Santa Clara County is situated in one of the most geologically active regions in North America. As a matter of public safety, geologic review is required for proposed development on land located within a geologic hazard zone, or any proposed development or ground disturbance that may increase the risk of damage caused by a geologic hazard.
Other natural hazards that are evaluated with land development include wildfires and flooding. The Planning Office coordinates with other agencies in evaluating such hazards.