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Goleta City Zoning Code

PART IV

Regulations Applying to Multiple Districts

§ 17.24.010 Purpose and Applicability.

The purpose of this chapter is to establish development and site regulations that apply, except where specifically stated, to development in all zoning districts. These standards are to be used in conjunction with the standards for each zoning district located in Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses. In any case of conflict, the standards specific to the zoning district will override these Citywide regulations.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.24.020 Accessory Structures.

A. 
Applicability. These provisions apply to all accessory structures except for trash, recycling, and green waste container enclosures regulated under subsection 17.24.140B. This section does not apply to accessory dwelling units, which are regulated by Section 17.41.030, Standards for Specific Uses and Activities-Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU).
B. 
Permit Requirements. Unless otherwise regulated under this Title, accessory structures are permitted based on the following:
1. 
Exempt. Accessory structures are exempt from permitting if all of the following requirements are met:
a. 
Does not exceed 12 feet in height;
b. 
The floor area does not exceed 120 square feet;
c. 
No plumbing is required; and
d. 
The accessory structure does not require Design Review Board approval.
2. 
Zoning Clearance. Accessory structures require a Zoning Clearance if any of the following are met:
a. 
The height exceeds 12 feet;
b. 
The floor area is greater than 120 square feet;
c. 
The accessory structure requires plumbing and does not otherwise require a Land Use Permit; or
d. 
The accessory structure requires Design Review Board approval.
3. 
Land Use Permit or Coastal Development Permit. Accessory structures shall require a Land Use Permit or Coastal Development Permit if any of the following are met:
a. 
A Land Use Permit or Coastal Development Permit is specifically required under this Title; or
b. 
The type of accessory structures requires a Notice to Property Owner.
C. 
Relation to Primary Use or Other Structures.
1. 
Primary Use. An attached or detached accessory structure may only be constructed on a lot on which there is a primary use to which the accessory structure is related.
2. 
Building Separation. A detached accessory structure must be separated from the primary structure and any other accessory structure by at least five feet.
D. 
Location. All accessory structures must comply with the following standards:
1. 
Residential District Setbacks.
a. 
Front and Side Setbacks. Accessory structures must conform to the setback regulations of the district, or as otherwise allowed under this Title.
b. 
Rear Setbacks.
i. 
Accessory structures greater than 12 feet in height must conform to the setback regulations of the district, or as otherwise allowed under this Title.
ii. 
Accessory structures that are less than or equal to 12 feet may be located no less than three feet from the rear lot line but may not occupy more than 40 percent of the required rear setback area.
2. 
Non-Residential District Setbacks. Accessory structures must comply with the setbacks per the underlying zoning district.
3. 
Wind Machines. Wind machine structures are allowed only in the Agricultural Zone District and requires a Zoning Clearance.
a. 
Additional Setbacks. Where allowed, wind machines must be set back 100 feet from all lot lines.
4. 
Bus Stops. Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District bus stop structures are allowed in front and street side setbacks if the structures meet the standards established in the Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District Bus Stop Standards as adopted by the Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District Board of Directors.
E. 
Height. Accessory structures are subject to the height limitations specific to the zoning district in which they are located, except as provided below:
1. 
Residential Districts. Accessory structures must be no greater than 16 feet in height. Additional height, up to the height limitation of the specific zone district in which they are located, may be permitted for accessory structures outside all setbacks, subject to Design Review by the Design Review Board and a Zoning Clearance.
F. 
Size. The floor area of an accessory structure shall not exceed 800 square feet. However, accessory structures may be attached to another accessory structure provided that the total floor area of the combined building does not exceed 800 square feet and there is no interior access between the structures.
G. 
Limitations.
1. 
There shall not be more than one accessory structure with habitable space on a lot except as allowed pursuant to Section 17.41.030, Standards for Specific Use and Activities—Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU).
2. 
Unless otherwise allowed within this Title, the following standards apply:
a. 
There shall not be any kitchen or cooking facilities within an accessory structure;
b. 
An accessory structure may contain a wetbar; and
c. 
An accessory structure may only contain one story.
H. 
Notice to Property Owner (NTPO). In addition to any other structures that require an NTPO pursuant to this Title, the following types of accessory structures require an NTPO:
1. 
Artist studios;
2. 
Cabañas;
3. 
Guesthouses; and
4. 
Other accessory structures as determined by the Director.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5; Ord. 22-06 § 4; Ord. 23-05 § 4; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.24.030 Buffers Adjacent to Agricultural Districts.

Development adjacent to any parcel within the Agricultural District must include an on-site buffer so as to avoid and minimize potential conflicts with adjacent agricultural zones.
A. 
Width. The standard setbacks of the base district apply and must not be encroached upon by any structure. An additional buffer may be required by the Review Authority on a site-specific basis at the time of approval of the development. Factors to consider when determining the width of an additional buffer include, but are not limited to:
1. 
The historical land use on the agriculturally zoned parcel;
2. 
The current crop type and agricultural practices on the agriculturally zoned parcel;
3. 
The future farming potential of the agriculturally zoned parcel;
4. 
The elevation and topographical differences of the two parcels;
5. 
The location of existing roads or naturally occurring barriers;
6. 
The extent and location of existing non-agricultural development;
7. 
The type of use proposed for the new development and the potential for that use to impact use of the adjacent agriculturally zoned parcel for agricultural purposes;
8. 
The site design of new development including the use of landscape screening that may be used within the buffer itself;
9. 
The lot size and configuration of the new development; and
10. 
The prevailing wind direction.
B. 
Location. The buffer from an agriculturally zoned parcel must be located on the lot where the new development is proposed along the shared lot line with the agriculturally zoned parcel.
C. 
Additional Finding. For any development on a parcel adjacent to an Agriculture District parcel, the following finding must be made in addition to any other required findings:
1. 
The standard setback and any additional buffer are sufficient to minimize potential conflicts with agricultural activities.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.24.040 Architectural Projections into Setbacks.

Architectural projections may extend into required setbacks, according to the standards of Table 17.24.040 below. The “Limitations” column states any dimensional, area, or other limitations that apply to such structures when they project into required setbacks. Notwithstanding the Table, no architectural project may project closer than five feet from any interior lot line.
TABLE 17.24.040: ALLOWED ARCHITECTURAL PROJECTIONS INTO SETBACKS
Projection
Distance into Front or Street Side Setback (ft)
Distance into Interior Side Setback (ft)
Distance Into Rear Setback (ft)
Limitations
All projections
No projection may extend into a public utility easement.
Cornices, canopies, eaves, belt courses, and similar architectural features; chimneys
3
3
3
Bay windows
3
3
3
Must not occupy more than one-third of the length of the building wall on which they are located and must be located at least 1 ft. above finished grade.
Fire escapes required by law or public agency regulation
4
4
4
Balconies, unroofed and unenclosed porches and patios, and landings
4
3
4
Outdoor stairways
3.5
3.5
3.5
Decks and stairs
Less than 18 inches above ground elevation
6
2
Entire Setback
Must be open on at least 3 sides. No closer than 7 ft. to a street-facing property line or 3 ft. to an interior property line.
18 inches or more above ground elevation
3
2
3
Ramps and similar structures that provide access for persons with disabilities
Reasonable accommodation will be made, consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act; see Chapter 17.63, Reasonable Accommodation for Persons with Disabilities.
FIGURE 17.24.040: ALLOWED BUILDING PROJECTIONS
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 21-07 § 4)

§ 17.24.050 Development on Lots Divided by District Boundaries.

A. 
Generally. Where a lot is within two or more zoning districts, the regulations applicable to each zone district will be applied only to that portion of the lot area within that zone district.
B. 
Minimum Lot Area and Width. The minimum lot area and width requirements of the base zone district covering the greatest portion of the lot area will apply to the entire lot. If the lot area is divided equally between two or more zones, the requirements of the district with greater minimum lot area and width will apply to the entire lot.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.24.060 Development on Nonconforming Lots.

Any lot or parcel of land that was legally created may be used as a building site even when consisting of less area, width, or depth than that required by the regulations for the zoning district in which it is located. However, no nonconforming lot can be further reduced in area, width, or depth, unless such reduction is required as part of a public improvement. Unless a Variance is approved, pursuant to Chapter 17.60, a nonconforming lot will be subject to the same setback, lot coverage, and density requirements as a standard lot.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.24.070 Drive-Through Facilities.

Drive-through facilities must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards:
A. 
Approval Required. All drive-through facilities require the approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit.
B. 
Circulation. Drive-through facilities must provide safe, unimpeded movement of vehicles at street access points, in travel aisles, and parking areas.
C. 
Pedestrian Walkways. Interior pedestrian walkways must not intersect vehicle aisles, unless no alternative exists. In such cases, pedestrian walkways must have clear visibility, emphasized by enhanced paving or markings and comply with applicable Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.
D. 
Stacking. Vehicular stacking areas must be provided to ensure vehicle queue will not interfere with public rights-of-way, pedestrian and ADA pathways, private streets, or with on- or off-site parking and circulation.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.24.080 Exceptions to Height Limits.

The standards of this section apply to all new development and to all existing structures. The structures listed in Table 17.24.080 below may exceed the maximum permitted building height for the zoning district in which they are located, subject to the limitations stated in the Table limiting the height of the vertical projection above the structure it is on and further provided that no portion of a structure in excess of the building height limit may be used for sleeping quarters or advertising.
TABLE 17.24.080: ALLOWED PROJECTIONS ABOVE STRUCTURES
Structures Allowed Above the Height Limit
Maximum Vertical Projection Above the Structure
Size and Location Limitations of Projection
Skylights
1 foot
None
Solar energy systems
Subject to the provisions of Section 17.24.180, Solar Installations
Other energy production or capture structure located on roof-tops
5 feet
None
• Chimneys
20% of structure height
Limited to a total of 20% of roof area, including all structures and projections.
• Decorative features such as cupolas, pediments, obelisks, and monuments
• Roof-top open space features such as sun decks, sunshade and windscreen devices, open trellises, and landscaping, excluding detached residential structures
• Architectural features, such as spires, bell towers, and domes
Elevator and stair towers (for multiple-unit and non-residential buildings only)
10 feet
No additional projections may be located above the tower.
Flagpoles
Subject to the provisions of Chapter 17.40, Signs
Fire escapes, catwalks, and open railings required by law
No restriction
None
Parapets, excluding detached residential structures
4 feet
None
• Distribution and transmission towers, lines, and poles
10 feet as an accessory structure;
None as a principal use
Limited to 20% of the area of the lot, or 20% of the roof area of all On-site structures, whichever is less;
No limit if principal use permitted in the district
• Water tanks
• Airway beacons
Recreational facility lighting
Up to a maximum of 60 feet in total height
None
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.24.090 Fences, Freestanding and Retaining Walls, and Hedges.

Fences, freestanding and retaining walls, and hedges must comply with the following standards.
A. 
Measuring Height. The height of structures or hedges subject to this section shall be measured in conformance with Section 17.03.090(C), Height—Measuring Height of Other Structures.
B. 
Permit Requirements.
1. 
Front Setbacks and Street Side Setbacks. Within the front and street side setbacks, or along the exterior boundaries of such setbacks, fences and freestanding walls may be allowed based on the following standards. Columns, gateposts, pilasters and entry lights may exceed the maximum height by two feet. However, no portion of the structure may encroach into a clearance triangle, pursuant to Section 17.24.210(A).
a. 
Six Feet or Less. Exempt.
b. 
More than Six Feet. Minor Conditional Use Permit.
2. 
Interior Side Setbacks and Rear Setbacks. Within interior side setbacks and rear setbacks, or along the exterior boundaries of such setbacks, fences and freestanding walls may be allowed based on the following standards. Columns, gateposts, pilasters and entry lights may exceed the maximum height by two feet.
a. 
Eight Feet or Less. Exempt.
b. 
More than Eight Feet. Minor Conditional Use Permit.
3. 
Other Parcel Locations. If located outside of required setbacks, the maximum height for fences and freestanding walls is eight feet, unless a higher fence or wall height is allowed pursuant to Design Review approval.
4. 
Exceedance. A maximum of 10 percent of the total linear length of a fence or freestanding wall may be allowed to exceed the heights specified above, where topographic or other unavoidable conditions will destroy its architectural integrity if held to the maximum height specified for its entire length.
5. 
Retaining Walls. Walls that are retaining earth only and that are less than four feet in height, as measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall and do not require a Grading Permit, are exempt from requiring a Zoning Permit.
C. 
Materials.
1. 
Limitation on Concrete/Masonry Block. Plain, concrete block may not be the primary material along arterial streets. Concrete block must be split-face or finished with stucco and capped with a decorative cap or other decorative material.
2. 
Exterior Appearance. A fence or wall with one side having a more-finished or smoother appearance than the other side must have the side with the more-finished appearance facing the exterior of the lot and the supporting members facing the interior of the lot.
3. 
Vegetation. Hedges must be adequately maintained and shall be subject to the height standards of subsection (B)(1) above, but may exceed the height standards of subsection (B)(2) of this section by an additional two feet. It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure hedge heights are at or below the appropriate heights to ensure vision clearance and neighborhood compatibility and to avoid uncontrolled vegetation growth becoming a hazard or nuisance to the general public.
4. 
Limitation on Chain-Link Fencing. When located in “R” zone districts, chain-link fencing must use vines, ivy, and/or shrubbery to adequately screen the fence when located within a setback along a road right-of-way.
D. 
Recreational Fencing. Fencing located around tennis courts, basketball or volleyball courts, and similar areas up to 12 feet in height may be allowed outside of required setback areas.
E. 
Vision Clearance. Notwithstanding other provisions of this section, fences, walls, hedges, and other similar or related structures must not obstruct visibility along roadways, intersections, and driveways, pursuant to Section 17.24.210. Any obstruction to visibility that creates a safety hazard must be removed.
F. 
Hedge Amortization. All nonconforming hedges may be continued and maintained for three months from the effective date of this Title. At the end of this three-month amortization period, such nonconforming hedges lose their status as nonconforming hedges and the property owner’s maintenance of such a hedge above the legal height constitutes a violation of the provisions of this Title and shall be removed or brought into conformance with this chapter.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5; Ord. 22-06 § 4; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.24.100 Grading and Grubbing.

This section provides additional information for grading and grubbing activities that are not associated with a larger approved project, which are themselves cumulatively considered a project and subject to this section.
A. 
Permit Requirements.
1. 
Exempt. The following grading and grubbing activities are exempt from Zoning Permits, pursuant to this Title:
a. 
Grading on a single lot of less than 50 cubic yards, less than two feet in depth, and not within 500 feet of any ESHA.
b. 
Grubbing on a single lot of less than one-half acre and not within 500 feet of any ESHA.
c. 
The annual or semiannual plowing, tilling, preparation, and planting of land for ongoing farming and agricultural operations.
2. 
Zoning Clearance. The following grading and grubbing activities require a Zoning Clearance, pursuant to this Title:
a. 
Grading of less than 50 cubic yards and within 500 feet, but not closer than 300 feet, of any ESHA.
b. 
Grading activities occurring on two or more contiguous lots and less than 500 square feet in area.
c. 
Grubbing of more than one-half acre, but less than one acre.
d. 
Grubbing less than 500 feet, but not within 300 feet, of any ESHA.
3. 
Land Use Permit or Coastal Development Permit. The following grading and grubbing activities require a Land Use Permit or Coastal Development Permit, pursuant to this Title:
a. 
Grading of 50 cubic yards or more.
b. 
Grading activities requiring a Grading Permit from the City.
c. 
Grading activities occurring on two or more contiguous lots and 500 square feet or more in area.
d. 
Grading or grubbing within 300 feet of, but more than 100 feet from any ESHA.
e. 
Grubbing of more than one acre.
4. 
Major Conditional Use Permit. The following grading and grubbing activities require a Major Conditional Use Permit pursuant to this Title:
a. 
Grading or grubbing within 100 feet of ESHA.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.24.110 Heliports.

Heliports, including helipads and helistops, are limited to accessory uses and must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards.
A. 
Permit Required. Heliports require the approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit.
B. 
Findings for Approval. In addition to the requirements of Chapter 17.57, Conditional Use Permits, a heliport can only be approved if the following additional findings can be made:
1. 
The development conforms to the location criteria and standards of this section and the requirements of the California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics.
2. 
Santa Barbara Municipal Airport and/or the FAA confirms that proposed Heliport will not conflict with current airport operations.
3. 
The proposed facility obtains all required reviews and approvals by the California Department of Transportation Division of Aeronautics and/or the FAA.
4. 
The proposed operation of the helicopter facility does not pose a threat to public health, safety or general welfare, or to sensitive and protected environmental resources.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.24.120 Mixed-Use Development.

Mixed-use development must comply with the following standards for open space:
A. 
For Mixed-Use Development where no more than 40 percent of the total floor area of the development is devoted to residential use, a minimum of 60 square feet of open space per unit is required, which may be provided as restricted and/or common open space.
B. 
For Mixed-Use Development where more than 40 percent of the total floor area of the development is devoted to residential use, a minimum of 160 square feet of open space per unit is required, which may be provided as restricted and/or common open space.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. No. 24-05, 12/3/2024)

§ 17.24.130 Private Outdoor Storage.

Private outdoor storage of materials, including, but not limited to, machines, equipment, and unregistered vehicles or parts, or goods for sale or use as part of a business outside of a residential or non-residential building for more than 72 hours must conform to the standards of this section. The regulations of this section do not apply to temporary storage of construction materials reasonably required for construction work on the premises pursuant to a Building Permit and to agricultural/farming equipment used for agriculture or farming on the property.
A. 
Permitted Districts. Table 17.24.130 below states where private outdoor storage is permitted.
TABLE 17.24.130: PRIVATE OUTDOOR STORAGE REGULATIONS BY DISTRICT AND LOCATION
Districts
Permissibility of Private Outdoor Storage
Residential, Commercial, and Office
Not permitted. All storage must be within an enclosed building, except as allowed for Outdoor Sales or otherwise specifically permitted. Portable On-Demand Storage (PODS), shipping containers, and similar temporary storage containment qualify as an enclosed building and are subject to all development standards of Section 17.24.020, Accessory Structures.
Industrial and Public and Quasi-Public
Not permitted in front or street side setbacks. Permitted in interior side and rear setbacks, or outside of required setbacks, subject to the standards of this section.
Agricultural
Permitted if associated with a permitted agricultural use, located outside of all required setbacks, and screened subject to the standards of this section from adjacent residential properties and public rights-of-way.
Open Space
Not permitted.
B. 
Screening. Storage areas visible from public streets that are not separated from the street by intervening building(s) must be screened. Screening walls and fences must be high enough to sufficiently screen stored material. Fences and walls must not exceed the maximum allowable fence heights unless allowed pursuant to approval of a Minor Conditional Use Permit.
C. 
Location. Any use of outdoor storage containers (e.g., shipping containers, PODS, etc.) shall not be located within any required parking space, required landscape area or setback, and shall not impede emergency access to the site.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.24.140 Trash, Recycling, and Green Waste Storage Areas.

This section establishes design and location standards for the construction of storage areas for refuse, solid waste, recycling, compost, organic, and green waste containers, which are all collectively referred to as “trash and recycling.”
A. 
General Requirements. All trash and recycling must be placed in an appropriate receptacle. All garbage cans, mobile trash bins, receptacles, and all recycling materials and containers must have a lid, be maintained in good repair, and stored in accord with this section.
B. 
Collection and Containment. All development must provide individual trash, recycling, and green waste containers or enclosures consistent with either the following:
1. 
Individual Trash, Recycling, and Green Waste Containers. Individual trash, recycling, and green waste containers for each dwelling unit or non-residential tenant may be provided as follows:
a. 
Development Type. Individual collection containers may be provided for:
i. 
Single-unit dwelling.
ii. 
Multi-unit dwellings where the Review Authority finds that the nature of the proposed development is such that the development will be adequately served with individual trash, recycling, and green waste containers.
iii. 
Non-residential development where the Review Authority finds that the nature of the proposed development is such that the development will be adequately served with individual trash and recycling containers.
b. 
Location. The trash and recycling containers must not be located within any required front setback, street side setback, any required parking and landscaped areas, or any other area required by this Title to be constructed or maintained unencumbered, according to fire and other applicable building and public safety codes.
c. 
Visibility. The trash and recycling containers must not be visible from a public right-of-way except as required for pick up as required by the trash and recycling haul operator.
2. 
Trash, Recycling, and Green Waste Container Enclosures. Trash, recycling, and green waste container enclosures are required for all new non-residential development except where the Review Authority finds the development will be adequately served with individual trash and recycling containers pursuant to subsection (B)(1) above.
a. 
Size. Trash and recycling enclosures must be sized to contain all trash, garbage, recyclables, and other waste generated on site based on the periodic pick up schedule by the City or its contracted trash and recycling collector(s).
b. 
Location. The trash and recycling storage area must be located outside of any required front setback, street side setback, any required parking and landscaped areas, any rear or interior side setback abutting an “R” Zone District parcel, or any other area required by this Title. Trash and recycling storage areas are to be maintained open, clear and unencumbered, pursuant to all applicable fire and building and public safety codes.
c. 
Accessibility. Trash and recycling storage areas must be directly accessible to trucks and equipment used by the trash and recycling collector(s). If feasible, access must have sufficient maneuvering areas, so collection equipment does not need to back into or out of the storage area.
d. 
Screening. Trash and recycling storage areas located outside of any building must be screened with a solid enclosure at least six feet in height and include a solid roof structure that fully shields the top of the container.
e. 
Permit Required. Enclosures are permitted according to subsection 17.24.020B.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.24.150 Reverse Vending Machines.

Reverse vending machines must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards:
A. 
Location. Machines must be located adjacent or as near as feasibly possible, to the entrance of the commercial host use and must not obstruct pedestrian or vehicular circulation. Machines can be located against a wall, but not in parking areas.
B. 
Identification. Reverse vending machines must be clearly marked to identify the type of material to be deposited, operating instructions, and the identity and phone number of the operator or responsible person to call if the machine is inoperative.
C. 
Trash Receptacle. Machines must provide a minimum 40-gallon garbage can for non-recyclable materials located adjacent to the vending machine.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.24.160 Right to Farm Covenants.

A. 
Disclosure Requirement.
1. 
Disclosure by Subdivider. The subdivider of any property located within 1,000 feet of land zoned or used for agriculture, within or outside of the City, must disclose, through a notation on the Final Map, within CC&Rs if prepared, and through the recordation of a separate acknowledgment statement on each individual deed describing the newly created lots, the presence of agricultural and appurtenant uses in the vicinity through the following or similar statement:
“The property within this subdivision is located within 1,000 feet of land utilized or zoned for agricultural operations and residents/occupants of the property may be subject to inconvenience or discomfort arising from use of agricultural chemicals, including, without limitation, acaricides, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, predacides and rodenticides; and from pursuit of agricultural operations, including, without limitation, crop protection, cultivation, harvesting, plowing, processing, pruning, shipping, spraying, and animal keeping and related activities, which may generate dust, light, noise, odor, smoke, and/or traffic. The City of Goleta has adopted policies to encourage and preserve agricultural lands and operations within and in the vicinity of the City. Residents/occupants of property should be prepared to accept inconveniences or discomfort as normal and necessary to properly conducted agricultural operations.”
2. 
Disclosure Before Issuance of a Building Permit. Where a new structure intended for human occupancy is to be located on land that is located within 1,000 feet of land zoned or used for agriculture within or outside of the City, the owner must, before the City issues a building permit, sign and record a statement in a form equivalent to that specified in subsection (A)(1), Disclosure by Subdivider. In lieu of signing the statement required above, the owner may submit evidence that the statement in subsection (A)(1), Disclosure by Subdivider, has been made a part of subdivision documents creating the lot on which the structure is proposed and appears on the deed for each lot.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.24.170 Screening of Mechanical Equipment.

A. 
Applicability.
1. 
The standards of this section apply to:
a. 
New development.
b. 
Replacement or new equipment that is added to serve existing buildings.
c. 
Condominium conversions.
2. 
The standards of this section do not apply to:
a. 
Continued routine operation of existing equipment that serves existing buildings unless that equipment is the subject of a building code compliance case and is determined to be unsafe to operate and needs either replacement or repair, then subject to this section.
b. 
Solar energy systems which are subject to Section 17.24.180, General Site Regulations— Solar Installations.
B. 
General Requirements. All exterior mechanical equipment, whether on a roof, on the side of a structure, or located on the ground, must be screened from public view. Exterior mechanical equipment to be screened includes, without limitation, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration equipment, plumbing lines, ductwork, transformers, smoke exhaust fans, water meters, backflow preventers, service entry section, and similar utility devices.
1. 
Screening must be architecturally integrated into the main structure with regard to materials, color, shape, and size to appear as an integral part of the building or structure.
2. 
Equipment must be screened on all sides.
3. 
The use of expanded metal lath or chain link for the purpose of screening is prohibited.
C. 
Requirements for Specific Types of Mechanical Equipment. The following additional screening standards apply to the specified types of mechanical equipment:
1. 
Ground-Mounted Equipment. Ground-mounted equipment that faces a public viewing area must be screened to a height of 12 inches above the equipment and designed and painted to blend in with the surrounding area, unless such screening conflicts with utility access, in which case reasonable accommodation must be allowed. Acceptable screening devices consist of decorative walls, berms, and/or plant materials.
2. 
Exterior Wall Equipment. Screening for wall-mounted equipment, (e.g., electrical meters, cableconnection boxes, electrical distribution cabinets, etc.) must incorporate elements of the building design (e.g., shape, color, texture, material, etc.). For screen walls that are three feet in height or lower, vegetative materials may be substituted for the screening device. This requirement does not apply to equipment that has accessibility and visibility requirements for health and safety.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.24.180 Solar Installations.

This section provides procedures for the review of solar energy systems, where the Building Official finds that solar energy systems could have a specific adverse impact upon the public health or safety, consistent with Goleta Municipal Code Section 15.14.070(E).
A. 
Exempt. Where the Building Official does not make the finding in Goleta Municipal Code Section 15.14.070(E), the solar energy system is exempt from all standards and requirements of this Title.
B. 
Permit Required. Where the Building Official makes the finding in Goleta Municipal Code Section 15.14.070(E), that a proposed solar energy system could have a specific adverse impact upon the public health or safety, issuance of a Land Use Permit is required.
C. 
Finding for Approval. The Director shall issue a Land Use Permit for a solar energy system only if the following finding can be made:
1. 
The proposed solar energy system installation would not have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety.
No additional findings are required for a solar energy system, notwithstanding any other provisions of this Title.
D. 
Finding for Denial. If the Director denies the project based on the finding in subsection (C)(1) above, the denial shall include a finding by the Building Official that there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact and the basis for the rejection of potential feasible alternatives of preventing the adverse impact.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.24.190 Swimming Pools and Spas.

This section establishes standards for private swimming pools and spas that are not open to the general public. Public pools are subject to Chapter 17.57, Conditional Use Permits.
A. 
Location. Swimming pools, spas, and appurtenant structures must not be located in the front or street side setback and must not be closer than five feet of any property line.
B. 
Equipment. All equipment must be mounted and enclosed/screened so that its sound is in compliance with Chapter 17.39, Performance Standards.
C. 
Safety. Any construction of a new swimming pool or spa, or the remodeling of an existing pool or spa must comply with the California Health and Safety Code Section 115922 et seq., also known as the Swimming Pool Safety Act.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.24.200 Underground Utilities.

For all new development, all electrical, telephone, cable television, fiber-optic cable, gas, water, sewer, and similar utility lines providing direct service to a project must be installed underground within the site. This requirement may be waived by the Review Authority upon determining that underground installation is infeasible, or the utility line is otherwise exempt from an undergrounding requirement.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.24.210 Vision Clearance.

A. 
Clearance Triangle. No wall, fence, or other structure may be erected, and no hedge, shrub, tree or other growth shall be maintained that will materially impede vision clearance within and to the road right-of-way for vehicular traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians.
1. 
Corner Lots. A hazard exists when a structure or vegetation exceeds the height of three feet within a triangle formed by the intersecting property lines nearest the streets and a straight line joining such property lines at points which are 10 feet from the point of intersection, measured along such property lines.
FIGURE 17.24.210(A)(1): CLEARANCE TRIANGLE, CORNER LOTS
2. 
Driveways. A hazard exists when a structure or vegetation exceeds the height of three feet within the triangle. The triangle is measured along the property line with roadway frontage from which access to the lot is taken and extends 10 feet parallel to the public right-of-way and 10 feet parallel to the driveway on both sides.
17.24.210.(A)(2): CLEARANCE TRIANGLE, DRIVEWAYS
3. 
Other Considerations. The Review Authority may further limit the height of construction by the terms of any zoning entitlement in order to prevent impairment of vision clearance. In consultation with Public Works staff, the City may require vision clearance triangles greater than those detailed in this subsection in order to protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the public.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 21-07 § 4; Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.24.220 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations.

This section provides procedures for the review of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, as they are defined in Goleta Municipal Code Section 15.20.030, where the Building Official finds that the EV charging station could have a specific adverse impact upon the public health or safety, consistent with Goleta Municipal Code Section 15.20.070(A).
A. 
Exempt. Where the Building Official does not make the finding in Goleta Municipal Code Section 15.20.070(A), the EV charging station is exempt from all standards and requirements of this Title.
B. 
Permit Required. Where the Building Official makes the finding in Goleta Municipal Code Section 15.20.070(A) that a proposed EV charging station could have a specific adverse impact upon the public health or safety, issuance of a Land Use Permit is required.
C. 
Finding for Approval. The Director shall issue a Zoning Clearance for an EV charging station only if the following finding can be made:
1. 
The proposed EV charging station installation would not have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety.
No additional findings are required for an EV charging station, notwithstanding any other provisions of this Title.
D. 
Finding for Denial. If the Director denies the project based on the finding in subsection (C)(1) above, the denial shall include a finding by the Building Official that there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact and the basis for the rejection of potential feasible alternatives of preventing the adverse impact.
(Ord. 21-07 § 4; Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.25.010 Purpose.

This chapter provides requirements for the dedication and improvement of public access to and along the Pacific Ocean coast for proposed development and new land uses within the Coastal Zone of the City. The intent of this chapter is to ensure that public rights of access to and along the coast are protected as guaranteed by the California Constitution and in compliance with the California Coastal Act, consistent with private property right.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.25.020 Applicability.

A. 
Protection of Existing Coastal Access. Development must not interfere with public rights of access to the shoreline where the rights were acquired through use or legislative authorization. Public access rights may include the use of a path of safe pedestrian travel from dry sand and rocky beaches to the bluff or first line of terrestrial vegetation.
B. 
Access Requirements. Public access from the nearest public roadway to the shoreline and along the coast must be provided in new development projects, except where:
1. 
It would be inconsistent with public safety or the protection of fragile coastal resources;
2. 
Adequate permanent public access exists nearby;
3. 
Agriculture would be adversely affected;
4. 
Access at the site would be inconsistent with policies of the Local Coastal Program, other than those requiring access;
5. 
There is no clear nexus between the requirement for public access and the impacts of the new development project;
6. 
The required public access is not roughly proportional to the extent of the impacts of the development project;
7. 
Requiring or providing the access would be inconsistent with Federal or State law; or
8. 
The activity is not considered development. Pursuant to this section, development does not include the activities described below:
a. 
Replacement of any structure pursuant to the provisions of subdivision (g) of California Coastal Act, Section 30610.
b. 
The demolition and reconstruction of a single-unit dwelling; provided that the reconstructed residence does not exceed either the floor area, height, or bulk of the former structure by more than 10 percent, and that the reconstructed residence must be sited in the same location on the affected property as the former structure.
c. 
Improvements to any structure that do not change the intensity of its use, which do not increase either the floor area, height, or bulk of the structure by more than 10 percent, which do not block public access, and which do not result in a seaward encroachment by the structure.
d. 
The reconstruction or repair of any seawall, provided however, that the reconstructed or repaired seawall is not seaward of the location of the former structure.
e. 
Any repair or maintenance activity for which the California Coastal Commission has determined, pursuant to Section 30610 of the California Coastal Act, a coastal development permit will be required, unless the Commission determines that the activity will have an adverse impact on lateral public access along the beach.
Nothing in this section will be interpreted to restrict public access, nor will it excuse the performance of duties and responsibilities of public agencies that are required by California Government Code Sections 66478.1 to 66478.14 and Section 4 of Article 3.5 of the California Constitution.
C. 
Timing of Access Implementation. The type and extent of public access to be dedicated and/or constructed and maintained, as well as the method by which its continuing availability for public use is to be guaranteed, must be established as provided by this chapter at the time of planning permit approval.
1. 
Easement or In-Fee Dedication. Must occur before issuance of construction permits or the start of any construction activity requiring a permit.
2. 
Construction of Access Improvements. Must occur in tandem with construction of the approved development, unless another schedule is established through a planning permit condition of approval, or mitigation measure.
3. 
Interference with Public Use Prohibited. Following an offer to dedicate public access in compliance with this section, the property owner must not interfere with use by the public of the areas subject to the offer before and after acceptance by the responsible party of the agency accepting the dedication.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.25.030 Access Location Requirements.

Vertical, lateral, and/or bluff-top access is required for all development in compliance with this chapter and within the locations specified in the Local Coastal Program.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.25.040 Access Design Standards.

This section provides standards for the appropriate design of coastal accessways and trails.
A. 
Design Objectives.
1. 
Design and Siting. Accessways and trails may be located within area of mapped or known ESHA, but must be sited and designed to:
a. 
Minimize alteration of natural landforms, conform to the existing contours of the land, and to be subordinate to the character of their setting;
b. 
Prevent unwarranted hazards to the land and public safety;
c. 
Provide for the privacy of adjoining residences and to minimize conflicts with adjacent or nearby established uses; and
d. 
Prevent damage to sensitive coastal resource areas to the maximum extent feasible.
2. 
Hazard Reduction. Coastal accessways and trails located in areas of high erosion hazard must be constructed and maintained in a manner that does not increase the hazard potential.
3. 
Correction of Existing Damage. Where appropriate, coastal accessways and trails must be designed to repair damage resulting from past use or other existing hazards and prevent such damage from reoccurring.
B. 
General Design Standards. Coastal accessways and trails must be designed in compliance with the following standards, where feasible. The review authority may modify these standards to provide greater protection of coastal resources.
1. 
Access Easement Specifications. Each public access easement offered for dedication for public use must be a minimum of 25 feet wide, or as close to that width as feasible.
2. 
Accessway Specifications.
a. 
Width. The area where public access is allowed within an easement may be reduced to the minimum necessary for pedestrian traffic to avoid:
i. 
Adverse impacts on adjoining sensitive environmental areas;
ii. 
Encroachment closer than 10 feet to an existing residence; and/or
iii. 
Hazardous topographic conditions.
b. 
Slope. The preferred slope gradient for the walking surface of an accessway is zero to five percent, and in no case can it exceed eight percent.
c. 
Overhead Clearance. The minimum overheard clearance for an accessway is seven feet.
3. 
Access for Persons with Disabilities. When feasible, wheelchair access to the ocean must be provided. Ramps must have dimensions and gradients consistent with current ADA requirements. Where beach access for disabled persons is provided, parking spaces for disabled persons must also be provided in compliance with Chapter 17.38, Parking and Loading.
4. 
Residential Privacy. The design and placement of accessways and trails must provide for reasonable privacy of adjacent residences. Accessways may be wide enough to allow the placement of a trail, fencing, and a landscape buffer. A vertical accessway abutting a residential area may be fenced at the property line and restricted for use only during daylight hours.
5. 
Parking. Where public access sites are required, parking areas must also be provided, where feasible pursuant to Chapter 17.38, Parking and Loading.
6. 
Directional Signs. Appropriate signage directing the public toward vertical, lateral, and bluff-top trails and public parking must be placed in prominent locations along accessways.
a. 
The City shall ensure that all public buildings and facilities comply with the same development standards and regulations as would be applicable to private development.
b. 
Coastal access signs shall be provided at appropriate locations within street and highway rights-of-way to direct visitors to coastal access sites, including signs at appropriate locations along the California Department of Transportation right-of-way for Highway 101.
c. 
Coastal access signs shall be provided at entrances to public coastal access parking lots.
7. 
Hazard Warnings. Proper warnings for potential hazards along coastal accessways and trails, such as steep cliffs, steps, or slopes, must be installed where necessary.
C. 
Vertical Access. All vertical accessways must comply with the following standards in addition to all other applicable requirements of this section.
1. 
Sensitive habitat areas shall be avoided to the extent practicable in circumstances where there are feasible alternative alignments of vertical accessways.
2. 
Public access paths shall maintain a natural appearance and shall not be paved with impervious materials, except for segments that are intended to provide handicapped access or short segments to beach overlook points.
3. 
No structures shall be permitted on bluff faces except for vertical beach accessways.
4. 
Access to the beach shall be provided by natural trails or ramps down the face of the bluff rather than by concrete or wooden stairways. Railroad ties or a similar material may be used to provide stability to the access route and to reduce bluff erosion.
5. 
Where vertical access to the beach area is not feasible or appropriate, vertical accessways may terminate at a beach overlook or vista point.
6. 
Vertical accessways must be sited along the border of the development and extend from the public road right-of-way to the bluff’s edge or shoreline; a different location may be approved if determined by the review authority to be more appropriate after considering site topography and the design of the proposed project.
7. 
If the proposed development includes residential structures, an accessway may not be sited closer than 10 feet to any residential structure.
8. 
Vertical access must have a minimum width of 10 feet to allow for pedestrian use of the corridor, but the required width may be reduced in compliance with subsection (B)(2), Accessway Specifications.
D. 
Lateral Access. All lateral accessways must comply with the following standards, in addition to all other applicable requirements of this section.
1. 
Sensitive habitat areas shall be avoided to the extent practicable in circumstances where there are feasible alternative alignments of lateral accessways.
2. 
Except as expressly provided for the Juan Bautista de Anza Trail (in Policy OS 4), all lateral accessways shall be designed to use native beach or soil materials and have no more than the minimum width needed to accommodate the intended type(s) of users.
3. 
Lateral beach accessways shall be maintained in a natural condition free of structures and other constructed facilities and shall be limited to native sand supply.
4. 
Lateral beach accessways shall be sited, designed, managed to avoid and/or protect marine mammal hauling grounds, seabird and shorebird nesting and roosting sites, sensitive rocky points and intertidal areas, and coastal dunes.
5. 
New public beach facilities shall be limited to only those structures that provide or enhance public access and recreation activities. No structures shall be permitted on sandy beach areas.
6. 
All lateral shoreline access and recreation improvements shall be designed to minimize any adverse impacts to visual resources and shall be compatible with maintenance of a natural appearance.
7. 
Signs shall be designed to minimize impacts to scenic coastal resources and shall be limited to trail markers and regulatory and interpretive signs.
a. 
Commercial signs are prohibited.
8. 
A lateral access easement extends from the mean high tide line landward to the base of the ocean bluff. Where there is no ocean bluff, the area must extend to the nearest non-beach natural feature.
9. 
A lateral access easement may not be closer than 10 feet to an existing residence; however, in determining the appropriate separation of the accessway from private development, privacy for the adjacent residence will be considered.
E. 
Bluff-Top Access. A lateral bluff-top access easement must have a minimum width of 25 feet, provided that the width within the easement where public access is allowed may be reduced in compliance with subsection (B)(2), Accessway Specifications. Average annual erosion rate for bluff retreat will be considered by the review authority when determining the width of the required lateral bluff-top access.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.25.050 Prescriptive Rights.

In areas where it has been established and documented that the public acquired a right of access through use, custom, or legislative authorization, development must not interfere with or diminish such public access. This requirement will be interpreted to allow flexibility in accommodating both new development and continuation of historic public parking and access.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.25.060 Access Title and Guarantee.

Where public coastal accessways are required by this chapter, approval of a Coastal Development Permit will require guarantee of the access through either a deed restriction or dedication of right-of-way or easement approved by the City Attorney. Before issuance of a Coastal Development Permit, the access guarantee will be recorded in the office of the County Recorder, identifying the precise location and area to be set aside for public access. The method of access guarantee will be chosen according to the following criteria:
A. 
Deed Restriction. To be used only where an owner, association, or corporation agrees to assume responsibility for maintenance of and liability for the public access area, subject to approval by the Zoning Administrator.
B. 
Grant of Fee Interest or Easement. To be used when a public agency or private organization approved by the Zoning Administrator is willing to assume ownership, maintenance and liability for the access.
C. 
Offer of Dedication. To be used when no public agency, private organization, or individual is willing to accept fee interest or easement for accessway maintenance and liability. These offers will not be accepted until maintenance responsibility and liability are established.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.25.070 Mitigation of Impacts to Coastal Access.

New development, including expansions and/or alterations of existing development, shall be sited and designed to avoid impacts to public access and recreation along the beach and shoreline.
A. 
If there is no feasible alternative that can eliminate all access impacts, then the alternative that would result in the least significant adverse impact shall be required.
B. 
Impacts shall be mitigated through the dedication of an access and/or trail easement where the project site encompasses an existing or planned coastal accessway.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.26.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to provide standards for development on lots in both the Coastal Zone and Inland area of the City where additional design considerations are necessary to preserve significant scenic and public views that contribute to the overall attractiveness of the City and the quality of life enjoyed by its residents, visitors, and workforce and to implement the General Plan.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.26.020 Applicability.

This chapter applies to all development located on or adjacent to a scenic and visual resource area within the City, as identified in the General Plan. Significant coastal visual resources include, but are not limited to, the Pacific Ocean, the shoreline, beaches, dunes, coastal bluffs, and open coastal mesas. Significant inland visual resources include, but are not limited to, the Santa Ynez Mountains, the Pacific Ocean, and the Channel Islands. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this chapter and any other provision of this Title, the development standards of this chapter will govern.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.26.030 Application Requirements.

Development applications must provide adequate information to identify existing and future public views and demonstrate how the project proposes to avoid potential significant negative impacts to protected public views, viewing areas, and scenic corridors.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.26.040 Scenic Views.

Proposed development must be designed to preserve existing public views of scenic resources to the maximum extent feasible. While potential impacts to private views will be considered during the Design Review process, they do not have the same protections that are afforded to those public viewing areas, including scenic views depicted in Figure 6-1 of the General Plan.
A. 
Design of Development. The Design Review Board will review the design of the proposed development, including the location of structures and uses on the lot, the size, bulk, scale, and height of the structure(s), and existing and proposed landscaping to ensure that public views are identified and protected. Design alternatives that enhance, rather than obstruct or degrade existing public views, may be requested.
B. 
View Protection Development Standards. To minimize impacts to public views and ensure visual compatibility of new development, the following development practices must be used, where applicable:
1. 
Limitations on the height and width of structures where more than 10 percent of a protected public view would otherwise be impacted;
2. 
Setbacks of ocean-fronting structures a distance sufficient to ensure that the structure does not infringe on views of the mountains from the beach;
3. 
Limitations on the height and use of reflective materials for exterior walls, including retaining walls and fences;
4. 
Clustering of building sites and structures;
5. 
Shared vehicular access to minimize curb cuts;
6. 
Use of appropriate landscaping for screening development but also minimizes impacts to public views of and from the ocean and mountains;
7. 
Selection of colors and materials that harmonize with the surrounding landscape;
8. 
Stepping of buildings so that the heights of building elements are lower near the street and increase with the distance from the public viewing area;
9. 
Limitations on removal of native vegetation; and
10. 
Revegetation of disturbed areas.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.26.050 Natural Landforms.

Proposed development on or adjacent to natural features, including but not limited mature trees, native vegetation, drainage courses, prominent slopes, and bluffs, must be designed and sited to prevent adverse impacts on the visual quality of these resources as viewed from public streets and publicly accessible areas on public or private property.
A. 
Design of Development. The Design Review Board will review the design of the proposed development, including the location of structures and uses on the lot, the size, bulk, scale, and height of the structure(s), and existing and proposed landscaping to ensure that natural landforms are identified and protected. Design alternatives that enhance, rather than obstruct or degrade natural landforms, may be requested.
B. 
Natural Landform Development Standards. To minimize alteration of natural landforms and ensure that development is subordinate to surrounding natural features, the following development practices shall be used, where appropriate:
1. 
Limit grading for all development including structures, access roads, and driveways. Minimize the length of access roads and driveways and follow the natural contour of the land;
2. 
Blend graded slopes with the natural topography;
3. 
On slopes, step buildings to conform to site topography;
4. 
Minimize use of retaining walls;
5. 
Minimize vegetation clearance for fuel management;
6. 
Cluster building sites and structures; and
7. 
Share vehicular access to minimize curb cuts.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.26.060 Scenic Corridors.

Proposed development must be designed to preserve scenic corridors, as depicted in Figure 6-1 of the City’s General Plan.
A. 
Design of Development. The Design Review Board will review the design of the proposed development, including the location of structures and uses on the lot, the size, bulk, scale, and height of the structure(s), and existing and proposed landscaping to ensure that the aesthetic qualities of scenic corridors shall be preserved through retention of the general character of significant natural features; views of the ocean, foothills, and mountainous areas; and open space associated with recreational and agricultural areas including orchards, prominent vegetation, and historic structures. Design alternatives that enhance, rather than obstruct or degrade existing scenic corridors, may be requested.
B. 
Scenic Corridor Development Standards. To minimize impacts to scenic corridors and ensure visual compatibility of new development, the following development practices must be used, where applicable:
1. 
Incorporate natural features in design;
2. 
Use landscaping for screening purposes and/or for minimizing view blockage as applicable;
3. 
Minimize vegetation removal;
4. 
Limit the height and size of structures;
5. 
Cluster building sites and structures;
6. 
Limit grading for development including structures, access roads, and driveways;
7. 
Minimize the length of access roads and driveways and follow the natural contour of the land;
8. 
Preserve historical structures or sites;
9. 
Plant and preserve trees;
10. 
Minimize use of signage;
11. 
Provide site-specific visual assessments, including use of story poles;
12. 
Provide a similar level of architectural detail on all elevations visible from scenic corridors;
13. 
Place existing overhead utilities and all new utilities underground; and
14. 
Establish setbacks along major roadways to help protect views and create an attractive scenic corridor. On flat sites, step the heights of buildings so that the height of building elements is lower close to the street and increases with distance from the street.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.27.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to:
A. 
Implement Housing Element policies of the General Plan that promote an increase in housing opportunities for households of all income categories, including populations such as farmworkers, seniors, and the disabled.
B. 
Establish procedures for providing density bonuses and other potential incentives or concessions consistent with State law to provide additional housing to meet the needs of the City.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.27.020 General Provisions.

A. 
State Law Governs. Persons seeking to construct affordable housing developments in accordance with this Title may utilize the density bonus allowances set forth in State Density Bonus Law, pursuant to California Government Code Section 65915 et seq. Where a conflict occurs between the provisions of this chapter and State law, the State law will govern.
B. 
Compatibility. All affordable housing units must be dispersed within market-rate projects whenever feasible. Affordable housing units within market-rate projects must be comparable with market-rate units in exterior appearance and use of materials.
C. 
Availability. All affordable housing units must be constructed and occupied concurrently with or before the construction and occupancy of market-rate units. In phased developments, inclusionary units may be constructed and occupied in proportion to the number of units in each phase of the residential development unless both the City and the developer agree in the Density Bonus Agreement to an alternative schedule for development.
D. 
Density Bonus Agreement. A Density Bonus Agreement will be made a condition of planning permit approval for all projects granted a density bonus, pursuant to this chapter. Consistent with all applicable requirements of this chapter, the Agreement must be recorded as a restriction on the parcel(s) on which the affordable housing units will be constructed.
E. 
Effect of Granting Density Bonus. The granting of a density bonus will not require a General Plan amendment, Local Coastal Program amendment, Zoning Ordinance or Map change, unless associated with development that otherwise would require such discretionary review and approval(s).
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.27.030 Administration and Procedures.

