Open Space

The important role that open space plays in defining Cannon Beach is reflected in several elements of the Vision Statement of the Comprehensive Plan. The fundamental principle of the plan is to foster a community with a strong sense of place which provides its resident the quality of life that they desire. The protection and enhancement of the following unique community characteristics form the basis for achieving this principle: Proximity to and interaction with the surrounding natural environment as defined by the ocean and its beach, the Ecola Creek estuary and surrounding forested hillsides. A city that is physically small in size and has well defined edges as the result of its location adjacent to the ocean and forest land.

The elements of the town’s physical form which the plan will foster are: Development that honors the city’s’ physical setting. A distinct edge to the town which defines the separation of urban uses from rural and natural resource uses.

The broad categories which define open space within the City are specific natural resource areas such as the beach and associated dunes, wetlands and streams and their associated riparian areas, scenic resources and natural hazard areas such as flood plains and geologic hazard areas. City policies with regard to these and other open spaces resources are generally contained in the “Recreation, Open Space, Natural, Visual and Historic Resources” section of the Comprehensive Plan. The Zoning Code contains specific standards intended to protect beach and dune areas, estuarine areas, and wetlands and stream corridors.

Click on the Quick Links on the right for information with regard to significant open space areas in public ownership in the City.