Single-Family Objective Design and Development Standards
Single-family Objective Design and Development Standards is a Citywide initiative to engage the community in an endeavor to modernize the City’s single-family design guidelines, policies, and applicable zoning code regulations into one comprehensive document called: “Single-Family Objective Design and Development Standards.” This initiative aligns with the 2023-2031 Housing Element.
On January 16, 2024, the City adopted the Multi-family Objective Design and Development Standards to meet the state’s requirement and is now embarking upon the development of Objective Standards for single-family development which includes primary residences, ADUs, JADUs, and urban infill units (SB-9 units).
Currently, the city relies on the Zoning Code, Architectural and Solar Design Guidelines, and citywide policies for reviewing various property improvements, such as an addition, and/or the construction of a new single-family home. This initiative aims to modernize these regulations and guidelines into one comprehensive document, as well as streamline the permitting process for homeowners.
The new objective standards intend to ensure that the design related elements of new homes will complement existing neighborhoods and the overall community of Foster City with respect to size, form, and aesthetic style. Additionally, specific standards for accessory structures, fenestration, landscaping, and mechanical equipment placement, will be addressed.
This website will provide up-to-date information on the development of the Objective Design and Development Standards, sign up for updates or review updates on this page as the process moves forward.
PREVIOUS PUBLIC MEETINGS
April 17, 2025 Planning Commission Regular Meeting and Study Session
UPCOMING TENTATIVE PUBLIC MEETINGS
June 5, 2025- Planning Commission Study Session #2: Reviewing draft ordinance with graphics
September 4, 2025- Planning Commission Study Session #3: Reviewing updated draft ordinance with graphics
November 6 or 20, 2025- Planning Commission Public Hearing
December 18, 2025 - City Council 1st Public Reading Hearing
PUBLIC OUTREACH
The City encourages public input on the proposed Objective Design and Development Standards and will conduct several public meetings to solicit feedback from the community. Additionally, staff will have tabling events where residents may meet and discuss the proposed standards with city staff.
June 20, 2024 - Starbucks, Foster Square
July 10, 2024 - Off the Grid
CONTACT INFORMATION
Helen Gannon, Senior Planner (650) 286-3229, hgannon@fostercity.org
Leslie Carmichael, Consultant Planner, lcarmichael@fostercity.org