A. 
Application and Review Process.
1. 
The applicant must request in the application the incentives or concessions the applicant wishes to obtain, together with reasonable documentation showing how the incentives and/or concessions will result in cost reductions for the project. Applications will be reviewed and processed according to the provisions of Chapter 17.52, Common Procedures.
2. 
In accordance with State law, neither the granting of a density bonus nor the granting of a concession, incentive, waiver, or modification will be interpreted, in and of itself, to require a variance, zoning amendment, General Plan amendment, Local Coastal Program amendment, or any discretionary approval in addition to that required for the underlying housing development.
B. 
Density Bonus Agreement Required. All affordable housing projects receiving a density bonus or incentive require approval of a Density Bonus Agreement conforming to the provisions of Title 7, Division 1, Chapter 4, Article 4.3 of the Government Code. The Agreement must be recorded as a covenant on the title to the property. The Agreement must include, without limitation, the following:
1. 
Number of Units. The total number of units approved for the project, including the number of affordable housing units.
2. 
Unit Detail. The location, unit sizes (in square feet), and number of bedrooms of the affordable housing units.
3. 
Household Income Group. A description of the household income groups to be accommodated by the project and a calculation of the affordable rent or sales price.
4. 
Certification Procedures. The party responsible for certifying rents or sales prices of units, and the process that will be used to certify renters or purchasers of such units throughout the term of the agreement.
5. 
Schedule. A schedule for the completion and occupancy of both the affordable and the market-rate housing units.
6. 
Remedies for Breach. A description of the remedies for breach of the Agreement by either party.
7. 
Required Term of Affordability. Unless the affordable housing unit is governed by subsection 17.28.050(C), the term of affordability restrictions shall be 55 years.
8. 
Expiration of Agreement. Provisions covering the expiration of the agreement, including notice prior to conversion to market rate units and right of first refusal option for the City and/or the public disclosure of accrued equity for for-sale units.
9. 
Transfers and Conveyances.A new affordability housing covenant will be entered into upon each change of ownership of an affordable housing unit and upon any transfer or conveyance (whether voluntarily or by operation of law) of an owner -occupied affordable housing unit.
10. 
Rental Housing Developments. In the case of rental housing developments, the Agreement must provide for the following conditions governing the use of affordable housing units during the use restriction period:
a. 
The rules and procedures for qualifying tenants, establishing affordable rent rates, filling vacancies, and maintaining affordable housing units for qualified tenants;
b. 
Provisions requiring owners to verify tenant incomes and maintain books and records to demonstrate compliance with this chapter; and
c. 
Provisions requiring owners to submit an annual report to the City, which includes the name, address, and income of each person occupying affordable housing units, and which identifies the bedroom size(s) and monthly rent or cost of each affordable housing unit. The City will ensure this information is not shared except for reporting purposes.
11. 
Other Provisions. Any other provisions necessary to ensure implementation and compliance with this chapter, as determined by the City Attorney.
C. 
Notice of Conversions. Notice of conversions of affordable units to market-rate units after fulfillment of the required term of affordability must be provided pursuant to the following requirements:
1. 
General. At least one-year notice is required prior to the conversion of any rental units for affordable households to market-rate.
2. 
Required Notice. Notice must be given to the following:
a. 
The City;
b. 
The California Department of Housing and Community Development;
c. 
The Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara;
d. 
The residents of the affordable housing units proposed to be converted; and
e. 
Any other person deemed appropriate by the City.
D. 
Findings. In addition to any other findings required by this Title, the following findings apply, where applicable pursuant to this Chapter.
1. 
Required Finding for Approval. The Review Authority shall approve a housing development pursuant to this Chapter only if the following finding is made:
a. 
The housing development provides the housing required by State Density Bonus Law to be eligible for the requested density bonus and/or any incentives, waivers, or parking reductions, as evidenced by this finding.
2. 
Finding for Denial of a Concession or Incentive. The Review Authority shall grant an incentive or concession requested by an applicant pursuant to this Chapter unless it makes a written finding, based on substantial evidence, of one or more of the following findings:
a. 
The concession or incentive does not result in identifiable and actual cost reductions, consistent with Government Code Section 65915(k), to provide for affordable housing costs, as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 50052.5; or for rents for the targeted units to be set as specified in Government Code Section 65915(c).
b. 
The concession or incentive would have a specific, adverse impact, as defined in Government Code Section 65589.5(d)(2), upon the public health or safety or on any real property that is listed in the California Register of Historic Resources, and there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact without rendering the housing development unaffordable to low-income and moderate-income households.
c. 
The proposed incentive would be contrary to state or federal law.
3. 
Finding for Denial of Waiver or Reduction. The Review Authority shall grant a waiver of development standards requested by an applicant for a housing development pursuant to this Chapter unless it makes a written finding of any of the following:
a. 
The application of the development standard for which a waiver or reduction is requested would not have the effect of physically precluding the construction of a development meeting the criteria in Government Code Section 65915(b) at the densities or with the concessions or incentives permitted under Government Code Section 65915.
b. 
The waiver or reduction would have a specific, adverse impact, as defined in Government code Section 65589.5(d)(2), upon health or safety, and for which there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact.
c. 
The waiver or reduction would have an adverse impact on any real property listed in the California Register of Historic Resources.
d. 
The waiver or reduction would be contrary to state or federal law.
4. 
Finding for Denial of a Density Bonus or Concession for a Childcare Facility. The Review Authority may deny a request for a density bonus or incentive for a childcare facility that is based all or in part on the proposed provision of a childcare facility if the Review Authority makes a written finding, based on substantial evidence, that:
a. 
The City already has adequate childcare facilities.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 24-01, 4/16/2024; Ord. No. 24-05, 12/3/2024; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.28.010 Purpose and Intent.

The purpose of this chapter is to:
A. 
Implement Statewide policies to make available an adequate supply of housing for persons and households from all economic sectors of the community because persons with low and moderate incomes who work and/or live within the City are unable to locate housing at prices they can afford and are increasingly excluded from living in the City;
B. 
Support General Plan policies intended to promote and maintain a balanced and economically diverse community with a mix of workplaces and residential uses that offer a variety of housing types to meet the needs of an economically diverse work force, thereby reducing both adverse impacts on air quality and energy consumed by commuting;
C. 
Avoid the depletion of limited land resources needed to accommodate the demand for housing that is affordable to low- and moderate-income households by requiring the development of affordable housing when market-rate units are constructed, which is a more efficient use of land;
D. 
Construct new affordable units on the same site as new market-rate construction and only when this is infeasible, provide comparable new or substantially rehabilitated affordable units at another site of similar neighborhood character;
E. 
Establish standards and procedures to implement the inclusionary housing requirements in a streamlined manner that complies with Federal and State law; and
F. 
Provide additional incentives for the development of affordable housing units that exceed those to which developers are entitled under State law.
The primary intent of the inclusionary requirement is to achieve the construction of new affordable units on site. A second priority is construction of affordable units off site, or the transfer of sufficient land to the City or a City-approved affordable housing specialist or an in-lieu fee payment to the City. This chapter shall be implemented by way of a resolution adopted by the City Council.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 21-10 § 4; Ord. 24-01, 4/16/2024)

§ 17.28.020 Applicability.

A. 
Applicability. The requirements of this chapter apply to every residential development project that includes the addition of two or more housing units, including units added on the site in the previous five years, unless exempt by subsection B.
1. 
Compliance Before Approvals, Issuances, Granting of Maps, Permits, Entitlements. Developers must comply with this chapter before the City grants any ministerial or discretionary land use approvals for a project.
2. 
Verification of Compliance. The Director cannot find a development application to be complete until the developer provides a written proposal demonstrating how the requirements of this chapter will be met.
3. 
Sales and Rental of Inclusionary Dwelling Units. Each inclusionary dwelling unit required by this chapter must be sold or rented in compliance with this chapter and all applicable conditions of approval.
B. 
Exempt Projects. The following types of residential projects are exempt from the requirements of this chapter:
1. 
Projects to construct one single-unit dwelling on an existing “R” zoned lot;
2. 
Projects that are developed pursuant to the terms of a development agreement executed prior to the effective date of this Title, provided that such residential developments must comply with any affordable housing requirements included in the development agreement or any predecessor Title in effect on the date the development agreement was executed;
3. 
An affordable, multiple-unit rental housing project that will be developed by a nonprofit housing provider receiving financial assistance from the City, so long as the project is maintained as an affordable project subject to an affordable housing agreement with the City;
4. 
Projects processed pursuant to Section 17.41.030, Standards for Specific Use and Activities— Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU);
5. 
Residential building additions, repairs, or remodels, provided that the work does not increase the number of existing units by more than one unit, excluding the addition of one or more ADUs;
6. 
Projects consisting of 100 percent affordable units in which rents are controlled or regulated by a government unit, agency, or authority, excepting those unsubsidized and/or unassisted units that are insured by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD);
7. 
Projects that replace or restore residential units damaged or destroyed by fire, flood, earthquake, or other disaster; and
8. 
Units above the allowed density of a Zone District granted through a Density Bonus Agreement pursuant to Chapter 17.27, Density Bonus and Other Incentives.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 22-06 § 4; Ord. 24-01, 4/16/2024; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.28.030 Income Levels.

For the purpose of determining the income levels for potentially eligible households under this chapter, the City shall use the Santa Barbara County income limits found in Title 25, Section 6932 of the California Code of Regulations, and regularly updated and published by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), or other income limits adopted by the City Council, if HCD fails to provide regular updates.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.28.040 Inclusionary Housing Unit Affordability.

A. 
Base Requirement. Multiple-unit project developers proposing projects of five or more units must provide 20 percent affordable units of the total number of units.
1. 
Affordability Levels. Projects qualifying for a 20 percent affordability level must provide:
a. 
Two and one-half percent of the total number of units at prices affordable to extremely low-income households;
b. 
Two and one-half percent affordable to very low-income households;
c. 
Five percent affordable to low-income households;
d. 
Five percent affordable to moderate-income households; and
e. 
Five percent affordable to above moderate-income households earning 120 to 200 percent of the median income in the County.
B. 
Reduced Requirement. The Review Authority may reduce the 20 percent affordability level to 15 percent upon making the required finding that a developer will provide a public benefit exceeding the requirements of this Title, including, without limitation, a new on-site or nearby public park or open space facilities exceeding the park and recreation dedication requirements established in Chapter 16.14 of Title 16, Subdivisions of the Goleta Municipal Code.
1. 
Affordability Levels. If the Review Authority reduces the affordability level in accordance with this section, the projects must provide:
a. 
One percent of the total number of units as affordable housing to extremely low-income households;
b. 
One percent of units to very low-income households;
c. 
Five percent of units to low-income households;
d. 
Four percent of units to moderate-income households; and
e. 
Four percent of units to above moderate-income households earning 120 to 200 percent of median income in the County.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.28.050 Inclusionary Housing Requirements.

The number of inclusionary housing units that a developer must construct in accordance with this chapter is subject to the following:
A. 
Applicability. The percentage of inclusionary housing units required by this chapter is applied to the total number of dwelling units proposed for a project.
B. 
Fractional Units. In the event the calculation for the number of inclusionary units in any income category results in a fraction, the developer must account for inclusionary units as follows:
1. 
For projects of two to four units, the developer must make an in-lieu fee payment in an amount equal to the percentage represented by the fractional unit (out to two decimal places) for each income category multiplied by the applicable in-lieu fee payment amount for a full unit at that income level.
2. 
For projects of five or more units, in the event the calculation for the number of inclusionary units in any income category results in a fraction of an inclusionary unit, the developer has the option of either: (a) providing a full inclusionary unit within the residential development at the specific income level; or (b) combining fractional units at various income levels to sum a whole unit or units and build that unit or units at the low-income level. Any remaining fraction must be accounted for through an in-lieu fee payment in an amount equal to the percentage represented by the fractional unit multiplied by the applicable in-lieu fee payment amount. The amount of the inlieu fee payment will be in direct proportion to the fractional unit out to two decimal places.
C. 
Length of Term.The term of affordability restrictions shall generally be 55 years but not less than 30 years, and must provide for monitoring and reporting in a manner acceptable to the City.
1. 
Required Finding. If proposing an affordability restriction term of less than 55 years, the following finding must be made by the City Council:
a. 
The term of affordability of less than 55 years better serves the City's goals for affordable housing.
D. 
Compliance Hierarchy and Findings. Pursuant to subsection (B)(2) above, compliance with the requirement for inclusionary units must adhere to the following:
1. 
On Site. Developers must provide affordable units on site unless otherwise compliant with the findings in this chapter.
2. 
Off Site or Land Dedication. Developers may propose to provide affordable units on another site or meet the requirements of this chapter by dedicating land for the construction of affordable housing.
a. 
Off-Site Development. Off-site development must comply with the following requirements:
i. 
If units will be provided through partnership with a nonprofit housing agency, the partner must agree to all the provisions of this chapter and be a signatory to the Inclusionary Housing Agreement and Affordability Control Covenants, as required by this chapter.
ii. 
Inclusionary units must be regulated by a recorded agreement that requires maintenance of affordable housing units and an affordability covenant or deed restriction. The term of affordability restrictions must be consistent with the term required by this chapter.
b. 
Land Dedication. Land dedication must comply with each of the following:
i. 
The developer donates and transfers the land prior to recordation of the final subdivision map, or parcel map;
ii. 
The developable acreage and zoning classification of the land being transferred are sufficient to make the development of the affordable units feasible, as determined by the Director;
iii. 
The transferred land and the affordable units will be subject to a deed restriction in a form approved by the City Attorney ensuring continued affordability of the units;
iv. 
The land is transferred to the City or to an owner specializing in affordable housing construction approved by the City;
v. 
The transferred land is within the City; and
vi. 
A proposed source of funding for development of the affordable units is identified by the date of approval of the final subdivision map, or parcel map, as required by the Director.
c. 
Required Findings. If proposing either off-site development or a land dedication to meet the requirements of this chapter, each of the following findings must be made by the Review Authority:
i. 
The development of on-site affordable units is infeasible.
ii. 
The off-site location is within the City and comparable in character, with respect to building materials, on site facilities and amenities, and unit sizes, to the market-rate development location.
3. 
Other Alternatives. If unable to provide the required affordable housing pursuant to this Chapter on-site, off-site, or through a land dedication, the developer may propose meeting this Section’s affordable housing obligations by paying an inclusionary housing in-lieu fee payment, acquisition or rehabilitation of existing units, or other alternatives of equal value to the development of affordable units on site.
a. 
In-Lieu Fee Payment. If providing an in-lieu fee payment, the developer must pay the amount in accordance with the following requirements:
i. 
Amount. The amount of the in-lieu fee payments must be of equal value to the provision of the affordable units on site as set by City Council resolution.
ii. 
Payment Due Before Occupancy Permit. The inclusionary housing in-lieu fee payment must be paid in full to the City prior to the City granting any approval for occupancy of the project, but no earlier than the issuance of the building permit.
iii. 
Density Bonus Eligibility. The payment of an inclusionary housing in-lieu fee payment pursuant to this Chapter is not considered a provision of an affordable housing unit for purposes of determining eligibility for a density bonus pursuant to Chapter 17.27, Density Bonuses and Other Incentives, or California Government Code, Section 65915 et seq.
b. 
Acquisition and Rehabilitation. If acquiring and rehabilitating existing units, the following requirements must be met:
i. 
The value of the rehabilitation work is at least 25 percent of the value of the dwelling unit prior to rehabilitation, inclusive of land value.
ii. 
The site is zoned for residential units at a density to accommodate the number of rehabilitated units.
iii. 
The rehabilitated dwelling units must comply with all applicable building codes.
iv. 
The acquisition and rehabilitation are included in the project description for the market-rate unit project and is included in environmental review.
v. 
The rehabilitation of dwelling units must be completed prior to or concurrently with the market-rate units.
vi. 
The developer of the market-rate units must provide all costs of notice and relocation of existing residents in the residential units to be rehabilitated.
vii. 
Except as otherwise provided in this Chapter or specified in an inclusionary housing agreement, inclusionary units must contain, on average, the same number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and square footage as the non-inclusionary units proposed. The units must be compatible with the market-rate units proposed with regard to appearance, materials, and exterior design.
c. 
Required Findings. If proposing an inclusionary housing in-lieu fee payment, acquisition or rehabilitation of existing units, or other alternatives of equal value to the development of affordable units on site to meet the requirements of this chapter, each of the following findings must be made by the Review Authority:
i. 
The development of on-site affordable units is infeasible.
ii. 
The developer demonstrates that the in-lieu fee payment, acquisition and rehabilitation of existing units, or other alternative is of equal value to the provision of the affordable units on site.
E. 
Tradeoffs. The Review Authority may approve tradeoffs of extremely low- and very low-income units for low- or moderate-income units.
1. 
Required Findings. If proposing tradeoffs pursuant to this chapter, each of the following findings must be made by the Review Authority.
a. 
The development of on-site extremely low- and very low-income units is infeasible.
b. 
The developer provides substantial evidence to demonstrate that the City's housing goals can be more effectively achieved through the proposed tradeoffs.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 21-10 § 4; Ord. 24-01, 4/16/2024; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.28.060 Inclusionary Housing Plan and Agreement.

Each residential development that is subject to this chapter that will construct or acquire and rehabilitate affordable units must provide an Inclusionary Housing Plan in compliance with this section.
A. 
Inclusionary Housing Plan. No development application will be deemed complete until an Inclusionary Housing Plan containing all of the following elements has been submitted in a form meeting the approval of the Director:
1. 
For each construction phase, the Affordable Housing Plan must specify, at the same level of detail as the application for the residential development: the inclusionary housing option selected; the number, unit type, tenure, number of bedrooms and baths, approximate location, size, and design; construction and completion schedule of all inclusionary units; phasing of inclusionary units in relation to market-rate units, and general outline of the marketing plan.
2. 
Identification of the affordable income level for the proposed inclusionary units.
3. 
Calculation of the proposed number of inclusionary units consistent with this Chapter.
4. 
A written explanation of the method for restricting the units for the required term at the affordable income levels.
5. 
If on-site development of affordable units is not proposed, supporting evidence demonstrating on-site development is infeasible.
6. 
If the developer proposes meeting this section’s affordable housing obligations by paying an inclusionary housing in-lieu fee payment, acquisition or rehabilitation of existing units, or other alternatives of equal value to the development of affordable units on-site pursuant to Section 17.28.050, Inclusionary Housing Requirements, supporting evidence demonstrating that the inlieu fee payment, acquisition and rehabilitation of existing units, or other alternative is of equal value to the provision of the affordable units on site.
7. 
If the developer proposes tradeoffs of extremely low- and very low-income units for low- or moderate-income units, supporting evidence demonstrating that the development of on-site extremely low- and very low- income units is infeasible and that the City's housing goals can be more effectively achieved through the proposed tradeoffs.
8. 
Description of the methods to be used to verify tenant incomes and to maintain the affordability of the inclusionary units and must specify a financing mechanism for the ongoing administration and monitoring of the inclusionary units.
9. 
Any other information that may be requested by the Director to aid in the evaluation of the sufficiency of the plan under the requirements of this chapter.
B. 
Inclusionary Housing Agreement and Affordability Control Covenants. Before the City issues a building permit or approves a final map, whichever occurs first, the developer must record an Inclusionary Housing Agreement that conforms to the requirements of Section 17.28.050, Inclusionary Housing Requirements, and a separate Affordability Control Covenant in a form approved by the City Attorney that complies with this chapter.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 21-10 § 4; Ord. 22-06 § 4; Ord. 24-01, 4/16/2024; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.28.070 Inclusionary Unit Procedures.

lnclusionary unit eligibility, selection, residency requirements, and restrictions are regulated through the City's Affordable Housing Policies and Procedures Manual, as may be amended or superseded.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 24-01, 4/16/2024; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.28.080 Inclusionary Unit Restrictions.

A. 
Transfers and Conveyances. A new affordability housing covenant will be entered into upon each change of ownership of an inclusionary unit and upon any transfer or conveyance (whether voluntarily or by operation of law) of an owner-occupied inclusionary unit.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.28.090 Construction Standards for Inclusionary Units.

Inclusionary housing units built under the provisions of this chapter must conform to the following standards:
A. 
Design. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter or specified in an Inclusionary Housing Agreement, inclusionary units must contain, on average, the same number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and square footage as the non-inclusionary units in the development. The units must be compatible with market-rate units with regard to appearance, materials, and exterior design. The façades of inclusionary units must be constructed of the same materials as the market-rate units in the same development.
B. 
Utilities. Inclusionary units made available for purchase must include space and connections for a clothes washer and dryer within the unit. Inclusionary units made available for rent must include either connections for a clothes washer and dryer within the inclusionary unit or sufficient on-site, self-serve laundry facilities to meet the needs of all tenants without laundry connections in their units.
C. 
Location. All for-sale inclusionary units must be reasonably dispersed throughout the development and not clustered together or segregated in any way from market-rate units. For-rent inclusionary units may be clustered to facilitate third-party management.
D. 
Timing. All inclusionary units must be constructed and occupied concurrently with or before the construction and occupancy of market-rate units. In phased developments, inclusionary units may be constructed and occupied in proportion to the number of units in each phase of the residential development.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.28.100 Adjustments and Waivers.

A. 
Application for Adjustments or Waiver. The requirements of this chapter may be modified or waived if the developer demonstrates to the City that application of this chapter would constitute a taking of property in violation of the United States or California Constitutions.
B. 
Developer Bears Burden to Present Evidence. Any developer requesting an adjustment or waiver must submit documentation at the same time the developer files the project application presenting substantial evidence to support the request. The application must set forth in detail the factual and legal basis for any claim.
C. 
Written Decision. Before or in conjunction with its decision on the project, the City must render a written decision including findings within 90 days from the date the complete application is filed. The decision may be appealed to the City Council in the manner provided in Chapter 17.52, Common Procedures. The City Council’s decision is the City’s final decision. A developer may appeal the decision to a court of competent jurisdiction within 90 days after the decision in accordance with Code of Civil Procedure, Section 1094.6.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.28.110 Enforcement.

A. 
Enforcement Action. In addition to the general remedies provided by this Title and other applicable law, the Director and City Attorney are authorized to take any appropriate enforcement action to ensure compliance with this chapter, including, without limitation:
1. 
Actions to revoke, deny or suspend any permit, including a building permit, certificate of occupancy, or discretionary approval.
2. 
Actions to recover civil fines, restitution to prevent unjust enrichment from a violation of this chapter, and/or enforcement costs, including attorney’s fees.
3. 
Eviction or foreclosure.
4. 
Any other appropriate action for injunctive relief or damages.
B. 
Compliance. Failure of any public official, employee, or agent to fulfill the requirements of this chapter does not excuse any person, owner, household, or other party from complying with the requirements of this chapter.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.29.010 Applicability.

No structure in the City may be demolished, removed, or relocated, except as authorized under the provisions of this chapter.
A. 
Removal Considered Development. For purposes of this chapter, the removal of a structure for relocation to another lot is considered a demolition on the origin site and new development on the receiving site. Structures may be relocated subject to the requirements of Section 17.29.030, Relocation of Structures.
B. 
Exemptions. The following structures are exempt from the provisions of this chapter:
1. 
Any building, structure, object, or site that is less than 50 years old that is not:
a. 
Located within the Coastal Zone or within the Old Town Heritage Overlay District; or
b. 
A historic resource; or
c. 
Identified as a historical resource under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
2. 
Any building structure, object, or site that is 50 years or more in age that is not a historic resource.
3. 
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, if a building, structure, or object is determined by the City's Building Official to be unsafe, presents a public hazard, is not securable, or is in imminent danger of collapse so as to endanger persons or property, it must be demolished. The Building Official's determination in this matter will be governed by applicable law.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5; Ord. 22-05 § 6; Ord. No. 24-05, 12/3/2024)

§ 17.29.020 Permit Requirements.

Demolition or relocation of structures, including historic resources, subject to this chapter must obtain the following permit types:
A. 
Coastal Zone. All buildings, structures, or objects proposed for demolition or relocation that are located on property within the Coastal Zone of the City are subject to the permit requirements of Chapter 17.61, Coastal Development Permits.
1. 
Exception. Demolition or relocation of any historic resource requires the approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit.
B. 
Inland Area. All buildings, structures or objects proposed for demolition or relocation that are located on property within the Inland Area of the City are subject to the following:
1. 
Zoning Clearance. Any demolition of a structure that is 50 years or more in age and is neither a historic resource nor within a buffer of any other protected resource (e.g., ESHA, cultural, oak tree CRZ, etc.) and structures less than 50 years in the Old Town Heritage Overlay District.
2. 
Land Use Permit. Any demolition of a structure that is 50 years or more in age and is not a historic resource but is within the buffer area of a protected resource.
3. 
Discretionary Action. A discretionary action is required under the following circumstances:
a. 
Any demolition associated with a permit application that involves other development that requires discretionary review and approval. The demolition must be concurrently processed as part of the overall project.
b. 
Historic Resources. Demolition or relocation of any historic resource requires the approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5; Ord. 21-07 § 4; Ord. 22-05 § 6; Ord. No. 24-05, 12/3/2024)

§ 17.29.030 Relocation of Structures.

Structures may be relocated within the City if the following requirements are met:
A. 
The relocated structure must comply with all regulations of this Title, including all applicable development standards for the base zoning district of the property upon which the structure is proposed to be relocated.
B. 
Prior to relocating oversized structures using the public roadway, the approval of a City Encroachment Permit or a Single Trip Transportation Permit is also required by the Public Works Department.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5; Ord. 22-05 § 6; Ord. No. 24-05, 12/3/2024)

§ 17.30.010 Purpose and Intent.

The purpose of this chapter is to establish standards for development that could impact Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Areas (ESHA) and to describe the permit requirements and the review process for such proposed development. More specifically, this chapter is intended to:
A. 
Protect, maintain, and enhance natural ecosystem processes and functions in Goleta's ESHA in order to maintain their natural ecological diversity.
B. 
Preserve, restore, and enhance the physical and biological integrity of Goleta's creeks and natural drainages and their associated riparian and creek-side habitats.
C. 
Protect, restore, and enhance coastal bluffs and dune areas.
D. 
Identify and protect wetlands, including vernal pools, as highly productive and complex ecosystems that provide special habitats for flora and fauna, as well as for their role in cleansing surface waters and drainages.
E. 
Protect and enhance other important aquatic and terrestrial habitats, including those associated with rare, threatened, or endangered species of plants or animals.
F. 
Protect marine aquatic habitats.
G. 
Protect monarch butterfly habitats.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. No. 24-05, 12/3/2024)

§ 17.30.020 Applicability.

This chapter applies to land use and development with the potential to have a direct or indirect effect on ESHAs that could negatively impact the protected sensitive resource. No new development, except as specifically identified in this Title, is allowed within an ESHA.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.030 Application Requirements.

A. 
Initial Site Assessment Screening. The City must conduct an initial site assessment screening for all development applications to determine the potential presence of ESHA within 300 feet of the development activity. The initial site assessment screening must include a review of reports, resource maps, aerial photographs, site inspection and additional resources as necessary to determine the presence of ESHA.
B. 
Biological Study. For any development applications within 300 feet of ESHA, or with the potential to adversely impact ESHA, a site-specific biological study must be prepared. The biological study must address all relevant General Plan policies and may be peer reviewed, at the Director’s discretion. All costs of the biological study and any peer review are borne by the applicant.
1. 
The biological study must contain a topographic map at an appropriate scale and contour interval that adequately delineates the boundaries of creek beds and banks, wetlands, native riparian and upland vegetation, vegetation driplines, and ESHA boundaries. The map must clearly show areas that would be directly impacted by project construction and development footprints.
2. 
The biological study must confirm the extent of the ESHA, document any site constraints and the presence of other sensitive resources. The study must use all required ESHA buffers, discuss the timing of proposed development, analyze potential impacts to all protected sensitive resources, and provide other information, analysis or potential project revisions or modifications necessary to protect the nearby resources to the maximum extent feasible.
3. 
The biological study must provide alternatives and mitigation measures to avoid significant impacts to ESHA, and any finding that there is no feasible alternative to avoid ESHA impacts must be supported by substantial evidence in the analysis of the study. Where habitat restoration or mitigation is required to eliminate or offset potential impacts to an ESHA, a detailed Restoration and Monitoring Plan is required, as provided later in this section.
4. 
The biological study must also describe the flora and/or fauna known to occur or having the potential to occur on the site, including specific discussion for any sensitive species with protected status.
5. 
Where trees suitable for nesting, roosting, or significant foraging habitat are present, a formal raptor survey must be conducted as part of the biological study. The study must include an analysis of the potential impacts of the proposed development on the identified habitat or species, an analysis of project alternatives designed to avoid or minimize those impacts.
6. 
Where the Initial Site Assessment indicates the presence or potential for wetland species or indicators, the Biological Study must include a wetland delineation of all wetland areas on the project site. A preponderance of hydric soils or preponderance of wetland indicator species will be considered presumptive evidence of wetland conditions. At a minimum, the wetland delineations must contain:
a. 
A map at a scale of 1″:200′ or larger showing topographic contours.
b. 
An aerial base map.
c. 
A map at a scale of 1″:200′ or larger with polygons delineating all wetland areas, polygons delineating all areas of vegetation with a preponderance of wetland indicator species, and the locations of sampling points.
d. 
All area 100 feet upland of the extent of the wetland.
e. 
A description of the survey methods and surface indicators used for delineating the wetland polygons.
f. 
A statement of the qualifications of the person preparing the wetland delineation.
7. 
Where the Initial Site Assessment indicates the presence or potential for monarch butterfly ESHA, the Biological Study must include a Monarch Butterfly Protection Plan. At a minimum, the Plan must contain:
a. 
The mapped location of the cluster of trees where monarchs are known, or have been known, to roost in both autumnal and over-wintering aggregations.
b. 
An estimate of the size of the population within the colony.
c. 
The mapped extent of the entire habitat area.
d. 
The boundaries of the buffer zone around the habitat area.
8. 
The research and survey methodology used to complete the study must also be provided.
9. 
The biological study must be prepared by a professional biologist and have been completed within two years of the date of submittal of the application.
C. 
Scale of Plans. The Site Plan and Grading Plan must be of a scale and contour interval to adequately depict the proposed work and delineate environmental features on the site.
D. 
Restoration and Monitoring Plan. Where required, a Restoration and Monitoring Plan must be prepared by a professional biologist and include the following:
1. 
A clear statement of the goals for ESHA habitat restoration. Characterization of the desired habitat, including an actual habitat, that can act both as a model for the restoration and as a reference site for developing success criteria must be included.
2. 
Sampling of reference habitat using the methods that would be applied to the restoration site with reporting of resultant data.
3. 
Quantitative description of the chosen restoration site.
4. 
Requirements for designation of a qualified restoration biologist as the restoration manager who will be responsible for all phases of the restoration. Phases of the restoration may not be assigned to different contractors without on-site supervision by the restoration manager.
5. 
A specific Grading Plan if the topography is proposed to be altered.
6. 
A specific Erosion Control Plan if soil or other substrate would be significantly disturbed during the course of the restoration.
7. 
A Weed Eradication Plan designed to eradicate existing weeds and to control future invasion by exotic species that is carried out by hand weeding and supervised by a licensed biologist.
8. 
A Planting Plan that specifies a detailed plant palette based on the natural habitat type that is the model for the restoration, using local native and non-invasive stock and requiring that if plants, cuttings, or seed are obtained from a nursery, the nursery must certify that they are of local origin and are not cultivars. The Planting Plan should provide specifications for preparation of nursery stock and include technical details of planting methods (e.g., spacing, mycorrhizal inoculation, etc.).
9. 
An Irrigation Plan that describes the method and timing of watering and ensures removal of watering infrastructure by the end of the monitoring period.
10. 
An Interim Monitoring Plan that includes maintenance and remediation activities, interim performance goals, assessment methods, and schedule.
11. 
A Final Monitoring Plan to determine whether the restoration has been successful that specifies all of the following:
a. 
A basis for selection of the performance criteria;
b. 
Types of performance criteria;
c. 
Procedure for judging success;
d. 
Formal sampling design;
e. 
Sample size;
f. 
Approval of a final report; and
g. 
Provision for possible further action if monitoring indicates that initial restoration has failed.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5; Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.30.040 Development and Mitigation of Impacts.

A. 
No new development, is allowed within an ESHA or ESHA buffer.
1. 
Exception. Where consistent with the provisions of this section, new Capital Improvement Program projects, public accessways and trails, habitat restoration and enhancement projects when consistent with Sections 17.30.060(G) and 17.54.020(A)(6), and nature education and research activities.
B. 
New development must minimize impacts to habitat values or sensitive species to the maximum extent feasible. Native vegetation must be provided in buffer areas to serve as transitional habitat. All ESHA buffers must be of a sufficient size to ensure the biological integrity and preservation of the ESHA they are designed to protect.
C. 
Unless stated elsewhere in this Title or in the General Plan, new development must be sited and designed to avoid impacts to ESHAs. If there is no feasible alternative that can eliminate all impacts, then the alternative that would result in the fewest or least significant impacts must be selected. Any impacts that cannot be avoided must be fully mitigated, with priority given to on-site mitigation. Mitigation must be fully mitigated at a 3:1 ratio, unless otherwise specified in this chapter.
D. 
Off-site mitigation measures will only be approved when it is not feasible to fully mitigate impacts on site. If impacts to on-site ESHAs occur in the Coastal Zone, any off-site mitigation area must also be located within the Coastal Zone.
E. 
All mitigation sites must be monitored for a minimum period of five years following completion of installation, with changes made as necessary based on annual monitoring reports.
F. 
Sites with required mitigation will be subject to deed restrictions and performance securities in a form acceptable to the City (e.g., bonds, letter of credit, etc.), in the amount of 125 percent of the estimated costs of mitigation to guarantee completion. The performance security will be released upon the City’s final inspection of the completed mitigation.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.30.050 Development Standards.

All development must be designed and located to avoid disruption or degradation of habitat values. This standard requires that any project that has the potential to cause adverse impacts to an ESHA be redesigned, reduced in size, or relocated so as to avoid the impact or reduce the impact where complete avoidance is not possible.
A. 
Proposed site designs must preserve wildlife corridors or habitat networks. Corridors must be of sufficient width to protect habitat and dispersal zones for small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and birds.
B. 
Land divisions are only allowed if each new lot being created, except for open space lots, is capable of being developed without building in any ESHA or ESHA buffer and without any need for impacts to ESHAs related to fuel modification for fire safety purposes.
C. 
Site plans and landscaping must be designed to protect ESHAs. Landscaping, screening, or vegetated buffers, must retain, salvage, and/or re-establish vegetation that supports wildlife habitat whenever feasible. New development must incorporate design techniques that protect, support, and enhance wildlife habitat values. Planting of non-native, invasive species within ESHA or ESHA buffers must not be permitted.
D. 
New development must not degrade water quality, including the ocean, lagoons, creeks, ponds, wetlands, or any other waterbody. Pollutants that could adversely affect protected, sensitive resources shall not be discharged or allowed to flow off site.
E. 
All new development must be sited and designed to minimize grading, alteration of natural landforms and physical features, and vegetation clearance in order to reduce or avoid soil erosion, creek siltation, increased runoff, and reduced infiltration of stormwater, and to prevent net increases in baseline flows for any receiving water body.
F. 
Light and glare from new development must be controlled and directed away from wildlife habitats. Exterior night lighting must be minimized, restricted to low-intensity fixtures, shielded, and directed away from ESHAs, consistent with the requirements and standards in Chapter 17.35, Lighting.
G. 
All new development must minimize potentially significant noise impacts on special-status species, consistent with the requirements of Chapter 17.39, Performance Standards.
H. 
All new development must be sited and designed to minimize the need for fuel modification or weed abatement for fire safety in order to preserve native and/or non-native supporting habitats. Development must use fire-resistant materials and incorporate alternative measures, such as firewalls and landscaping techniques that will reduce or avoid fuel modification activities.
I. 
The timing of construction activities must be controlled to minimize potential disruptions or impacts to wildlife during critical time periods, such as nesting or breeding seasons.
J. 
Grading, earthmoving, and vegetation clearance within or adjacent to ESHA is prohibited during the rainy season, generally from November 1st to March 31st, except:
1. 
Where necessary to protect or enhance the ESHA itself; or
2. 
Where erosion control measures and best management practices (BMPs), such as sediment basins, silt fencing, sandbagging, or installation of geo-fabrics have been incorporated into the project, approved by the City, and installed prior to any grading operations; or
3. 
Where necessary to remediate hazardous flooding or geologic conditions that endanger public health and safety.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.060 Management of ESHAs.

The following standards apply to the ongoing management of ESHAs:
A. 
The use of insecticides, herbicides, artificial fertilizers, or other toxic chemical substances that have the potential to degrade ESHAs shall be prohibited within and adjacent to ESHA, except where part of an approved project that protects, restores, or enhances the ESHA itself.
B. 
Mosquito abatement must be limited to the implementation of the minimum measures necessary to protect human health and must be undertaken in a manner that minimizes adverse impacts to the ESHAs.
C. 
Weed abatement, brush-clearing, and fire fuel reduction activities for fire safety purposes must be the minimum that is necessary to accomplish the intended purpose. Techniques will be limited to mowing and other low-impact methods, such as using hand crews for brushing, tarping, and hot water/foam for weed control. Disking is prohibited.
D. 
Where there are feasible alternatives, existing sewer lines and other utilities that are located within an ESHA must be taken out of service, abandoned in place, and replaced by facilities located outside the ESHA to avoid degradation of the ESHA resources.
E. 
Removal of non-native, invasive plant species within ESHAs may be allowed and encouraged, unless the non-native plants significantly contribute to habitat values.
F. 
The following flood management activities may be allowed in creek and creek protection areas: desilting, obstruction clearance, minor vegetation removal, and similar flood management methods.
G. 
Habitat restoration or enhancement projects that are not subject to Section 17.54.020(A)(6), Zoning Clearance, shall be subject to review and approval of a Minor Conditional Use Permit unless a Development Plan or other approval is already required for a project that includes the habitat restoration or enhancement.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.30.070 Streamside Protection Areas.

A. 
Purpose and Applicability. The purpose of a Streamside Protection Area (SPA) designation in the General Plan is to preserve and enhance the SPA in order to protect the associated riparian habitats and ecosystems as well as the water quality of streams. The SPA consists of the riparian vegetation in the buffer area adjacent to streams.
B. 
Required SPA Buffer. The SPA upland buffer must be 100 feet outward on both sides of the stream, measured from the top of the bank or the outer limit of the riparian vegetation, whichever feature is further from the creek. The Review Authority may expand or reduce the upland buffer, or portions thereof, on a case-by-case basis, as provided in this section.
C. 
Reduction in the SPA Buffer.
1. 
Upon request of an applicant, the Review Authority may allow portions of a SPA upland buffer to be less than 100 feet, as such measurement is prescribed in subsection B above, but not less than 25 feet, with approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit, provided the Review Authority finds, on the basis of substantial evidence in the record, that:
a. 
The reduction in the SPA upland buffer will not have a significant adverse effect on streamside vegetation or the biotic quality of the stream;
b. 
There is no feasible alternative siting for the proposed project that will avoid an incursion into the SPA upland buffer;
c. 
In the absence of a reduction in the SPA upland buffer, the applicant cannot make reasonable economic use of the parcel; and
d. 
The approved amount of reduction in the SPA upland buffer is no greater than necessary to allow a reasonable economic use of the parcel.
2. 
Upon receipt of an application for an SPA upland buffer reduction, the Director may direct preparation by a City-selected consultant of a Biological Report, an economic/financial analysis and/or any other study or report the Director deems necessary in the Director’s reasonable discretion, at the applicant’s expense, to assist the Review Authority in making the above findings. At the request of the Director, the applicant shall provide information that the Director deems necessary, in the Director’s reasonable discretion, to produce the above-referenced studies or reports, including, but not limited to, financial data, land appraisal data, acquisition cost, land development/construction cost data, prospectuses, and financial/revenue projections. The application will not be deemed complete until the required reports are completed to the Director’s satisfaction.
D. 
Expansion of the SPA Buffer. In connection with consideration of any discretionary entitlement for a parcel adjoining a creek, the Review Authority may expand the SPA upland buffer beyond 100 feet as necessary to avoid a significant adverse effect on streamside vegetation or the biotic quality of the stream. The buffer may be expanded provided that the applicant may still make reasonable economic use of the parcel.
E. 
Allowable Uses within SPAs. The following compatible land uses may be allowed within SPAs, subject to certain limitations and permit requirements of this Title, including those requiring avoidance or mitigation of impacts:
1. 
Agricultural operations, provided they are compatible with preservation of riparian resources.
2. 
Fencing and other access barriers along property boundaries and along SPA boundaries.
3. 
Maintenance of existing roads, driveways, utilities, structures, and drainage improvements.
4. 
Construction of public road crossings and utilities, provided there is no feasible, less environmentally damaging alternative.
5. 
Construction and maintenance of foot trails, bicycle paths, and similar low-impact facilities for public access.
6. 
Resource restoration or enhancement projects.
7. 
Nature education and research activities.
8. 
Low-impact interpretive and public access signage.
9. 
Other Public Works projects, as identified in the Capital Improvement Plan, only where there are no reasonably feasible, less environmentally damaging alternatives.
F. 
Notification to Impacted Property Owners. The City shall notify, at a developer’s expense where applicable, all property owners where a development or restoration project will result in a change to the mapped riparian habitat that would lead to a change in the developable area on the owner’s property.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.30.080 Dedication of Easements or Other Property Interests.

In new subdivisions of land, SPAs must not be included within developable lots. SPAs must be located within a separate parcel or parcels, unless the subdivider demonstrates that it is not feasible to create a separate open space lot for the SPA. An easement or deed restriction must be required that limits the types of uses allowed within or upon the open space lot to those set forth in Section 17.30.070(C).
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.090 Protection of Wetlands Within the Coastal Zone.

The biological productivity and the quality of wetlands must be protected and, where feasible, restored in accordance with the Federal and State regulations that apply to wetlands within the Coastal Zone. Only uses permitted by the regulating agencies are allowed within wetlands.
A. 
Filling, Diking, or Dredging. The filling, diking, or dredging of open coastal waters, wetlands, estuaries, and lakes is prohibited, unless it can be demonstrated that:
1. 
There is no feasible, environmentally less damaging alternative to wetland fill, as determined through environmental review under CEQA;
2. 
The extent of the fill is the least amount necessary to allow development of the permitted use;
3. 
Mitigation measures have been incorporated into the project design or are included in conditions of approval to minimize adverse environmental effects; and
4. 
The purposes of the fill are limited to: incidental public services (e.g., burying cables or pipes, etc.); restoration of wetlands; and nature study, education, or similar resource-dependent activities.
B. 
Required ESHA Buffer. A wetland buffer is required to ensure the biological integrity and preservation of the wetland is required. The buffer area must serve as transitional habitat with native vegetation and must provide physical barriers to human intrusion while still allowing wildlife passage.
1. 
Generally, the required wetland buffer shall be at least 100 feet in width, but in no case shall the wetland buffer be less than 50 feet in width.
2. 
The Review Authority must consider the type and size of the development; the sensitivity of the wetland resources to detrimental edge-effects of the development to protected resources; natural features such as topography, the functions and values of the wetland; and the need for upland transitional habitat.
3. 
In no case shall the 100-foot minimum wetland buffer area be reduced in width by the Review Authority when it serves the function of slowing and absorbing water for flood and erosion control, sediment filtration, water purification, and groundwater recharge.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.100 Protection of Wetlands Outside the Coastal Zone.

A. 
Filling of Wetlands. The biological productivity and the quality of inland wetlands must be protected and, where feasible, restored. The filling of wetlands outside the Coastal Zone is prohibited, unless it can be demonstrated that:
1. 
The wetland area is small, isolated, not part of a larger hydrologic system, and generally lacks productive or functional habitat value;
2. 
The extent of the fill is the least amount necessary to allow reasonable development of a use allowed this Title; and
3. 
Mitigation measures are incorporated into the project design, or are included in conditions of approval, to minimize adverse environmental effects, including restoration or enhancement of habitat values of wetlands at another location on the site, or at another appropriate off-site location within the City.
B. 
Required ESHA Buffer. A wetland buffer is required to ensure the biological integrity and preservation of the wetland is required. The buffer area must serve as transitional habitat with native vegetation and must provide physical barriers to human intrusion while still allowing wildlife passage.
1. 
The required wetland buffer shall be no less than 50 feet in width.
2. 
The Review Authority must consider the type and size of the development, the sensitivity of the wetland resources to detrimental edge-effects of the development to the resources, natural features such as topography, the functions and values of the wetland, and the need for upland transitional habitat.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.110 Mitigation of Wetland Infill.

Where any dike or fill development is permitted in a wetland pursuant to this chapter, creation or substantial restoration of wetlands of a similar type is required to mitigate the loss of wetland area. Impacts must be mitigated at a ratio of 3:1, unless the project applicant provides evidence that the creation or restoration of a lesser area of wetlands will fully mitigate the adverse impacts. However, in no event can the required mitigation ratio be less than 2:1.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.120 Lagoon Protection.

The lagoon areas at the mouths of Bell Canyon and Tecolote Creeks must be preserved and protected. Lagoon breaching or water level modification is not allowed.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.130 Vernal Pool Protection.

Vernal pools shall be preserved and protected. New trails must be sited and constructed in a manner that avoids impacts to vernal pool hydrology and that will allow restoration by removing several informal trail segments that bisect sensitive vernal pool habitats.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.140 Protection of Coastal Bluff Scrub, Coastal Sage Scrub, and Chaparral.

The following standards apply to any development in an ESHA that would potentially affect coastal bluff scrub, coastal sage scrub, and chaparral:
A. 
Wildlife Corridors. To the maximum extent feasible, development must avoid impacts to habitat that is part of a wildlife movement corridor and the impact would preclude animal movement or isolate ESHAs previously connected by the corridor, such as: (1) disrupting associated bird and animal movement patterns and seed dispersal; and/or (2) increasing erosion and sedimentation impacts to nearby creeks or drainages.
B. 
Required ESHA Buffer. Impacts to ESHA discussed within this section shall be minimized by providing at least a 25-foot buffer restored with native species around the perimeter.
C. 
Vegetation Removal. The removal of non-native, invasive, or exotic species is allowed; however, any revegetation must be with plants or seeds collected within the same watershed whenever feasible.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.150 Protection of Native Oak Woodlands and Savannas.

Native oak woodland and savanna areas must be preserved and protected.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.160 Protection of Native Grasslands.

Native grasslands must be preserved and protected.
A. 
Applicability. This section applies to areas where native grassland species comprise 10 percent or more of the total relative plant cover. Where a high density of separate small patches occurs in an area, the whole area must be delineated as native grasslands.
B. 
Native Grassland Protection Standards.
1. 
To the maximum extent feasible, development shall avoid impacts to native grasslands that would destroy, isolate, interrupt, or cause a break in continuous habitat that would:
a. 
Disrupt associated animal movement patterns and seed dispersal; or
b. 
Increase vulnerability to weed invasions.
2. 
Removal or disturbance to a patch of native grasses less than one-quarter acre that is clearly isolated and is not part of a significant native grassland or an integral component of a larger ecosystem may be allowed. Removal or disturbance to restoration areas shall not be allowed.
C. 
Required ESHA Buffer. Impacts to protected native grasslands must be minimized by providing at least a 10-foot buffer that is restored with native grass species around the perimeter of the delineated native grassland area.
D. 
Vegetation Removal. The removal of non-native, invasive, or exotic species is allowed. Native grassland revegetation must be done with plants or seeds collected within the same watershed whenever feasible.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.170 Protection of Marine and Beach Habitats.

A. 
Any development on the beach or ocean bluff areas adjacent to marine ESHAs must be sited and designed to prevent impacts that could significantly degrade the marine ESHAs. Grading and landform alteration must be limited to minimize impacts from erosion and sedimentation on marine resources.
B. 
Marine mammal habitats, including haul-out areas, must not be altered or disturbed by development.
C. 
Near-shore, shallow fish habitats and shore fishing areas must be preserved and, where appropriate and feasible, enhanced.
D. 
Beach Activities. Beaches and shoreline areas shall be limited to coastal-dependent activities that are compatible with preservation of the quality of the resource, including coastal-dependent recreation activities such as swimming, surfing, boating and kayaking, and fishing.
1. 
Motorized Vehicles. The use of motorized vehicles on the beach, including off-road vehicles, is prohibited, except for beach maintenance and emergency response vehicles of public agencies.
2. 
Permit Required. Any commercial coastal-dependent recreation activities that would limit use of beach and shoreline areas to customers and exclude the general public shall be subject to approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.180 Protection of Monarch Butterfly ESHA.

All monarch butterfly ESHAs within the City must be protected against significant disruption of habitat values. Only those uses or development that are dependent upon and compatible with maintaining such sensitive habitat must be allowed within these ESHAs or their required buffers.
A. 
Applicability. Sites that provide the key elements essential for successful monarch butterfly aggregation areas and locations where monarchs have been historically present are both classified as ESHAs. These areas include stands of eucalyptus or other suitable trees that offer shelter from strong winds and storms, provide a microclimate with adequate sunlight, are situated near a source of water or moisture, and provide a source of nectar to nourish the butterflies.
B. 
Monarch Butterfly Protection Standards.
1. 
No development, except as otherwise allowed by this section, is allowed within monarch butterfly ESHAs or ESHA buffers including grading and other activities that could alter or negatively impact the surface and subsurface hydrology that sustains the groves of trees.
2. 
Since the specific locations of aggregation sites may vary from year to year, the focus of protection must be the entire grove or stand of trees rather than individual trees where aggregation and roosting occurs.
3. 
Removal of vegetation within monarch butterfly ESHAs is prohibited, except for minor pruning of trees, or removal of dead trees and debris that threaten public safety, private property, or other public facilities.
4. 
Public accessways are considered resource-dependent uses and may be located within a monarch butterfly ESHA or its buffer; however, such accessways must be sited to avoid or minimize negative impacts to aggregation sites.
5. 
Interpretative signage is permitted within a monarch butterfly ESHA or its buffer, but shall be designed to be visually unobtrusive.
6. 
Butterfly research, including tree disturbance or other invasive methods, may be allowed subject to the approval of a Zoning Clearance.
C. 
Required ESHA Buffer. A buffer of a sufficient size is required to ensure the biological integrity and preservation of the monarch butterfly ESHA, including aggregation sites and surrounding grove of trees.
1. 
Buffers shall not be less than 100 feet around existing and historic aggregation and roost sites, as measured from the outer extent of the tree canopy. The required buffer area must include native vegetation and provide physical barriers to human intrusion.
2. 
The required buffer may be reduced to 50 feet only in circumstances where the trees contribute to the habitat but are not considered likely to function as an aggregation site, such as along narrow windrows.
D. 
Construction Standards. A temporary fence must be installed along the outer boundary of the ESHA buffer prior to and during any grading and construction activities on the site. If an active roost or aggregation is present on the project site, any construction grading, or other development within 200 feet will be prohibited between October 1st through March 1st.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.190 Protection of Other Areas Designated as Sensitive Habitat.

A. 
Dunes. Dunes must be protected and, where feasible, enhanced as ESHAs.
1. 
Vehicle traffic through dunes is prohibited.
2. 
Where pedestrian access through dunes is allowed, well-defined footpaths or other means of directing use and minimizing adverse impacts must be used.
3. 
Active nesting areas for sensitive bird species, such as western snowy plovers and least terns, must be protected by fencing, signing, or other means.
B. 
Seabird Nest Areas. In order to protect seabird nesting areas, new pedestrian access is not permitted on the bluff face, except along existing and planned public trails or stairways shown in the General Plan.
C. 
Buffer Areas for Raptor Species. Active and historical raptor nests are to be protected.
1. 
New development must be designed to provide a 100-foot buffer around active and historical nesting sites for protected species of raptors when feasible.
2. 
If a biological study determines that an active raptor nest exists on a development site, no vegetation clearing, grading, construction, or other development activity is permitted within a 300 feet of the nest site during the nesting and fledging season to the extent feasible.
D. 
Protection of Special-Status Species. Habitats for individual occurrences of special-status plants and animals, including candidate species for listing under the State and Federal Endangered Species Acts, California species of special concern, California Native Plant Society List of Rare Plant Rank 1B plants, and other species protected under the provisions of the California Fish and Wildlife Code must be protected. All development must be located, designed, constructed, and managed to avoid disturbance of adverse impacts to special-status species and their habitats, including spawning, nesting, rearing, roosting, foraging, and other elements of the required habitats.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.30.200 Changes to Mapped ESHA.

If a project includes a change to the extent of mapped ESHA, as represented on Figure 4-1 of the City's General Plan Conservation Element, the Planning Commission shall be the Review Authority for the project and make, in addition to any other findings required for the project, the following finding at a public hearing:
A. 
Based on substantial evidence, including a site-specific Biological Study prepared consistent with subsection 17.30.030(B) and peer reviewed by a City-retained biologist, the physical extent of the ESHA applicable to the project is accurately reflected in a manner that refines the locations of ESHA shown in Figure 4-1 of the City's General Plan Conservation Element.
(Ord. No. 24-05, 12/3/2024)

§ 17.31.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to regulate the location of new development that could negatively impact the City’s floodways and drainageways.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.31.020 Applicability.

This chapter applies to all areas of special flood hazards within the City’s jurisdiction as designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and as depicted on the Federal Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM).
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.31.030 Development Standards.

In all areas of special flood hazards the following standards apply in addition to the standards set forth in Goleta Municipal Code, Chapter 15.10:
A. 
Prohibited Development. Development is prohibited within the 100-year floodplain where the development would:
1. 
Obstruct flood flow;
2. 
Displace floodwaters onto other property; or
3. 
Be subject to flood damage.
B. 
Hazards Evaluation Report. A Hazards Evaluation Report may be required in compliance with Section 17.32.030, Hazards Evaluation Report.
C. 
Required Setback. Development must be set back at least 50 feet from the top of streambanks and flood control channels.
D. 
Reduced Setback. If a project applicant deems their project infeasible due to the setback, the applicant must provide a site-specific engineering study, including recommended mitigation measures, which demonstrates a reduced setback does not expose development to unacceptable risk.
1. 
Required Approval. Any reduction to the 50-foot setback must be issued through a Discretionary Approval or approval of a Land Use Permit or Coastal Development Permit.
2. 
Required Finding. The Review Authority must find that, in consultation with the Santa Barbara County Flood Control District, the proposed lesser setback would be appropriate, in that it would allow access for flood control maintenance and enable proper operation of the channels.
3. 
ESHA Protections. Any reduction must also adhere to Section 17.30.070, Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Areas—Streamside Protection Areas, when applicable.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.32.010 Purpose.

This chapter provides standards for development and land uses in areas with coastal, geologic, and high fire hazards to protect the public health, safety, general welfare, and coastal resources.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.32.020 Applicability.

The provisions of this chapter apply to all development undertaken and proposed to be undertaken within coastal, geologic, and high fire hazard areas within the City.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.32.030 Hazards Evaluation Report.

A. 
Initial Site Assessment. The City must conduct an initial site assessment screening for all permit applications to determine the potential presence of hazards. Hazards include fault lines; areas subject to tsunami run-up, landslides, liquefaction, episodic and long-term shoreline retreat (including beach or bluff erosion), high seas, ocean waves, storms, tidal scour, flooding; slopes averaging greater than 25 percent; unstable slopes; and flood hazard areas, including those areas potentially inundated by future sea level rise. The initial site assessment should include a review of reports, resource maps, aerial photographs, on-site inspection, and the City’s hazards maps.
1. 
The City’s hazard mapping may be used as a resource for identification of hazard areas; however, absence of mapping cannot alone be considered absence of hazard. Local site conditions must be examined at the time of permit application using the best available sources.
2. 
If no potential hazards are found during the initial site assessment, no additional analysis or studies will be required, unless specifically requested by the Director; however, a written statement of the absence of hazards must be provided as part of an application submittal.
3. 
If a potential hazard is found during the initial site assessment or is specifically requested by the Director, a site specific hazard study will be required, pursuant to subsection B below.
B. 
Site Specific Hazard Study. The hazards study must address all relevant General Plan policies and identify recommended mitigation measures to reduce the risk from hazards. The study may be peer reviewed, at the Director’s discretion. All costs of the hazard study and any peer review are borne by the applicant.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5)

§ 17.32.040 Shoreline Development.

A. 
Applicability. This section applies to all development or expansion of existing structures or uses located on or adjacent to a beach or coastal bluff. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this section and any other provision of this Title, this section will govern.
B. 
Limitations on Development. Development must be safe from bluff retreat, waves, and flood hazards without the use of any shoreline protection devices. Piers, groins, breakwaters, drainages, seawalls, revetments, rip-rap, pipelines, and other shoreline structures are not permitted, except when required to serve coastal-dependent uses such as public access and recreational uses, or to protect structures existing as of January 1, 1977, or public beaches in danger of erosion, and only when non-structured alternatives have failed.
C. 
Application Requirements. Permit applications for new development or expansion of existing legal structures and uses proposed to be developed on or adjacent to a beach or coastal bluff must include the following:
1. 
Coastal Hazards Report. The site-specific Hazard Study must include an analysis of beach erosion, wave run-up, inundation, and flood hazards under current and expected conditions due to sea level rise during the expected life of the project. The report must consider, describe, and analyze the following:
a. 
The cross-shore profile of the beach;
b. 
Surveyed location of the mean high tide line acceptable to the State Lands Commission;
c. 
Bluff geometry and site topography, extending the surveying work beyond the site as needed to depict unusual geomorphic conditions that could affect the site;
d. 
Historic, current, and foreseeable bluff erosion/retreat rate, including investigation of recorded land surveys and tax assessment records, in addition to the use of historic maps and photographs, where available, and possible changes in shore configuration and sand transport;
e. 
Geologic conditions, including soil, sediment, and rock types and characteristics, in addition to structural features such as bedding, joints and faults;
f. 
Evidence of past or potential landslide conditions, the implications of such condition for the proposed development, and the potential effects of the development on landslide activity;
g. 
Existing ground and surface water conditions and variations, including hydrologic changes that could be caused by the development (e.g., introduction of sewage, effluent, and irrigation water to the groundwater system, alterations to surface drainage, etc.);
h. 
The availability of public access to and along the beach and potential to impact public access and recreation over the life of the project;
i. 
On lots with a legally established shoreline protection, a description of the condition of the existing shoreline protection device, identify any impacts it may be having on public access and recreation, scenic view, sand supplies, and other coastal resources, and evaluate opportunities to modify or replace the existing protection in a manner that would eliminate or reduce these impacts;
j. 
The area of the site subject to inundation, flooding, and wave run-up during at least a 100-year wave event, with high tide, elevated water level resulting from sea level rise, storm surge, and basin-wide events such as El Niño and Pacific Decadal Oscillation;
k. 
A tsunami hazard assessment, including sea level rise and tsunami wave run-up calculations;
l. 
A minimum of two future scenarios representing the range of projections of rise in sea levels, including a worst-case scenario based on the best available science;
m. 
The long-term effects of the proposed development on shoreline sand supply and movement;
n. 
The potential need for a shoreline protection device over the life of the development;
o. 
Potential erosion of the site and any mitigation measures to be used to minimize erosion before and after construction (i.e., landscape and drainage design);
p. 
Foundation design requirements to facilitate elevating or relocating the proposed development;
q. 
Project alternatives designed to avoid or lessen impacts from and/or exposure to hazards;
r. 
Adaptation strategies that could be incorporated into the development to reduce the long-term exposure to hazards; and
s. 
Any other factor that might affect slope or bluff stability.
D. 
Bluff Face Development. No development will be permitted on a bluff face, except for engineered public beach accessways.
E. 
Development Seaward of the Top of the Bluff. New development is prohibited seaward of the top of the bluff except:
1. 
Wooden stairs and other lightly constructed structures that provide public beach access.
2. 
Improvements necessary to provide access to the beach for emergency responders.
3. 
Temporary structures, subject to approval of a Minor Conditional Use Permit, pursuant to Chapter 17.57, Conditional Use Permits, and the following additional findings:
a. 
The temporary structure will not substantially interfere with lateral or vertical beach access or adversely impact coastal processes.
b. 
The temporary structure will not remain in place for longer than three years.
4. 
Removal of existing beach and shoreline structures, such as seawalls, roadways, and riprap, and removal of remnants of shoreline oil and gas facilities where the removal area is restored to a natural condition.
F. 
Structures on the Beach. No permanent structure will be permitted on a dry, sandy beach except facilities necessary for public health and safety.
G. 
Site Planning and Setback Standards. New development must be sited to ensure that it is safe from hazards associated with coastal erosion and without the need for shoreline protection devices for the life span of the project, or 100 years for Public Works projects in the City’s Capital Improvement Program.
1. 
Bluff-Top Setbacks. Where a lot line is adjacent to a bluff the following setback standards apply:
a. 
Principal Structures. Any principal structure must be set back from any bluff-top at least 130 feet.
i. 
A lesser setback may be considered by the Review Authority with the approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit.
(1) 
A site-specific geological or geotechnical engineering study demonstrates that the average annual bluff retreat rate at the site is less than one foot per year and that the proposed setback meets the 100-year bluff-retreat rate is required.
(2) 
A 30-foot safety buffer must be added to the reduced bluff retreat rate setback.
b. 
Accessory Structures. An accessory structure may encroach into the 130-foot setback but must be set back from any bluff-top 30 feet and must be easily moveable and replaceable.
i. 
Passive recreational structures, such as signs and benches, may be sited within the bluff-top setback.
c. 
Landscaping. Drought-tolerant landscaping must be installed and maintained in the required bluff-top setback. Grading, as may be required for drainage or to install landscaping and minor improvements (e.g., patios, fences, etc.) that do not impact public views or bluff stability, may be permitted.
2. 
Non-Bluff Coastline Setbacks. For all structures proposed within 500 feet of the mean high tide line in areas that lack coastal bluffs, a site-specific shoreline erosion rate and shoreline hazards study is required, consistent with the following:
a. 
Existing shoreline protection may not be factored into the analysis unless otherwise directed by the Director.
b. 
The study must demonstrate that the proposed structure would not be expected to be subject to shoreline erosion or other hazards for the life of the structure or for 50 years, whichever is greater.
3. 
Access and Recreational Area Setbacks. Additional setbacks may be required to accommodate public access and recreational areas in compliance with Chapter 17.25, Coastal Access.
H. 
Shoreline Protection Devices. Shoreline protection devices to protect development constructed after January 1, 1977 are prohibited. The following applies to shoreline protection devices to protect development constructed before January 1, 1977.
1. 
Application Requirements. Any application for installation or repair and maintenance of shoreline protection devices must include an engineering or geological study that includes evidence and discussion for each of the following:
a. 
The shoreline protection device is necessary to serve coastal-dependent uses such as public access and recreational uses, or to protect principal structures existing as of January 1, 1977 or public beaches in danger of erosion.
i. 
For existing shoreline protective devices that are being reconstructed and/or replaced, the application must include a re-assessment of the need for the device, the need for any repair or maintenance of the device. The application must, at a minimum, include an evaluation of the age and condition of the existing principal structure being protected; changed geologic site conditions including, but not limited to, changes relative to sea level rise; and impacts to coastal resources, including, but not limited to, public access and recreation.
b. 
Provide feasible alternatives to coastal shoreline protection devices as well as siting or design alternatives that would minimize impacts on coastal resources.
i. 
The alternatives analysis must include, but not be limited to, the relocation of the threatened structure or development as well as the removal of portions of the threatened structure or development.
ii. 
The alternatives analysis must identify the least environmentally damaging alternative and demonstrate the proposed shoreline protection device has been designed to eliminate or minimize adverse impacts on local shoreline sand supply, protected coastal resources, lateral access, and public recreation on the beach.
2. 
Required Findings. A shoreline protection device, including repairs, may be allowed by approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit and Coastal Development Permit approval, only when the Review Authority makes each the following findings:
a. 
The shoreline protection device is required to serve coastal-dependent uses such as public access and recreational uses, or to protect principal structures existing as of January 1, 1977 or public beaches in danger of erosion.
b. 
The proposed shoreline protection device has been designed to eliminate or minimize adverse impacts on local shoreline sand supply and protected coastal resources.
c. 
No other non-structural alternative, such as sand replenishment, beach nourishment, or managed retreat is feasible, and the device is the least environmentally damaging feasible alternative.
d. 
The size and scope of the shoreline protection device is the minimum necessary and least environmentally damaging, feasible alternative.
e. 
There will be no reduction in public access, use, or enjoyment of the natural shoreline environment, and construction of a shoreline protective device will preserve or provide access to related public recreational lands or facilities.
f. 
The shoreline protection device is designed to respect natural land forms and minimize visual impact through the use of visually compatible colors and materials.
I. 
Monitoring. The shoreline protection device must be regularly monitored by an engineer or engineering geologist familiar and experienced with coastal structures and processes. Monitoring reports to the City and the Coastal Commission are required every five years from the issuance date of the effectuating Coastal Development Permit. The report will evaluate the effectiveness and impacts of the shoreline protection device.
J. 
Maintenance. Maintenance and repairs must not enlarge the size of the shoreline protection device and will not encroach seaward of the existing device.
1. 
Any maintenance or repair requires an engineering or geological study demonstrating that in the absence of maintenance or repair, the structure protected by the device would be further exposed coastal hazards.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.32.050 Geologic Hazards.

The following standards apply to all development within areas with geologic hazards, including but not limited to, high and moderate landslide potential, medium-to-high liquefaction and seismic settlement potential, soil-related hazard areas, and areas with 25 percent slope or more.
A. 
Geological, Geotechnical, Soil, and Engineering Studies. Site-specific geotechnical, geologic, soil, and/or structural engineering studies must be prepared for new development in areas with known geologic hazards. Studies must assess the type and degree of hazards on the site and recommend any appropriate site design modifications or considerations that would adequately address and minimize any potentially significant and/or negative impacts relating to the identified hazards.
B. 
Setback from Active Fault. New development may not be located closer than 50 feet to any active or potentially active fault line to reduce potential damage from surface rupture. Nonstructural development may be allowed in such areas, depending on how such nonstructural development would withstand or respond to fault rupture or other seismic damage.
1. 
Potentially Active Faults. Potentially active faults shall be subject to the same requirements as active faults unless and until a geologic or geotechnical study has adequately demonstrated that the fault is not active.
C. 
Site Disturbance. All construction proposed for areas with 25 percent slope or more, or subject to soil-related and slope-related hazards, must minimize the area of vegetation removal, disturbance, and grading.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.32.060 Fire Safety.

A. 
Fire Fuel Modification Plans. Applications for projects that require fire fuel modification must include a Fire Fuel Modification Plan. This plan must be prepared by a landscape architect or resource specialist and include measures to minimize removal of native vegetation, protect ESHAs, and incorporate fire-resistant and/or fire-retardant vegetation in new plantings.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5; Ord. 25-05, 9/2/2025)

§ 17.32.070 (Reserved)

Prior History: Ord. 20-03 § 6; repealed by Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025.

§ 17.33.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to provide for the recognition and preservation of historic resources that reflect the social, cultural, historical, and architectural heritage of the City by establishing procedures and regulations that are necessary to:
A. 
Assist the City in identifying and protecting its historic resources;
B. 
Encourage public education and appreciation of the City’s heritage;
C. 
Ensure that new development maintains continuity with the City’s historic character and scale;
D. 
Maintain historic resources as community assets;
E. 
Integrate the preservation of historic resources into the public and private development process;
F. 
Implement the goals and policies of the Visual and Historic Resources Element of the General Plan; and
G. 
Fulfill the City’s responsibilities under applicable State and Federal laws, including the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA).
(Ord. 22-05 § 7)

§ 17.33.020 Applicability.

The provisions of this chapter apply to historic resources located within the City.
(Ord. 22-05 § 7)

§ 17.33.030 Historic Resources Inventory.

A. 
Establishment. The City shall create and maintain a list of properties known as the Historic Resources Inventory (HRI) adopted by City Council Resolution. The HRI shall collectively consist of buildings, structures, objects, or sites that satisfy one or more of the following:
1. 
Are identified as potentially eligible for designation through historic resources survey or other evaluation conducted by a qualified preservation professional using accepted professional practices and formally adopted for inclusion on the HRI by the City Council; or
2. 
Are listed in or formally determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places or the California Register of Historical Resources, either individually or as a Contributor to a designated Historic District; or
3. 
Are designated as a County of Santa Barbara Landmark or County of Santa Barbara Place of Historic Merit; or
4. 
Are designated Historic Landmarks or contributors to designated Historic Districts by the City Council.
B. 
Purpose. The HRI may be used for reference for future determinations for the designation of Historic Landmarks or Historic Districts. In addition, all properties on the HRI are subject to provisions of this chapter including the standards and review processes associated with alterations to or demolition of historic resources. All properties on the HRI are considered historical resources as defined by the California Environmental Quality Act and may be eligible to use alternative Building Code provisions as determined by the Building Official.
(Ord. 22-05 § 7)

§ 17.33.040 Historic Landmarks.

A. 
Criteria for Designating a Historic Landmark. A building, structure, object, or site shall be designated a Historic Landmark, if the City Council finds that the following criteria are met:
1. 
The proposed Historic Landmark is at least 50 years old or exhibits exceptional importance; and
2. 
The proposed Historic Landmark meets one or more of the following:
a. 
The proposed Historic Landmark is associated with important events or broad patterns of development that have made a significant contribution to the historical, archaeological, cultural, social, economic, aesthetic, engineering, or architectural development of the City, State, or nation; or
b. 
The proposed Historic Landmark is associated with persons significant in local, State, or national history; or
c. 
The proposed Historic Landmark embodies distinctive characteristics of a style, type, period, or method of construction, or is an example of the use of indigenous materials or craftsmanship, or it is a significant example of the work of a notable builder, designer, or architect; or
d. 
The proposed Historic Landmark has yielded or has the potential to yield, information important to the history or prehistory of the City, State, or nation; and
3. 
The proposed Historic Landmark retains those aspects of historic integrity that convey the reason for its significance.
B. 
Procedure for Designating a Historic Landmark. The designation of Historic Landmarks shall be processed in the following manner:
1. 
Application. A nomination for designation as a Historic Landmark may be initiated by any resident of the City. If the applicant is not the property owner, the Director shall, within 10 days of receipt of the nomination, notify the property owner in writing that a nomination for designation has been submitted.
2. 
Historic Preservation Commission Hearing. The Director shall schedule a public hearing before the Historic Preservation Commission on nominations for Historic Landmark designation within 90 days of the application being deemed complete, or as reasonable. The Historic Preservation Commission shall make a recommendation to the City Council on the listing of the property for Historic Landmark designation based on the criteria for designating a Historic Landmark.
3. 
Interim Protection. No on-site activities, other than routine maintenance and repair, that could affect any character-defining feature or the historic integrity of the proposed Historic Landmark, shall be permitted during the time period from nomination submittal through City Council consideration.
4. 
City Council Hearing. As soon as is feasible after receiving the recommendation of the Historic Preservation Commission, the City Council shall consider the proposed Historic Landmark designation. Within 180 days from the application being deemed complete, the City Council must decide on the proposed designation. Failure by the City Council to act within 180 days will result in the nomination request being automatically denied without prejudice.
5. 
Notice of Designation. If the City Council approves a proposed Historic Landmark designation, notice of the City Council’s decision shall be sent to the applicant and property owner.
C. 
Automatic Designation of Historic Landmarks. Any property in the City listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the California Register of Historical Resources, or as a County of Santa Barbara Historic Landmark or County of Santa Barbara Place of Historic Merit as of January 1, 2021, shall be automatically designated a City Historic Landmark.
(Ord. 22-05 § 7)

§ 17.33.050 Amendment to or Rescission of the Status of an Individual Historic Resource.

A. 
Procedure. Amendment to or rescission of the status of an individual historic resource shall be processed in the same manner as provided for in Section 17.33.040(B).
B. 
Required Findings. In order to amend or rescind a Historic Landmark designation, or remove or amend a historic resource listed in the HRI, the City Council must make the finding that the historic resource no longer meets the finding for designation or inclusion in the HRI due to:
1. 
New information that was not available at the time of the evaluation or historic designation that compromises the historic significance of the property; or
2. 
Destruction of the historic resource through a catastrophic event that has rendered the building, structure, or object a hazard to public health, safety, or welfare; or
3. 
Demolition of the historic resource.
(Ord. 22-05 § 7)

§ 17.33.060 Historic Districts.

