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Buena Park City Zoning Code

Division 7

Mixed-Use Zones 1

§ 19.704.010 Purpose and General Plan Consistency.

The General Plan outlines goals and objectives regarding mixed-use development. The purpose of this Division is to implement those General Plan goals and objectives that relate to mixed-use land uses.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.704.020 Description of Zones.

The following mixed-use zones, with their general purpose as indicated, have been created to implement the goals and objectives of the General Plan for the mixed-use land use designation.
A. 
GMU, General Mixed-Use. To provide a mix of compatible higher-density residential and neighborhood commercial uses along major arterials. The mix of uses can be integrated vertically (i.e., commercial on the ground floor with residential and/or office uses above) or horizontally (residential next to commercial and office uses). Single-use projects (i.e., a project that is entirely residential or entirely non-residential) are not permitted in GMU zones. A minimum of two (2) uses are required for GMU zones.
B. 
CBPMU, Central Buena Park Mixed-Use. To provide a mix of compatible higher-density residential and/or office uses above existing commercial, and office uses in a pedestrian-friendly environment. The mix of uses shall be integrated vertically (i.e., commercial on the ground floor with residential and/or office uses above). Single-use projects (i.e., a project that is entirely residential or entirely nonresidential) are not permitted in CBPMU zones. A minimum of two (2) uses are required for CBPMU zones.
C. 
EMU, Entertainment Mixed-Use. To provide a mix of compatible higher-density residential, entertainment, and commercial uses that support entertainment and tourism within the City. The mix of uses can be integrated vertically (i.e., commercial or entertainment uses on the ground floor with residential uses above) or horizontally (residential next to commercial and entertainment uses). Single-use projects (i.e., a project that is entirely residential or entirely nonresidential) are not permitted in EMU zones. A minimum of two (2) uses are required for EMU zones.
D. 
COMU, Commercial Office Mixed-Use. To provide a mix of compatible higher-intensity commercial and office uses within existing commercial and industrial areas in the City. The mix of uses can be integrated vertically (i.e., commercial uses on the ground floor with office uses above) or horizontally (commercial uses next to office uses). Single-use projects (i.e., a project that is entirely commercial or entirely office) are not permitted in COMU zones. A minimum of two (2) uses are required for COMU zones.
E. 
Housing Incentive Overlay (HIO) Zones. The HIO Zones includes six (6) Overlays that serve to implement the Housing Element's goal of providing new housing that addresses affordable housing needs by establishing objective design criteria for designated housing opportunity sites. The Housing Incentive Overlays include Mixed-Use Overlay-45, Mixed-Use Overlay-60, Mixed-Use Overlay-100, Housing Opportunities Overlay, Religious Congregational and Fraternal Overlay, and Hotel/Motel Conversion Overlay.
1. 
The Mixed-Use Housing Incentive Overlays focus on mixed-use, walkable and vibrant environments and range in function and intensity from primarily residential areas with a mix of lower intensity building types (MUO45, Mixed-Use Overlay-45), to moderate intensity neighborhoods (MUO60, Mixed-Use Overlay-60), to higher intensity neighborhoods (MUO100, Mixed-Use Overlay-100). The "45", "60", and "100" in the name of the Overlay refers to the allowable density within the Overlay Zone.
2. 
The Housing Opportunities Overlay (HOO) provides for higher density affordable multi-family housing.
3. 
The Religious Congregational and Fraternal Overlay (RCFO) allows faith-based and fraternal organizations to build affordable housing on its sites.
4. 
The Hotel/Motel Conversion Overlay (HMCO) allows for the conversion of underperforming hotels/motels into permanent supportive housing.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.704.030 Housing Incentive Overlay (HIO) Classification.

Properties located in areas shown on the Zoning Map with the symbol "MUO45", "MUO60", "MUO100", "RCFO", or "HMCO" may be used for mixed-use higher-density housing as a primary use in lieu of, but not in combination with, other uses authorized for the underlying zone. Objective Design Standards apply to such properties. Refer to the adopted Housing Incentive Overlay (HIO) Objective Design and Development Standards for applicable standards.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.704.040 Interpretation of Uses Permitted.

Further definition and enumeration of uses permitted in the various zones may be determined by interpretation in accordance with Section 19.128.010.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.708.010 Density and Intensity.

A. 
Residential. The base land use density refers to the maximum number of units per acre permitted under the corresponding zoning district. Additional density may be achievable in the form of a density bonus. Before any density bonus is applied, the number of dwelling units permitted in a mixed-use residential development shall not exceed the base density specified below.
B. 
Non-Residential. The maximum floor area ratio refers to the highest ratio of building floor area to the net area of the lot on which the building is located.
Zone
Base Residential Density
(dwelling units per net acre)(1)
Floor Area Ratio (FAR)
(for non-residential uses)(3)
GMU
32.0
1.0
CBPMU
45.0
1.0
EMU
80.0
3.0
COMU(2)
-
0.5
Notes:
(1)
For standards on density bonus, refer to Section 19.708.020 for Affordable Housing Bonus.
(2)
Residential development is not allowed.
(3)
Parking structures are excluded from FAR calculations for Mixed-Use development.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.708.020 Affordable Housing Bonus.

State Density Bonus Law (Government Code Sections 6591565918) provides that local governments shall grant density bonuses and regulatory concessions and incentives to developers of housing, childcare facilities, or for donation of land for housing, where the developer agrees to construct a specified percentage of housing for lower-income households, very low-income households), moderate-income households or qualifying residents. This section adopts the State Density Bonus Law by reference. Where a provision contained in the Municipal Code does not discuss a specific condition or situation that arises, the provisions set forth in State Density Bonus Law shall apply. In the event of a conflict between these provisions and the provisions of State Density Bonus Law, whichever is stricter shall prevail.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.708.030 Fractional Results.

In determining the maximum number of dwelling units permitted on a site, any fraction of dwelling unit in the calculated result, after applying all density factors, shall not be construed as allowing an additional dwelling unit if such fraction is less than 0.5.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.708.040 Site Dimensions.

The minimum size and dimensions of lots created in the various mixed-use zones shall be as shown in Table 19.708.040, except that certain specific uses of property require site areas and dimensions greater than the minimum site requirements for the zone. See Chapter 19.748, Special Requirements for Certain Uses.
Table 19.708.040
SITE DIMENSIONS
Zone
Minimum Lot Area
(square feet)
Minimum Street Frontage
(feet)
Minimum Lot Width
(feet)(2)
Minimum Lot Depth (feet)
GMU
15,000
50
50
CBPMU
15,000
50
70
EMU
20,000
50
100
COMU(1)
10,000
50
50
Notes:
(1) No minimum requirements apply for individual lots within an integrated development in the mixed-use zones.
(2) Parcels adjacent to major or secondary highway, freeways, drainage channels, or railroad rights-of-way shall require an additional 10 feet.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.712.010 Uses Permitted.

A. 
Land, buildings and other facilities shall be designed, developed, and used only for those activities indicated for the various zones by Table 19.712.010, entitled Uses Permitted. The symbols shown in this table have the following meanings:
Symbol
Meaning
P
Automatically permitted use.
I
Incidental use—use permitted only if incidental to another primary use on the same site. If incidental to a use authorized by conditional use permit, such incidental use is permitted only if included within the terms of the conditional use permit.
C
Conditional use—use eligible for consideration under the conditional use procedure (Section 19.128.020) and permitted only if a conditional use permit is approved, subject to the specific conditions of such permit.
Ci
Incidental conditional use—use eligible for consideration under the conditional use procedure only if incidental to another primary use of the site, whether such primary use is automatically permitted or permitted by conditional use permit.
Pc
Automatically permitted use, except such use is subject to a conditional use permit when located within 330 feet of a residential zone.
IC
Incidental or conditional use—automatically permitted as an incidental use, when the primary use is automatically permitted, or eligible for consideration as a primary use under the conditional use procedure.
T
Temporary use—permitted if approved in accordance with Title 19, Division 10.
Table 19.712.010
USES PERMITTED - MIXED-USE ZONES
Uses
GMU
CBPMU
EMU
COMU
Additional Requirements
Residential Uses (upper floors only)
Multi-Family Dwellings:
Multi-Family Apartments
P
P
P
Transitional/Supportive Housing
P
P
P
See Chapter 5.70
Condominium, Stock Cooperative, Community Apartments
P
P
P
See Section 19.448.030
Live/Work Unit
P
P
P
See Section 19.748.030
Low-Barrier Navigation Centers
P
P
P
Short-Term Rentals
I
I
I
See Section 19.348.080
Group Quarters: (upper floors only)
Convent, rectory, dormitory, fraternity or sorority house, etc.
C
C
Ci
Ci
Community Residential Care: (upper floors only)
Small Group Care Home
P
P
P
See Chapter 5.70
Other Community Residential Care Facility
C
C
C
Residential Accessory Uses:
See Table 19.412.010 for a list of uses permitted as Residential Accessory Uses.
Public Service Uses
Community Day Care: (1st and 2nd floors only)
Child Day Care Center
P
P
C
C
See Table 19.412.010 for Special Requirements.
Adult Day Care Center.
P
P
C
C
See Table 19.412.010 for Special Requirements.
Health Facilities
Long-Term Care (Intermediate Care or Skilled Nursing).
C
C
C
Hospital.
C
C
C
Medical or dental laboratory.
P
P
I
I
Medical or dental clinic
P
P
P
P
1st and 2nd floors only
Pharmacy.
P
P
P
P
1st and 2nd floors only
Optician.
P
P
P
P
1st and 2nd floors only
Public Assembly (See also Recreation.)
Church(1)
C
C
C
P
Churches shall be located on and oriented to major, primary, or secondary highway as defined and as designated in the Buena Park General Plan. See Note (1).
Emergency shelter.
P
P
P
P
See Section 19.448.090
Club, lodge, meeting hall, community center (largest meeting room limited to 150 seats or 1000 sq. ft.)
P
P
P
P
See Note (1).
Exhibit hall (no swap meets).
C
C
C
C
Auditorium.
C
C
C
See Note (1).
Theater, indoor.
C
C
C
Education (1st and 2nd floors only)
Educational institution
C
C
C
C
See Note (1).
Library, reading room
P
P
P
P
Museum.
P
P
P
Tutoring.
P
P
P
P
Business college, vocational school (no industrial machinery or equipment), physical training school.
C
C
C
C
Trade school.
C
Recreation
Public park, public playground, public recreational area, public landscaped open space, public-owned historical site or feature.
P
P
P
P
Recreation area (play area, swimming pool, racquetball courts, etc.), as an accessory use (public or private use, indoor or outdoor) to a permitted commercial use.
C
C
C
C
Private recreation facility.
C
C
C
Community recreation center.
I
I
C
Theme recreational park.
C
Tennis courts or club, indoor only.
P
P
P
1st and 2nd floors only
With outdoor courts.
C
C
Racquetball, pickle ball handball, swimming, gym, athletic club, indoor only.
P
P
P
1st and 2nd floors only
With outdoor courts.
C
C
Natural Resource Development
Arboretum/Botanical Garden.
C
C
C
C
Utilities and Communications
See Division 12 of Zoning Ordinance.
Aviation navigational aids.
C
C
C
C
Public utility facilities or structures, including electrical substations and cellular telephone facilities.
C
C
C
C
Transportation
Surface parking lot.
P
P
P
P
Parking structure.
P
P
P
P
Park and Ride.
C
C
C
C
Commercial Uses
Commercial uses are not allowed above the 2nd floor.
Any permitted commercial use with drive-in, drive-through, or walkup window service.
C
C
C
C
See Section 19.552.070.
Office
Bank, financial institution.
P
P
P
P
1st and 2nd floors only. See Note (2).
Business, administrative, professional.
P
P
P
P
1st and 2nd floors only, except for the COMU Zone. See Note (2).
Studios, etc.
Martial arts, dance or drama studio, art or music conservatory.
P
P
P
P
1st and 2nd floors only
Music studio, recording studio.
C
C
C
Radio, television studio.
P
P
Art studio, art gallery, interior decorating, costume design, arts and crafts, photography studio.
P
P
P
P
Sale of art or publications related to permitted use.
I
I
I
I
Personal Services
Barber shop, beauty salon.
P
P
P
P
Automated banking service kiosk.
P
P
P
P
Retail dry cleaning.
P
1st and 2nd floors only. See Section 19.552.020.
Health spa or salon.
P
P
P
Massage establishment.
C
C
C
See Section 19.552.130.
Tanning salon.
P
Tourist Services
Travel and ticket agency.
P
P
P
P
Vertical Mixed-Use Only. 1st floor only.
Hotel/Motel
C
C
C
See Sections 19.104.080 and 19.552.110.
Commercial Recreation
Entertainment.
C
C
Skating rink.
C
C
Skateboard park.
C
Dancehall or other establishment with public dancing.
Ci
Ci
Ci
Game machine arcade.
C
C
C
See Section 19.552.040.
Batting cages.
C
C
Billiard parlor, poolroom.
C
C
Bowling alley.
C
C
Retail Sales
See Table 19.512.010 for a list of permitted Retail Sales services.
Food Sales and Service
Restaurant with no entertainment, no liquor, no drive-in, no drive-through, no walk-up service window.
P
P
P
P
1st and 2nd floors only
With entertainment.
C
C
C
C
See Chapter 5.24 for definition.
With on-sale liquor.
C
C
C
C
See Section 19.552.030.
With drive-in, drive-through, or walk-up service window.
C
C
C
C
1st floor only. See Section 19.552.070.
Cocktail lounge, bar.
Ci
Ci
Ci
1st floor only
Liquor, off-sale.
C
C
C
1st floor only
Supermarket, grocery, fruits, and vegetables, dairy products, meat.
C
C
C
1st and 2nd floors only
Confectionary, ice cream, deli, bakery (baking for on-premises sales only).
P
P
P
I
Banquet facility, catering facility.
C
C
C
Vehicle Sales and Rentals (1st floor only)
Automobile rental agency.
P
Vehicle sales, leasing and rental agency (office use only).
P
C
Retail sales of auto parts or accessories, not including tires.
P
Vehicle Service (1st floor only)
Mechanical carwash.
C
C
See Section 19.552.060.
Automobile service station.
C
C
C
See Section 19.552.050.
Quick tune-up/oil change/lube shop.
C
C
Printing Services
See Table 19.512.010 for a list of permitted Printing services.
Other Commercial Uses
Watch repair, camera repair, radio, stereo, television, personal computers, other small appliance repair.
P
P
1st and 2nd floors only
Rental of light equipment (up to single unit trucks).
C
Small animal grooming (no boarding).
P
P
1st and 2nd floors only
Veterinary clinic with or without overnight boarding.
C
C
1st and 2nd floors only
Temporary Uses
Temporary uses, as provided in Title 19, Division 10.
T
T
T
T
On-site construction facilities.
T
T
T
T
See Note (3).
On-site real estate sales office.
T
T
T
T
See Note (4).
Notes:
(1) Bingo games shall be permitted as an accessory use only when authorized under Chapter 5.16 et seq., and only when fire and safety regulations are met and parking facilities are fully conforming to the requirements for public assembly use.
(2) In an integrated center within the mixed-use zones, a conditional use permit is required to establish an administrative or professional business office use in excess of 5,000 square feet gross floor area or to establish any office use which will cause the center's gross floor area devoted to offices to exceed 20 percent.
(3) Offices, storage, activities, and facilities directly pertaining to construction on the same site provided construction is not suspended for a permitted use for more than 30 consecutive days.
(4) Temporary real estate sales office, only for sales or leasing of new subdivision and for not more than 1 year.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.716.010 Buildings Required.

A. 
All activities and facilities, where permitted by other provisions of this Division, shall be enclosed within permanently constructed buildings.
B. 
Outdoor activities, storage, and display may be permitted in accordance with Sections 19.712.010 and 19.724.020, and the regulations and limitations of Division 10, Title 19.
C. 
Where a use is permitted by conditional use permit, temporary use permit, or special permit (see Division 10, Title 19), outdoor activities and temporary facilities may be authorized by the terms of such permit notwithstanding the provisions of this section.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.716.020 Building Type.

Every building shall be designed or remodeled to accommodate its use in accordance with applicable building codes and other laws.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.716.030 Height of Structures.

A. 
The maximum height of any building or structure shall be shown in Table 19.716.030.
Table 19.716.030
HEIGHT LIMITS - MIXED-USE ZONES
Zones
Maximum Height
Within 50 feet of any Single-Family (RS) Residential Zone
More than 50 feet from any Single-Family (RS) Residential Zone
GMU and CBPMU
4 stories or 45 feet, whichever is less
5 stories or 55 feet, except that a greater height may be authorized by a conditional use permit.
COMU
2 stories or 30 feet, whichever is less
4 stories or 45 feet, except that a greater height may be authorized by a conditional use permit.
EMU
4 stories or 45 feet, whichever is less
The height shall not be more than 65 feet plus 1 foot for each foot of horizontal distance in excess of 50 feet from the nearest residential zone or street property line, except that a greater height may be authorized under a conditional use permit.
B. 
Building Height. Building height is measured to the top of the deck floor of the highest occupied level. This measurement excludes rooftop open space, parapets, trellises, and equipment or utility-related structures, which may extend above the measured height but are not considered part of the overall building height.
C. 
Ground Floor Height. For residential buildings with ground-floor commercial uses, the floor-to-floor height of the ground floor shall be at least fifteen (15) feet to ensure the appropriate scale of the base of the building in relation to the upper floors. For ground floor residential uses, floor-to-floor height of the ground floor shall be at least ten (10) feet.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.716.040 Building Form.

A. 
Roof forms and roof lines shall be broken into a series of smaller building components when viewed from the street. Long, linear, unbroken roof lines shall not exceed 75 feet.
B. 
Building walls along the street frontage shall include architectural details (e.g., brackets, rafter tails, or dentils) at the cornice or roof eave. Architectural design features such as window treatments, awnings, moldings, projecting eaves, dormers, and balconies, shall be continued or repeated upon all elevations of a building facing a primary or secondary street, or a common open space.
C. 
Buildings shall be oriented towards public (and private) streets to positively define street edges. Buildings adjacent to both public streets and public open space amenities, such as parks, shall be designed with a dual orientation.
D. 
Except for parking structure entrances, structured parking shall not be visible from the primary streets.
E. 
Buildings shall be arranged to provide functional common outdoors spaces (such as courtyards, paseos, or parks) for the use of residents.
F. 
Mixed-use building orientation shall comply with all the standards mentioned above and the following standards.
1. 
Commercial/Office Units. Commercial/office unit entrances shall face the street, a parking area, or an interior common space.
2. 
Entrances to residential units shall be physically separated from the entrances to commercial uses and clearly marked with a physical feature. In a vertical mixed-use project, where residential units and commercial spaces occupy different floors or levels, an example of a physical feature to separate entrances is the use of floor designations and dedicated lobby or entrance areas. In a horizontal mixed-use project where residential and commercial uses coexist on the same level or within close proximity, a distinct entry canopy may be provided to assist occupants and visitors easily identify and navigate to their intended destinations.
G. 
At least 50% of the total ground floor building frontage of any new or reconstructed building facing the public street shall have the following: windows with clear glass (tinted windows are permitted provided they are not 100% opaque), recessed entries, residential stoops, recesses for outdoor dining areas, landscaping, or enhanced window/entry elements such as awnings or canopies. To calculate the percentage of ground-floor frontage, use the length of the building frontage along the public street multiplied by the first-floor height from floor to ceiling.
H. 
Building Step Backs and Facade Articulation. For buildings exceeding three (3) stories in height must provide a minimum horizontal step back of six (6) feet for all stories above the 3rd level on all street-facing elevations (including front and side yard facades and alley) and any elevation adjacent to a single-family residential zone or use. The step back shall be measured horizontally from the exterior building wall or facade. The step back may vary between sections of the elevation. The overall average stepback shall be a minimum of 6 feet for each floor above the third story. For example, 50% of the building elevation on the fourth floor and above may have an 8-foot step back, while the other 50% may feature a 4-foot step back, resulting in an overall average step back of 6 feet. Parking structures shall be exempt from the horizontal step back requirement.
Figure A. Average Building Stepbacks.
I. 
Antennae. Notwithstanding the restrictions of Section 19.716.030, radio antennae permitted under FCC regulations, and similar equipment shall be subject to the following regulations:
1. 
Ground-mounted antennae, which are incidental or accessory uses, are permitted to a height of sixty (60) feet unless permitted higher by a conditional use permit.
2. 
Roof-mounted antennae, which shall include dishes to a maximum of twenty-four (24) inches in diameter, may be used but may not be more than twenty-five (25) feet higher than the highest point of the building to which they are attached, unless permitted higher by the issuance of a conditional use permit.
3. 
Dish antennae exceeding twenty-four (24) inches in diameter may be roof-mounted, provided that they are screened from public view or approved by a conditional use permit.
4. 
Any antenna that is primary to the use shall be subject to the height limit established under a conditional use permit.
J. 
Flagpoles. Flag poles shall be permitted within front, side, or rear yards provided they are set back a minimum of five (5) feet from the property line and shall be limited to no more than thirty (30) feet in height subject to the issuance of a building permit.
K. 
Other Structures. Any free-standing structure, not specifically referenced in this Title shall be limited to no more than eight (8) feet in height and may not be located within the front, side, or rear yard setback area with the exception of art sculptures or water features, subject to review and approval by the Community and Economic Development Director and applicable building codes. Light poles shall not exceed sixteen (16) feet in height from grade and shall be placed within surface parking lots, pedestrian pathways, near building entrances, trash enclosures, alleys, and automated teller machines (ATMs).
L. 
Accessory Structures. See Section 19.716.070 for height limits for Non-Habitable Accessory Structures and Section 19.348.010 for height limits for Accessory Dwellings.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.716.050 Space Between Buildings.

A. 
The minimum distance between buildings located on the same lot shall be provided in Table 19.716.050. The minimum distance is measured from the exterior faces of nearest exterior walls between buildings. Where residential uses are located on the ground floor, the requirements for Section 19.416.050 shall apply.
Table 19.716.050
SPACE BETWEEN BUILDINGS
Height of Buildings
Min. Distance Between Two (2) or More Main Buildings
Min. Distance Between Main Buildings and Accessory Structures
Less than 45 feet in height
10 feet
6 feet
45 feet in height or greater
15 feet
6 feet
B. 
Mixed-use developments with two (2) or more buildings shall be designed around a common open space, public open space (e.g., a linear park/paseo), or community amenities such as swimming pools or other recreational facilities with a horizontal distance of no less than fifteen (15) feet. Pedestrian walkways shall be provided and connect open space areas to a public right-of-way and/or building entrance.
C. 
Permitted Building Projections, Ground Floor Commercial Uses. Projecting elements on the ground floor (e.g., canopies, awnings, architectural features, etc.) shall be located a minimum of eight (8) feet above the finished floor and may project no more than four (4) feet from the facade into the setback.
D. 
Projections Permitted Between Buildings on the Same Lot. The following projections are permitted within the required space between buildings, provided they project no more than three (3) feet from the facade into the setback.
1. 
Building Features.
a. 
Cantilevered eaves, awnings, and shading devices.
b. 
Architectural features such as sills, cornices, buttresses, Juliet balconies, bay windows, etc.
c. 
Chimneys not exceeding eight (8) feet in width.
2. 
Uncovered, cantilevered balconies, with a minimum ten (10) foot separation in all horizontal directions from any balcony or wall in the opposing structure.
3. 
Uncovered stairways and walkways.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.716.060 Residential Building Floor Area.

For mixed-use projects with a residential component, the minimum residential building floor area requirements in Section 19.416.060 shall apply.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.716.070 Non-Habitable Accessory Structures.

A. 
Non-habitable accessory structures may include storage areas, attached or detached garages, utility and pump houses, restroom facilities, vertical circulation access ways, open air structures such as cabanas, gazebos, trellis and other similar structures.
B. 
Any non-habitable accessory structures shall not exceed 600 square feet in floor area and shall not exceed one (1) story or fifteen (15) feet in height, whichever is less. Non-habitable accessory structures shall be located within the side yard or rear yard setback and shall not be visible from the street.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.716.080 Building Materials.

A. 
Facade Materials. Primary, Secondary and Accent materials are allowed or prohibited as specified in Table 19.716.080, which may be updated periodically by the Community and Economic Development Director as new or amended materials become available. Community and Economic Development Director approval is required for materials not identified in Table 19.716.080 below.
B. 
Primary Building Materials. The primary building materials listed in Table 19.716.080 are permitted to make up approximately 50% to 75% of the building design. The primary building materials include the appropriate wall surface materials and visible roofing materials. The primary building materials cover the primary/front facade, secondary/corner side facade, side facade, and rear facade of the entire building.
C. 
Accent/Secondary Materials. The accent/secondary building materials listed in Table 19.716.080 are permitted to make up approximately 25% to 50% of the building design. This includes exterior windows, decorative window treatments and balconies, decorative entries, etc.
D. 
Variation Between Buildings. For projects with six (6) buildings or more, the colors and materials of exterior walls, doors, and accents such as window trim shall vary and a minimum of two (2) distinct color schemes shall be provided for every six (6) buildings in a project.
E. 
Consistency Between Elevations. The materials, colors, and styles of windows, doors, roofs, decks, balconies, exterior staircases, porches, and any facade treatment shall be used on more than one (1) elevation of a building.
F. 
Material Transition. Changes in material shall occur at inside corners of intersecting walls or at architectural features that break up the wall plane, such as columns.
G. 
Chimneys. Chimneys shall either be painted the same color as the exterior wall or constructed with the same materials present on other accents or elements of the facade.
H. 
Accessory structures including attached and detached ADUs, trash enclosures, storage rooms shall be constructed of the same materials, colors, roof type as the primary structure.
I. 
Building materials and colors shall be in compliance with the Architectural Styles provided in Section 19.716.090. If an affordable housing mixed-use development is proposed, refer to the Architectural Styles Objective Design Standards for a list of applicable building materials and colors.
Table 19.716.080
MIXED-USE MATERIALS LIST
Material
Maximum Usage % of Facade Area(2)(3)
Permitted as Primary (or Secondary) Building Materials
Brick (full dimensional)
75%
Stone/masonry
75%
Stucco/Cement Plaster
75%
Glass (transparent, spandrel)
75%
Finished wood, engineered wood
75%
Fiber reinforced cement siding and panels
75%
Asphalt shingles, standing seam metal, terracotta clay barrel tiles, or slate roofing materials
75%
Vinyl siding
50%
Exterior Insulation Finishing System (EIFS)
50%
Permitted as Accent/Secondary Materials
Vegetated wall panels or trellises
50%
Concrete blocks with integral color (ground, polished, or glazed finishes)
35%
Concrete blocks with integral color (split face finish)
35%
Ceramic tile
35%
Standing seam metal
35%
Brick (veneer/thin brick)
35%
Wrought Iron
15%
Three-Dimensional Glass
5%
Roof Materials
Asphalt shingles
100%
Clay tiles
100%
Slate tiles
100%
Concrete tile
100%
Prohibited Building Materials(1)
Corrugated sheet metal
Not Permitted
Galvanized metal
Not Permitted
Interlocking metal
Not Permitted
T-111 Plywood
Not Permitted
Notes:
(1) No building shall have a metallic exterior surface, such as, but not limited to, galvanized, corrugated or interlocking metal sheets, unless the use of such metallic surface material is approved under the site plan review procedure (Section 19.128.040) for the purpose of enhancing the architectural quality of the building while preserving architectural harmony and compatibility with the surrounding area.
(2) The following structures shall be exempt from the provisions of this section:
Storage sheds as an accessory structure to a multi-family dwelling which do not require building permits;
Storage containers as a permitted temporary use which do not require building permits.
(3) The Community and Economic Development Director is authorized to allow deviations of up to 10%.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.716.090 Architectural Styles.

