Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Solano County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues in zoning
Short-term rental ordinance clarifications
The county tightened its 2018 short-term rental rules after finding owners advertising fake 31-day rentals with easy cancellation to dodge transient occupancy tax and permit fees. New rules add minimum stay requirements, refund restrictions, advertising limits, and record-keeping.
Flannery Associates lot line adjustment
Three ag parcels totaling 580 acres near Collinsville Road were reconfigured, with Williamson Act contracts rescinded and replaced. Supervisor Vasquez voiced distrust of Flannery Associates but voted yes after staff confirmed the land remains agricultural and zoned unchanged.
Accessory dwelling unit (ADU/JADU) zoning update
New rules align the county's accessory dwelling unit regulations with state law — ADUs were 35% of county building permits last year and are a key piece of the county's affordable housing capacity.
Battery energy storage siting near airports
A resident warned that battery energy storage certification reports are being withheld as trade secrets and may be outdated, limiting the fire marshal's ability to write emergency response plans.
County sign ordinance airport compatibility
The county's updated accessory dwelling unit ordinance needed a check against airport safety zones before it can take effect around Travis AFB, Nut Tree and Rio Vista airports. The commission found it conditionally consistent, keeping the path open for ADU construction countywide.
Pleasants Valley Agritourism Overlay
A new zoning overlay would ease agritourism uses — farm stands, tastings, events — in Pleasants Valley. The airport commission confirmed it doesn't conflict with flight-path safety zones, clearing one hurdle for the program.
Glare violation appeal at 8402 Quail Canyon Road
A property owner is appealing a county order to abate glare from solar-powered light poles visible beyond his property line. The case turns on how strictly the county enforces its glint-and-glare standard in agricultural zones.
Minor Use Permit requirement for English Hills Road building project
A rural homeowner appealed a staff decision requiring a Minor Use Permit before his building permit could be approved. The commission sided with staff, so the homeowner must complete the discretionary permit process.
Rio Vista General Plan Update 2045 airport compatibility
Rio Vista is updating its general plan through 2045, and the ALUC had to confirm the new plan doesn't conflict with flight operations at Travis AFB or the Rio Vista Municipal Airport. The Commission found it compatible, clearing the way for the city's planning effort.
Updated sign regulations for unincorporated county
The county modernized its sign ordinance to streamline permits and expand business signage options. Staff said the rules add flexibility, not restrictions, and will monitor feedback on banner limits.
Zoning cleanup: kennel setbacks, parking, agritourism
The county tidied up its zoning code — kennel/cattery setbacks shrink from 200 feet to 60 feet for smaller parcels, parking rules get more flexible, and agritourism event permits can now run up to three years. Applies to unincorporated Solano County only.