What are the seven mandatory elements of the General Plan NOT including?

The General Plan is a comprehensive, long-term planning document that outlines a jurisdiction's vision for development and growth, and it is grounded in California state law. The mandatory elements are established by the California Government Code, and they include several specific categories that every local government is required to include in their General Plan.

The Public Participation Element is not one of the mandatory elements specified in the Government Code. While public participation is an essential aspect of the planning process, and many agencies encourage involving the community in their General Plan updates, it does not have to be formally documented as a mandatory element in the plan itself.

In contrast, the Safety Element, Housing Element, and Open Space Element are all required components of the General Plan. The Safety Element focuses on minimizing risks related to natural disasters, the Housing Element addresses housing needs and strategies for promoting affordable housing, and the Open Space Element prioritizes the preservation of natural areas and recreational spaces. Thus, understanding the distinctions among these elements highlights the focus of the General Plan in California and reinforces the significance of community involvement in planning processes.