Preserving Monterey’s Unique, Historic Make-up
Monterey is full of character. From New Monterey to Old Town, from Fisherman’s Flats to Cannery Row. Each
of our neighborhoods – commercial and residential – has distinct features that make it special.

In order to maintain these unique qualities, the City established an Architectural Review Committee (ARC) to encourage and promote development that is harmonious with the surrounding area as it exists.
 

What does the ARC deal with?
The seven-member ARC is composed of citizens with expertise and interest in design and architecture. ARC reviews all aspects of a proposed project that deal with the outside appearance.

Some of these include access, on-site circulation, grading, tree impacts and building placement. The Committee also analyzes landscape areas and planting, architectural style, bulk, mass and color to make sure they conform with adopted guidelines.

Projects must demonstrate conformance with all applicable zoning standards before architectural review. Projects with proposed variances in setback, lot coverage, floor-area ratio or parking must first be reviewed by the Planning Commission or Zoning Administrator before going to ARC.