Planning Commission - 09/10/2026

The Placer County Planning Commission held a meeting on September 10, 2026, where a key agenda item was the consideration and approval of a conditional use permit for the Cabin Creek Biomass Facility at the Eastern Regional Landfill. The project involves establishing a biomass utilization and biochar production facility aimed at processing locally sourced forest biomass to reduce wildfire risk, improve air quality, and produce renewable products. The facility will use proven kiln technology to convert woody biomass into biochar, with potential future expansion to include energy recovery systems. The commission discussed environmental impacts, compliance with county plans, and the financial and operational model, including a public-private partnership with Biochar Now. The project is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly compared to open pile burning and support local markets for biochar in soil amendment and water filtration. The commission unanimously approved the environmental addendum and the conditional use permit, with plans for construction to begin in spring 2027 and operations by late summer or early fall. The meeting also included updates on fee schedule revisions and upcoming planning commission items but focused primarily on this biomass facility project.