The Architectural Styles for new development apply to all new construction pursuant to this Division, except those areas within the boundary of an existing Specific Plan. The Architectural Styles Objective Design Standards identifies six (6) preferred architectural styles, as indicated below. Architectural design elements and materials shall be consistent throughout the project, recognizing that a building is three-dimensional and must be well-designed on all sides. Detailing, choice of materials, and window and door choices shall reinforce the overall project design. Alternative styles may be submitted to review by the Community and Economic Development Department, although discretionary approval may be required by the Planning Commission.
A. 
Spanish Colonial Revival. The Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style draws inspiration from Spanish, Mediterranean, and early Californian influences, and it originated during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Typically, buildings with this style exhibit an asymmetrical design. They are characterized by low-pitched roofs with minimal or no overhang, adorned with serpentine roof tiles. This style often incorporates wood framing and is covered with light-colored stucco siding. The use of arches is prevalent, particularly above doors, porch entries, and main windows.
B. 
Craftsman. The Craftsman architectural style originated in the early 20th century as part of the Arts and Crafts movement. Notable design features include exposed raffters and beams beneath the eaves, decorative brackets and fasteners, full or partial-width porches, and prominent columns or piers. While the Craftsman style emphasizes a horizontal emphasis, vertical architectural elements are often incorporated to highlight corners and entrances. Traditional Craftsman homes typically showcased exterior cladding made of wood shingles or clapboard siding, along with details such as extended lintels and decorative lighting with geometric patterns.
C. 
Farmhouse. The Farmhouse architectural style is an expression of rural residential designs and materials, with the Contemporary Farmhouse style specifically reflecting the agricultural history and commercial structures found in Southern California. This style incorporates playful elements, such as shed roofs, vibrant color blocking, and contemporary interpretations of traditional farm structures like barns and silos. The roofs of Farmhouse-style buildings are typically medium to high-pitched, and the overall detailing is kept simple.
D. 
Tuscan. The Tuscan architectural style blends modern and classic elements, incorporating both Spanish Revival and Italian influences. This style draws inspiration from Mediterranean variants found in California, showcasing rustic elements. Key characteristics include the use of stone and stucco, light earthy tones, and red tiled roofs. Classical elements like columns, arches, and decorative ironwork add visual interest and complexity. Squared towers and projections reflect classic Italianate influences. Porches and porticoes are commonly featured, as well as vertically oriented recessed windows.
E. 
Modern. The Modern architectural style draws inspiration from utilitarian design principles, featuring block forms, contrasting colors, and eclectic combinations of materials in contemporary compositions. This style embodies a minimalist and clean aesthetic. It utilizes simple rectangular shapes and forms, integrating them within horizontal and vertical planes to create dynamic lines. Flat roofs are commonly used to reinforce the rectangular shapes while also providing opportunities for outdoor deck areas. Accents in the Modern style are understated and unpretentious, often taking the form of trellis elements.
F. 
American Traditional. The American Traditional architectural style is a fusion of various traditional American styles such as Cottage, Cape Cod, and Farmhouse. It is characterized by simplicity and classic design elements, including rectangular forms, spacious front porches, decorative shutters, dormers, and wood siding. This style represents a traditional interpretation of rural farmhouses. The color palette used in American Traditional homes is typically subtle, with shades of white or gray for the main body of the house, while light or dark shutters provide contrasting accents.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.720.010 Setbacks.

The following minimum setback requirements apply to mixed-use zones as provided below.
Minimum Building Setbacks(1)
GMU
CBPMU
EMU
COMU
Front Yard Setback
10 feet
15 feet
20 feet
20 feet
Side Yard Setback (street)
Main Building
10 feet
15 feet
20 feet
20 feet
Non-Habitable Accessory Building
15 feet
15 feet
15 feet
15 feet
Side Yard Setback (interior)
Main Building
8 feet
10 feet
15 feet
20 feet
Non-Habitable Accessory Building
5 feet
5 feet
10 feet
10 feet
Rear Yard Setback
Main Building
8 feet
10 feet
15 feet
10 feet
Non-Habitable Accessory Building
5 feet
5 feet
10 feet
10 feet
Setbacks for Parking (Front, Side, and Rear Yards)
10 feet
10 feet
10 feet
10 feet
Notes:
(1) All portions of the proposed building above the first story shall maintain a minimum setback of 12 feet from any overhead power lines.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.720.020 Yard Encroachments.

The following encroachments are permitted within each of the minimum required setbacks, unless stated otherwise herein.
A. 
Residential Encroachments.
1. 
Eaves, roof projections, awnings, and similar architectural features may project into required yards a maximum distance of three (3) feet, provided such appendages are supported only at, or behind, the building setback line.
2. 
Chimneys, bay windows, fire escapes, exterior stairs and landings, and similar architectural features may project into required yards a maximum distance of two (2) feet, provided such features shall be at least three (3) feet from a property line.
3. 
Balconies may project into required yards, private alleys, and access drive aisles, provided such features shall be at least three (3) feet from a property line and minimum ten (10) feet vertical clearance is provided.
4. 
Decks, platforms, uncovered porches, and landing places that do not exceed a height of 3 feet above grade may project into any front or corner side yard a maximum distance of six (6) feet and project into any rear or interior side yard up to five (5) feet from the property line.
5. 
Minor Structures and Equipment. Minor accessory structures with less than 120 square feet of floor area, and not exceeding eight (8) feet in height, may be located within any interior side or rear setback area, but not within any front or corner side yard setback area except where screened from public view. Examples include, but are not limited to, storage sheds, trash enclosures, doghouses, play equipment, and playhouses.
6. 
Pool accessories, including, but not limited to, slides, grottos and pool equipment shall not be located within five (5) feet of the side or rear property line.
B. 
Nonresidential Encroachments.
1. 
Eaves, roof projections, awnings, and similar architectural features when located at least eight (8) feet above grade may project into required yards a maximum distance of three (3) feet, provided that such features shall be at least five (5) feet from a property line.
2. 
Fireplace, chimneys, bay windows, balconies, fire escapes, exterior stairs and landings, and similar features, may project into the required yard a maximum distance of two (2) feet, provided that such features shall not occupy more than 25 square feet of each required yard and shall be at least five (5) feet from a property line.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.720.030 Required Open Space.

All developments within the mixed-use zones shall meet the minimum open space requirements.
Zone(1)
Common Open Space
(per unit)
Private Open Space
(per unit)
Recreational Amenities
GMU
200 sq. ft.(2)
50 sq.ft./upper floors
100 sq. ft./ground floor
For projects with 25 or more dwelling units, provide one recreational amenity (see Section 19.720.030) for every 30 dwelling units or fraction thereof.
CBPMU
200 sq. ft.(2)
60 sq. ft./upper floors
100 sq. ft./ground floor
EMU
150 sq.ft.(2)
50 sq. ft.
COMU
N/A(1)
N/A(1)
N/A
Notes:
(1) Regardless of the zone, mixed-use developments that do not provide residential units shall provide a minimum of one (1) square foot of usable open space for every 50 square feet of gross floor area of commercial space. This requirement shall not apply to mixed-use development 10,000 square feet or less.
(2) Requirement applies to developments with 200 units or less. For developments with 200 units or more shall provide a minimum of 100 square feet of common open space per unit.
* Off-street parking and loading areas, driveways, and service areas shall not be counted as usable open space.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.720.040 Common Usable Open Space.

A. 
In projects with fewer than 10 units, the common open space shall have a minimum width and depth of 10 feet.
B. 
In projects with 10 or more units, where the required common area is less than 3,000 square feet, the common outdoor space shall be concentrated in one area. The common recreation area shall be at least 25 feet in width.
C. 
Where the required common area is 3,000 square feet or more, the space may be divided among multiple areas, provided that at least one common area is a minimum of 2,000 square feet with a minimum width of 25 feet. All other areas shall be at least 1,000 square feet with a minimum width of 10 feet.
D. 
Residential units shall be within a 1/4 mile (1,320 feet) walking distance of common open space.
E. 
Pedestrian walkways shall connect the common open space to a public right-of-way or building entrance.
F. 
Common open space areas shall not be directly adjacent to arterial streets, service areas, or commercial development to ensure that they are sheltered from the noise and traffic of streets and incompatible uses. If located adjacent to an arterial street, service area or commercial development, a minimum of 10-foot-wide, dense landscaping shall be provided as screening.
G. 
An area of usable common open space shall not exceed an average grade of 10%. The area may include landscaping, walks, recreational facilities, and small decorative objects such as artwork and fountains.
H. 
All common open spaces shall include seating area(s) and lights. Site furniture shall use graffiti-resistant materials and/or coatings.
I. 
Multifamily developments exceeding 150 units shall have at least two common open space areas and shall incorporate activities for different age groups (e.g., tot lot and Barbeque area).
J. 
Rooftop structures such as gazebos, and trellises are permissible and shall not be included within the total building height calculation if they do not cover more than 20% of the roof area and are no more than 12 feet in height measured from the base of the structure.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.720.050 Recreational Amenities.

A. 
The required front yard area shall not be counted toward the common usable open space requirement.
B. 
Except for 100% deed restricted senior housing, projects shall include at least one children's play area with a minimum size of 150 square feet.
C. 
Developments that include 30 or more dwelling units shall include at least one play area for children (unless age restricted to senior citizens or the development is located within 300 feet of a public park). Such play areas shall:
1. 
Have a minimum dimension of 20 feet in any direction and a minimum area of 600 square feet.
2. 
Contain play equipment, including equipment designed for children aged five years and younger.
3. 
Be visible from multiple dwelling units within the project.
4. 
Be protected from adjacent streets or parking lots with a fence or other barrier at least 4 feet in height.
5. 
Be accessible from all on-site dwellings by pedestrian paths and separated from vehicular areas, unless otherwise approved by the Planning, Building, and Public Works Director.
6. 
A play area for children under age five shall be provided within direct visibility of common spaces.
D. 
One common recreational amenity shall be provided for every 30 units. Facilities that serve more people could be counted as two (2) amenities, as indicated below. The following listed amenities satisfy the recreational requirements:
1. 
Clubhouse at a minimum of 750 square feet (counts as two).
2. 
Swimming pool at a minimum of 15x30 feet or equal surface area (counts as two).
3. 
Tennis, basketball, racquetball court or pickle-ball court.
4. 
Weightlifting facility/indoor fitness center at a minimum of 800 square feet. Indoor fitness centers 2,000 square feet or greater (counts as two).
5. 
Outdoor fitness stations with at least three (3) fitness stations either grouped together or provided along a trail or walkway with a minimum of 50 yards distance between each fitness station.
6. 
Children's playground at a minimum of 600 square feet.
7. 
Sauna or jacuzzi.
8. 
Day care facility (counts as two).
9. 
Picnic areas/stations with tables and chairs or BBQ grills with picnic stations.
10. 
Outdoor chess/checkers boards.
11. 
Community garden with a maximum of 20,000 square feet and a perimeter fence at least four (4) feet in height.
12. 
Plaza at a minimum 2,000 square feet with a street located on at least one (1) side of the Plaza and shall provide a minimum of 10% of landscaping.
13. 
Other recreational amenities deemed adequate by the Community and Economic Development Director.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.720.060 Private Open Space.

A. 
Private open space located on the ground level (e.g., yards, decks, patios) shall have a horizontal dimension of not less than 10 feet in any direction. Private open space located above ground level (e.g., porches, balconies) shall have a minimum depth of not less than 6 feet and a total area of not less than 50 sq. ft.
B. 
Private usable open space shall be accessible to only one (1) dwelling unit by a doorway or doorways to a habitable room or hallway of the unit.
C. 
Above ground-level space shall have at least one (1) exterior side open and unobstructed for at least 8 feet above floor level, except for incidental railings or balustrades.
D. 
Ground level private open spaces shall be contiguous to the units they serve and screened to a minimum height of 4 feet by use of plant materials, solid walls, or building surface.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.720.070 Rooftop Decks.

A. 
Any rooftop uses intended for active or passive recreation shall require a site plan review, permits, and inspections for occupants and structural safety based on how the building roof is to be used. However, passive recreational uses, such as seating areas or simple walkways, may be permitted without a site plan review, provided they do not involve permanent structures or significant modifications.
1. 
The rooftop deck shall be located on the third or higher story.
2. 
The rooftop deck shall be accessible to all residents of dwelling units on the parcel, but not to commercial tenants of a residential mixed-use development.
3. 
Minimum dimensions of a rooftop deck are 15 feet in any direction.
4. 
Permanent fixtures associated with the usable open space, such as trellises; shade structures; furniture; and furnishings such as planters, lighting, and heaters may exceed the height limit by up to 12 feet.
5. 
At least 15 percent but no more than 25 percent of the rooftop shall be landscaped with raised beds for gardening, stormwater planters, or other landscaping. All required landscaped areas should be equipped with automatic irrigation systems and be properly drained.
6. 
Rooftop equipment if visible from a public right-of-way, shall be screened by a parapet or enclosure.
7. 
Rooftops not meant to be usable for recreational purposes are exempt from the landscaping requirement but must still be treated to minimize aesthetic impacts when visible from off-site locations. Where rooftops are visible from off-site, they should be treated to minimize aesthetic impacts.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.720.080 Pedestrian Access to Dwellings.

A. 
A clear pedestrian walkway with a minimum 6-foot width shall be provided connecting parking areas to main entrances of buildings and the public sidewalk. The walkway shall be clearly marked with special paving, concrete stamping, or coloring.
B. 
Pedestrian connections shall be incorporated to connect between residential and commercial elements within the same project.
C. 
Walkways shall not be sited directly against a building facade but buffered with a minimum 3-foot-wide landscaped planting area to provide privacy of nearby residences or private open space.
D. 
A sidewalk shall be provided on at least one side of all internal streets providing a safe pedestrian connection.
E. 
All development types shall provide internal pedestrian connections throughout the project site. Internal pedestrian connections is a system of pedestrian walkways that connects to all buildings on a site, to on-site and street parking areas, on-site open space areas, and pedestrian amenities.
F. 
Where pedestrian circulation crosses vehicular routes, a change in grade materials, textures, or colors shall be provided to emphasize the conflict point and improve its visibility and safety.
G. 
Pedestrian linkages to nearby neighborhoods, schools, parks, commercial projects, and parking areas shall be provided.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.720.090 Future Rights-of-Way.

A. 
This section is applicable only where a portion of a lot is within an area planned to be part of a future street, alley, or other public right-of-way as determined from an officially adopted plan, and the acquisition of such portion would not reduce the buildable lot width to less than forty (40) feet.
B. 
In cases to which this section applies, the portions of any lot within any such future right-of-way area shall not be occupied by structures other than those encroachments allowed in future rights-of-way as provided in subsection C of this section. All other required setbacks, yards, and open areas shall be provided in addition to the future right-of-way areas, and the future right-of-way lines shall be considered to be lot lines for purposes of measuring such other setbacks, yards, and open areas.
C. 
Permitted Encroachments. The following encroachments are permitted within the future rights-of-way area:
1. 
Utility-owned pole lines within approved easements.
2. 
Access walkways and driveways.
3. 
Uncovered parking—to the same extent as permitted in adjoining front, side, or rear yard.
4. 
Storage (vehicles for over 24 hours, trash areas, other permitted outdoor storage)—to the same extent as permitted in adjoining side or rear yard.
5. 
Recreation facilities which are subject to building permit (play equipment, play structure, playhouse, etc.)—to the same extent as permitted in adjoining side or rear yard.
6. 
Real estate signs.
7. 
Fences, walls, hedges, and berms—to the same extent as permitted in adjoining front, side, or rear yard.
8. 
Landscaping, other than hedges.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.720.100 Right-of-Way Improvements.

A. 
The purpose of this section is to establish requirements for right-of-way improvements for all MU zoned parcels within the City of Buena Park on which property improvements are made. "Right-of-way improvements" shall include curbs, gutters, sidewalks, driveway approaches, handicapped (ADA) ramps, water lines and appurtenances, sewer lines and appurtenances, storm drainage facilities, property dedications of right-of-way, streetlights, pavement markings, signs, and street trees.
B. 
Required Improvements. All projects shall be required to provide the following right-of-way improvements as are deemed necessary and applicable by the Director of Public Works:
1. 
Sidewalk and Parkway. Construction or repair of a sidewalk and parkway adjoining the site. The sidewalk shall have a minimum clear width of five (5) feet with a parkway, or six (6) feet if the sidewalk adjoins the curb, or shall be the minimum width of the adjoining properties along that side of the street.
2. 
Curb and Gutter. Construction or repair of curbs and gutters adjoining the site. All unused curb cuts shall be replaced with a full-height curb and gutter.
3. 
Street Trees. As required by Subsection 18.24.190 of the Municipal Code.
4. 
Bicycle Trail. As required by Subsection 18.64.020. Construction of bicycle trail as required by the "Fourth District Bikeways Strategy" adopted by the Orange County Transportation Authority.
C. 
Encroachment Permit Required. Except as otherwise provided in this Section, it is unlawful for any person to encroach or make or cause to be made any encroachment in the public right-of-way or on property subject to a public utility easement, or other easement available for use by public utilities, without first obtaining an encroachment permit from the Public Works Department.
1. 
Encroachment permits for right-of-way improvements shall be obtained prior to the issuance of a building permit and prior to any work being done within the right-of-way.
2. 
Street improvement plans for all work in the public right-of-way shall be prepared by a licensed civil engineer, whose signed engineer's stamp shall appear on the plans. Final construction plans and specifications shall be approved by the City Engineer, and released for construction, prior to the issuance of the encroachment permit.
D. 
Parkways. A parkway (i.e., sidewalk strip, parking strip, or tree buffer) is a portion of the street right-of-way lying between the curb and sidewalk.
1. 
Any objects placed in the parkway (e.g., rocks, benches, etc.) shall not present a hazard or public nuisance and shall not block a clear line of sight across the parkway.
E. 
Objective Design Standards.
1. 
General.
a. 
Commercial uses and development standards are subject to the provisions of Division 5 of Title 19 of the BPMC, unless stated otherwise herein.
b. 
Projects developed within the Mixed-Use Zones shall comply with the most recent Orange County Fire Authority Guidelines for access, water and Architectural Guidelines.
2. 
Project Design.
a. 
Grading, storm drain, street, sewer, water, and erosion control plans shall be prepared by a Registered Engineer, at a minimum scale of 1" = 40', and on 24" by 36" sheets. Any proposed improvements shall be designed and constructed per City Standards. Any existing improvements in the public right-of-way, adjacent to project parcel frontage, that are not in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) shall be removed and reconstructed or added to meet the ADA requirements and must comply with City Standards.
(i) 
Projects within the flood zone of the Federal Emergency Management Agency shall be developed per Division II of Title 18 of the City Code.
(ii) 
Street dedications including corner cutoff dedications to the City for the project frontage will be required per the Master Street Plan.
(iii) 
Existing overhead utilities and poles along the project frontage shall be undergrounded or an in-lieu fee may be paid per the City's latest fee schedule. All new utilities to the project site shall be undergrounded.
(iv) 
New streetlights along the project frontage shall be required every 150-feet unless already existing. Streetlights mounted on wooden poles shall be replaced with marblelite poles.
(v) 
Trees and ground cover with an irrigation system shall be required within the parkway landscaping area along the project frontage. The species of tree to be planted will be determined by the City of Buena Park's Urban Forest Management Plan. The property owner shall be responsible for the maintenance of this landscaping area per Chapter 19.1112.070 of the Buena Park Municipal Code.
(vi) 
Driveway approaches, sidewalks, curb, and gutter along the project frontage that are lifted, fractured or failing shall be removed and replaced per City standards.
(vii) 
All vehicular access to the site shall be provided in locations approved by the Traffic Division. An emergency access within the project parcel shall be approved by the Orange County Fire Authority and an approved copy of the plan shall be submitted to the Engineering Division with the submittal of the grading plan.
(viii) 
Traffic Impact fees shall be in accordance with City Resolution 9726 and the latest City Fee Schedule. Sewer, water, and stormwater impact fees shall be per the latest City Fee Schedule.
(ix) 
A site distance analysis, prepared by a registered engineer, shall be submitted for approval for any structures that are substantial is size, such as monument signs, that are proposed adjacent to existing or proposed driveway.
(x) 
Provide an engineering study for any proposed sewer and water connections to the City system. The study shall be prepared by a registered civil engineer for approval by the City Engineer. Any infrastructure upgrades necessary to meet the fire code or the domestic water capacity shall be mitigated by the developer. Easements shall be dedicated as needed to accommodate a new public water or sewer system. The proposed utility connections shall be made to the City water and sewer systems in accordance with the City Code, standards and applicable Federal, State and County regulations.
(xi) 
A double check detector assembly is required for domestic and fire service connections, and a reduced pressure principle device (RPPD) is required for irrigation service connection per City standards, and devices shall be supplied and installed by contractor. Contractors shall supply and install City approved water meters in the public right-of-way.
(xii) 
A hydrology and/or hydraulics study, prepared by a registered engineer, shall be submitted for approval when drainage is altered and/or there is a net increase of the stormwater for the proposed project. The storm drain system shall be designed and constructed for a minimum of a 25-year flood per the County of Orange standards. It shall be privately owned and maintained.
(xiii) 
Easement shall be granted to the City when public water and sewer systems are installed within private land.
(xiv) 
All existing public facilities in conflict with new improvements shall be relocated at no cost to the City. The property owner shall dedicate or cause to be dedicated all easements needed to accommodate the relocation, modification or installation of facilities to be maintained by the City or any public utility company.
b. 
Tract maps and parcel maps shall be prepared in accordance with the State Subdivision Map Act and Division I of Title 18 of the City Code. All improvements required to be completed by the applicant shall be in accordance with the City standards and specifications. All maps shall be concurrently reviewed by the City and the Orange County Survey Department. The applicant shall forward all plan check comments received from the Orange County Survey Department to the City for each plan check.
3. 
Permit Issuance.
a. 
All fees, deposits, and bonds associated with improvements required by the Public Works Department shall be paid prior to the issuance of permits for construction. The fee amounts are specified in the City Fee Schedule.
b. 
Before exercising any right or performing any obligation pursuant to any permit issued by the Public Works Department, the developer/contractor shall obtain a City Business License and submit required insurance certificates.
c. 
A Transportation Hauling permit shall be obtained to operate or move a vehicle or combination of vehicles or special mobile equipment of a size or weight of vehicle or load exceeding the maximums specified in the California Vehicle Code (CVC) and the Caltrans Transportation Permit Manual.
d. 
Prior to issuance of a grading permit, applicant shall record an approved WQMP that includes the Master Covenant & Agreement and an Operational Maintenance Plan with the Orange County Recorder's office. Two hard copies of the WQMP in 3-ring binders shall be provided to the City.
e. 
Prior to final release of the project by the Public Works Department, or the refund of any cash deposits, the developer/contractor shall provide the City with a warranty bond to be held by the City for a period of one (1) year, for all public facilities and improvements.
f. 
Prior to the grant of occupancy by the City or commencement for the approved use, all improvements required by the Public Works Department shall be completed.
4. 
Construction.
a. 
A traffic control plan, prepared by a registered engineer, shall be submitted for approval for all utility connections, street improvements, and any other work performed in the public right-of-way that require a lane closure. A traffic control plan, prepared by a registered engineer, shall also be submitted for work on private property that results in lane closures.
b. 
When more than one trench cut is made to install utility lines, then the street shall be either slurry sealed or grind and capped with AC to the nearest lane line of a trench cut from property line to property line. The method of replacing the pavement in kind or better shall be decided based on existing pavement condition.
c. 
An Engineered Grading and Utility Certification shall be certified by the project engineer. Each phase of construction, fill and soil compaction, rough grading including pad elevations, final grading, utilities, and Water Quality Management Plan shall be certified by the project engineer and submitted to the City.
d. 
Applicant shall abandon any existing private water wells per the City and Orange County Health Department requirements.
e. 
Prior to issuance of occupancy, applicant shall demonstrate all structural BMPs have been constructed in conformance with the approved WQMP.
f. 
Any work on State Highway, Beach Boulevard from the I-5 Freeway to north City limit, shall require a Caltrans permit.
g. 
The applicant/contractor shall be responsible for protecting all existing horizontal and vertical survey controls. Any survey controls disturbed during construction shall be reset per Orange County Surveyor Standards after construction.
h. 
All trash collection services needed during construction or after project completion shall be obtained from the City's authorized provider.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.724.010 Trash Storage Facilities.

A. 
All trash storage facilities for residential uses shall meet the standards in Section 19.424.010 and Section 19.524.010 for commercial uses.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.724.020 Outdoor Storage and Display.

A. 
Outdoor Storage. Outdoor storage of materials, equipment or other items is permitted, subject to all other limitations of this ordinance and other laws. Outdoor storage shall not be located in any required parking area or accessway, in any front yard, in any area required to be landscaped, or in any area where a six (6) foot-high fence is not permitted.
B. 
Outdoor Display. Temporary outdoor displays are permitted when authorized as part of a special events sale under Title 19, Division 10, or as part of a yard sale authorized under Section 19.448.070.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.724.030 Firepits, Detached Fireplaces, and Fountains.

A. 
Outdoor fire/barbecue pits and fixed freestanding barbecues shall maintain a minimum setback of five (5) feet from the side yard and rear yard property line. Outdoor fire/barbecue pits and fixed freestanding barbecues shall maintain a minimum of ten (10) feet from any dwelling or accessory structure on a lot.
B. 
Detached firepits and fireplaces are permitted within the side yard and rear yard setback. Detached firepits and fireplaces located within the side and rear yard areas shall not be greater than eight (8) feet in width. Residential detached fireplace/chimneys shall have a maximum height of eight (8) feet within the side yard and ten (10) feet within the rear yard, or the minimum height required by the CA Building Code or other state regulation. Any outdoor firepit or detached fireplace shall maintain a minimum setback of five (5) feet from any side or rear yard property line.
C. 
Fountains may be located within the front and/or rear yard setback. Fountains located within the front yard setback shall be at least six (6) feet from the property line and shall not exceed seven (7) feet in height. Fountains located within the rear yard setback shall be at least five (5) feet from the property line and shall not exceed ten (10) feet in height.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.724.040 Patio Covers, Gazebos, and Cabanas.

A. 
The construction of patio covers, gazebos, and cabanas shall comply with the following standards:
1. 
These structures may be erected within the required side yard or rear yard provided that the clear space between the structure and the property line shall not be less than four (4) feet on the side and ten (10) feet in the rear.
2. 
If located within a required side yard or rear yard setback, the height of the structure shall not exceed ten (10) feet from finished grade.
3. 
None of these structures shall be enclosed by solid materials including transparent or opaque.
4. 
Patio covers on upper-floor balconies are permitted but must comply with all setback and height requirements. These covers cannot be added or enclosed later by residents without prior approval from the Community and Economic Development Director.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.724.050 Swimming Pools and Spas.

Pools and Spas enclosures shall be compliant with CBC Chapter 31 Section 3109, the California Residential Code (CRC) Appendix V, the California Health and Safety Code (HCS) Article 2.5 (Sections 115920—115929) "The Swimming Pool Safety Act" and this Code.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.728.010 General Requirements.

A. 
No fence shall be constructed within the mixed-use zones until the plans and design for such fence have been approved pursuant to the zoning compliance review procedure (Section 19.128.090). In addition, a fence may require a building permit from the Building Division.
B. 
All fences, whether required or not, shall be located and limited in accordance with provisions of this Division.
C. 
Fences are required under various provisions of this Division and other laws, including, but not limited to, the screening and protection of parking areas, storage areas, swimming and therapeutic pools, and utility facilities. Such required fences together with the facilities and activities required to be enclosed shall be located so as not to conflict with open space and yard setback requirements.
D. 
Conflict with State Law. In the case of fencing requirements pursuant to state law which unavoidably conflict with the requirements of this Division, the state requirements shall prevail.
E. 
As defined in Section 19.104.080, the term "fence" as used in this Division means fence, freestanding wall, hedge, or berm unless otherwise specifically stated.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.728.020 Fence Height and Location.

A. 
General. A solid wall, fence, hedge, or berm no more than two (2) feet in height may be permitted anywhere on a lot. A non-view obscuring fence, such as wrought iron, may be permitted as follows:
1. 
A maximum of 4.5-foot high fence may be permitted anywhere on a lot.
2. 
A maximum of a 6-foot high decorative fence may be permitted along any street frontage at a distance equal to or greater than the required parking setback for the Mixed-Use Zone (Section 19.720.010 Setbacks). This provision shall not supersede the requirements in Chapter 19.732.
B. 
Interior Lots. On interior lots, a fence, wall, or hedge not exceeding 8 feet above the adjacent natural grade may be located anywhere on the lot behind the required front yard setback line.
C. 
Corner Lots. On corner lots, a fence, wall, or hedge not exceeding 8 feet in height above the adjacent natural grade may be located anywhere on the lot behind the required front yard setback line and behind the required corner side yard setback line.
D. 
Retaining Wall below Natural Grade. Where a retaining wall protects a cut below the natural grade and is located on the line separating lots or parcels, the retaining wall may be topped by a wall, fence, or hedge of the same height that would otherwise be permitted at the location if no retaining wall existed.
E. 
Retaining Wall Containing Fill. Where a retaining wall contains a fill, the height of the retaining wall built to retain the fill shall be considered as contributing to the permissible height of a wall, fence, or hedge, provided that in any event, a protective fence or wall not more than 3 feet in height may be erected at the top of the retaining wall. Any portion of a fence above the maximum height shall be an open-work fence. An openwork fence means a fence in which the component solid portions are evenly distributed and constitute not more than 60 percent of total surface area of the face of the fence.
F. 
Open Space. No wall, fence, or hedge exceeding 2 feet in height may be located in open space required between buildings when the buildings are situated front to front, front to rear, or front to end.
G. 
Freeway Right-of-Way Adjacent. A wall or fence not exceeding 8 feet in height may be constructed along that portion of a lot or parcel that abuts a freeway right-of-way, provided that:
1. 
The wall or fence does not extend into any front yard.
2. 
A wall or fence exceeding 6 feet in height shall be subject to discretionary approval, which shall consider the effect of such wall or fence on other property in the vicinity.
3. 
Walls used for sound attenuation purposes along arterial roadways shall be attractive and subject to discretionary approval.
H. 
Adjacent Residential Zones. Any other provision of this Chapter notwithstanding, a wall, fence, or hedge that is provided along a common property line separating property used for commercial purposes from a single-family zoned property or any PUD established exclusively for residential use, and that is permitted or required to maintain a height of 6 feet, may be extended to a height not to exceed 8 feet.
I. 
Railroad or Flood Control Channel Adjacent. When commercial property has a common property line with a single-family zoned property or any PUD established exclusively for residential use, and that is a right-of-way for a railroad or flood control channel, City Council may waive the requirement for a zone separation wall or fence.
J. 
Setback Area. Notwithstanding the above requirements, no fence, wall, or hedge shall be permitted within any required street-fronting setback area for any commercial or residential/commercial mixed-use development, with the exception of any fence or wall required for any outdoor dining area.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.728.030 Fence Materials and Design.

A. 
All fences in every mixed-use zone, whether required or not, shall:
1. 
Utilize no salvaged materials unless reconditioned or refinished.
2. 
Be suitably finished on both sides.
3. 
Utilize colors and materials that are compatible with the property and neighborhood.
4. 
All fences shall be maintained in good repair and appearance.
B. 
Perimeter walls shall incorporate various textures, staggered setbacks, and variations in height in conjunction with landscaping to provide visual interest and to soften the appearance of perimeter walls. Perimeter walls shall incorporate wall inserts and/or decorative columns or pilasters to provide visual relief. The maximum unbroken length of a perimeter wall shall be 50 feet.
C. 
All non-transparent perimeter walls and/or fences shall be architecturally treated on both sides and shall incorporate landscaping whenever possible.
D. 
Wall design and selection of materials shall consider maintenance issues, especially graffiti removal and long-term maintenance.
E. 
Wall caps are to be incorporated as a horizontal design element at the top of walls and should not exceed 4 inches vertically.
F. 
Visually penetrable materials (e.g., wrought iron or tubular steel) shall be used in areas of high activity (i.e., pools, playgrounds) and areas adjacent to street frontage.
G. 
Screen walls, sound walls, and retaining walls shall be used to mitigate noise generators and provide privacy for residents.
H. 
Sight-obscuring screening shall be provided for all garbage and trash collection areas, approved outdoor storage, and parking lots abutting a single-family residential development. Such screening shall be 6 feet in height.
I. 
Chain Link and Wire Fencing. Except within the COMU zone and as permitted within this section, there shall be no use of chain link or wire fencing in a location between a street and any buildings on a property or which otherwise faces a street property line within public view.
1. 
Chain link fencing may be used within such areas for approved temporary uses and for the purpose of temporarily securing vacant or vacated properties and construction sites.
2. 
For site screening purposes, a chain link gate with screening slats may be used across driveways within such areas.
3. 
For temporary site screening purposes for a period of 3 years or less, a chain link fence with screening slats may be used around soil remediation equipment.
J. 
Vision Clearance Area. Any fence within the required vision clearance area adjacent to any driveway or alley where it intersects with a public street, as defined under Section 19.728.020, shall not be a view-obscuring fence.
K. 
Any masonry wall shall be of a minimum 6-inch-wide block construction. In addition, the wall shall be of ornamental masonry in earthtone colors compatible with the structures on the property. Standard grey or pink block shall not be considered as ornamental masonry and may not be used except to match existing adjacent walls.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.728.040 Double Fences.

A. 
Any parallel fences constructed with less than 3 feet separation shall be considered double fences. It is the intent of the City to discourage double fences whenever possible in order to avoid areas in which children and animals may become lodged, areas which may encourage rodent infestation, and areas which may accumulate litter and debris.
B. 
In instances where double fences are unavoidable, the gap between the fences shall be completely sealed with flashing, cement cap, or other material in a manner acceptable to the Planning and Building Divisions.
C. 
Where a new fence is required along a property line and an existing fence or wall is located on the opposite side of the property line, the Director may suspend the requirement for the new fence provided that the existing fence can substantially satisfy all requirements of this Division and/or any conditions of an approval. Such suspension shall become null and void once the adjacent wall or fence is removed or found unacceptable by the Director and the requirement for the new fence shall be completed at such time.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.728.050 Security Gate Standards.

A. 
General Requirements.
1. 
Definition. For the purpose of this section, security gates shall be defined as any gate, door, or other barrier that limits or restricts public access to or from a property. This definition does not include any barrier securing a pool area, an individual garage, private patio, yard, or living area, or such storage room, recreation rooms, or similar areas not intended for general public access.
2. 
Proposed residential developments in the mixed-use zones shall indicate during the site plan process prospective plans for future security gates and fencing installation.
3. 
Security gates shall conform to all other provisions of this chapter, except where such provisions may conflict with the requirements of this section.
B. 
Pedestrian Access. For any security gate that restricts pedestrian access to dwelling units of any residential development in the mixed-use zones, an intercom or telephone system shall be provided at the gate for each dwelling unit with restricted access as a condition of approval of the security gate.
C. 
Vehicular Access. For any security gate that restricts vehicular access onto any multifamily residential development in the mixed-use zones, the following requirements shall apply;
1. 
All vehicular security gates shall be constructed of material that is not view-obscuring.
2. 
All vehicular security gates shall be automatically operated by remote control devices. Furthermore, such vehicular gates shall not be permitted to swing in or out.
3. 
Pedestrian Access. A separate pedestrian walkway leading from the public sidewalk into a development shall be provided for any development with a security gate across a vehicular access driveway.
4. 
Gate Width. Vehicular entry gates shall open a minimum 20 feet to completely clear the minimum driveway width. Additional width may be required by the City for access or circulation purposes.
5. 
Gate Setback.
a. 
For any development located on a street with a traffic count of 2,000 cars or fewer per day, a security gate across a vehicular driveway shall be set back from the street property line a minimum of 15 feet, except that, for an existing development, the setback may be reduced to a minimum 12 feet if it is deemed necessary.
b. 
For any development located on a street with a traffic count of more than 2,000 cars per day, a security gate across a vehicular driveway shall be set back from the street property line a minimum of 40 feet.
6. 
Vehicular Turnaround. A turnaround area outside of the gate shall be required for any development of 2 or more units which is located on a street with a traffic count of more than 2,000 cars per day or for any development of more than 20 dwelling units.
7. 
Trash Pickup. A means of entry, to be approved by the City-franchised trash disposal service, shall be provided which automatically opens the vehicular gate(s) for trash pickup. Furthermore, all 3 cubic yard trash bins shall remain within City-approved trash storage facilities for removal by the franchise service at the location of the trash storage area.
D. 
Emergency Response Access. Prior to the issuance of any permits, fence plans with security gates shall be reviewed and approved by the City Fire and Police Departments as to any required compliance with the following standards.
1. 
To facilitate access by Fire Department personnel, a key switch box, or other approved device, shall be provided for all pedestrian and vehicular security gates.
2. 
To facilitate access by City law enforcement officers, a keypad, or other approved device, shall be provided for all pedestrian and vehicular security gates. Furthermore, vehicular gates must provide egress for law enforcement vehicles.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.732.010 Where Required.

A. 
Minimum Landscaped Area. 15 percent of the total net developable site area shall be landscaped. Required setbacks shall be included as part of the calculation of the minimum landscaped area.
B. 
Landscaping Required in Setbacks. A minimum of 50 percent of the surface area of the required setbacks shall be landscaped in all mixed-use zones, with the exception of the required front and corner side yard setbacks in the EMU and COMU zones. In the EMU zones, a maximum of 60 percent and a minimum of 20 percent of the surface area of the required setbacks shall be landscaped. In the COMU zone, a minimum of 15 percent of the surface area of the required setbacks shall be landscaped. Any non-landscaped area within a required setback shall be paved per the requirements in subsection C.
C. 
Paved Areas in Setbacks. Areas not landscaped shall be paved with high-quality materials such as pavers, stone or cobblestone, patterned or scored colored concrete, or similar durable materials. Plain and colored concrete and plain asphalt are prohibited.
D. 
Ground Cover. All landscaped areas shall be covered with turf, non-deciduous groundcover, or other types of plantings. All plant spacing shall be as indicated on the landscape plans. Substitute landscaping such as crushed rock, redwood chips, pebbles, and stone may not be used in lieu of live plant materials, although limited use may be approved by the Community and Economic Development Director during the site plan review process.
E. 
Vision Clearance at Street Intersections Paving and Landscaping. The area comprising an open and unobstructed triangular area for vision clearance shall be paved and landscaped in accordance with Chapter 19.732 and other applicable landscaping standards required for mixed-use zones, except that no trees, shrubs, fences, or other physical obstructions higher than 3 feet above existing grade shall be permitted.
F. 
Landscaping designs shall include one (1) or more of the following planting design concepts:
1. 
Specimen trees (48-inch box or more) in informal groupings or rows at major focal points.
2. 
Use of planting to create shadow and patterns against walls.
3. 
Use of planting to soften building lines and emphasize the positive features of the sit.
4. 
Use of flowering vines on walls, arbors, or trellises.
5. 
Trees to create canopy and shade, especially in parking areas and passive open space areas.
6. 
Berms, plantings, and walls to screen parking lots, trash enclosures, storage areas, utility boxes, etc.
G. 
Plant materials shall be placed so that they do not interfere with the lighting of the premises or restrict access to emergency apparatus such as re-hydrants or re-alarm boxes. Trees or large shrubs shall not be planted under overhead lines or over underground utilities if their growth might interfere with such public utilities. Trees and large shrubs shall be placed as follows:
1. 
A minimum of 8 feet between the center of trees and the edge of a driveway, a water meter, gas meter, and sewer laterals.
2. 
A minimum of 20 feet between the center of trees and the beginning of curb returns at intersections to keep trees out of the line-of-sight triangle at intersections.
3. 
A minimum of 15 feet between the center of trees and large shrubs to utility poles and streetlights.
4. 
A minimum of 8 feet between the center of trees or large shrubs and fire hydrants and Fire Department sprinkler and standpipe connections.
H. 
Each project developed within mixed-use zones shall comply with the most recently adopted Orange County Fire Authority Guidelines for access, water, and Architectural Guidelines.
I. 
Parking Lot Landscaping Improvements.
1. 
Landscaped Buffers Along Streets. Within the required setback areas for parking (see Section 19.720.010), one of the following, or a combination thereof, shall be provided except at driveway and walkway openings and as required for vision clearance by Section 19.736.020:
a. 
Ornamental masonry wall or hedge, 2 feet high, at the perimeter of the parking area facing a street;
b. 
Landscaped berm, 10 feet wide and 2 feet high.
2. 
Landscaped Buffers Along Alleys. Except for driveways and walkways, a landscaped planter shall be provided along all parking areas adjacent to an alley pursuant to Section 19.536.070.E.2.
3. 
Interior Landscaping.
a. 
Mixed-Use Zones. Within the parking area of any parking lot with 10 or more parking spaces, landscaping with trees and some combination of shrubs, vines, and ground cover shall be provided pursuant to Section 19.536.070.E.3. Such landscaping shall be reasonably distributed throughout the area in order to avoid a monotonous appearance and to enhance the visual attractiveness of the area, especially those portions in public view.
J. 
Landscape Buffer Adjacent to RS Zones. Other than a single-family use, any parking area in the mixed-use zones located adjacent to a RS zone shall be provided with a landscape buffer consisting of trees and some combination of shrubs, vines and ground cover pursuant to Section 19.436.080.E.4.
K. 
Landscape Buffer Adjacent to Residential Structures. Where required under Section 19.436.080.E.1, a landscaped buffer shall be provided between a residential structure and an adjacent parking area, loading area, driveway, or other area provided for vehicular circulation. Such landscaped area may include walkways, uncovered porches, and exterior stairways and balconies, provided at least 60 percent of the total required buffer area is occupied by plant materials.
L. 
Pedestrian-Oriented Plazas. A minimum of 25 percent of the pedestrian-oriented plaza shall be landscaped with live plant materials. Pedestrian-oriented plazas shall feature landscape amenities including but not limited to landscape planters, low hedges, and shade-providing trees, water features, or unique features that enhance the appearance, desirability, and usability of the plaza.
M. 
Artificial Plants Prohibited. Artificial plants, with the exception of artificial turf, are prohibited.
N. 
Artificial Turf. Artificial turf requires an Artificial Turf permit approval prior to installation. Artificial turf, where permitted, shall comply with the following criteria:
1. 
Artificial turf shall not be located in front yards, corner side yards, or portions of side yards visible from a public right-of-way.
2. 
Artificial turf shall have a minimum eight-year no fade warranty.
3. 
Artificial turf shall be installed by a licensed professional and shall be installed pursuant to manufacturer's requirements.
4. 
Artificial turf shall be installed and maintained to effectively simulate the appearance of a well-maintained lawn. The turf shall be maintained in a green fadeless condition and shall be maintained free of weeds, debris, tears, holes, and impressions.
5. 
The use of indoor or outdoor plastic or nylon carpeting as a replacement of artificial turf or natural turf is prohibited.
6. 
A minimum of 15% of the overall area to be turfed shall include living plant material (i.e., flower beds, tree wells, etc.) within the overall landscape design.
7. 
Artificial turf shall be separated from flowerbeds by a concrete mow strip, bender board, or other barrier acceptable to the city in order to prevent intrusion of living plant material into the artificial turf.
O. 
Trees.
1. 
Tree Location. No trees shall be planted under any eave, balcony, or overhang.
2. 
Root Barriers Required. Trees in landscape planters measuring 10 feet or less in width or depth shall be provided with tree root barriers.
3. 
Tree Staking. All trees shall be double-staked.
4. 
Visibility. All trees whether singularly placed or placed on clusters shall not inhibit standard visibility parameters.
5. 
Required Site Trees. One tree shall be provided for every 1,000 square feet of site area. Trees shall conform to the matrix of plant materials established by the Urban Forestry Master Plan. Minimum tree size at planting shall be 24-inch box.
6. 
Street Trees. Street trees shall be provided per City standards.
P. 
Drought-Tolerant Species. A minimum of 75 percent of non-turf landscaped areas shall be planted with native or drought-tolerant planting materials, as widely recognized within the horticultural industry or as recommended by a California-licensed Landscape Architect, to bring interest and beauty to the landscape, support biodiversity, and reduce the need for pesticides and excessive irrigation. Landscape selection shall be in compliance with the City's Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.732.020 Plan Approval Required.

A. 
A landscape and irrigation plan for any newly established landscape area shall be submitted for Landscape Plan review and approval.
B. 
The landscape and irrigation plan shall clearly identify the following criteria:
1. 
Property lines and property address.
2. 
Streets, driveways, walkways, recreational areas, and other paved areas.
3. 
Pools, water features, fences, and retaining walls.
4. 
Existing and proposed buildings and structures.
5. 
Landscaping materials, trees, shrubs, vines, ground cover, turf, and other vegetation. Planting symbols shall be clearly drawn and plants labeled by botanical name, common name, container size, spacing, and quantities of each group of plants indicated.
6. 
An approximate calculation of the total landscape area.
C. 
A landscape and irrigation plan with new landscaped areas of 500 square feet or more, or 2,500 square feet of rehabilitated landscape area shall be prepared and/or certified by a licensed landscape architect or contractor, certified irrigation designer, or other licensed or certified professional in a related field.
D. 
Minimum acceptable plant sizes shall be as follows:
1. 
Trees shall be a minimum 24-inch box size.
2. 
Shrubs and vines shall not be less than 5-gallon size, and a minimum of 15-gallon minimum size, where required for screening. The minimum planter width for shrubs is 3 feet.
3. 
Groundcover be not be less than 1-gallon size.
4. 
Street trees be planted at one (1) tree per 25 linear feet of frontage.
E. 
Landscape and irrigation plans shall be approved prior to the issuance of permits for such work or prior to the issuance of any permits (i.e., building permits) for any associated work approved by an action of the Community and Economic Development Director.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.732.030 Landscape and Maintenance.

A. 
All landscaping shall be permanently maintained in a clean, healthy, and attractive condition. This includes pruning, weeding, removal of litter, fertilizing, replacement of plants when necessary, and the appropriate watering of all landscaping.
B. 
Curbs Required. All landscape planters shall be separated from all parking and loading spaces, parking aisles, and driveways with a minimum 6-inch-high concrete curb unless a reduced curb is required as part of the Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP). In addition, for any such landscape area adjacent to a public sidewalk, in which the grade of the planter is higher than the sidewalk and which is planted with ground cover other than a hydroseeded or sodded lawn, a minimum 6-inch-high concrete curb shall be provided alongside the public sidewalk to preclude soil erosion across such sidewalk.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.732.040 Irrigation System and Maintenance.

A. 
All required landscaping shall be provided with a permanent underground irrigation system. The irrigation system shall consist of piped water lines terminating in an appropriate number of sprinklers or other outlets to insure complete coverage of water for plants within the landscaped areas.
B. 
Sprinkler heads and risers shall be protected from car bumpers. "Pop-up" heads shall be used near curbs and sidewalks. The landscape irrigation system shall be designed to prevent run-off and overspray.
C. 
Any permanent, underground irrigation system, whether required or not, shall comply with the following criteria:
1. 
Permits are required prior to installation of any permanent, underground irrigation system.
a. 
Off-Site Work. Irrigation systems exclusively in City rights-of-way require permits issued by the Construction Services Division of Public Works. Any system within City rights-of-way shall meet the minimum requirements outlined under Engineering Standard No. ISP-1.
b. 
On-Site Work. On-site and combination on-site and off-site installations shall comply with the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. Permit fees shall be in accordance with the applicable sections of the City Code.
2. 
Backflow Prevention Devices. All irrigation systems shall be protected by an approved type and size of backflow prevention devices, as required by the Public Works Department, to be painted green and screened by landscaping with a 3-foot-wide clearance.
3. 
After installation, the system shall be flushed thoroughly to remove dirt and debris prior to installation of the sprinkler heads.
4. 
Irrigation systems shall be maintained in good working order.
D. 
In addition to the requirements of subsection B of this section, any required permanent underground irrigation system for a development with 500 square feet or more in landscape area shall comply with the following criteria:
1. 
Each irrigation system shall be equipped with an automatic controller with a mechanical or solid-state timer capable of operating valve stations to set days and length of time.
2. 
Each irrigation system shall be equipped with a rain sensing override device which automatically shuts off the irrigation system when it rains.
3. 
Whenever possible, landscape irrigation shall be scheduled between 2:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. to avoid irrigation during times of high wind or high temperature.
4. 
For larger developments, the following criteria may be required when considered appropriate under a department policy of either the Planning Division or Public Works Department.
a. 
A soil moisture sensing device may be required where appropriate to measure soil moisture and maintain efficient irrigation schedules.
b. 
A separate landscape water meter may be required.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.736.010 Street Dedication and Improvement.

No building permit shall be issued until the following requirements are met:
A. 
All streets, alleys, and other public rights-of-way shown on plans approved by the City Council and which abut the subject property shall be dedicated to the planned right-of-way line or a deed of dedication deposited in escrow with an escrow agent acceptable to the City Attorney, the delivery of which is conditioned upon the required permit being granted.
B. 
All improvements of streets, alleys, and other public rights-of-way which abut the subject property and are required in order to conform to improvement standards approved by the City Council shall be installed, or a performance bond, in a reasonable amount to be determined by the City Engineer, with sureties to be approved by the City Attorney, shall be filed with the City Clerk, or cash in a like amount shall be deposited with the Finance Director to be placed in a trust fund.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.736.020 Vision Clearance.

A. 
Vision clearance areas shall be provided as follows:
1. 
On any corner lot: a triangular area at the street intersection measuring 15 feet along each street property line (or the projections thereof parallel to the centerlines of the streets) from the point of intersection of such property lines (or the projections thereof);
2. 
At the intersection of an alley with a street, or at the intersection of two (2) alleys, or at an angle point where the alignment of an alley changes by sixty degrees or more: a triangular area measuring 15 feet along each street or alley property line from the point of intersection of the property lines;
3. 
At any driveway entrance from or exit to a street: triangular areas on each side of the driveway measuring 15 feet along the street property line and 15 feet along the edge of the driveway from the point of intersection of the edge of the driveway with the street property line.
B. 
Within a required vision clearance area there shall be no fence, tree, shrub, or other obstruction to sight between two (2) feet and seven (7) feet above the established street grade. Where the vision clearance area for an existing driveway falls on adjacent property, no additional obstruction in the two-foot to seven-foot height range shall be placed in the vision clearance area. Where existing obstructions exist on adjacent property in the two-foot to seven-foot height range, any new driveway constructed on the subject property shall be located so as to not have any such obstructions in its vision clearance areas.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.736.030 Driveway Standards.

A. 
In case of any conflict between the requirements of this section and any safety requirements pursuant to the Fire Code, the Fire Code requirements shall prevail.
B. 
Every garage, carport, parking area, loading area, drive-in or drive-through service area, or other off-street vehicular waiting or maneuvering area shall be connected to one or more public streets or alleys by one or more driveways meeting the standards set forth in this section.
C. 
Driveway Width.
1. 
In the various zones, the width of any driveway shall be within the limits shown in Table 19.736.030.
2. 
Where the driveway approach width at the street property line required by the City Engineer pursuant to Title 12 is different from the driveway width required by this section, a variable width transition segment outside the street right-of-way shall be provided to provide a smooth connection.
D. 
Driveway Length. Within the mixed-use zones, the minimum length of a driveway extending from a street to a parking area shall be 25 feet. A parking aisle providing access into a parking space shall not overlap the minimum required driveway length. In addition, the City Engineer may require a greater driveway length for larger parking lots, based on the amount of vehicular traffic generated with the existing and/or proposed land use, and the volume and speed of traffic on the adjacent street.
E. 
Driveway Height Clearance. Within the required driveway width, there shall be no obstruction from the driveway surface to a height of 8 feet. In addition, any portion of a driveway not covered by a building or porte cochere shall be unobstructed to a height of 14 feet.
Table 19.736.030
DRIVEWAY WIDTHS
All Zones(1)
Minimum Driveway Width
Maximum Driveway Width
One-Way
13 feet
35 feet
Two-Way
25 feet
35 feet
Note:
(1) The minimum and maximum driveway widths shall be subject to Section 19.436.040 for horizontal residential mixed-use developments with separate entry driveways. Horizontal residential mixed-use developments with a shared entrance shall be subject to the minimum and maximum development standards provided in Table 19.736.030.
F. 
Driveway Curvature. The minimum turning radius for any curve in a driveway shall be 25 feet measured to the outside edge of the driveway. The minimum turning radius for parking aisles shall be 25 feet.
G. 
Driveway Circulation Pattern.
1. 
Driveways and on-site circulation shall be arranged so that vehicles are not required to back into a street.
2. 
Outer turning radius of all drive aisles shall be 20 feet minimum.
3. 
In all zones, in order to preclude backing from a parking space into an alley, there shall be no direct entry from an alley to a parking space.
H. 
Corner Lots. Corner lots shall include two (2) driveways on each street frontage (primary street and secondary/side street).
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.736.040 Parking Spaces Required.

A. 
In connection with the use of each lot, sufficient off-street parking space shall be provided to meet the demand created by all activities on the lot. The minimum requirements for each use shall be as shown in Table 19.736.040, entitled Parking Spaces Required. Additional or a reduction in requirements may be imposed, based upon substantiated estimates, as a condition of approval of a development under site plan review, conditional use permit, or other development approval procedure provided for in this Title. For uses or property for which no parking requirement is set forth in Table 19.736.040, nor previously determined under the interpretation procedure (Section 19.128.010), nor established under a development approval procedure, a parking requirement shall be determined for that type of use pursuant to the interpretation procedure set forth in Section 19.128.010.
B. 
The floor area of any space used for parking, loading, or vehicular circulation shall not be included in the gross floor area use to calculate a parking requirement.
C. 
Where there is more than one (1) activity or use on a lot, the total parking space requirement shall be the sum of requirements for the separate components unless a conditional use permit is granted by the City for shared parking. An application for shared parking facilities may be considered for uses with significantly different peak hours of operation which must meet the following requirements:
1. 
A parking study prepared by a traffic engineer shall be submitted by the applicant demonstrating that there will not exist substantial conflict in the peak hours of parking demand for the uses for which joint use is proposed.
2. 
The number of parking spaces credited from one use to another under a shared parking agreement shall not create a situation where either use does not maintain the minimum number of spaces deemed necessary during peak hours of operation.
3. 
Parking spaces designated for joint use shall be located within a reasonable proximity to the use served as determined by the permit issued.
4. 
A written agreement shall be drawn to the satisfaction of the City Attorney and executed by all parties concerned assuring the continued availability of the number of spaces designated for joint use.
D. 
Where an off-street parking district has been established, the parking space requirement for each property within the district shall be reduced by the share of the total spaces provided by the district which is proportional to the share of the district assessment borne by the same property.
E. 
Any fractional space requirement resulting from the calculation of required parking spaces shall be disregarded if less than 0.50 space and shall be counted as one required space if 0.50 or greater.
Table 19.736.040
PARKING SPACES REQUIRED
Use
Parking Spaces Required
Residential Uses
Multi-Family Uses — Stand Alone Use
See Table 19.436.050 for parking spaces required for multi-family uses.
Multi-Family Uses — Part of a Mixed-Use Development
Developments with 49 or less residential units:
Within a parking structure or enclosed garage/carport:
Studio
1.0 spaces per dwelling unit
1 sleeping room
1.25 spaces per dwelling unit
2 sleeping rooms
2.2 spaces per dwelling unit
3 or more sleeping rooms
2.95 spaces per dwelling unit
Developments with 50 units or more:
Within a parking structure or enclosed garage/carport:
Studio
1.0 spaces per dwelling
1 sleeping room
1.25 spaces per dwelling
2 sleeping rooms
2.13 spaces per dwelling unit
3 or more sleeping rooms
3.0 spaces per dwelling unit
Public Service Uses
See Table 19.536.040 for parking spaces required for Public Service Uses.
Commercial Uses
See Table 19.536.040 for parking spaces required for Commercial Uses. In addition to the total number of required parking spaces, an additional 10% of the total required spaces must be reserved and designated for guest parking. Guest parking spaces shall be clearly marked and easily accessible.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.736.050 Parking Location.

A. 
Required residential parking shall be located on the same lot as the activities or uses served, except as follows:
1. 
Required parking may be located on a lot adjacent to the lot served subject to a recorded covenant as provided in subsection B of this section.
2. 
Any required parking provided by means of an off-street parking district is not subject to a specific location requirement.
B. 
Where required parking is not on the same lot as the activity or use served, a covenant running with the land shall be recorded by the owner of the parking lot guaranteeing to the City that the required parking will be maintained for the use or activity served.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.736.060 Parking Dimensions and Layout.

A. 
Except as further provided in this section, the layout of parking areas shall meet the standards shown in Table 19.736.060, entitled Parking Layout Standards.
B. 
There shall be a clear vehicular entry to every required parking space at least equal in width to the required width of the space.
C. 
Each parking space and aisle shall have a clear height of at least six and one-half feet. For all nonresidential parking areas, at least 20 percent of the spaces provided, together with their associated parking aisles, shall have a clear height of at least seven feet.
D. 
Required parking spaces shall meet the requirements for standard car parking as shown in Table 19.736.060 entitled Parking Layout Standards; except, for any parking area of ten or more spaces, not more than 30 percent of the required spaces may be for compact car parking. With justification for certain uses, a conditional use permit may be considered to permit the percentage of compact spaces to exceed 30 percent.
E. 
Any parking area shall provide internal circulation for access to all spaces without causing vehicles to back into or reenter a street.
F. 
Waiting (queuing) spaces shall not overlap parking aisles or driveways.
Table 19.736.060
PARKING LAYOUT STANDARDS
Type of Space
Stall
Drive Aisle Width (in feet)
Width in feet
Length in feet
One-Way
Two-Way
30°
45°
60°
90°
30°
45°
60°
90°
Standard Car Parking:
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Angle Parking:
9(2)
18
15
19
20
20
20
20
20
25
Parallel Parking
8
22
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Compact Car Parking
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Angle Parking:
8(2)
16
13
15
20
20
20
20
20
25
Parallel Parking
7
20
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Tandem Car Parking(1)
9
36
Waiting (Queuing) Spaces
9
20
Passenger Loading:
Parallel to curb
8
23
At angle to curb
9.5
19
Notes:
(1) Tandem parking stalls are permitted in parking garages and private parking lots provided at least one (1) parking stall per dwelling unit and all stalls required for any guest parking shall be individually and easily accessible and at least one (1) standard stall per dwelling unit shall be provided.
(2) With ninety-degree angle parking, an end stall shall be provided with a 2' wide planter adjacent to a wall or structure.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.736.070 Parking Improvements.