A. 
Criteria for Designating a Historic District. A contiguous grouping of properties that relate to each other in a distinguishable way or in a geographically definable area shall be designated as a Historic District, if the City Council finds that the grouping of properties meets the following criteria:
1. 
It possesses a significant concentration of properties united historically or aesthetically by plan or physical development; and
2. 
It meets one or more of the criteria for designation in Section 17.33.040(A)(2); and
3. 
A minimum of 60 percent of the properties within the proposed Historic District are identified as contributors to the Historic District’s significance; and
4. 
The Historic District collectively retains those aspects of historic integrity that convey the reason for its significance.
B. 
Criteria for Identifying Contributors to a Historic District. The City Council designation of a Historic District shall include a list of contributing properties within the Historic District. All contributors must satisfy the following three requirements:
1. 
The property adds to the historic associations or historic architectural qualities for which the Historic District is significant; and
2. 
The property was present during the period of significance for the Historic District; and
3. 
The property retains sufficient historic integrity to convey its significance.
C. 
Procedure for Designating a Historic District and Contributors. The designation of Historic Districts and contributors shall be processed in the following manner:
1. 
Application. A nomination for designation of a Historic District may be initiated by any resident of the city.
2. 
Owner Consent. At the time the nomination is submitted, the applicant shall submit documentation by letter or petition that a minimum of 51 percent of the property owners within the proposed Historic District support the nomination.
3. 
Owner Notification. The Director shall, within 10 days of receipt of a nomination, notify all property owners within the proposed Historic District in writing that a nomination for designation has been submitted.
4. 
Historic Preservation Commission Hearing. The Director shall schedule a public hearing before the Historic Preservation Commission on nominations for Historic District designation within 90 days of the nomination being deemed complete, or as reasonable. The Historic Preservation Commission shall make a recommendation to the City Council on the eligibility of the potential Historic District and the list of contributors for historic designation based on the criteria for designating a Historic District and the criteria for identifying contributors.
5. 
Interim Protection. No on-site activities, other than routine maintenance and repair, that could affect any character-defining feature or the historic integrity of any property within the potential Historic District, shall be permitted during the time period from nomination submittal through City Council consideration.
6. 
City Council Hearing. As soon as is feasible after receiving the recommendations of the Historic Preservation Commission, the City Council shall consider approval of the Historic District and the specific contributors within the Historic District. Within 180 days from the nomination being deemed complete, the City Council must decide on the proposed designation. Failure by the City Council to act within 180 days will result in the nomination request being automatically denied without prejudice.
7. 
Notice of Designation. If the City Council approves a proposed Historic District designation, notice of the City Council’s decision shall be sent to the applicant and all property owners within the Historic District.
D. 
Amendment or Rescission of a Historic District Designation.
1. 
Procedure. Amendment to or rescission of the status of a Historic District shall be processed in the same manner as provided for in Section 17.33.060(C).
2. 
Required Finding. In order to rescind or amend the designation of a Historic District or a contributor, the City Council must make at least one of the following findings:
a. 
New information that was not available at the time of the historic designation compromises the historic significance of the Historic District or the contributor; or
b. 
Destruction of the Historic District or contributor through a catastrophic event has rendered it a hazard to public health, safety, or general welfare; or
c. 
A contributor has been demolished or relocated outside of the Historic District.
(Ord. 22-05 § 7)

§ 17.33.070 Points of Historical Interest.

A. 
Criteria for Identifying a Point of Historical Interest. A building, structure, object, or site may be identified as a Point of Historical Interest, which is not a historic resource, if it meets at least one of the following criteria:
1. 
It is the site of a building, structure, or object that no longer exists or has been altered, but was associated with historic events or important persons, or otherwise has significant cultural or historic significance; or
2. 
It is the site of a historic event which has no distinguishable physical characteristics.
B. 
Procedure for Identifying a Point of Historical Interest. A Point of Historical Interest shall be identified by the Historic Preservation Commission in the manner identified in Section 17.33.040(A) and adopted by the City Council. The Historic Preservation Commission shall maintain the listing of identified Points of Historical Interest.
C. 
Rescission of a Point of Historical Interest. Rescission of the listing of a Point of Historical Interest shall be processed in the same manner as the original identification and shall be based on a determination that the criterion of original identification is no longer met.
(Ord. 22-05 § 7)

§ 17.33.080 Design Review of Alterations to Historic Resources.

This section establishes the review process for proposed alterations to historic resources.
A. 
Compliance with Section. It shall be unlawful for any person, property owner, or entity to alter any historic resource directly or indirectly except as provided herein. Alterations to historic resources to add an attached accessory dwelling unit are subject to the requirements of Section 17.41.030(F)(8) only.
B. 
Alterations that are Exempt from Design Review. The provisions for the Design Review of proposed alterations to historic resources shall not be construed to prevent ordinary maintenance and repair which does not change the design, materials, architectural features, or character-defining features of a historic resource. The exemptions outlined in Section 17.58.020 apply to historic resources, with the following exceptions:
1. 
The proposed alteration will affect an identified character-defining feature of the historic resource.
2. 
All proposed additions to historic resources are subject to Design Review.
C. 
Criteria and Procedure for Director Review of Alterations.
1. 
Required Findings. The Director shall approve the plans and Design Review Board review is not required if the following findings are made:
a. 
The proposed alteration is minor and clearly meets any applicable design guidelines adopted by the City Council; or
b. 
In the absence of applicable design guidelines, the proposed alteration is minor and clearly meets the relevant Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties; and
c. 
The proposed alteration will not diminish, eliminate, or adversely affect the character, character-defining features, or historic integrity of the historic resource; and
d. 
Any changes to the proposed alteration requested by the Director are agreed to by the applicant.
2. 
Changes to the Plans. No changes shall be made to the project once the Director has approved the plans without resubmitting to the Director for approval of the changes.
D. 
Criteria and Procedure for Historic Preservation Commission and Design Review Board Review of Alterations.
1. 
Historic Preservation Commission Review. The review and decision on the design review for projects involving historic resources will be undertaken by the Design Review Board as outlined in Section 17.58.060, with a recommendation from the Historic Preservation Commission. The Historic Preservation Commission will review the application materials and make a recommendation to the Design Review Board for consideration prior to Preliminary Review as outlined in Section 17.58.060(B).
2. 
Required Findings. The Historic Preservation Commission shall make recommendations, and the Design Review Board shall decide based on one of the following findings:
a. 
The proposed alteration is found to be consistent with any applicable design standards or guidelines adopted by the City Council; or
b. 
In the absence of applicable design standards or guidelines, the proposed alteration is found to be consistent with the relevant Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties; or
c. 
There is sufficient evidence, including evidence provided by the applicant, that denial of the proposed alteration would cause an immediate hardship because of conditions unique to the specific property.
(Ord. 22-05 § 7)

§ 17.33.090 Demolition of Historic Resources.

A. 
Process. Demolition of a historic resource may be permitted only with the issuance of a Major Conditional Use Permit unless determined necessary by the Building Official as outlined in Section 17.29.010(B)(3).
B. 
Additional Requirements. The applicant shall submit a cost analysis for the rehabilitation and reuse of the property and a report by a structural engineer on the feasibility of relocation.
C. 
Findings. The findings of Section 17.52.070 are not applicable for the demolition of a historic resource. In order to approve the demolition of a historic resource, the Historic Preservation Commission must make a recommendation, and the Planning Commission must decide, based on the following findings:
1. 
The proposed action is consistent with the intent of this chapter and is supportive of the identified goals and policies of the General Plan; and
2. 
Any significant environmental impacts are mitigated to the maximum extent feasible; and
3. 
The demolition will not have a significant negative effect on the achievement of the purposes of this Title; and
4. 
One of the following:
a. 
The potential negative effects are outweighed by the benefits of the associated replacement project, as applicable; or
b. 
There is sufficient evidence, including evidence provided by the applicant, that the historic resource retains no reasonable economic use and retention of the historic resource would cause undue economic hardship, considering the historic resource’s condition, location, the current market value, and the costs of rehabilitation to meet the requirements of the building code or other City, State, or Federal law; or
c. 
There is sufficient evidence, including evidence provided by the applicant, that relocation of the historic resource is infeasible; or
d. 
The demolition is necessary to protect or promote the health, safety, or welfare of the residents of the City, including the need to eliminate blight or nuisance, or correct an unsafe or dangerous condition of the property.
D. 
Demolition of Potential Historic Resources. If structure is more than 50 years old but not listed in the HRI is proposed for demolition, the Director may require a historic resources assessment report prepared by a qualified preservation professional to determine whether the real property should be considered for potential inclusion in the HRI and therefore subject to the provisions of Section 17.33.040.
E. 
Demolition Permits.
1. 
Zoning Permit associated with the demolition of a historic resource shall not be issued until development plans for that site have secured plan check approval unless the demolition is approved to abate an unsafe or dangerous condition.
2. 
If a historic resource is demolished without approval of both a Zoning Permit and Demolition Permit, no Building or Construction-Related Permits shall be issued and no permits or use of the property shall be allowed from the date of demolition for a period of three years for residential properties, and five years for non-residential properties.
(Ord. 22-05 § 7)

§ 17.33.100 Review of Projects Affecting City-Owned Historic Resources.

The Historic Preservation Commission shall review projects affecting City-owned historic resources and make an advisory recommendation to City Council.
(Ord. 22-05 § 7)

§ 17.33.110 Mills Act Property Tax Abatement Program.

In addition to any other incentive of Federal or State law, property owners of designated Historic Landmarks or contributors to a designated Historic District may apply for a Mills Act contract under Government Code Sections 50280-50290.
A. 
Historic Preservation Commission Review. The Historic Preservation Commission will review Mills Act applications and make recommendations to the City Council.
B. 
City Council Authorization. The City Council may, in its sole discretion, authorize the execution of all Mills Act contracts.
C. 
Cancellation or Modification. A Mills Act contract may be cancelled or modified if the City Council finds, after written notice to the property owner, either of the following conditions:
1. 
The property owner is responsible for noncompliance with any terms or conditions in the contract, or any provision in this chapter, or misrepresentation or fraud was used in the process of obtaining the contract; or
2. 
The property has been destroyed by fire, earthquake, flooding, or other calamity, or it has been taken by eminent domain.
D. 
Penalty for Cancellation Due to Noncompliance. If a Mills Act contract is cancelled due to Section 17.33.110(C)(1), the property owner shall be liable to the City for a cancellation fee equal to 12.5 percent of the current fair market value of the property or as provided for in applicable State law.
(Ord. 22-05 § 7)

§ 17.33.120 Maintenance of Historic Resources.

A. 
Maintenance Requirements. Historic resources shall be maintained in a state that clearly furthers the continued availability of the historic resource for lawful reasonable uses and prevents deterioration, dilapidation, decay, and neglect of such resource, including demolition by neglect.
B. 
Failure to Meet the Maintenance Requirements. In addition to any other penalty authorized by law, failure to maintain a historic resource as specified in this section shall constitute a public nuisance pursuant to Chapter 12.13 of the Goleta Municipal Code.
C. 
Economic Hardship. The Director may delay the enforcement of the maintenance requirements in this section if the following conditions are met:
1. 
There is sufficient evidence provided by the property owner that the maintenance requirements would cause an undue hardship, considering the property’s condition, current market value, and the costs of maintenance; and
2. 
The delay in enforcing the maintenance requirements will not result in the loss of character-defining features of the property; and
3. 
The delay in enforcing the maintenance requirements will not result in an unsafe or dangerous condition or create a blight or nuisance.
(Ord. 22-05 § 7)

§ 17.34.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to:
A. 
Improve the appearance of the community by requiring aesthetically pleasing landscaping on public and private sites, which is permanently maintained for the life of the project;
B. 
Aid in energy conservation by providing shade in summer, and allowing sunlight passage in winter;
C. 
Soften the appearance of parking lots and other development;
D. 
Promote conservation of water resources through the use of native, drought-tolerant plants and water-conserving irrigation practices; and
E. 
Minimize or eliminate conflicts between potentially incompatible, but otherwise permitted, land uses on adjoining lots through visual screening and promote the general welfare and prosperity in the City.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.34.020 Applicability.

The regulations of this chapter shall apply to:
A. 
New Structures. All new construction projects with an aggregate landscape area equal to or greater than 500 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check, or Design Review.
B. 
Additions. Additions that require Design Review Board approval.
C. 
Changes in Use. A change in use or building occupancy designation that results in increased parking requirements where sufficient parking to meet the increase does not exist on the site.
D. 
Rehabilitated Landscaping. Rehabilitated landscape projects with an aggregate landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check, or Design Review.
E. 
Existing Landscaping. Any other existing landscape subject to Sections 493 and 493.2 of the California Code of Regulations, Title 23, Division 2, Chapter 2.7.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5)

§ 17.34.030 Required Landscaping Areas.

The following areas must be adequately screened and landscaped to meet the purpose of this chapter.
A. 
Parking Areas. Parking areas, as required pursuant to Chapter 17.38, Parking and Loading.
B. 
Unused Areas. All visible, undeveloped areas of a project site not intended for a specific use, including areas planned for future phases of a phased development, must be landscaped or left in an undisturbed state provided there is adequate vegetation to prevent erosion and the area is adequately maintained for weed control and fuel maintenance.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.34.040 General Requirements.

A. 
Landscaped Areas. Required landscaped areas must be maintained free from encroachment by any use, structure, vehicle, or feature not a part of the landscaping design, except for any fire hydrants and related fire protection devices, mailbox clusters, pedestals, poles, cabinets, utility-housing boxes, or other permanent fixtures as approved for emergency or service access, or as otherwise allowed by this chapter.
B. 
Vision Clearance. Landscaping must be planted and maintained so that it does not interfere with public safety or traffic safety sight areas; see Section 17.24.210, Regulations Applying to Multiple Districts—Vision Clearance.
C. 
Public Safety. Landscaping must not encroach into the public road right-of-way, unless obtaining the required approvals from the City, nor be allowed to grow into public accessways, such as sidewalk or trails, so as to create an impediment, hazard, risk of injury, or public nuisance.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.34.050 Materials.

A. 
Public Landscaping. Landscaping within City rights-of-way or on other City-owned facilities must comply with the City’s Urban Forest Management Plan.
B. 
Private Landscaping. Landscaping may consist of a combination of turf, groundcovers, shrubs, vines, trees, and incidental hardscaping, such as stepping stones, benches, sculptures, decorative stones, and other ornamental features placed within a landscaped setting.
1. 
Plant materials must be selected from among native or non-invasive drought-tolerant species and varieties known to thrive in the region’s climate.
2. 
Recirculating water must be used for decorative water features.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.34.060 Landscape Plans.

A. 
Applicability. A Landscape Plan must be submitted with the permit application whenever new or rehabilitated landscaping is required, pursuant to Section 17.34.020, Applicability, and where applicable, must contain all required elements of the State and City’s Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO), including a checklist demonstrating preparation and submittal of each of the following required Landscape Documentation Package documents:
1. 
Applicant signature and date with statement, “I agree to comply with the City’s Water Efficient Landscaping requirements and submit a complete Landscape Documentation Package”;
2. 
Water Efficient Landscaping Worksheet, including the following:
a. 
Hydrozone Information Table,
b. 
Water Budget Calculation.
i. 
Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA),
ii. 
Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU);
3. 
Soil Management Report;
4. 
Landscape Design Plan;
5. 
Irrigation Design Plan; and
6. 
Grading Design Plan.
B. 
Required Final Documentation. At the time of final inspection, the permit applicant must provide the property owner with a certificate of completion, certificate of installation, irrigation schedule, and a schedule of landscape and irrigation maintenance.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5; Ord. 21-07 § 4)

§ 17.35.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to provide development standards to control outdoor lighting in order to maintain adequate visibility and safety, conserve energy, and also protect against direct glare, excessive lighting, and light trespass. In addition, this chapter aims to preserve the community’s character and enhance the ability to view the nighttime sky.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.35.020 Applicability.

The standards of this chapter apply to all new development and to all exterior alterations and additions that involve replacement of exterior light fixtures or systems, except as provided below.
A. 
Exemptions. The following types of lighting are exempt from the provisions of this chapter.
1. 
Interior Lighting. All forms of interior lighting and light fixtures, unless directed toward or illuminating the exterior of the structure, creating a lantern effect or nighttime glow that impacts neighboring homes or public viewing areas.
2. 
Emergency Lighting. Temporary emergency lighting needed by police, fire, or other emergency service providers.
3. 
City Facilities. Lighting required pursuant to ordinance or law that are owned or operated by the City.
4. 
Federal and State Facilities or Requirements. Lighting required pursuant to State or Federal law or for facilities and lands owned or operated as protected by the U.S. Federal Government or the State of California.
5. 
Seasonal Lights. Temporary lighting installed and operated for the time period commencing 30 days prior to the festivity or holiday and extending no later than 30 days afterwards, provided that no individual light fixture or lamp exceeds 10 watts and 70 lumens.
6. 
Temporary Exemptions. Any individual may submit a written request to the Director for a temporary exemption from one or more requirements of this chapter. If approved, such exemption will be valid for up to 30 days, renewable at the discretion of the Director. Lighting associated with an approved Temporary Use Permit is considered an approved temporary exemption from the requirements of this chapter. The request for a temporary exemption must describe:
a. 
The reason and type of each specific exemption being requested;
b. 
Type and use of exterior lighting involved;
c. 
Duration of time for requested exemption;
d. 
Type of lamp and calculated lumens;
e. 
Total wattage of lamp or lamps;
f. 
Proposed locations of exterior lighting;
g. 
Previous temporary exemptions at the site, if any; and
h. 
Physical size of exterior lighting and type(s) of shielding provided.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.35.030 Prohibitions.

The following types of exterior lighting are prohibited in all Zone Districts.
A. 
Searchlights. The operation of searchlights for advertising or attention-getting purposes.
B. 
Nighttime Recreational Facility Lighting. No outdoor recreational facility, public or private, may be illuminated after 11:00 p.m. unless a temporary use permit for a special event has been approved.
C. 
Uplighting. Exterior lights directed upward to light up or otherwise illuminate structures, signage, or landscaping unless fully shielded to prevent any light trespass and approved by the Design Review Board.
D. 
Mercury Vapor. Mercury vapor, fluorescent lights.
E. 
Other Types of Light. Laser lights or any other lighting that flashes, blinks, alternates, or moves, and any form of lighting that does not comply with the requirements of this chapter. This prohibition does not apply to lights that are exempt, pursuant to this chapter, nor to digital displays, regulated in Chapter 17.40, Signs.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.35.040 General Requirements.

Outdoor lighting must be designed to be an integral part of the built environment, reflecting a balance for the lighting needs with the contextual ambient light level and surrounding nighttime characteristics of the community. Lighting for commercial installations adjacent to or near residential uses must be compatible with and not directly or purposely illuminate or unintentionally spill into nearby residential uses.
A. 
Design of Fixtures. Fixtures must be appropriate to the style and scale of the architecture it is illuminating.
B. 
Timing Controls.
1. 
Outdoor lighting must be turned off during daylight hours and during any hours when the structure is not in use. Photocells or photocontrols must be used to automatically extinguish all outdoor lighting when sufficient daylight is available.
2. 
Outdoor lighting that is not otherwise exempt from this chapter may utilize automated control systems such as motion sensors in non-residential development. However, when an automated control system is utilized, the timer switches must be programmed to keep any lights on for no more than 10 minutes after activation.
C. 
Light Trespass. To prevent light trespass or glare onto adjacent properties or protected ESHA, all lights must be directed downward, fully shielded, and full cutoff. The light level at property lines must not exceed 0.1 foot-candles and must be directed away from ESHAs.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.35.050 Supplemental Requirements.

A. 
Height of Wall-Mounted Fixtures. In pedestrian-oriented areas, no portion of a wall-mounted fixtures may be more than 12 feet in height above finished grade at the base of the wall, unless a greater height is approved by the Review Authority specifically for accentuating historic architectural features of a building, accentuating signage and/or landscape features, or for security.
B. 
Pedestrian Area Lighting. Lighting of pedestrian areas shall be of minimum height and intensity to provide adequate illumination and safety and must not create glare or over-spill onto adjacent lots.
C. 
Parking Lot Lighting. Parking lot lighting must be designed to provide the minimum lighting necessary to ensure adequate vision, comfort and safety in parking areas and to not cause glare or direct illumination onto adjacent properties or streets.
1. 
Parking lot and pole-mounted security lighting must not exceed maximum mounting height of 14 feet to the top of the fixture including any base within 100 feet of an “R” Zone District. In all other areas, parking and security lighting must not exceed a maximum height of 20 feet. The Review Authority may allow light fixtures to exceed 20 feet in height in large parking lots that may require higher and fewer poles for aesthetic reasons, and to better accomplish lighting uniformity.
D. 
Exterior Display/Sales Areas. Lighting levels on exterior display/sales areas must be adequate to facilitate the activities taking place in such locations and may not be used to attract attention to the business.
1. 
Areas designated as exterior display/sales areas must be illuminated so that the average horizontal illuminance is no more than five foot-candles.
2. 
Fixtures must be mounted no more than 20 feet above finished grade and the concrete pedestals used to protect the light pole must not exceed 24 inches in height and must be included in the overall height calculation.
E. 
Service and Gas Stations. Lighting levels on gasoline station/convenience store aprons and under canopies must be adequate to facilitate the activities taking place in such locations.
1. 
Fixtures must be mounted no more than 20 feet in height above finished grade.
2. 
Light fixtures mounted on the bottom surface of canopies must be recessed so that the lens cover is recessed or flush with the bottom surface of the canopy and/or shielded by the fixture or the edge of the canopy.
3. 
All other light sources must comply with all General Requirements of Section 17.35.040 above.
F. 
Signs. Lighting of signs must comply with all applicable standards for signage specified in Chapter 17.40, Signs.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.35.060 Lighting Plans.

An outdoor lighting plan must be submitted with the permit application whenever exterior lighting is proposed or required as a part of any development not otherwise specifically listed as exempt from the requirement of this chapter, pursuant to Section 17.35.020, Lighting—Applicability.
A. 
General Requirements. A required Lighting Plan must be depicted on a separate plan sheet and at a minimum must contain the following information:
1. 
The location of each existing and proposed outdoor light fixture within the development area. This information must be shown on the landscape plan to demonstrate coordination of fixtures and tree plantings. The location of light fixtures and landscaping on adjacent properties and on the street right-of-way that effect lighting/landscaping on the project is also necessary;
2. 
Lighting manufacturer-supplied specifications (“cut sheets”) that include photographs and manufacturer model number(s) of the fixtures, indicating the certified “cut off characteristics” of each fixture proposed;
3. 
Lamp source type (e.g., bulb type, lumen output, wattage, etc.);
4. 
Mounting height for each luminaire and depiction of the direction each fixture is aimed;
5. 
Total lumens and light temperature for each fixture, and total square footage of areas to be illuminated; and
6. 
Types of timing devices used to control the hours set for illumination, as well as the proposed hours when each fixture will be operated.
B. 
Additional Requirements. A project that is subject to an approved lighting plan shall be subject to the following additional requirements:
1. 
No changes to approved outdoor light fixtures may occur without prior review and approval by the City.
2. 
No additional exterior lighting may be added to the site without review and approval by the City.
3. 
Non-Single Unit Dwellings. For all development except single unit dwellings, the applicant must provide photometric diagrams and data, color rendering index of all lamps, and computer generated photometric grid showing foot-candle readings every 10 feet within the property or site and 10 feet beyond the property lines. The grid should also indicate maximum and minimum uniformity for each specific use area.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.36.010 Purpose and Intent.

The purpose of this chapter is to establish provisions for the regulation of nonconforming uses, structures, lot, or other development that was lawfully permitted before the adoption of or an amendment to this Title or previously adopted City ordinance, but which would be prohibited, regulated, or restricted differently under this Title. This chapter also establishes affirmative termination provisions for nonconforming uses to protect the community by bringing nonconforming properties into compliance with existing land use and environmental standards, while balancing property owners’ legal rights to protect legitimate investment-backed expectations.
The intent of this chapter is to allow for the short-term continuation of nonconformities until they are removed, but not encourage their perpetuation. The development standards in this chapter are administered in a manner that encourages the eventual abatement and discontinuance of all nonconformities throughout the City. As such, previous development that may have been exempt pursuant to a previous ordinance shall be subject to the provisions of this Title for such use and shall neither be considered nonconforming nor afforded the allowances within this chapter.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.36.020 Establishment of Nonconformity.

A. 
Nonconforming Uses, Structures, and Lots. Any lawfully established use, structure, or lot that is in existence on the effective date of the ordinance codified in this Title or any subsequent amendment, but which does not comply with all of the standards and requirements of this Title, is considered nonconforming. Nonconforming status may result from any inconsistency with the requirements of this Title, including, without limitation, location, density, height, setbacks, open space, buffering, screening, landscaping, provision of parking, and performance standards, or the lack of an approved Zoning Permit, Development Plan, Conditional Use Permit, or other required authorization.
B. 
Continuation of Nonconformities. Nonconformities may only be continued subject to the requirements of this chapter.
C. 
Unpermitted Nonconformities. Any nonconforming use, structure, or lot not deemed to be legally permitted or created, shall be determined illegal and must be abandoned and/or otherwise remedied pursuant to Chapter 17.69, Enforcement.
D. 
Previously Approved Development Plans or Conditional Use Permits. Any physical development legally permitted through the approval of a Development Plan or Conditional Use Permit and in existence prior to the adoption of this Title shall not be considered nonconforming pursuant to this Title. In the event of damage or destruction, such projects shall be allowed to be restored or reconstructed as originally permitted with the approval of a Zoning Clearance as to conformance with the previously approved Development Plan or Conditional Use Permit. This subsection does not apply to any uses, or structures associated with said uses, that are inconsistent with the underlying base Zoning District.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.36.030 Nonconforming Uses.

