Tiered Winery Ordinance and Environmental Impact Report

About the Program

Category: Community and Economic Development (Best in Category)

Year: 2012

In 2010 the Board of Supervisors in San Diego County certified the Tiered Winery Ordinance Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The Tiered Winery Ordinance created new winery regulations covering approximately 441,000 acres within the unincorporated County. The purpose of the Ordinance and associated environmental document was to create a program for individuals within the County’s agricultural community to establish small boutique wineries on agricultural lands without the need for a discretionary permit. The boutique wineries allow for small tasting rooms which permit public access to the farm. The program would allow grape growers to supplement their farming operation with wine tasting and wine sales. The ordinance was a vital step in promoting and keeping agriculture viable in San Diego County – an important component of therural economy. As a result of adoption of this ordinance, a number of by-right boutique wineries have been established in the County.