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Monterey County opens public process to draft battery‑storage zoning and safety rules
Summary
Monterey County staff launched a community kickoff to gather input on a proposed ordinance regulating battery energy storage systems, citing state codes, NFPA 855, SB 38 emergency‑action requirements and the California Energy Commission's permitting role for very large projects. Staff will form a steering committee and circulate a draft ordinance for public review.
Greg Spencer, director of Housing & Community Development for Monterey County, opened a public kickoff meeting on April 4, 2026, to begin drafting zoning and safety regulations for battery energy storage systems and to solicit community input.
County staff said the effort follows recent incidents and is intended to balance the recognized benefits of energy storage with protections for public health and safety. "This really is a kickoff…we're going to get your feedback," Spencer said, framing the evening as the first of multiple meetings and surveys to shape proposed rules.
Staff reviewed the regulatory framework that will guide local rules: the California Building Code and locally adopted fire codes, the National Fire Protection Association…
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