Pioneertown draft ordinance now available for public review

Wooden “Pioneertown 1946” sign beside a desert roadway, with Joshua trees, dry grassland, and mountain views under a clear blue sky. — *The Pioneertown draft ordinance proposes development and land use standards to help preserve the community’s historic Western character while guiding future growth.*
*Community members are encouraged to review the draft ordinance and provide feedback through comments or public participation.*

The draft ordinance for adoption of the Pioneertown Special Development District is now available online for public review and comment.

The proposed ordinance would establish development and land use standards intended to preserve Pioneertown’s distinctive Western character, rural atmosphere and historic identity while providing clear guidance for future growth.

Community feedback reflected in draft

The draft ordinance incorporates feedback received through community meetings, stakeholder discussions and ongoing public outreach. Several updates were made in response to community input, such as:

Designating Mane Street for pedestrian and equestrian use.

Prohibiting nightclubs.

Prohibiting franchise businesses, defined as businesses operating under the same trademark with 11 or more locations worldwide.

These revisions reflect the community’s vision of maintaining Pioneertown’s unique and historic character while planning for the future.

Preserving a historic community

Founded in 1946 as a fully functioning 1880s-style Western film set, Pioneertown remains one of the High Desert’s most recognizable historic destinations. Its iconic Mane Street features preserved Western-style facades that continue to serve as restaurants, shops, lodging and gathering spaces.

In 2020, the Mane Street Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The proposed ordinance is intended to help ensure that future development remains compatible with the area’s historic setting and rural character.

Review and comment

Community members are encouraged to review the draft ordinance and submit comments or questions to Associate Planner Vivian Nguyen at Vivian.Nguyen@lus.sbcounty.gov.

The Pioneertown Special Development District will be considered by the Planning Commission on Dec. 3, 2026. Members of the community are welcome to attend, learn more about the draft ordinance and provide public comment.

For more information, visit the Pioneertown Special Development District webpage.

Additional County Update News – November 12, 2026