Who We Are
We are residents of Nevada County who have come together to support a strong, safe cell tower and wireless communications ordinance.
On March 31st, 2025 a Public Workshop facilitated by District 3 Supervisor Lisa Swarthout was held in Nevada City and attended by 60+ members of the community. Planning Staff presented an outline of their recommendations and public comments were provided.
Watch Here: Public Meeting-Revamping Cell Tower Ordinance
While community members are eager for improved cell phone service for themselves and emergency responders, we have concerns about the Planning Staff’s recommendations regarding the application process for cell towers and wireless facilities, as well as the guidelines for siting and installation.
We aim to preserve neighborhood aesthetics and ensure the safety of our environment and residents. Local oversight of the permitting procedures and deployment is key, and public transparency is required.
Key elements of a safe wireless ordinance typically include:
Clear guidelines for the siting and installation of wireless facilities to preserve community aesthetics.
Detailed and transparent permitting procedures that maintain local oversight.
Robust opportunities for public participation to ensure community concerns and feedback are adequately addressed.
Stringent health and safety standards to mitigate the effects of electromagnetic radiation and fire risk, ensuring that no cell tower is placed in a location with only one route of egress.
Why You Should Care
Would you like to be informed when small cell antennas are planned for your neighborhood? The Planning Department is recommending that no public notice be given for “5g” antennas in the Public Right of Way on light and utility poles. Let them know you want public notification and no Administrative Permits for these powerful Radio Frequency millimeter wave antennas that may show up outside your home, office, or school.
Are you aware that the current code allows a cell tower facility with generator to be as close as 30-feet to an adjacent property in the rural zone? Demand strong setbacks of 500-1500 feet.
Concerned about fires? Request that no cell tower be placed in locations with only one route of egress. Cell tower fires are electrical fires that cannot be extinguished using conventional methods; the power must be cut first, which can take up to 60 minutes.
Did you know that the plastics from monopine cell towers, which are “disguised” as pine trees, release high amounts of plastic that pollute our soil, water, and nearby properties? Hold industry applicants accountable for cleanup and alternative methods.
What You Can Do
Sign up below to receive news and updates, and to connect with your community.
Review the Draft Ordinance released on 7/8/25.
Submit comments to the Planning Department by 8/8/25.
Need help with writing your comment? Guidance is available contact: info@nevadacountyforsafetech.com
Announcement from the Planning Department:
https://www.nevadacountyca.gov/civicalerts.aspx?aid=8284
Draft Ordinance and Use Permit Draft:
https://www.nevadacountyca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/58066/Communication-Tower-and-Facilities-Update-Draft-Ordinance-Nevada-County-Code-1203080-PDF
https://www.nevadacountyca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/58067/Use-Permits-Update-Draft-Ordinance-Nevada-County-Code-1205060PDF
To respond to the Planning Dept. with comments or questions, please contact Associate Planner David Nicholas at (530) 265-1257 or David.Nicholas@nevadacountyca.gov or 950 Maidu Ave., Suite 170, Nevada City, Calif. 95959
Attend the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors Meetings, and provide public comment on the issues important to you.
Learn about the strong protective ordinances adopted nationwide: