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Permanent Service Station Ban Ordinance

Permanent Service Station Ban Ordinance

The City of Pinole is considering a potential ordinance that would prohibit new gas fueling stations and limit expansion of existing stations, and is seeking community input. On January 26, the Planning Commission held a public hearing and voted unanimously to recommend City Council approval of the ordinance. Visit the project page to learn more. Please take the brief survey below. Thanks in advance!

 

As currently drafted, the ordinance would:

  • Prohibit new service stations in all zoning districts.
  • Allow existing service stations to continue operating as legal nonconforming uses.
  • Allow limited modification or renovation of fossil fuel uses (as long as changes do not increase the number of fossil fuel pumps). Routine maintenance and repair/replacement of equipment would be permitted.
  • Allow modifications at service station sites to support other allowable uses (e.g., convenience stores, car washes) and encourage alternative fuel infrastructure.
  • Establish a new use category and development standards for alternative fuel stations, allowing service station-type uses that dispense alternative fuels as permitted by right.

     

     

(required) Do you support or oppose the ordinance as describe above?

Support
Oppose
Not sure/need more information
Closed to responses

(required) If you support the ordinance, what are your top reasons? (Select up to 3)

Pinole already has enough gas stations; fueling access and wait times are generally adequate
Environmental and public health concerns (e.g., groundwater contamination, emissions, hazardous materials)
Climate and sustainability goals: prioritize transition to cleaner transportation and expand EV charging instead of adding new gas stations
Encourages investment in alternative fuel infrastructure (EV charging, hydrogen, etc.)
Aligns with state climate policies and positions Pinole as proactive in sustainability
Reduces land-use conflicts and preserves space for housing, parks, and retail
Improves community appearance by avoiding additional asphalt-heavy developments
Helps manage traffic and safety issues near sensitive areas (schools, residential streets)
Supports long-term planning for future transportation needs
Provides clear and consistent development standards for businesses and residents
Other
Closed to responses

If you oppose the ordinance, what are you top reasons? (Select up to 3)

Market and competition should determine the number of stations; limiting them may reduce competition and affect fuel prices
Economic impacts: new or expanded stations can bring jobs and sales tax revenue; restrictions may shift purchases to neighboring cities
Equity and affordability: many residents still rely on gasoline; EVs and charging can be costly or impractical for some households
Practical considerations: California's electric grid and charging infrastructure may not be ready for full EV adoption; transition will take time
Fueling stations provide resilience during emergencies (e.g., backup power during outages)
City priorities: resources should focus on roads, safety, and other infrastructure needs
Restrictions could limit redevelopment opportunities and discourage commercial growth
Residents may need to drive farther for fuel, increasing travel time and emissions
Some view the ordinance as unnecessary or overly restrictive for current community needs
Transition to EVs may not be realistic for all households due to cost and infrastructure gaps
Other
Closed to responses

(required) Which approach do you think the City should take regarding the draft ordinance? (Select all applicable)

Keep the current draft ordinance as described above
Modify the ordinance to allow replacement-in-kind if a station closes (no net increase in total stations)
Modify the ordinance to allow new stations under a Conditional Use Permit with location limits and traffic/health mitigations
Modify the ordinance to cap total pumps/stations citywide and require community/environmental safeguards
Modify the ordinance to allow case-by-case review instead of a permanent ban
Don't move forward with the ordinance
Other
Closed to responses

(required) What information would help you decide? (Check all that apply)

Economic impact analysis (sales tax, jobs, redevelopment effects)
Traffic and health impact analysis near sensitive areas (schools/downtown)
Grid capacity and resilience considerations during the transition
Other
Closed to responses

Optional questions

What is your primary vehicle type?

Gasoline
Diesel
Hybrid
Plug-in Hybrid
Battery EV
Closed to responses

Are you interested in additional non-gas fueling options in Pinole?

Very
Somewhat
Neutral
Not at all
Closed to responses

What is your household reliance on gasoline?

0%
1-25%
26-50%
51-75%
76-100%
Closed to responses

What is your ZIP or neighborhood?

Closed to responses