategy #23]
MIL-3.7 Outdoor Lighting
The City shall ensure that future development includes provisions for the design of outdoor light fixtures to be directed / shielded downward and screened to avoid nighttime lighting spillover effects on adjacent land uses and nighttime sky conditions. [New Policy]
R-2508 JLUS
R-2508 JLUS
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-30
MIL-3.8 Lighting
The City shall continue to improve and maintain proper lighting at City facilities and assist in reducing undue nuisance light and glare spillage on adjoining areas from development. [New Policy]
MIL-3.9 Sensitive Uses
The City should address restrictions on the location of sensitive receptors, such as schools, day care centers, apartments, hospitals, nursing homes, and senior living facilities in relation to noise contours.
4.4 Implementation Measures
Table 4-1, Military Sustainability Implementation Measures, identifies the implementation measures the City should take to implement the goals and policies of this General Plan. The implementation program lists each specific implementation measure, a reference to which General Plan policy it is implementing, who is responsible to implement the program, and the timeframe for implementation.
Table 4-1. Military Sustainability Implementation Measures Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
1.0 Prior to approval of a proposal involving
any type of land use development,
specific findings shall be made that such
development is compatible with the
training and operational missions of the
military aviation installations.
Incompatible land uses that result in
significant impacts to the military
mission of Department of Defense
installations or to the Joint Service
Restricted R-2508 Complex that can not
be mitigated, shall not be considered
consistent with this plan. [Source: Kern
County ALUCP, Policy 1.7 c]
MIL-1.2
MIL-1.3
Community
Development
◼
2.0 Review discretionary land use
development applications within the
military installation’s operating area as
shown in the Kern County ALUCP for
consistency. [New Implementation]
MS-1.2 Community
Development
◼
4. Military Sustainability Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-31
Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
3.0 The City shall work with other
jurisdictions, agencies, organizations,
and Native American tribal
governments in the establishment and
support of a JLUS Coordinating
Committee. The Committee will support
implementation of the JLUS strategies,
providing on-going technical
support/assistance to other members.
[New Implementation, JLUS
Strategy #9]
MIL-2.1
R-2508
JLUS
City Council
Community
Development
◼
4.0 The City shall develop an avigation
easement program, which will include
sample easement language, designates
where avigation easements should be
required, and determines the
appropriate agency or organization to
hold such easements. [New
Implementation, JLUS Strategy #3]
MIL-3.1
R-2508
JLUS
◼
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-32
Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
5.0 Work with China Lake to establish
procedures for consultation between
the base and the City relative to
planning review and comment. This will
include:
◼ Definition of projects types
that require review by the
China Lake officials
◼ Identification of the Points of
Contact for all coordination
◼ Provision of opportunities for
China Lake personnel to be
involved in pre-application
meetings for significant
projects
◼ Establishing a formal procedure
for requesting and receiving
comments
◼ Establishing a standard timeline
for responses, keeping in mind
mandated review time periods
as specified by State law and
local procedures
◼ Develop outreach plan
◼ Providing notice to China Lake
on all public hearings regarding
projects identified for
coordination
◼ Establish procedures for the
review and monitoring of
frequency spectrum conflicts,
as they are identified
[New Implementation, JLUS
Strategy #16, 20 and 38]
MIL-2.3
MIL-2.4
MIL-2.5
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼
6.0 If proposed by China Lake, provide
input on the impacts associated with
potential acquisitions or land transfers,
including loss of property from tax rolls.
[New Implementation, Strategy #1]
MIL 2.4
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼
4. Military Sustainability Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-33
Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
7.0 For enhanced real estate disclosure, the
City shall:
◼ Work with State Real Estate
Board and local real estate
representatives to develop and
implement adequate language
for inclusion in disclosure
notices.
◼ Work with State real estate
board and local real estate
representatives to ensure
compliance with notification
requirements.
◼ The City and China Lake should
work cooperatively to make
available the information
required for real estate
disclosure (as defined by
implementation measure)
regarding operational issues at
China Land and the R-2508
Complex (aircraft, gunnery, and
explosive noise potential;
overflight; light and glare; etc.).
◼ Review periodically and update
as needed to reflect current
issues and military operations.
