What determines if my development is subject to a specific plan?

In some instances, a developer may choose to prepare a specific plan simply because he finds it desirable to have his development be subject to a specific plan because of some practical reason, such as financing, marketing, or administration.

In other instances, the authority to require the preparation of a specific plan was delegated to local governments by the state legislature.  Strictly speaking, the responsibility for determining the need for a specific plan rests with the Kern County Board of Supervisors in the context of a public hearing.  However, the Kern County Planning and Natural Resources Department has an advisory role in the decision.