Conservation Tools

Biological Resource Protection Policies & Maps

The Biological Resource Protection Policies & Maps page contains information on Ventura County’s natural environment—such as maps and publications on wetlands, wildlife movement corridors, and locally important plants—and local policies that are in place to protect these resources.

Wetlands Project Permitting Guide

The Wetlands Project Permitting Guide - Regulations are wide-ranging and complex for projects that might alter streams or wetlands. Numerous agencies control what can and cannot be done; nevertheless, agencies’ definitions of wetlands and streams differ and some regulations may conflict. This guide explains current laws and provides examples of the required permitting processes through various agencies.

Guide to Native and Invasive Streamside Plants

The Guide to Native and Invasive Streamside Plants provides information to help protect one of the most valuable elements of a living stream—riparian vegetation. Using this guide, residents can help restore and enhance one of California’s most vital and endangered resources: the living stream environment.

Green Building & Energy Efficiency Tools

Incorporating “green building” into a project means taking steps to create buildings that are safe and healthy for people and that protect our environment.  While specific methods and products may vary from project to project in general, green building techniques seek to conserve natural resources, increase energy efficiency, and improve indoor air quality in all types of new construction.  Green Building Guidelines for home additions, new construction, and multi-family projects can be found on the County’s Build It Smart website link below.  This website provides tips for incorporating energy efficiency into homes and office buildings, offers County residents opportunities to benefit from reduced energy bills, and business owners to benefit from reduced operating costs as well as improved health and productivity.

Oak Woodlands Management Plan

The Ventura County Oak Woodlands Management Plan was completed in 2007 pursuant to guidelines and goals articulated in the State of California Oak Woodlands Conservation Program. Due to t statewide attention focused on Oak Woodlands preservation and a local recognition of their inherent resource value, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors directed the Planning Division to complete an Oak Woodlands Management Plan. In keeping with the primary priorities articulated in the Act, the County’s Plan includes a discussion of conservation priorities, maps out the known location of oak woodlands in unincorporated areas, and addresses issues of Oak Woodland habitat fragmentation.

Solar Energy Systems

In order to encourage the installation of solar energy systems and to reduce energy consumption, the Board of Supervisors has waived the Zoning Clearances fees for Ground-Mounted Solar Systems. Roof-mounted solar energy systems (photovoltaic panels and the like) require no Zoning Clearance or Planning approval.  These are approved solely by the Building Department.