A. 
Changes of Use. A nonconforming use may be changed to a different use based on the new use as follows:
1. 
New Use Permitted By-Right. Any nonconforming use may be changed to a use that is allowed “by-right” in the zoning district in which it is located and complies with all applicable standards for such by-right use;
2. 
New Use Requires a Use Permit. No nonconforming use may be changed to a different use without approval of a Use Permit, unless the new use is permitted by-right. This requirement does not apply to a change of ownership, tenancy, or management where the new use is in the same classification as the previous use, as defined in this Title, and the use is not expanded; and
3. 
New Nonconforming Use Not Permitted. Nonconforming uses may not be changed to a different nonconforming use.
B. 
Absence of Use Permit. Any use that is nonconforming solely by reason of the absence of a use permit may be changed to a conforming use by obtaining the appropriate permit.
C. 
Expansion of Nonconforming Uses. A nonconforming use may only be expanded subject to the following requirements:
1. 
Within a Conforming Structure. A nonconforming use in a structure that conforms to the applicable requirements of this Title and to the Building Code, as adopted by the City, may expand the floor area that it occupies;
2. 
Within a Structure That Does Not Conform to the Building Code. Any nonconforming use in a structure that does not conform to the Building Code, as adopted by the City, may not expand the area it occupies until and unless the structure is brought into conformance with all applicable Building Code requirements;
3. 
Within a Structure That Does Not Conform to this Title. A nonconforming use in a structure that does not conform to the requirements of this Title but does conform to the requirements of the Building Code may expand the floor area it occupies; and
4. 
Expansions to Other Structures or Lots. A nonconforming use may not be expanded to occupy all or any part of another structure or another lot that it did not occupy on the effective date of this Title.
D. 
Discontinuance of Use. If a nonconforming use is discontinued, any future use shall comply with the provisions of the district in which the use is located. Proof of discontinuation of a nonconforming use for 12 consecutive months shall be prima facie evidence that the nonconforming use has been discontinued.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.36.040 Termination of Nonconforming Uses.

A. 
Termination of Previously Permitted Nonconforming Uses.
1. 
The City Council may consider whether or not to order the termination of any previously permitted use that is nonconforming pursuant to this Title. The time period within which such use must be terminated as provided herein only after a duly noticed public hearing pursuant to Chapter 17.52, Common Procedures.
2. 
The property owner of record and any tenant, individual or business operator known to be occupying the property shall be notified in writing no less than 10 days in advance of the hearing that the City Council will be considering whether or not to order the termination of the nonconforming use. The notice shall state the specific date, time, and location of the hearing.
3. 
If the City Council orders termination of the nonconforming use, the Order of Termination shall include the effective date of the termination and shall be served on the owner of record and any tenant and/or business operator or any other person or business entity known to be occupying the premises via personal service or delivery through the United States Postal Service or any other service designated for overnight delivery. If the City Council determines that there is no known address for an owner of record and any tenant and/or business operator, the Council may direct service of the Order of Termination to be accomplished by posting the Order on the property and publishing the Notice of the Order of Termination in a newspaper of general circulation. Service of the Termination Order shall be deemed complete at such time as it is served in the manner provided herein.
B. 
Termination Period. The following time periods shall apply to the termination of a nonconforming use:
1. 
Except as otherwise provided herein, a nonconforming use that does not occupy a structure shall cease within one year from the date of a City Council Order of Termination.
2. 
Except as otherwise provided herein, all other nonconforming uses shall cease within five years from the date of a City Council Order of Termination.
3. 
The City Council may, within its discretion, order termination of a nonconforming use within any other time period that is less than five years where it determines that it would be appropriate in consideration of one or more of the following factors:
a. 
The total cost of land and improvements;
b. 
The length of time the use has existed;
c. 
The length of time the use has existed as a nonconforming use;
d. 
The intended use and scope of use of the property before it became nonconforming;
e. 
Whether the originally intended use and scope of use of the property before it became nonconforming was expanded after it became a nonconforming use or is proposed to be expanded;
f. 
Whether and to what extent the original investment in the improvements on the property was recouped;
g. 
The extent to which the use on the property is incompatible with surrounding uses and properties within the zone, the General Plan and any applicable land use elements;
h. 
The potential threat to public health, safety, or general welfare by the continuation of the nonconforming use;
i. 
The cost of moving and reestablishing the use elsewhere; and
j. 
Any other relevant factors.
C. 
Application for Modification of Order of Termination.
1. 
Within one year of the issuance of the City Council’s Order of Termination, as provided herein, the property owner of record or any lessee of the property, acting with the written consent of the current owner may apply for a modification of the Termination Order to extend the date by which all nonconforming uses shall cease up to an additional 15 years.
2. 
An application for modification shall be submitted on a form to be supplied by the City and shall be signed by the property owner, shall state the reasons why the use should be allowed to continue, and shall state how the continued use will not be incompatible with or detrimental to the uses in the surrounding area adjacent to the property; and shall state how the continued use will be consistent or can be modified to become consistent with the General Plan for the surrounding zoning area.
D. 
Planning Commission Hearing on the Application for Modification. The Planning Commission shall conduct a duly noticed public hearing within a reasonable time not to exceed 90 days after the application for modification of a Termination Order is deemed complete and accepted by the City, and may approve, conditionally approve, or deny such request for modification. The Planning Commission may also impose such conditions as they may deem necessary to protect the public health, safety and general welfare, to provide greater compatibility with the surrounding property and to secure the objectives of the General Plan. In no event may any modification of a Termination Order be approved for a period of more than 15 additional years beyond the date the City Council ordered the elimination of the nonconforming use.
E. 
Planning Commission Determination.
1. 
Before making a determination whether or not to grant an application for modification of the Termination Period, as defined herein, the Planning Commission may direct that an amortization analysis be prepared, at the applicant’s cost, to assist them in evaluating the application. The amortization analysis shall be conducted by a reputable firm, selected by and retained under contract to the City. Said firm should have the appropriate knowledge and expertise in conducting amortization analyses, including, but not limited to, experience in analyzing operations, relevant accounting and financial reporting standards, compliance demands and valuation of facilities for the use or uses being conducted on the property.
2. 
Applicant shall make a deposit with the City of the estimated cost of the amortization analysis, staff time and hearing costs relating to the application and shall thereafter promptly pay any additional costs over the initial estimate. Failure to make the required deposit within seven days of being advised by the City of the estimated costs for the application for modification, including the amortization analysis shall be deemed a withdrawal of the Application for Modification of the Termination Period and no further action will be taken by the City on such application. The time period to make the deposit may be extended by the City Manager for an additional seven days.
3. 
The Planning Commission may continue the hearing on the application for modification as necessary to complete such amortization analysis.
4. 
The Planning Commission must consider all documentary and oral evidence and testimony submitted for or at the hearing, and in making its decision to modify the Termination Order shall consider the following, where applicable:
a. 
The total cost of land and improvements when the property was first constructed and/or began operating, including any expansions or modifications during the period when the use was a lawful (conforming) use;
b. 
The total length of time the use has existed since it was first constructed and/or became operational;
c. 
The length of time the use has been nonconforming;
d. 
The intended scope of the business operating on the property at the time the use became nonconforming (e.g., business permits, licenses, applications, etc.);
e. 
Whether the intended scope of the business operating on the property before it became nonconforming has been or is proposed to be expanded or intensified since the property became nonconforming;
f. 
Whether and to what extent the investment in the improvements on the property before it became a nonconforming use was recouped;
g. 
The extent to which the use on the property is incompatible with surrounding uses and properties within the zone, the General Plan and any applicable land use elements;
h. 
The possible threat to public health, safety, or general welfare by the continuation of the nonconforming use beyond the five-year elimination period;
i. 
The cost of moving and re-establishing the use elsewhere; and
j. 
Any other relevant factors.
F. 
Appeal. The Planning Commission determination may be appealed to the City Council pursuant to Section 17.52.120, Common Procedures—Appeals.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.36.050 Nonconforming Structures.

A. 
Right to Continue. Any nonconforming structure may only be continued and maintained provided there is no alteration, enlargement, or addition; no increase in occupant load; nor any enlargement of the area, space, or volume occupied by or devoted to any use therein, except as provided in this section. The right to continue to use a nonconforming structure attaches to the land and is not affected by a change in ownership. No substitution, expansion, or other change in use and no alteration or other change in structures is permitted, except as provided in this section.
B. 
Right to Repair or Restore. Nonconforming structures may be repaired, maintained, or restored in compliance with the requirements of this section, unless deemed to be a public nuisance because of health or safety conditions.
C. 
Enlargements or Alterations. Nonconforming structures may be enlarged, extended, structurally altered, or repaired in compliance with all applicable laws, subject to the following provisions:
1. 
Alterations and enlargements that comply with the following, subject to approval of the Director.
a. 
Alterations or enlargements necessary to meet City or State requirements;
b. 
Alterations or enlargements consistent with the current requirements of the zoning district in which the structure is located or otherwise allowed in that zoning district; and
c. 
Energy-efficient upgrades, including replacement of lamps within light fixtures.
2. 
Alterations and enlargements that comply with the following are subject to approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit.
a. 
Alterations or enlargements that extend into a nonconforming setback, where the alteration or enlargement would not:
i. 
Further reduce any existing nonconforming setback;
ii. 
Exceed applicable building height limits;
iii. 
Further increase any existing nonconforming lot coverage; nor
iv. 
Increase the required number of off-street parking spaces unless parking is provided under current standards for the additional floor area.
D. 
Restoration of a Damaged Structure.
1. 
Up to 75 Percent Damaged. A nonconforming building or structure that is damaged or partially destroyed by fire, flood, earthquake, or other natural disaster may be restored or rebuilt if the cost of repair or reconstruction does not exceed 75 percent of the replacement cost of the nonconforming structure as determined by the Building Official. Replacement of the damaged portions of the building is allowed by-right provided that the replaced portions are the same size, extent, and configuration as previously existed, and repair work commences within 24 months of the date of damage.
2. 
More Than 75% Damaged. If the cost of repair or reconstruction of a nonconforming building or structure exceeds 75 percent of the replacement cost of the nonconforming structure as determined by the Building Official, the land and building will be subject to all of the requirements and applicable standards of this Title in effect at the time of the loss.
E. 
Reconstruction of a Damaged Structure. Where nonconforming structures dedicated to residential uses, except in the IS and IG Zone Districts, are damaged or destroyed by fire, flood, earthquake, other catastrophic event, or the public enemy, such structures may be reconstructed to the same or lesser size, in the same general footprint location, and to its pre-damaged size and number of dwelling units provided that reconstruction shall commence within 24 months of the time of damage and be diligently carried out to completion.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.36.060 Involuntary Nonconformities.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, no lot, structure, or use will be considered nonconforming as a result of a conveyance of any interest in the subject lot to a public entity through eminent domain proceedings, under threat of eminent domain proceedings, or to meet a requirement of any public entity having jurisdiction.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.37.010 Purpose.

This chapter outlines regulations for those onshore and offshore oil and gas facilities that are identified in the General Plan; identifies the types of permits and approvals required for operation, abandonment, and decommissioning of those facilities; provides regulations for the operation of oil and gas facilities; and describes the requirements for modifications or alterations of existing oil and gas facilities, consistent with the General Plan and with the provisions described in Chapter 17.36, Nonconforming Uses and Structures.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.37.020 Applicability.

Where the City retains permit authority, the regulations of this chapter apply to oil and gas production from onshore and offshore facilities. Unless otherwise allowed pursuant to this chapter, all new oil and gas facilities are prohibited in the City. These regulations must also be applied in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 8.09 of the Goleta Municipal Code regarding any change in owner, operator, or guarantor for certain oil and gas facilities.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.37.030 Oil and Gas Pipelines.

This section describes oil and gas pipelines that are subject to regulation and provides standards for their location and continued operation.
A. 
Applicability. The regulations in this section apply to:
1. 
Pipelines that extend outside an oil and gas facility;
2. 
Pipelines transporting oil and gas or related content from or to an off-shore facility; and
3. 
Facilities related to the pipeline, including in-line pump stations, oil storage, and gas containment.
B. 
Major Conditional Use Permit Required. Where allowed pursuant to this Title, approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit is required.
C. 
Development Standards. In addition to the applicable standards outlined in Section 17.10.030, Industrial Districts—Development Regulations, the following development standards apply to oil and gas pipelines:
1. 
Location of Pipeline Corridor.
a. 
New Pipelines. No new oil and gas pipelines and storage facilities, except for transmission and distribution facilities of a Public Utilities Commission (PUC) regulated utility, may be approved within the City, unless there is no feasible or less environmentally damaging alternative location for a proposed pipeline.
b. 
Existing Pipelines. Alterations or replacement of existing pipelines or segments of pipelines will be limited to the minimum necessary to ensure safety or prevent environmental damage. Applicants must consult with the Federal Office of Pipeline Safety and/or the PUC as appropriate.
2. 
Oil Storage Capacity. Oil storage capacity must be limited to the amount necessary to conduct operations, and no long-term storage is allowed without explicit approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit.
3. 
Exterior Color. Permanent and temporary structures and equipment must be painted a neutral color to blend with natural surroundings.
4. 
Required Setback. All pipelines must have a minimum setback of at least 25 feet from any building or structure, as measured from each side of the pipeline. The following are exempt from this requirement:
a. 
Corridor-type locations, such as pipelines within roads and highways, other pipelines, bicycle and pedestrian paths, utilities, and appurtenances of corridors located into public rights-of-way;
b. 
Pipeline endpoints and interconnecting pipelines;
c. 
Replacement with a functionally equivalent pipeline;
d. 
Instances where this requirement is pre-empted by State or Federal law; and
e. 
Instances where the City finds the 25-foot setback poses an undue hardship to proposed development, provided that any reduced setback is not less than 15 feet, measured from each side of the pipeline.
5. 
Survey Required. Except for pipelines exempted from a Coastal Development Permit under the California Coastal Act, specifically, Public Resources Code Section 30610(c) and (e), as defined by the State Coastal Commission’s Interpretive Guidelines, a survey must be conducted along the route of any pipeline to determine what, if any, coastal resources may be impacted by the construction and operation of a pipeline. The applicant must pay the costs of this survey. The survey may be conducted as part of environmental review as required for a particular project under CEQA.
6. 
Undergrounding Pipelines. Permits for new pipeline construction must require burial within an easement corridor at an appropriate depth to avoid exposure due to erosion or other forms of earth movement for the life of the project.
7. 
Pipeline Marking and Warning. New pipelines or relocation of existing pipelines must include measures to clearly warn the general public and other interested parties about the presence of the pipeline, including proper marking of the road right-of-way with signage and use of brightly colored flagging and/or warning tape approximately one foot above buried pipelines, where feasible.
8. 
Contingency Plans. In compliance with all applicable Federal and State requirements, an Emergency Response Plan, Fire Protection Plan, Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Plan, Oil Spill Contingency Plan, and Hydrogen Sulfide Incident Plan, and any additional plans required by local law or ordinance must be prepared for the facility. Additional plans (e.g., Flood Control Plan, Pipeline Maintenance Plan, etc.) may be required on a project-by-project basis.
9. 
Revegetation and Habitat Restoration.
a. 
Submittal of Revegetation and/or Habitat Restoration Plan. The applicant must submit a revegetation plan with all applications to modify, abandon, or change the location of a pipeline. The plan must also include provisions for restoration of sensitive habitats that would be disturbed by construction or operation procedures and a monitoring plan to assess progress in returning the site to pre-construction conditions. The Review Authority must review and approve all revegetation and/or habitat restoration plans prior to commencement of construction.
b. 
Performance Securities. Two performance securities are required for projects in which a Revegetation and/or Habitat Restoration Plan has been prepared pursuant to this chapter.
i. 
An installation security must be provided to the City in an amount sufficient to ensure complete installation of all requirements of the approved Revegetation and/or Habitat Restoration Plan and will be released upon final inspection clearance by City staff for satisfactory completion required revegetation consistent with the Revegetation and/or Habitat Restoration Plan.
ii. 
A maintenance security must be provided to the City in an amount sufficient to provide periodic monitoring. Site monitoring must ensure compliance with the final goals of the Revegetation and/or Habitat Restoration Plan.
c. 
Annual Surveys to Assess Effectiveness. For projects where a Revegetation and/or Habitat Restoration Plan has been prepared, the affected pipeline segment must be resurveyed 12 months after construction is completed to assess the effectiveness of the revegetation or restoration program. Subsequent surveys must be completed and submitted to the City compliance monitoring staff on an annual basis to demonstrate progress in returning the site to preconstruction conditions for the length of time stipulated in the Revegetation and/or Habitat Restoration Plan.
10. 
Abandonment Security. To ensure that abandonment of any new facility is properly carried out, a performance security must be posted by the owner/operator before issuance of any permits in an amount of 125 percent of the estimated cost of obtaining the required permits, implementing abandonment and decommissioning procedures, and restoring the site to pre-facility conditions. The financial surety security will be returned to the owner/operator upon successful abandonment and restoration of the site.
11. 
Safety Measures Required. Oil and gas operation pipelines that cross fault lines, coastal resources areas, and areas that are susceptible to erosion, sliding, earthquakes, or other geologic events will be subject to additional safety standards, including emergency shut-off or other measures deemed necessary by the City.
12. 
Repair or Replacement of Existing Pipelines. The repair or replacement of existing underground oil or gas pipelines will not require a permit, provided that each of the following criteria is met:
a. 
The repair or replacement activities will not take place in, or require access through, an environmentally sensitive habitat area or other sensitive area identified by the City;
b. 
The repair or replacement will not result in a substantial increase in volume of oil or gas transported through the pipeline;
c. 
The pipeline, after repair or replacement will comply with all applicable safety and engineering standards established by State and Federal law;
d. 
The repair or replacement will not significantly expand or alter the area occupied by the existing pipeline; and
e. 
The ground surface above the pipeline will be restored to its pre-construction condition. Where the ground surface was previously vegetated, the pipeline operator will revegetate the surface within three months of the completion of repair or replacement.
13. 
Safety Inspection, Maintenance, and Quality Assurance Program. All new or substantially upgraded gas and oil pipelines shall establish a Safety Inspection, Maintenance, and Quality Assurance Program or similar mechanism to ensure adequate ongoing inspection, maintenance, and other operating procedures. Any such mechanism shall be subject to City approval prior to commencement of pipeline operations and provide for systematic updates as appropriate. Requirements shall be commensurate with the level and anticipated duration of the risk.
D. 
Required Findings. In addition to any findings required for the project, new pipeline construction will not be approved unless the applicable Review Authority also makes all of the following required findings:
1. 
The use of available or planned common-carrier and multiple-user pipelines is not feasible.
2. 
The pipeline will be constructed, operated, and maintained as common-carrier or multiple-user pipelines, unless the applicable review authority determines it is not feasible, taking into account the reasonably foreseeable needs of other potential shippers.
3. 
There are no feasible alternative locations or less environmentally damaging alternative locations for the proposed pipeline, as determined through environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act.
4. 
Where the pipeline setback is less than 25 feet, a 25-foot setback poses an undue hardship to proposed development and the reduced setback is not less than 15 feet, measured from each side of the pipeline.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.37.040 Abandonment and Removal Procedures for Oil and Gas Facilities.

All abandonment and removal of oil and gas facilities require the approval of a Development Plan by the Planning Commission.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.37.050 Other Types of Resource Extraction.

Any other type of resource extraction from the ground or waters within the City’s jurisdiction that are not explicitly authorized within the Goleta Municipal Code are strictly prohibited, including, but not limited to, surface mining, reclamation, and new private water wells.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.38.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to provide development standards to ensure the following:
A. 
Adequate off-street vehicle and bicycle parking and loading facilities are provided for new development and major alterations to existing development;
B. 
Minimize the negative environmental impacts that can result from parking lots, driveways, and drive aisles within parking lots;
C. 
Establish standards and regulations for parking, loading, and vehicle circulation areas that minimize conflicts between pedestrian and vehicles, provide landscaped islands and strips, and, where appropriate, create buffers from surrounding land uses;
D. 
Offer flexible means of minimizing the amount of area devoted to parking by allowing reductions in the number of required spaces in transit-served locations and for shared parking facilities; and
E. 
Reduce urban run-off and heat island effects from paving in parking lots.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.38.020 Applicability.

A. 
New Buildings and Land Uses. On-site parking must be provided at the time any main building or structure is erected, when there is any new or expanded land use, or when a change in an existing land use occurs.
B. 
Reconstruction, Expansion, or Change of Use in Existing Non-Residential Buildings. When a change of use, expansion of a use, or expansion of floor area creates an increase of 10 percent or more in the number of required on-site parking or loading spaces, additional on-site parking and loading must be provided for such addition, enlargement, or change in use and not for the entire building or site. The existing parking must be maintained. If the number of existing parking spaces is greater than the requirements for such use, the number of spaces in excess of the prescribed minimum may be counted toward meeting the parking requirements for the addition, enlargement, or change in use. A change in occupancy is not considered a change in use, unless the new occupant is in a different use classification than the former occupant.
C. 
Alterations that Increase the Number of Dwelling Units. Except in the case of accessory dwelling units, the creation of additional dwelling units through the alteration of an existing building or construction of an additional structure or structures requires on-site parking to serve the new dwelling units, either through existing or through new parking spaces.
D. 
When Constructed. Construction of required parking facilities must be completed and the spaces available for use before a Certificate of Occupancy may be issued.
E. 
Damage or Destruction. When a use that has been involuntarily damaged or destroyed is reestablished, off-street parking or loading facilities must also be re-established or continued in operation in an amount equal to the number of parking spaces and loading facilities maintained at the time of such damage or destruction.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.38.030 General Provisions.

A. 
Existing Parking and Loading.
1. 
No existing parking and/or loading serving any use may be reduced in amount or changed in design, location, or maintenance below the requirements for such use, unless equivalent substitute facilities are provided.
2. 
No property owner may sublease, sub-rent, or otherwise encumber the required off-street parking spaces, unless specifically allowed pursuant to this chapter.
3. 
Existing off-street parking spaces that are not required for the development on site may be used for other uses pursuant to this chapter.
4. 
Required off-street parking must not be used for storage or other non-parking related uses.
B. 
Nonconforming Parking or Loading.
1. 
An existing use of land or structure will not be deemed to be nonconforming solely because of lack of on-site parking or loading facilities required by this chapter, provided that facilities used for on-site parking and/or loading are not reduced further in number.
2. 
Any resurfacing and/or restriping of parking areas may remain nonconforming, provided there is not an increase in the nonconforming parking or loading.
C. 
Accessibility. Required parking for non-residential uses must be accessible during all business hours.
D. 
Materials. All areas on which parking or loading occurs, including both required and additional parking, must be paved with a minimum of two inches of asphalt, concrete, interlocking masonry pavers, or other permeable material on a suitable base and may not be on grassy lawn areas unless using a form of grassblock or grasscrete.
E. 
Valet Parking. Valet, or “stacked” parking is allowed if an attendant is present to move vehicles. If valet parking managed by an attendant is used for required parking spaces, an acceptable form of guarantee must be filed with the Director ensuring that an attendant will be present when necessary for operation.
F. 
Vehicle Lifts. The use of vehicle lifts to accommodate parking on lots with residential uses shall be limited to subterranean lift systems.
G. 
Residential Garage Conversion. The conversion of residential garages into additional living space for the primary unit is allowed only if an equivalent number of permanent, covered off-street parking spaces will be provided on site.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.38.040 Required Parking Spaces.

