Outdoor Artisan Markets

Over the past two years, outdoor artisan markets have become a weekend staple in the City of Ojai. In response, the City Council tasked the Community Development Department with educating the public on the permitting process and gathering community input on the future of these markets. This page provides information on the permitting process, the markets' presence, and the path forward.

Temporary Use Permit (TUP)

What is a TUP?
  • Allows for short-term activities compatible with the adjacent and surrounding uses when in compliance with Section 10-2.22 of the Ojai Municipal Code.
  • A TUP is a discretionary permit reviewed and decided upon by the Director of Community Development.
Current Process:
  1. Submit a TUP application
  2. Pay Fees
              a.  Base Fee:  $450
              b.  Additional Fee:  $225/ hour of staff time
  3. Findings and Decision (Section 10-2.2204)
             a. Written decision with findings and conditions if approved
The proposed temporary use would:
  • Be consistent with the General Plan and zoning standards.
  • Not interfere with neighboring developments or create traffic or pedestrian hazards.
  • Provide an aesthetically appealing environment for occupants, visitors, and neighbors through proper use of materials, texture, and color.
The proposed temporary use would not:
  • Harm public convenience, health, safety, welfare, or nearby properties.
  • Lower property values or interfere with the use of surrounding properties.
Allowable Uses

Per Section 10-2.2202 of the Ojai Municipal Code, the following temporary uses are allowed, subject to the issuance of a TUP.
  1. Christmas tree and pumpkin sales
  2. Events sponsored by charitable efforts or tax-exempt organizations
  3. Car Washes
  4. Emergency public health and safety
  5. Temporary uses determined by the Director to be compatible with the district and surrounding uses.

    Both (2) and (5) have been considered for outdoor artisan markets.

Recent History

May 2023: The City was made aware of existing outdoor artisan markets

September 2023: Six-month provisional TUPs for outdoor markets were approved to gauge any impacts on the community.

December 2023: Numerous complaints were received about outdoor artisan markets, particularly their impact on brick-and-mortar businesses.

May 2024: The City Council directed staff to organize a town hall meeting regarding outdoor artisan markets.

July 2024: Town Hall Meeting

Existing Opportunities for Local Artists

Stores that feature local artists

  • Poppies Art and Gifts 
  • Ova Arts
  • Sunday’s

13 outdoor events located at Libbey Park in Downtown Ojai 

Month Event
March Pixie Tangerine Celebration*
April Puppy Love Concert*
May Art in the Park
June Ojai Local Lavender Celebration*
Ventura County Potters Guild Market
July Ojai Dog Days of Summer*
August Ojai Summer Fest*
October Ojai Day
Beatrice Woods Market
November Winter Wonderland Celebration*
Beatrice Woods Market
Holiday Market Place
December Beatrice Woods Market

* Events with an asterisk indicate that 100% of artists in attendance are local to Ojai.

Public Meetings

City Council | May 14, 2024
Town Hall Meeting | July 18, 2024