A. 
Except as otherwise specified in this Title, parking may be provided in parking lots, carports, garages, or other parking structures.
B. 
Drainage. All areas for the movement, parking, loading, repair, or storage of vehicles shall be graded and drained to dispose of surface water. In all cases except single-family residential uses, drainage shall be arranged to prevent surface flow across walkways and driveways.
C. 
Paving.
1. 
All areas for the movement, parking, loading, repair, or storage of vehicles shall be paved and maintained to eliminate dust and mud, to provide an even, unbroken driving surface, and to present a uniform appearance.
2. 
All paving shall meet one of the following minimum standards:
a. 
Portland cement concrete, three and five-eighths inches thick;
b. 
Asphalt, one and one-half inches thick on a 4-inch aggregate base;
c. 
Other pavement determined by the Director to be equivalent to one of the above standards in useful life, serviceability, and appearance.
D. 
Wheelstops. In all angle parking stalls (including ninety-degree parking) facing the perimeter of a parking area, individual concrete wheelstops or a six-inch high poured-in-place concrete curb shall be provided, located two feet inside the front boundary of the stalls.
E. 
Surface Parking.
1. 
Parking lots shall be placed to the side or rear of buildings. There shall be no vehicular parking between residential fronts and the public right-of-way.
2. 
Parking lots shall be connected to all building entrances by means of internal pedestrian walkways. Pedestrian walkways shall be not less than 6 feet wide.
3. 
Access drives shall be at least 200 feet apart and at least 100 feet from side property lines and street intersections unless an approved shared drive is provided or the driveway location does not create a traffic hazard to adjacent property.
4. 
Parking lot landscaping shall be located to discourage pedestrians from having to cross any landscaped areas to reach building entrances from parked cars.
5. 
Maximum number of driveways:
a. 
One driveway for lot frontage up to 150 feet.
b. 
Two driveways for lot frontage 150 feet to 299 feet.
c. 
One driveways for each additional 300 feet.
F. 
Residential Garage. If garage parking is provided, the following standards shall apply:
1. 
Garage doors may occupy no more than 40 percent of a building's street frontage and shall be recessed a minimum of 18 inches from a street-facing wall plane.
2. 
Street-facing garage doors serving individual units that are attached to the structure must incorporate one or more of the following so that the garage doors are visually subservient and complementary to other building elements:
a. 
Garage door windows or architectural detailing consistent with the primary dwelling.
b. 
Arbor or other similar projecting feature above the garage doors.
c. 
Landscaping occupying 50 percent or more of driveway area serving the garage (e.g., "ribbon" driveway with landscaping between two parallel strips of pavement for vehicle tires)
3. 
Each garage space shall be equipped with an automatic door opener and a roll-up sectional or similar garage door that does not extend onto the apron. On multifamily dwellings, a security gate on a multi-space garage is permitted.
4. 
For attached private garage, the design shall include adequate space for waste/solid storage and a water heater unit.
G. 
Tandem Parking. Tandem parking may be permitted to satisfy the off-street parking requirement for a residential unit in accordance with the following:
1. 
No more than two vehicles shall be placed one behind the other.
2. 
Both spaces shall be assigned to a single dwelling unit.
3. 
The tandem parking bay shall be a minimum 39 feet by 9 feet in interior dimensions.
4. 
Tandem parking to meet required parking for multiunit development shall not exceed 50 percent of the total provided number of spaces.
5. 
Tandem parking shall not be used to satisfy the parking requirement for guest parking.
6. 
The minimum vertical clearance shall be 8 feet.
H. 
Guest Parking. Parking for visitors and/or employees shall be accommodated onsite in garages, parking areas, or along internal streets to minimize spillover to adjacent residential neighborhoods.
I. 
Bicycle Parking. Bicycle spaces shall be distributed throughout the site. Bicycles may be parked anywhere on a lot, in compliance with pedestrian and vehicular access standards.
J. 
Developments near Public Transit. A major transit stop includes a rail transit station or the intersection of two or more major bus routes with a frequency of service interval of 15 minutes or less during the morning and afternoon peak commute periods.
K. 
Shared Parking for Underutilized Parking Spaces. Shared parking may be permitted for developments where at least 20% of parking spaces are vacant during the proposed shared parking hours. A signed agreement between entities proposing shared parking and an explanation demonstrating how the shared parking improves efficiency or reduces parking demand shall be provided.
L. 
Landscaping.
1. 
Landscaped Buffers Along Streets. Every parking area adjacent to a street shall be set back from the property line as required by Section 19.520.020. Such setback areas shall be permanently landscaped in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 19.532.
2. 
Landscaped Buffers Along Alleys. Except for driveways and walkways, a minimum 4-foot-wide landscaped planter shall be provided along all parking areas adjacent to an alley.
3. 
Interior Landscaping.
a. 
All Mixed-Use Zones. Within the parking area of any parking lot with 10 or more parking spaces, an area equal to at least 7 percent of the total parking and driveway area shall be landscaped with trees and some combination of shrubs, vines and ground cover.
b. 
All interior parking area landscaping shall be reasonably distributed throughout the area in order to avoid a monotonous appearance and to enhance the visual attractiveness of the area, especially those portions in public view.
c. 
All portions of a parking area not improved for parking aisles and stalls and more than 5 feet by 5 feet in size shall be landscaped. Any portion of the parking area not landscaped shall be paved.
d. 
Curbs Required. At all boundaries between landscaped areas and paving, a 6-inch-high concrete curb shall be provided unless reduced curb is required as part of the Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP).
4. 
Landscaped Buffers Along Residentially Zoned Properties. Every parking area adjacent to residentially zoned property shall be set back from the property line as required by Section 19.532.010. Such setback areas shall be permanently landscaped in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 19.532.
M. 
Marking of Parking Spaces. All parking areas serving nonresidential uses shall be marked as follows:
1. 
Double lines separating stalls, with minimum 4-inch-wide stripes and a minimum 8 inch separation;
2. 
Spaces for handicapped parking and for compact cars shall be so identified;
3. 
In accordance with any additional standards for marking of parking areas which may be adopted pursuant to Section 19.124.050.
N. 
Lighting. Security lighting for non-residential uses shall be provided in all parking areas accessible to public entry after dark, subject to the following criteria:
1. 
All artificial lighting shall be so designated to provide safety and security to the property users, as well as the enhancement of the general appearance of the development. Use of unhoused, bare bulbs shall be avoided.
2. 
Security lighting for non-residential uses in the commercial zones shall provide the following requirements:
a. 
The equivalent of one foot candle minimum of illumination shall be provided throughout the parking area.
b. 
All security lighting shall be on a time clock or photo sensor system.
3. 
Building-mounted lighting fixtures shall not project above the fascia or roof line. Recessed wall mounts are encouraged.
4. 
Pole mounted luminaires shall not exceed the height of the buildings on the site, unless otherwise approved by the Director.
5. 
All luminaires shall be designed, shielded, or aimed in such a manner so as not to produce glare upon adjacent properties or rights-of-way.
6. 
All required lighting shall be permanently maintained as a condition of the use.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.736.080 Parking Structure.

In addition to other requirements of this Division, a parking structure shall be subject to the following requirements.
A. 
For any portion of a parking structure within 50-feet of a residential zone, openings, other than for pedestrian or vehicular access shall be visually screened on any wall which faces the residential zone. Furthermore, any ramp and the top level parking surface shall have a minimum of 5-foot high perimeter solid wall as measured from the floor of the parking surface.
B. 
For the purpose of screen parking vehicles from public view on all other levels, there shall be a minimum of 48-inch high perimeter architectural screen or wall as measured from the finished floor, for all parking areas within the structure.
1. 
A parapet may count as an architectural screen if it meets the height requirement and effectively blocks the view of parked vehicles.
2. 
Examples of acceptable architectural screens include solid walls, perforated metal panels, decorative masonry, louvered screens, or vegetation walls, provided they are designed to complement the overall architectural style of the building and sufficiently obscure parked vehicles from public view.
C. 
The use of materials and the architectural design for the parking structure shall be compatible with the other structures on the property.
D. 
Suitable trees of a size and height relative to the scale and height of the structure shall be planted near and around the parking structure.
E. 
The exterior elevations of parking structures shall be designed to minimize the use of blank concrete facades. This can be accomplished through the use of textured concrete, planters or trellises, or other architectural treatments.
1. 
Any driveway providing access to a parking structure shall have a minimum width of 25 feet.
2. 
Parked vehicles at each level in the structure shall be shielded from view of adjoining streets.
3. 
If a toll or fee booth is in the driveway area, the driveways on either side of the booth shall have a minimum width of 14 feet and minimum depth of 40 feet from the property line to the booth to ensure vehicles can queue without obstructing traffic.
4. 
The maximum length of a parking aisle without being intersected by another parking aisle or driveway shall be 300 feet.
5. 
All ramps shall be provided with transition zones at the top and bottom of the ramp. Ramps with a grade of 10 percent or less shall have a transition zone at least 8 feet in length. Ramps with a grade of greater than 10 percent shall have transition zones at least 12 feet in length. The grade of a transition zone shall not exceed one-half the grade of the ramp it serves.
6. 
Minimum lighting requirement at entrances and exits is 20 foot-candles. Minimum lighting requirement of parking areas is 1.0 foot-candles.
7. 
The minimum distance of entry/exit from a corner intersection is 150 feet.
8. 
Large illuminated signs with architectural features, such as an arch or canopy, shall be used at the entrance to emphasize the facility entry and attract patrons.
9. 
Drive aisles shall be designed with a minimum turning radius of 25 feet to accommodate safe maneuvering of vehicles.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.736.090 Loading Areas.

Loading areas for nonresidential uses shall provide off-street loading spaces subject to Section 19.536.100.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.736.100 Transportation Demand Management Requirements for Specified New Development.

A. 
This section is intended to meet the requirements of the California Government Code Section 65089(b)(3) which requires development of a trip reduction and travel demand element to the CMP, and California Government Code Section 65089.3(a)(2) which requires adoption and implementation of Trip Reduction and Travel Demand Ordinance.
B. 
New commercial, office, industrial, and mixed use developments employing 100 persons or more may adversely impact existing transportation and parking facilities, resulting in increased motor vehicle emissions, deteriorating levels of service, and possibly significant additional capital expenditures to augment and improve the existing transportation system. In order to more efficiently utilize the existing and planned transportation system and to reduce vehicle emissions, it is the policy of the City to:
1. 
Reduce the number of peak-period vehicle trips generated in association with new development.
2. 
Promote and encourage the use of alternative transportation modes such as ridesharing, car pools, vanpools, public bus, and rail transit, bicycles, and walking as well as those facilities that support such modes.
3. 
Achieve related reductions in vehicle trips, traffic congestion, and public expenditure and achieve air quality improvements through utilization of existing local mechanisms and procedures for project review and permit processing.
4. 
Promote coordinated implementation of strategies on a county-wide basis to reduce transportation demand.
5. 
Achieve the most efficient use of local resources through coordinated and consistent regional and local TDM programs.
C. 
For applicable new mixed-use development projects estimated to employ 100 persons or more, shall meet the standards and requirements set forth in Chapter 19.540.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.740.010 Undergrounding of Utilities.

A. 
In connection with the new construction or relocation of a main building, or a change of use to a nonresidential use, all utility lines within the site boundaries shall be placed underground. Necessary surface-mounted utility equipment is permitted, provided it is screened from public view in the same manner as required for mechanical equipment as provided in Section 19.740.020.
B. 
The provisions of this section may be waived pursuant to the procedure provided under Section 19.128.060.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.740.020 Visual Screening of Mechanical Equipment.

A. 
All exterior equipment, whether freestanding or attached to a building, including pipes, conduit, and duct work shall be effectively screened from public view or architecturally integrated into a building structure, with the following exceptions:
1. 
Vents less than two (2) feet in height.
2. 
Window-mounted air conditioning units on multi-family dwellings.
3. 
Free-standing or roof-mounted solar equipment.
4. 
Outdoor lighting standards and fixtures.
B. 
All utility equipment shall be located out of the pedestrian path of travel. All utility equipment shall be purposefully and aesthetically placed adjacent to alleyways, within parking areas, rear or side yards, or within building "notch outs" and screened from public view.
C. 
If the mechanical equipment cannot be placed in the back, it shall be either placed on the ground and screened with landscape or placed on the roof and screened with architectural materials such as roof or parapet consistent with the overall architectural style.
D. 
All electrical utility equipment, electrical meters, and junction boxes shall be placed within a utility room. If a utility room is not feasible, then all utility equipment shall be purposefully designed as an integral part of the building development, placed adjacent to alleyways, within parking areas, or within rear or side yards, and screened from public view.
E. 
Trees and shrubs shall be placed a minimum of 5 feet away from water meter, gas meter, or sewer laterals; a minimum of 10 feet away from utility poles; and a minimum of 3 feet away from fire hydrants and fire department sprinkler and standpipe connections, unless another dimension is approved by the local Authority Having Jurisdictions (AHJ).
F. 
Design/Materials.
1. 
Screening must be architecturally consistent and/or integrated with the facility in terms of design, screening materials, and colors.
2. 
No raw or untreated materials shall be used on roof or building mounts. Fire Code requirements for the particular use and/or building will determine the permitted combustible or non-combustible material.
3. 
Roof-Mounted Equipment. Building parapets or other architectural elements in the building's architectural style shall screen roof-mounted equipment.
a. 
New buildings shall be designed to provide a parapet or other architectural element that is as tall or taller than the highest point on any new mechanical equipment to be located on the roof of the building.
b. 
For existing buildings with no parapet less than two (2) feet in height, mechanical equipment shall be surrounded on all sides by an opaque screen wall as tall as the highest point of the equipment. The wall shall be architecturally consistent with the building and match the existing building with paint, finish, and trim cap detail.
4. 
Wall- and Ground-Mounted Equipment.
a. 
Equipment is not allowed between front or side street facades and the street.
b. 
All screen devices shall be as high as the highest point of the equipment being screened.
c. 
Equipment and screening shall be in compliance with the setbacks of the zone.
d. 
Screening shall be architecturally compatible and include matching paint, finish, and trim cap of the building.
e. 
On ground mounts, view obscuring ornamental block, wood, and earth berms with acceptable landscaping may be used to provide effective architectural screening, if the treatment is deemed to be consistent with the overall design concept.
G. 
Treatment of Above-Grade Transformers; Meters; Gas Manifolds, etc. It is the intent to encourage the placement of such equipment in underground vaults. If placed above grade for a multi-family dwelling, such equipment shall be located in a side yard out of direct view from the street. If placed above grade for other than a multi-family dwelling, such equipment shall be located and screened from public view by an architectural screen and landscaping.
H. 
Maintenance. All screening devices shall be permanently maintained as a condition of the use.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.740.030 Communications Antennae Placement in Mixed-Use Zones.

