The Riverside County Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved an ordinance affecting large agricultural properties, known as Ranchos, in the Coachella Valley. These properties have traditionally been used by families for outdoor events such as weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations.
The newly passed ordinance sets standards for noise, trash management, access for first responders, parking, traffic, and land use. It mandates that 40 percent of the property must be used for agriculture and 20 percent for date palms. The aim is to balance safety and community wellness.
The 5-0 vote at the Board of Supervisors meeting marks a unique step in land-use regulation within the county. The ordinance provides options for Ranchos to become permitted full-time event venues.
“I’m very proud of this day,” said Supervisor Perez. “This is what it’s all about. It’s historical, it’s cultural, it goes way back. I want to thank staff, three years… And you know what, we’re not done yet… but we are going to move this forward today. I want to thank my colleagues for being so gracious, being supportive, being here in solidarity to make this happen. This is a proud moment for all of us.”
The ordinance will undergo a second reading in July before taking effect 30 days later. Rancho owners will then be able to apply for permits through the Riverside County Planning Department. The county plans to hold a workshop for Rancho owners and assign a designated planner to assist with questions and processing applications.
Over 30 members of the Rancho community attended the meeting in support of the ordinance. Speakers highlighted how Ranchos support families and small businesses involved in event planning.
Claudia Lua Alvarado, owner of Rancho 51 Date Garden and leader of Ranchos and Vendors United, expressed her gratitude: “After three long years we’re very happy to have the support of Supervisor Victor Manuel Perez and all the Supervisors to get this final vote. We thank them for getting this vote because now we get to stay in business; our Ranchos and vendors will continue and our community will thrive; our heritage, our families and our traditions will stay alive. Thank you again for all your support and we’re just excited to continue our beautiful businesses in our Coachella Valley.”