Big Box Regulations Sweep Across California

Cities and counties of all sizes are adopting regulations to limit development of big box stores.

1 minute read

January 3, 2004, 9:00 AM PST

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"Wal-Mart's widespread expansion of its "supercenters" -- which are at least 50% larger than the typical Wal-Mart and carry groceries -- appears to be driving much of the regulatory activity. Recently adopted or proposed ordinances in Los Angeles, Oakland, Alameda County, Contra Costa County, Turlock and elsewhere specifically limit stores of a certain size, usually about 100,000 square-feet, to no more than 5% to 10% of floor area devoted to non-taxable goods. A Wal-Mart supercenter is usually 180,000 to 230,000 square feet, and groceries fill more than one-third of the stores. The restrictions could also hit some Costco and Target stores."

Thanks to Chris Steins

Saturday, January 3, 2004 in California Planning and Development Report

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