Formula Business Ordinance

Proposed Revision to Formula Business Ordinance (Chain Stores)

As directed by the City Council and Ojai business community, the Community Development Department has targeted current “Formula Business” ordinance regulations within the Ojai Municipal Code. Any proposed modifications to these existing regulations would be reviewed via public hearing(s), Planning Commission consideration, and then ultimately a City Council decision based on the prior steps.

“Formula Business” is formally defined via the City’s municipal code, Sec. 10-2.1713, as a type of commercial business establishment, retail sales or rental activity and retail sales or rental establishment, including restaurants, hotels and motels, which, along with ten (10) or more other establishments, maintains two (2) or more of the following features: (i) standardized array of merchandise or standardized menu; (ii) standardized facade; (iii) standardized décor or color scheme; (iv) uniform apparel; (v) standardized signage; or (vi) trademark or service mark; provided, however, a “formula business” shall not include an automated, standalone vending machine.” Please see the aforementioned section for additional definition materials.

Additionally, pursuant to the Ojai Municipal Code Sec. 10-2.2704 and Sec. 10-2.2902, it is the Director’s intent to set public hearings before the Commission and Council in respect to the potential Amendment(s) to the code. In light of that, within this page citizens and business owners alike will have access to all relevant materials related to the proposed amendment in order to be fully informed of the material being used to assist the Planning Commission and City Council. 

Relevant Documentation

• Formula Business Code Section
• Current Moratorium | Formula Businesses
• Research Results | Other Active Formula Business Community’s 
• Planning Commission Q & A Document
• Chamber of Commerce Letter