Community input requested over El Dorado, Diamond Springs design standards

El Dorado County announced recently a request for the public to engage in the process to develop design standards for the El Dorado and Diamond Springs areas. The Planning Division released the Draft El Dorado and Diamond Springs Design Standards and Guidelines (DSG) for review and feedback, noting the public comment period will last from March 26 to April 27. The proposed standards aim to promote high-quality design, incorporate design elements that reflect the community's Gold Rush history and existing built environment, provide clear and objective guidance for development and permitting and support economic vitality. "We need residents of El Dorado and Diamond Springs to weigh in on the draft standards to ensure they are what the public wants to see in the final product," said Supervisor Brian Veerkamp, whose district includes these communities. "Without such feedback, the desires of the people who live and work in these communities can't be taken into consideration, and the county wants to do all it can to include the public in this important process." Staff are developing permanent, community-based design standards for commercial, multifamily and mixed-use development for the county's Community Regions and Rural Centers to reflect local character and comply with new state housing requirements. Work on the El Dorado and Diamond Springs Community Region standards began in January 2025. Since then, staff have conducted a stakeholder tour and held two community workshops in early 2026 to engage the local community and receive feedback on the draft standards. Community members are encouraged to review the draft and submit comments by April 27. Public input will help shape the final standards and ensure they align with community goals. Email EDDScommunitydesignstandards@edcgov.us or mail Tom Purciel, El Dorado County Planning Division, 2850 Fairlane Court, Placerville, CA 95667.