[New Implementation, JLUS
Strategy #33]
MIL-2.9
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼ ◼
8.0 Review and revise, as-needed, truth-insales and rental ordinances to ensure adequacy in providing public disclosure
of NAWS China Lake operations and
impacts as they pertain to existing
residential uses, proposed residential
development, and subdivision
approvals. [New Implementation]
MS-2.9 Community
Development
◼ ◼
9.0 Coordinate with military representatives
to ensure information on Special Use
Airspace (floors, ceilings, time of
operations, etc) is understood and
available for disclosure. [New
Implementation, Strategy #14]
MIL-2.9
MIL-2.10
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼ ◼
City of Ridgecrest
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-34
Timeframe
Implementation Measure Policy Who is Responsible
2008-
2010
2010-
2015
2015-
2030
Ongoing
10.0 Work with Governor’s Office of
Planning and Research (OPR)Land Use
and Climate Innovation (LCI) to define
information that would be useful for
planners concerning military
compatibility. [New Implementation,
Strategy #22]
MIL-2.10
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼
11.0 In an effort to protect the operations of
NAWS China Lake, the City shall require
that all new development west of
Mahan Street grant an avigation
easement on behalf of NAWS China
Lake and shall implement procedures
concerning notice and disclosure of
aircraft operations impacts (including
over flights and noise). [New
Implementation]
MS-3.1 Community
Development
◼
12.0 Initiate a light and glare working group
to evaluate appropriate lighting
standards, including the development
of a dark sky ordinance/simplified
constraints map similar to Kern
County's Red/Yellow/Green map
developed for height obstructions,
within applicable development codes to
protect military operations from the
impacts associated with light and glare.
[New Implementation, JLUS
Strategy #18]
MIL-3.7
MIL-3.8
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼ ◼
13.0 For portions of the R-2508 area
identified by the military as critical to
dark sky initiatives, evaluate funding
sources available to assist in lighting
retrofit programs. [New
Implementation, JLUS Strategy #48]
MIL-3.8
R-2508
JLUS
Community
Development
◼ ◼
4. Military Sustainability Element
February 2026 Public Draft Page 4-35
4.1 Introduction.......................................................................................... 1
4.2 Existing Conditions..............................................................................12
4.3 Goals and Policies ...............................................................................26
4.4 Implementation Measures.................................................................30 Table 4-1. Military Sustainability Implementation Measures ......................30 Figure 4-1. Accident Potential Zones ..............................................................3 Figure 4-2. Special Use Airspace.................................................................... 10 Figure 4-3. Regional Locaiton NAWS China Lake........................................... 14 Figure 4-4. Arrival Routes..............................................................................16 Figure 4-5. Departure Routes.........................................................................17 Figure 4-6. Touch and Go/Overhead and Carrier Break Flight Patterns........ 18 Figure 4.7. Noise Contours............................................................................ 25 Figure 4-1. Special Use Airspace in Planning Area...........................................7 Figure 4-2. 2007 AICUZ ...................................................................................11 Figure 4-3 Compatibility Factors.................................................................. 14 Formatted: TOC 1
MILITARY SUSTAINABILITY ELEMENT
SB 1000 ANALYSIS
MAY 27, 2025
MILITARY SUSTAINABILITY ELEMENT
SB 1000 ANALYSIS
Prepared for:
City of Ridgecrest
100 W. California Avenue
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
www.ridgecrest-ca.gov
Prepared by:
Sagecrest Planning + Environmental
27128 Paseo Espada, Suite 1524
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
www.sagecrestplanning.com
Military Sustainability Element SB 1000 Analysis 1
Executive Summary
The City of Ridgecrest (City) is in the process of amending the Military Sustainability and Land Use Elements to implement changes to the Air Installations Compatible Use Zones Study (AICUZ) for Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake. State law requires jurisdictions that are updating two or more general plan elements to determine if disadvantaged communities are located within their boundaries, and if so, include environmental justice policies into its General Plan.
Three acceptable methods to determine the existence of disadvantaged communities include: 1) utilize the CalEnviroScreen composite score, 2) utilize the pollution burden indicators for low-income census tracts, and 3) utilize local knowledge and additional data at the local and community levels. Based on the analysis below, the CalEnviroScreen composite score and local knowledge do not trigger the environmental justice policies, however, the pollution burden indicators for low-income census tracts indicate four of the nine census tracts in the City contain disadvantaged communities. As a result, the City will be required to include environmental justice goals, policies, and objectives integrated into the elements to address impacts from ozone (O3), lead, drinking water, groundwater threats, hazardous waste, and solid waste.
Background
There are seven mandatory elements for a general plan (land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open space, noise, and safety). In 2016, the Legislature of the State of California added an eighth mandatory element (environmental justice) for jurisdictions that have disadvantaged communities. SB 1000 (Chapter 587, Statues of 2016) was signed into law on September 24, 2016 and went into effect on January 1, 2018. SB 1000 codified California Government Code §65302(h), which requires jurisdictions to include an environmental justice element, or related goals, policies, and objectives integrated in other elements of their general plan when they currently amend two or more general plan elements. Notwithstanding this, State law allows cities to adopt general plans in a unique format that best fits its circumstances1.
1 The City of Ridgecrest General Plan contains the following elements: Land Use, Military Sustainability, Community Design, Circulation, Open Space and Conservation, and Health and Safety.
Military Sustainability Element SB 1000 Analysis 2
The goal of including environmental justice policies in the general plan is to identify objectives and policies that:
1. Reduce the unique or compounded health risks in disadvantaged communities.
2. Promote civic engagement in the public decision-making process.
3. Prioritize improvements and programs that address the needs of disadvantaged communities.
To comply with the State requirements, three analytical methods have been identified and adopted as best practices for determining disadvantaged communities2.
Method 1: Determine if the census tract is in the 75th percentile or above of the CalEnviroScreen composite score.
Method 2: Determine if the census tract is in the 75th percentile or above of the CalEnviroScreen pollution burden indicator scores and is at or below 80% the state and/or county area median income.
Method 3: Utilize local knowledge and additional data at the local and community levels (e.g. local air quality monitoring) to determine if environmental policies are needed.
Figure 1 – SB 1000 Methodology
2 A disadvantaged community is defined as “A low-income area that is disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and other hazards that can lead to negative health effects, exposure, or environmental degradation”.
Military Sustainability Element SB 1000 Analysis 3
In April 2011 the Air Installations Compatible Use Zones Study (AICUZ) for Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake was updated. The City of Ridgecrest (City) is now amending the Military Sustainability Element of the General Plan to incorporate the changes made to the AICUZ. These changes will necessitate an amendment to the land use diagram within the Land Use Element of the General Plan. Since the two elements will be amended, the City must conduct the SB 1000 analysis to determine if environmental goals, policies, and objectives shall be added to the General Plan.
Analysis
Method 1
The first method used to determine if there are disadvantaged communities is utilizing the CalEnviroScreen 4.0 composite score. The composite score is determined by the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) in the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) by multiplying the pollution burden (an average of exposures and environmental effects) by populations characteristics (an average of sensitive populations and socioeconomic factors)3. Each factor has a maximum score of 10, giving a maximum composite score of 100. CalEPA designates an area as a disadvantaged community if a census tract scores at or above the 75th percentile (or top 25%) statewide on the CalEnviroScreen composite score.
Figure 2 – Composite Score Methodology
Within the City of Ridgecrest there are nine census tracts that are at least partially within city limits. (see Figure 3).
3 The full methodology used by OEHHA to determine the composite score can be found at https://oehha.ca.gov/media/downloads/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen40reportf2021. pdf
Military Sustainability Element SB 1000 Analysis 4
Figure 3 – Census Tracts
The CalEnviroScreen 4.0 Scores range from the 28th percentile to the 69th percentile (see Figure 4)4. Inasmuch as none of the census tracts meet or exceed the 75th percentile, Method 1 does not result in any disadvantaged communities.
4 Source: CalEnviroScreen 4.0
Military Sustainability Element SB 1000 Analysis 5
Figure 4 – CalEnviroScreen 4.0 Composite Scores
Military Sustainability Element SB 1000 Analysis 6
Method 2
The second method is more specific by considering the individual CalEnviroScreen pollution burden indicator scores and if the census tract qualifies as a low-income community. The threshold for qualifying under this method is the individual burden indicators are at or above the 75th percentile (or top 25%) and the census tract is at or below 80% the state and/or county area median income.
