Case of the Month
Holguin Family Ventures, LLC et al., v. County of Ventura

Zoning compliance is crucial for businesses, especially those operating in agricultural areas. This month’s case, involving Old Creek Ranch Winery, highlights the consequences of failing to adhere to local zoning regulations.

The trouble began when the Ventura County Board of Supervisors found that the winery had expanded its wine-tasting area and facilities without securing a required Conditional Use Permit (CUP). Additionally, the Board determined that the winery had shifted its primary use from crop and wine production to a commercial wine bar and event venue. This shift violated the Ventura County Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance, which aims to preserve agricultural land. As a result of the violations, the winery’s attempt to get approval for a paved parking lot and electric vehicle charging stations was also denied.

After the Board’s decision, the winery challenged the ruling in trial court. The court, applying the substantial evidence standard, upheld the Board’s findings. The court ruled that substantial evidence existed to prove the winery had changed the principal use of the land, affirming the Board’s position. The court also denied the winery’s motion to amend its complaint to add a new cause of action for declaratory relief, citing unnecessary delay.

The case then moved to the California Court of Appeal, where the appellate court affirmed the trial court’s ruling. It agreed that the substantial evidence standard had been properly applied and supported the Board’s findings. The court also upheld the decision to deny the winery’s motion to amend the complaint, concluding it would not have affected the outcome.

A key issue on appeal was whether the winery should be regulated under the Ventura County Outdoor Events Ordinance, which governs event spaces. However, the court ruled that the stricter Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance applied, reinforcing the Board’s decision that the winery had violated zoning laws by converting agricultural land into a commercial event space.

This case serves as a reminder for businesses to comply with zoning laws, particularly in agricultural zones, where land-use regulations are strict to preserve the property’s intended purpose.