Uso

FACTS AND PROCEEDINGS

Factual Background In 2015, Uso sought and obtained a permit to build a single-family residence on his 9.5-acre property in Cool (property); the residence was constructed in 2016. The property had a land use designation and was zoned as “open space,” which was intended to “provide a medium whereby the essential open space needs of the citizens of the county may be provided for.” (El Dorado County Zoning Ord. (2013 Zoning Ordinance), § 17.68.010.) “ ‘Open space land’ ” was defined as “parcels or areas of land which are generally unimproved and devoted to and essential for” natural resource preservation, preservation of agricultural production, preservation of recreational enjoyment areas, preservation of wildlife habitat, protection of the public against seismic, geologic, and geographical hazards, and protection of unusual or unique scenic values. (Id., § 17.68.020.)

2 Uso installed a vineyard on the property, which included an estimated 800 grape vines and was characterized in a subsequent hearing as “pretty darn big” and as not “look[ing] like personal use vines.” Uso also constructed several unpermitted buildings on the property. In 2015, he constructed…