A. 
Communication antennae (including guy wires, supports, and antennae elements) shall be permitted anywhere on a lot except in front or side yard setback areas abutting a street and in required rear and side yard setback areas.
B. 
Communication antennae shall not be supported by wooden towers.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.740.040 Receive-Only Television, Satellite Dish, and Radio Antennae Placement in Mixed-Use Zones.

A. 
Receive-Only Antennae.
1. 
Any receive-only antenna may be mounted in the rear yard, interior side yard, or on the roof of any mixed-use structure, subject to all conditions hereinafter provided.
B. 
Screening Required.
1. 
Each receive-only antenna visible to the public which has a surface area exceeding 20 square feet, shall be screened. All such screening shall be on three sides and shall be sufficiently high so as to screen 90 percent or more of the antenna from public view.
C. 
Location.
1. 
No receive-only antenna, or its supporting structure, shall be installed in any required setback or in any other location which would impede emergency access to any portion of the subject property.
D. 
Height.
1. 
No receive-only antenna shall exceed 10 feet in height above the peak roof line of the structure upon which such antenna is mounted or ten feet above the peak roof line of the closest building or residential structure located on the subject property if such antenna is not to be roof mounted.
2. 
Nothing herein shall excuse any person from obtaining all permits otherwise required or from complying with any and all applicable local and State codes, laws and regulations pertaining to the installation of antennae and/or antenna supporting structures.
E. 
Receive-Only Antenna Permit Application.
1. 
Where a permit is required, or application therefore is authorized, under any provision of Section 19.740.030 or this section, each person desiring a permit shall apply to the City's Planning Division. The applicant shall provide a completed application on a form provided by the Planning Division containing at minimum, the following:
a. 
Name, address, and telephone number of the applicant.
b. 
The specific location where the applicant proposes to install the antenna, including a detailed description of the antenna design and any supporting structure proposed to be utilized, including size, weight, and such other information as the Planning division may require.
c. 
Specific reasons as to why the antenna proposed to be installed should not be mounted in the rear yard, or otherwise, in accordance with the preferred order of placement, as herein prescribed.
d. 
If required herein, a description of the screening proposed to be utilized by the applicant.
e. 
A sketch or other drawing, satisfactory to the Director, showing:
(i) 
Location of physical features on the subject property.
(ii) 
Approximate dimensions (plus or minus one foot) of the subject lot and physical features thereon.
(iii) 
The specific location where the antenna, and screening if required, are proposed to be installed.
(iv) 
Any other physical features in the area of the subject property which applicant feels would adversely affect reception in those areas set forth herein as "preferred," and
(v) 
The design of the antenna and proposed support structure.
f. 
A statement as to why the proposed antenna may not be satisfactorily installed, or will not satisfactorily function, in a preferred area, as prescribed herein.
g. 
A declaration made under penalty of perjury that either the property upon which the antenna is proposed to be installed is not subject to any contractual covenants, conditions, or restrictions, or alternatively, that any applicable contractual covenants, conditions, or restrictions do not preclude the installation of the antenna, as proposed by the applicant.
h. 
All applicants for an antenna permit may be required to show to the satisfaction of the Director that circumstances preclude installation in a preferred area, or that reception quality in the preferred area or areas is insufficient, as herein prescribed.
i. 
Any person aggrieved by any provisions of this section due to exceptional circumstances may apply for an antenna permit in accordance with the provisions of subsection E of this section.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.744.010 Noise Control.

In addition to the requirements of Title 8, the following noise standards shall be met where applicable:
A. 
Residential Acoustical Design.
1. 
For all dwelling and group quarters, the development shall be designed to achieve:
a. 
Within each main building, a community noise equivalent level (CNEL) not exceeding 45 decibels;
b. 
In outdoor areas, a community noise equivalent level (CNEL) not exceeding sixty-five decibels, except that where it is not reasonably possible to achieve this objective, the development shall be designed to provide the lowest noise level reasonably possible within private open areas and/or common usable open areas of at least one hundred square feet per unit, with access to such area available to the residents of each unit.
2. 
Acoustical design and analysis shall be based upon the projected noise contours as shown in the noise element of the General Plan. For all new residential developments, an acoustical analysis shall be submitted to the City as follows:
a. 
For any residential development within a 60 decibel CNEL contour, an analysis by a professional architect, engineer, or building designer shall demonstrate that the required noise levels will be achieved.
b. 
For any residential development within a 65-decibels CNEL contour, or within either the moderate noise impact area or the significant noise impact area of the Fullerton Municipal Airport as shown in the noise element of the Buena Park General Plan, an analysis by a professional mechanical or acoustical engineer shall demonstrate that the required noise levels will be achieved. Prior to issuing a certificate of occupancy, the Building Official may require tests by a qualified acoustical technician to confirm that the noise reduction achieved is sufficient to meet the requirements of this section.
B. 
Air Conditioning Equipment. Exterior air conditioning equipment, other than self-contained window-mounted units, shall have a sound rating number (SRN) no greater than 60 decibels, in accordance with ARI (Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute) Standard 270, or the equivalent.
C. 
Public Address Systems. In all commercial and industrial zones, any public address systems, loudspeakers, and other sound-producing equipment shall be designed, installed, and operated in a manner which is not disturbing to the surrounding area.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.744.020 Compliance with Airport Environs Land Use Plan for Orange County.

Applicants proposing buildings or structures that penetrate the Notification Surface for FMA or JFTB Los Alamitos shall file a Form 7460-1 Notice of Proposed Construction or Alteration with the Federal Aviation Administration and provide a copy of the FAA determination to the City and ALUC.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.744.030 Lighting.

A. 
Lighting on any premises shall be directed, controlled, screened, or shaded in such a manner as not to shine directly on surrounding premises. Where adjacent owners enter into a written agreement, which shall be recorded, for the joint illumination of their premises, their combined properties shall be considered as a single premises for purposes of this regulation.
B. 
Lighting on any premises also shall be controlled so as to prevent glare on driveways, walkways, and public thoroughfares.
C. 
Building lighting within the mixed-use zones, for the purpose of enhancing or accentuating the architectural elements of a building and which may include the use of exposed neon and unshaded bulbs, may be authorized with a site plan review per Section 19.128.040. The review shall determine the appropriateness of the lighting to the building design. In addition to the other requirements of this section, there shall be no blinking, twinkling, scintillation, cyclic variation, motion, or the appearance of motion in the illumination.
D. 
Lighting shall be placed so as to minimize its impact on adjacent buildings and properties, especially residential uses. Any lighting source, including illuminated signs, shall be positioned so that light does not shine directly into residential windows.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.744.040 Maintenance and Operation.

All uses and activities shall be operated and maintained so as not to be hazardous, obnoxious, or offensive due to air pollution, odor, dust, smoke, gas, water pollution, noise, vibration, illumination, glare, electromagnetic disturbance or other radiation, or similar effects detrimental to public health, safety, and welfare. All federal, state, and local laws and regulations concerning environmental protection shall be complied with.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.748.010 Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units.

Refer to Section 19.348.010 for specific regulations on Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units in mixed-use zones.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.748.020 Mixed-Use Zones-Community Events.

Refer to Chapter 19.1004 Temporary Uses and Special Permits. Community events in mixed-use zones are required to obtain a temporary use permit subject to the provisions provided in Chapter 19.1004.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.748.030 Live/Work Units.

Standards for live/work units and artists' lofts/studios, including the adaptive reuse of existing nonresidential buildings to accommodate work-live uses, are as follows:
A. 
Limitations on Use. The non-residential component of a live/work development shall be a use allowed within any applicable zone by Section 19.712.010, subject to the following additional limitations:
1. 
Prohibited Uses. A live/work unit shall not be allowed to include any of the following activities:
a. 
Auto Repair - General, Auto Repair including paint or body work, Auto Maintenance - Minor, or any similar use.
b. 
Storage of flammable liquids or hazardous materials beyond that normally associated with a residential use.
c. 
Any other activity or use, as determined by the responsible review authority to not be compatible with residential activities and/or to have the possibility of affecting the health or safety of live/work unit residents due to the potential for the use to create dust, glare, heat, noise, noxious gasses, odor, smoke, traffic, vibration or other impacts, or would be hazardous because of materials, processes, products, or wastes.
2. 
Changes in Use. After approval, a live/work unit shall not be converted to entirely residential use. The covenants, conditions, and restrictions of any live/work project or unit in any Mixed-Use zone shall include the requirement that the live/work use shall not be converted to exclusive residential use.
3. 
Fire Department Review. The Fire Department shall review all live/work applications and have the authority to make recommendations regarding permitted nonresidential uses based on fire code and general public health and safety recommendations.
B. 
Design Standards.
1. 
Floor Area Requirement. A live/work unit shall have a minimum floor area of at least 750 square feet. The maximum size of the residential portion of the live/work unit shall be no more than 40 percent of the unit to ensure that the residential portion remains accessory to the primary commercial use. All floor area other than that reserved for living space shall be reserved and regularly used for working space.
2. 
Separation and Access of Individual Units. Each live/work unit shall be separated from other units and other uses in the building. Access to each unit shall be provided via storefronts or from common access areas, corridors, or halls. The access to each unit shall be clearly separate from other live/work units or other uses within the building. Living space shall be located in the rear ground level or second floor and above to maintain activity and commercial access along the frontage.
3. 
Facilities to Accommodate Commercial Activities. A live/work unit shall be designed to accommodate nonresidential uses as evidenced by the provision of ventilation, interior storage, flooring, and other physical improvements of the type commonly found in exclusively nonresidential facilities used for the same work activity.
4. 
Integration of Living and Working Space. Areas within a live/work unit that are designated as living space shall be an integral part of the work-live unit and not separated (or occupied and/or rented separately) from the work space, except that mezzanines and lofts may be used as living space subject to compliance with the other provisions of this Division, and living and working space may be separated by interior courtyards or similar private space.
5. 
Mixed Occupancy Buildings. If a building contains mixed occupancies of live/work units and other nonresidential uses, occupancies other than live/work shall meet all applicable requirements for those uses, and proper occupancy separations shall be provided between the live/work units and other occupancies, as determined by the Buena Park Fire Chief or designee.
6. 
Parking. Each live/work unit shall meet off-street parking requirements as provided in Chapter 19.736.
C. 
Operating Requirements.
1. 
Occupancy. A live/work unit shall be occupied and used only by the operator of the business within the unit, or a household of which at least one (1) member shall be the business operator.
2. 
Business License Required. At least one (1) of the residents of a live/work unit shall be required to have a business license with the City of Buena Park.
3. 
Sale or Rental of Portions of Unit. No portion of a live/work unit may be separately rented or sold as a commercial space for any person not living in the premises or as a residential space for any person not working in the same unit.
4. 
Notice to Occupants. The owner or manager of any building containing live/work units shall provide written notice to all occupants and users that the surrounding area may be subject to levels of noise, dust, fumes, or other effects associated with commercial uses at higher levels than would be expected in strictly residential areas. State and federal health regulations notwithstanding, noise and other standards shall be those applicable to commercial properties in the applicable zone.
5. 
Non-Resident Employees. Up to two (2) persons who do not reside in the live/work unit may work in the unit unless this employment is prohibited or limited by the conditional use permit. The employment of three (3) or more persons who do not reside in the live/work unit may be permitted subject to conditional use permit approval, based on additional findings that the employment will not adversely affect traffic and parking conditions in the site vicinity. The employment of any persons who do not reside in the live/work unit shall comply with all applicable Building Code, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and other state and federal regulations.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.748.040 Outdoor Seating and Dining.

A. 
Incidental Use Only. With the exception of permitted use outdoor dining areas as provided for in subsection F, below, outdoor dining areas must be incidental and accessory to the permitted eating establishment/restaurant.
B. 
Design. Outdoor dining areas shall be open on at least three (3) sides and open to the sky, with the exception that non-fixed umbrellas and awnings and canopies that accent the building are permitted. Side panels or any other accessories that enclose the outdoor dining area are prohibited.
C. 
Location.
1. 
The seating area shall not encroach into any required rear or side setback, parking and/or vehicular circulation area, required landscape areas, required paths of travel, or public rights-of-way.
2. 
Within any Mixed-Use zone, outdoor dining areas may be permitted within the required front setback area, consistent with the requirements of this Division.
3. 
The outdoor dining area must be located immediately adjacent to, abutting, and adjoining the establishment with which it is associated, and shall not extend beyond the building and/or storefront frontage and/or length of the tenant space of the associated primary establishment.
D. 
Maximum Allowable Square Footage. Outdoor dining shall not exceed 1,000 square feet for any individual establishment.
E. 
Delineation of Area. Any outdoor dining area serving a single business shall maintain a clearly marked perimeter and shall be separated from vehicular pathways and public sidewalks with low walls and/or landscape hedges a minimum of 2.5 feet in depth or 3.5 feet in height. Establishments that include the service or sale of alcoholic beverages are subject to additional requirements provided in Section 19.552.030.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.748.050 Home Occupations.

Refer to Section 19.448.060 for specific regulations on Home Occupations in mixed-use zones, which apply exclusively to non-live/work units.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.748.060 Animal Keeping.

Refer to Section 19.348.050 for specific regulations on animal keeping in mixed-use zones.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.748.070 Commercial Uses.

Refer to Chapter 19.552 (Special Requirements for Certain Uses) on specific regulations for commercial uses.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)

§ 19.748.080 Emergency Shelters.

Refer to Section 19.448.090 on specific regulations for emergency shelters in mixed-use zones.
(Ord. 1754, 6/24/2025)