Pollution burdens are negative consequences and effects of pollution on human health, the environment, and the economy. In the context of SB 1000 pollution burdens are broken into pollution exposures and environmental effects (see Figure 5). Table 2 demonstrates the pollution burdens for the City.
Figure 5 – Pollution Burdens
The second criterion if the census tract is at or below 80% of the County median income. Based on the 2025 State income limits released by the California Department of Housing and Community Development5, the median income for Kern County is $93,900. This places the 80% threshold at $75,120. In order to focus resources where they are needed the most, the median income (shown in Table 3) has been calculated by census tract block group, which is the smallest unit median income is provided.
5 https://www.hcd.ca.gov/sites/default/files/docs/grants-and-funding/income-limits-2025.pdf Military Sustainability Element SB 1000 Analysis 7
Table 2 – Pollution Burden6
Census Tracts 06029005300 06029005402 06029005405 06029005406 06029005407 06029005408 06029005409 06029005410 06029005509 Exposures Ozone (O3) 75 75 75 75 75 75 75 75 80
Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5) 10 17 15 15 16 16 11 11 7 Diesel Particulate Matter 15 28 35 35 20 20 25 25 5
Toxic Releases 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 1
Traffic 11 13 11 11 7 7 7 7 2
Pesticides 33 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 44
Drinking Water 51 52 52 52 52 52 52 52 77
Lead from Housing 99 46 18 18 23 23 28 28 28 Environmental Effects Cleanup Sites 34 41 44 44 0 0 0 0 60
Groundwater Threats 97 23 93 93 0 0 31 31 47
Hazardous Waste 99 62 99 99 62 62 50 50 93
Impaired Waters 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Solid Waste 36 36 83 83 36 36 36 36 92
6 Source: CalEnviroScreen 4.0
Military Sustainability Element SB 1000 Analysis 8
Table 3 – Median Income7
Census Tract Census Block Group Median Household
Income
6029005300 Block Group 1 $78,906
6029005300 Block Group 2 $44,832
6029005402 Block Group 1 $67,625
6029005402 Block Group 2 $91,845
6029005402 Block Group 3 $111,935
6029005405 Block Group 1 $55,356
6029005405 Block Group 2 $56,659
6029005406 Block Group 1 $124,526
6029005406 Block Group 2 $102,000
6029005406 Block Group 3 $120,069
6029005407 Block Group 1 $54,383
6029005407 Block Group 2 $70,815
6029005408 Block Group 1 $76,083
6029005408 Block Group 2 $98,750
6029005408 Block Group 3 $109,138
6029005408 Block Group 4 $51,016
6029005409 Block Group 1 $79,432
6029005409 Block Group 2 $104,286
6029005409 Block Group 3 $115,938
6029005410 Block Group 1 $103,250
6029005410 Block Group 2 $59,399
6029005509 Block Group 3 $117,126
All areas of the City have at least one pollution burden that is at or above the 75th percentile. As such, any area that is at or below 80% median household income would qualify as a disadvantage community. There are eight such areas in the City of Ridgecrest, as shown in Figure 6.
7 Source: 2023 American Community Survey - data.census.gov Military Sustainability Element SB 1000 Analysis 9
Figure 6 – Disadvantaged Communities
Military Sustainability Element SB 1000 Analysis 10
Method 3
The third method involves combining local data and knowledge to establish disadvantaged communities. This could include, but is not limited to, local air monitoring, input from the local health department, and experiential knowledge gathered by community organizations and leaders. A review of the City’s documents, County General Plan, and Kern County COG Environmental Justice Measures8 and Environmental Justice Reports9did not result in the discovery of any additional data beyond that found during Method 2.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis above, Method 2 has found disadvantaged communities within the City. These disadvantaged communities are impacted by pollution burdens including ozone (O3), lead, drinking water, groundwater threats, hazardous waste, and solid waste. As a result, environmental justice policies will need to be incorporated into the Military Sustainability and Land Use elements. 8 https://www.kerncog.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/TitleVI_EJ_policy_20140312.pdf 9 https://www.kerncog.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/EJ_Report_2003.pdf