The purpose of the planned development (PD) district is to provide for developments that, because of a mix of building types, land uses or residential lot sizes, do not fit within the parameter of standard zone districts. Planned developments provide flexibility in types of uses allowed or site development standards to provide high-quality developments that otherwise could not be constructed. Generally, planned developments are under unified control, comprehensively planned and can provide a mix of uses that could otherwise create land use conflicts. Planned developments often provide common areas and other amenities not normally found in standard types of development. This district is consistent with all general plan designations that provide for substantial residential, commercial or industrial development, provided the proposed uses are consistent with the general plan designation(s) within which the project is located.

As described in the general plan, the planned development designation is a separate land use category as well as an overlay district. As an overlay combining district, a planned development cannot increase the density over the underlying zone, although it can limit the density otherwise allowed. Also a planned development overlay cannot allow uses not allowed in the underlying zone district, but can limit the uses otherwise allowed. As an overlay district, planned developments can alter site development standards of the underlying zone district.

As a general plan land use designation and/or a separate zone district without an overlay combining district, planned developments can determine appropriate uses of the parcel(s) and density as well as changing site development standards. These uses and density would be enumerated into the ordinance zoning the parcel to planned development.

The following uses are permitted in the PD district if a planned development use permit is issued: any use or combination of uses as specified in the ordinance which zones a parcel to a PD district. For existing planned developments without an ordinance or use permit that specifies particular uses or development standards, a new use permit is required to establish uses, density, intensity and site development standards. Uses shall be arranged and designated in such a manner as to result in a development which is internally compatible, provides effective buffers to protect surrounding uses and is consistent with the general plan.

Modifications to approved plans and statements of detailed plans may be permitted in a PD district if a use permit is approved as long as the changes are consistent with the ordinance establishing the PD district. Modifications that are minor in nature may be altered by the community development director.

An applicant for either a building permit or a use permit shall submit architectural drawings, the elevations of all buildings and a site plan which indicate how the standards established in the PD development plan will be met. Development plans are also subject to the City of Susanville Design Guidelines, adopted July 17, 2002, as may be amended. This submittal shall be made on a form prescribed by the community development director and shall include such additional plans, drawings and information as the planning commission from time to time may require by resolution. Such drawings and site plans shall be considered by the planning commission at a public meeting. The planning commission must find that the architectural and general appearance of such buildings or structures and grounds are in keeping with the character of the neighborhood and will not be detrimental to the orderly and harmonious development of the city. The planning commission may approve, conditionally approve or disapprove said plans. Architectural and site plan review may be submitted as part of the use permit process or may be submitted separately. The director's approval shall occur as set forth by the terms and conditions of the use permit.