A. 
Minimum Number of Spaces Required. In all Zoning Districts, each use classification stated in Table 17.38.040(A), Required On-Site Parking Spaces, must provide at least the minimum number of required on-site parking spaces. For accessory uses, additional parking is required according to the parking requirements listed for that specific type of accessory use.
1. 
Exception. No parking is required where a use qualifies for a waiver under Government Code Section 65863.2.
TABLE 17.38.040(A): REQUIRED ON-SITE PARKING SPACES
Use Classification
Required Parking Spaces and Additional Regulations
Residential Uses
Single-Unit Dwelling
2 covered spaces per dwelling unit. See Section 17.07.040(B) for exceptions in RS.
Multiple-Unit Development
Studio
1 space per unit.
One covered space must be designated for each unit.
One additional guest parking space must be provided for every 3 units.
One-bedroom units
1.5 spaces per unit.
Two or more bedrooms
2 spaces per unit.
Group Residential
1 space per 4 beds, plus 1 for every 10 units.
Mobile Home Parks
2 spaces per site which may be in tandem, 1 space for every 5 sites for guest parking.
Residential Care
Small
None in addition to what is required for the residential use.
Large
1 space for every 4 beds.
Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) Housing
1 space per 2 units.
Public/Quasi-Public Uses
Cemetery
As determined by the Review Authority.
Colleges and Trade Schools
1 space per 5 members of the school population (including students, faculty, and staff) based on maximum enrollment.
Community Assembly
1 space for each 4 permanent seats in main assembly area, or 1 space for every 50 sq. ft. of assembly area where temporary or moveable seats are provided.
Community Garden
None.
Cultural Institutions and Facilities
Performing Arts Centers: 1 space for each 4 permanent seats in main assembly area, or 1 for every 50 sq. ft. of assembly area where temporary or moveable seats are provided.
Galleries, Libraries and Museums: 1 space for every 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Other establishments: as determined by the Review Authority.
Day Care Facility
1 space for each 10 students/clients, plus 1 drop-off/loading space for each 10 students/clients. These standards are based on the capacity the facility is licensed to accommodate.
Emergency Shelter
2 spaces for facility staff.
Government Buildings
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of floor area.
Hospital
1 space per 2 beds plus one space per 3 employees.
Park and Recreation Facilities
As determined by the Review Authority.
Parking, Public or Private
1 space per attendant station (in addition to the spaces that are available on the site).
Public Safety Facilities
As determined by the Review Authority.
Schools, Private
Elementary and Middle Schools: 1.5 spaces per classroom, plus 1 space per 300 sq. ft. of office area.
High Schools: 6 spaces per classroom.
Skilled Nursing Facility
1 space per 2 beds plus 1 space per 3 employees.
Social Service Facilities
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of floor area.
Commercial Use Classifications
Adult-Oriented Business
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Animal Care, Sales and Services
Animal Sales and Grooming
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Boarding, Kennel
1 space per employee, plus an area for loading and unloading animals on site.
Veterinary Services
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of floor area.
Automobile/Vehicle Sales and Services
Auction
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Automobile/Vehicle Sales, Rentals, and Leasing
1 space per 3,000 sq. ft. of lot area for customer and employee parking.
Any accessory auto repair: 2 spaces per service bay.
Automobile/Vehicle Repair, Major
4 spaces per service bay. 1 space per 300 sq. ft. of any retail or office on site.
Automobile/Vehicle Repair, Minor
4 spaces per service bay. 1 space per 300 sq. ft. of any retail or office on site.
Service and Gas Station
4 spaces per service bay, if service bays are included on site. 1 per 300 sq. ft. of any retail or office on site. Spaces at each pump may count toward required parking provided a minimum of 2 separate spaces are provided.
Automobile/Vehicle Washing
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of any indoor sales, office, or lounge areas.
Building Materials, Sales and Service
1 space per 1,000 sq. ft. of floor area plus 1 per 2,000 sq. ft. of outdoor display area.
Business Services
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of floor area.
Cannabis Microbusiness
Based on the individual uses that make up the microbusiness.
Cannabis Retail
Storefront Retailer
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Non-Storefront Retailer
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of office floor area, plus 1 space for each fleet vehicle.
Catering Services
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of floor area.
Check-Cashing Business
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of floor area.
Commercial Entertainment and Recreation
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of assembly area.
Eating and Drinking Establishments
1 space per 250 sq. ft. of floor area of space devoted to patrons.
Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate Services
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of floor area.
Food and Beverage Sales
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Funeral Parlors and Interment Services
1 space for each 4 permanent seats in assembly areas. In addition, 1 space per 300 sq. ft. of office area or 1 for every 50 sq. ft. of assembly area where temporary or moveable seats are provided.
Information Technology Services
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of floor area
Instructional Services
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Live/Work Units
1 space per 1,000 sq. ft. of non-residential floor area plus 1 space for each residential unit.
Lodging and Visitor-Services
Hotels and Motels; Time Share Uses
1 space per guest room, plus 1 space per 5 employees.
Maintenance and Repair Services
1 space per 1,000 sq. ft. of floor area, plus 1 space for each fleet vehicle.
Media Production Facility
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Medical, Dental, and Health-Related Services
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of floor area.
Nurseries and Garden Centers
1 space per 1,000 sq. ft. of floor area; including outdoor display area.
Outdoor Sales
As determined by the Review Authority.
Professional Services
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of floor area
Personal Services
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Recreational Vehicle Parks
As determined by the Review Authority.
Retail Sales
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Industrial Uses
Automobile Wrecking/Junk Yard
1 space per 2 employees.
Cannabis Cultivation
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Cannabis Distribution
1 space per 1,000 sq. ft. of floor area.
Cannabis Manufacturing
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Cannabis Testing
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Construction and Materials Yards
As determined by the Review Authority.
Custom Manufacturing
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Heavy Manufacturing
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Limited Industrial
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Oil and Gas Facilities
As determined by the Review Authority.
R&D and Technology
1 space per 500 sq. ft. of floor area.
Vehicle/Equipment Facilities
As determined by the Review Authority.
Wholesale Trade, Warehouse, Storage and Distribution
Chemical, Mineral, and Explosives Storage
1 space per 1,000 sq. ft. of floor area.
Indoor Warehousing and Storage
1 space per 1,000 sq. ft. of floor area.
Outdoor Storage Yard
As determined by the Review Authority.
Personal Storage
1 space per 15,000 sq. ft. of floor area. However, a minimum of 5 spaces must be provided.
Wholesaling and Distribution
1 space per 1,000 sq. ft. of floor area.
Transportation, Communication, and Utilities Uses
Communication Facilities
As determined by the Review Authority.
Light Fleet-Based Services
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of office floor area, plus 1 space for each fleet vehicle.
Transportation Passenger Terminals
As determined by the Review Authority.
Utilities, Major
As determined by the Review Authority.
Agricultural Uses
Agricultural Processing
As determined by the Review Authority.
Agricultural Support Services
As determined by the Review Authority.
Animal Raising
As determined by the Review Authority.
Crop Cultivation
2 spaces per acre of cultivated land.
Farmers’ Stand
None in addition to what is required for the agricultural use.
Greenhouse
1 space per 1,000 sq. ft. floor area.
Accessory Uses
Caretaker Unit
1 space
Family Day Care
Small
None in addition to what is required for the residential use.
Large
None in addition to what is required for the residential use.
B. 
Calculation of Required Spaces. The number of required parking spaces must be calculated according to the following rules:
1. 
Employees. Where an on-site parking or loading requirement is stated as a ratio of parking spaces to employees, the number of employees must be based on the total employees employed by the use;
2. 
Bedrooms. Where an on-site parking requirement is stated as a ratio of parking spaces to bedrooms, any rooms having the potential of being a bedroom and meeting the standards of the California Building Code as a sleeping room must be counted as a bedroom;
3. 
Students or Clients. Where a parking or loading requirement is stated as a ratio of parking spaces to students, the number is assumed to be the number of students or clients at the State-certified capacity or at Building Code occupancy where no State certification is required; and
4. 
Seats. Where parking requirements are stated as a ratio of parking spaces to seats, each 30 inches of bench-type seating at maximum seating capacity is counted as one seat.
C. 
Sites with Multiple Uses. If more than one type of land use is located on a site, the number of required on-site parking spaces and loading spaces must be equal to the sum of the requirements calculated separately for each use, unless a reduction is approved pursuant to this chapter.
D. 
Calculation of Parking Requirements for Industrial Uses. The following standards apply when calculating the required number of parking spaces for Industrial uses:
1. 
Specified Tenants. Where tenants are specified and listed by name of company, parking is calculated according to uses identified on the floor plan; and
2. 
Unspecified Tenants. Where tenants are not specified, and the use described on the plans is industrial or warehouse, parking is calculated based on 25 percent of the floor space being used for office uses, and 75 percent of the space being used for warehouse use, based on the parking ratios for those uses specified in Table 17.38.040(A), above.
E. 
Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations. The number of required parking spaces for an existing use shall be reduced by the amount necessary to accommodate electric vehicle charging stations and any associated equipment that interfere with, reduce, eliminate, or in any way impact the required parking spaces for the existing uses.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5; Ord. 21-07 § 4; Ord. 22-02 § 8; Ord. 22-06 § 4; Ord. 23-05 § 4; Ord. No. 24-05, 12/3/2024; Ord. 25-05, 9/2/2025; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.38.050 Parking Reductions.

The number of on-site parking spaces required by Section 17.38.040, Parking and Loading—Required Parking Spaces, may be reduced by the Review Authority, as follows:
A. 
Motorcycle and Moped Parking. Motorcycle and moped parking may be used to substitute up to five percent of required automobile parking for any use.
B. 
Shared Parking. Where shared parking serving more than one use will be provided, the total combined number of required parking spaces may be reduced up to 50 percent with the approval of a Land Use Permit or an otherwise required discretionary action, if the Review Authority finds that:
1. 
The peak hours of use will not overlap or coincide to the degree that peak demand for parking spaces from all uses will be greater than the total supply of spaces;
2. 
The proposed shared parking provided will be adequate to serve each use at its peak demand;
3. 
A parking demand study has been prepared by a traffic engineer and supports the proposed reduction; and
4. 
In the case of a shared parking facility that serves more than one property, a Conjunctive Parking Agreement has been prepared consistent with the provisions of Section 17.38.070(C), Off-Site Parking, below.
C. 
Other Parking Reductions. Required parking may be further reduced through approval of a Conditional Use Permit, Development Plan, or Modification.
1. 
In considering a required parking reduction, the Review Authority may consider an approved Transportation Demand Management Program (TDM). In determining the parking reduction for a TDM Program, the Review Authority must consider whether the Program includes the following:
a. 
Promotion of telecommuting;
b. 
Establishment of flexible work schedules;
c. 
Provision of incentives for carpooling;
d. 
Provision of vanpools;
e. 
Support for car sharing/ride sharing;
f. 
Guaranteed ride home programs;
g. 
Provision of pedestrian amenities on site;
h. 
Provision of bicycle facilities and amenities on site; and
i. 
Bus pass programs for employees and/or residents.
D. 
OT District Redevelopment. In the OT District, where existing development with nonconforming parking is replaced with new development or a change of use, the new development or change of use shall receive a parking credit equal to the number of required automobile parking spaces unmet by the previous development or use.
E. 
Senior Housing and Income-Restricted Units. Multiple-Unit Development housing units required parking spaces for senior housing or income-restricted units shall be reduced by 25%.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 24-01, 4/16/2024; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.38.060 Parking In-Lieu Fee.

A parking assessment district may be created for all or part of Old Town. If a parking assessment district has been established, a fee may be paid to the City in-lieu of providing required parking within the district.
A. 
In-Lieu Fee Amount. The amount of the in-lieu fee must be calculated and paid as set forth in a resolution of the City Council.
B. 
Use of Funds. In-lieu fees must be used for the acquisition of land and/or construction of off-street parking facilities located in the parking assessment district.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.38.070 Location of Required Parking.

A. 
Residential Uses.
1. 
Single-Unit Dwellings.
a. 
Required Parking. Required parking for single-unit dwellings must be located on the same lot as the dwelling served. Required parking may not be located within required front or side setbacks.
b. 
Additional Parking. Additional parking spaces beyond those that are required as part of the permitted or allowable land use may be located anywhere on the subject lot, including setbacks, and in any configuration.
2. 
Other Residential Uses. Required parking for residential uses other than single-unit dwellings must be on the same lot as the dwelling or use they serve or at an off-site location as provided in subsection C, Off-Site Parking. Required parking may not be located within a required front or street side setback.
B. 
Non-Residential Uses. Required parking spaces serving non-residential uses must be located on site a minimum of 10 feet from any right-of-way or at an off-site parking location as provided below in subsection C, Off-Site Parking.
C. 
Off-Site Parking. Parking for uses other than single-unit dwellings may be provided off site with Review Authority approval of a Conjunctive Parking Agreement, provided the following standards are met in addition to applicable setback standards provided in subsections A and B above.
1. 
Location.
a. 
Residential Uses. Any off-site parking must be located within 200 feet, measured along a pedestrian route, of the unit served.
b. 
Non-Residential Uses. Any off-site parking must be located within 500 feet, measured along a pedestrian route, of the principal entrance containing the use(s) for which the parking is required.
2. 
Conjunctive Parking Agreement. A written agreement between the landowner(s) and the City, in a form satisfactory to the City Attorney, must be executed and recorded in the office of the County Recorder. The agreement must include:
a. 
A guarantee among the landowner(s) for access to and use of the parking facility; and
b. 
A guarantee that the spaces to be provided will be maintained and reserved for the uses served for as long as such uses are in operation.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 21-07 § 4)

§ 17.38.080 Trailers and Recreational Vehicle Parking/Storage.

A. 
Trailers and recreational vehicles (RVs) may be parked/stored anywhere on a residentially zoned lot, subject to Section 17.38.030, Parking and Loading—General Provisions, and all of the following provisions:
1. 
No more than one trailer or RV may be parked/stored on a single lot outside of either a fully enclosed structure or an area on the lot that is fully screened by a fence, freestanding wall, or hedge of at least five feet in height, subject to Section 17.24.090, Regulations Applying to Multiple Districts—Fences, Freestanding Walls, and Hedges.
2. 
The owner of the trailer or RV must reside on the same lot where it is being parked/stored.
3. 
The trailer or RV must be capable of operation and if required to be registered, must have a current, unexpired registration with the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
4. 
The trailer or RV must not be occupied for living purposes on a site longer than 14 days in a six-month period, except as authorized in Section 17.01.040(B)(6), Introductory Provisions— Applicability.
5. 
The trailer or RV must not project into the public right-of-way, impede vision clearance, or cause any other public safety hazards while parked and/or stored.
B. 
The use of trailers and RVs within the City shall also be subject to Goleta Municipal Code, Title 10, Vehicles and Traffic and Title 12, Streets, Sidewalks and Public Places.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.38.090 Bicycle Parking.

A. 
Short-Term Bicycle Parking. Short-term bicycle parking must be provided in order to serve shoppers, customers, guests, and other visitors to a site who generally stay for less than four hours.
1. 
Parking Spaces Required. For the following uses, the number of short-term bicycle parking spaces must be equal to at least 10 percent of the number of required automobile parking spaces, with a minimum of three bicycle parking spaces provided per establishment.
a. 
Multiple-unit residential, group residential, and SRO housing with five or more units.
b. 
All uses in the Public/Quasi-Public Use Classification.
c. 
All uses in the Commercial Use Classification, except for the following:
i. 
Animal Care, Sales, and Services; or
ii. 
Automobile/Vehicle Sales and Services.
2. 
Location. Short-term bicycle parking must be located outside of the public right-of-way when feasible, must not encroach upon pedestrian walkways, and must be within 100 feet of a main entrance to the use it serves.
a. 
Commercial Centers. Co-location of required bicycle parking for multiple tenant spaces is permissible.
b. 
Old Town District. Bicycle parking in the Old Town District may be located in the public right-of-way with an Encroachment Permit, provided an unobstructed sidewalk clearance of six feet is maintained for pedestrians at all times.
3. 
Anchoring and Security. For each short-term bicycle parking space required, a stationary, securely anchored object must be provided to which a bicycle frame and one wheel can be secured with a high-security lock if both wheels are left on the bicycle. One such object may serve multiple bicycle parking spaces.
4. 
Size and Accessibility. Each short-term bicycle parking space must be a minimum of two feet in width and six feet in length and must be accessible without moving another bicycle. Two feet of clearance must be provided between bicycle parking spaces and adjacent walls, poles, landscaping, street furniture, drive aisles, and pedestrian ways and at least five feet from vehicle parking spaces.
FIGURE 17.38.090(A): SHORT-TERM BICYCLE PARKING
B. 
Long-Term Bicycle Parking. Long-term bicycle parking must be provided in order to serve employees, students, residents, commuters, and others who generally stay at a site for four hours or longer.
1. 
Parking Spaces Required.
a. 
Residential Uses. A minimum of one long-term bicycle parking space must be provided for every unit for multiple-unit residential and group residential projects.
b. 
Other Uses. Any use with 25 or more full-time-equivalent employees must provide long-term bicycle parking at a minimum ratio of one space per 10 vehicle spaces with a minimum of one long-term space.
c. 
Public or Private Parking Use. Long-term bicycle parking must be provided at a minimum ratio of one space per 10 vehicle spaces with a minimum of one long-term space.
2. 
Location. Long-term bicycle parking must be located on the same lot as the use it serves. In public or private parking uses, long-term bicycle parking must be located near an entrance to the structure or parking lot.
3. 
Covered Spaces. At least 50 percent of required long-term bicycle parking must be covered. Covered parking can be provided inside buildings, under roof overhangs or awnings, in bicycle lockers, or within or under other structures.
4. 
Security. Long-term bicycle parking must be located in one or more of the following:
a. 
An enclosed bicycle locker;
b. 
A fenced, covered, locked, or guarded bicycle storage area;
c. 
A secure area within a building or structure; or
d. 
Another type of secure area approved by the Review Authority.
5. 
Size and Accessibility. Each long-term bicycle parking space must be a minimum of two feet in width and six feet in length and must be accessible without moving another bicycle. Two feet of clearance must be provided between bicycle parking spaces and adjacent walls, poles, landscaping, street furniture, drive aisles, and pedestrian ways, and at least five feet from vehicle parking spaces.
C. 
Bicycle Charging. For required bicycle parking pursuant to subsections A and B above, one charging electrical outlet is required for every 10 required bicycle parking spaces.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 21-07 § 4)

§ 17.38.100 On-Site Loading.

A. 
Loading Spaces Required. Every new commercial and industrial building and every building enlarged by more than 5,000 square feet of floor area that is to be occupied by a use requiring the receipt or distribution by vehicles or trucks of material or merchandise must provide off-street loading and unloading areas as follows.
TABLE 17.38.100(A): REQUIRED LOADING SPACES
Floor Area (sq. ft.)
Required Loading Spaces
0—5,000
0
5,001—30,000
1
30,001—90,000
2
90,001—150,000
3
150,001—230,000
4
230,001 +
1 per each additional 100,000 square feet or portion thereof.
1. 
Multi-Tenant Buildings. The floor area of the entire building must be used in determining spaces for multi-tenant buildings. A common loading area may be required if each tenant space is not provided a loading area. Drive-in, roll-up doors for multi-tenant industrial projects may be substituted for required loading areas.
2. 
Additional Loading Spaces Required. The required number of loading spaces may be increased by the Review Authority to ensure that trucks will not be loaded, unloaded, or stored on public streets. Such requirement must be based on the anticipated frequency of truck pickups and deliveries and of the truck storage requirements of the use for which the on-site loading spaces are required.
B. 
Location.
1. 
All required loading spaces must be located on the same site as the use served.
2. 
No loading space for vehicles over two-ton capacity may be closer than 50 feet to any property in a Residential “R” Zone District, unless completely enclosed by building walls, or a uniformly solid fence or wall, or any combination thereof, not less than six feet in height and loading activities are prohibited between the hours of 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m..
3. 
No permitted or required loading space can be located within 25 feet of the nearest point of any street intersection.
4. 
No loading space may be located within a front or street-side setback or in the public right-of-way.
C. 
Minimum Size. Each loading space required by this section must not be less than 10 feet wide, 30 feet long, and 14 feet high, exclusive of driveways for ingress and egress, maneuvering areas, and setbacks.
D. 
Driveways for Ingress and Egress and Maneuvering Areas. Each loading space required by this section must be provided with driveways for ingress and egress and maneuvering space of the same type, and meeting the same criteria required for on-site parking spaces. Truck-maneuvering areas must not encroach into required parking areas, travel-ways, or street rights-of-way.
E. 
Surfacing. All open loading spaces must be improved with a compacted base, not less than five inches thick, surfaced with not less than three inches of plant-mix asphalt, concrete, or comparable material approved by the Review Authority.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.38.110 Parking Area Design and Development Standards.

Parking areas must be designed and developed consistent with the following standards.
A. 
Size of Parking Spaces. Parking spaces must meet the minimum dimensions required by this subsection. Screening walls, roof support posts, columns, or other structural members, equipment, and work benches must not intrude into the required dimensions for parking spaces.
1. 
Residential Uses. Eight and one-half feet by 16.5 feet.
2. 
Non-Residential Uses. Nine feet by 16.5 feet.
3. 
Motorcycle and Moped Spaces. Four feet by nine feet, and all motorcycle and moped parking areas must be clearly marked and dedicated to these vehicles.
4. 
Parallel Parking Spaces. 22 feet by eight feet.
5. 
Compact Spaces. Where allowed pursuant to a Modification or through a Discretionary Approval, compact spaces must have a minimum width of eight feet and depth of 14.5 feet.
6. 
Overhang. Parking stall lengths, except for parallel spaces, may be reduced by two feet where the parking stall is designed to abut a landscaped area or sidewalk that has a minimum of seven feet. This landscape area must be protected by a wheel stop (or a curb where one already exists).
FIGURE 17.38.110(A)(6): VEHICLE OVERHANG
B. 
Parking Lot Configuration. Parking lot widths must be consistent with the following based on the angle of parking spaces and lot traffic patterns.
FIGURE 17.38.110(B-1): ONE-WAY WITH PARALLEL PARKING
FIGURE 17.38.110(B-2): TWO-WAY WITH PARALLEL PARKING
FIGURE 17.38.110(B-3): ONE-WAY WITH ANGLED PARKING (W1)
FIGURE 17.38.110(B-4): ONE-WAY WITH ANGLED PARKING (W2)
FIGURE 17.38.110(B-5): ONE-WAY WITH ANGLED PARKING (W3)
FIGURE 17.38.110(B-6): ONE-WAY WITH ANGLED PARKING (W4)
FIGURE 17.38.110(B-7): TWO-WAY WITH ANGLED PARKING (W1)
FIGURE 17.38.110(B-8): TWO-WAY WITH ANGLED PARKING (W2)
FIGURE 17.38.110(B-9): TWO-WAY WITH ANGLED PARKING (W3)
FIGURE 17.38.110(B-10): TWO-WAY WITH ANGLED PARKING (W4)
TABLE 17.38.110(A): PARKING DIMENSIONS (ONE-WAY TRAFFIC)
Angle (in degrees)
W1
W2
W3
W4
8.0′ Stall Width
8.5′ Stall Width
9.0′ Stall Width
8.0′ Stall Width
8.5′ Stall Width
9.0′ Stall Width
8.0′ Stall Width
8.5′ Stall Width
9.0′ Stall Width
8.0′ Stall Width
8.5′ Stall Width
9.0′ Stall Width
30
24.0
25.0
25.0
36.0
38.5
38.5
33.5
36.0
36.0
31.0
33.0
33.0
35
24.5
26.0
26.0
37.5
40.5
40.5
35.5
38.0
38.0
33.0
35.5
35.5
40
25.5
26.5
26.5
39.0
42.0
42.0
37.0
40.0
40.0
35.0
37.5
37.5
45
26.0
27.5
27.5
40.5
43.5
43.5
38.5
41.5
41.5
36.5
39.0
39.0
50
26.5
28.0
28.0
41.5
45.0
45.0
39.5
43.0
43.0
38.0
41.0
41.0
55
27.0
29.0
28.5
42.5
46.5
46.0
40.5
44.5
44.0
39.0
42.5
42.0
60
28.0
31.5
30.0
43.5
49.5
48.0
42.0
47.5
46.5
41.0
46.0
45.0
65
30.0
34.0
33.0
46.0
52.0
51.0
44.5
51.0
48.5
43.5
49.5
48.0
70
32.0
36.5
35.0
48.0
54.5
53.0
47.0
53.5
52.0
46.0
52.5
51.0
75
34.0
38.5
37.5
50.0
56.5
55.5
49.0
56.0
54.5
48.5
55.0
54.0
80
36.0
41.0
39.5
51.5
58.5
57.5
51.0
58.0
57.0
50.5
57.5
56.5
85
37.5
42.5
41.5
53.0
60.0
59.0
52.5
60.0
58.5
52.5
59.5
58.5
90
39.0
44.5
43.5
54.0
61.5
60.5
54.0
61.5
60.5
54.0
61.5
60.5
Specifications for any parking angle not specifically enumerated can be determined by interpolation from the above table.
TABLE 17.38.110(A): PARKING DIMENSIONS (ONE-WAY TRAFFIC)
Angle (in degrees)
W1
W2
W3
W4
8.0′ Stall Width
8.5′ Stall Width
9.0′ Stall Width
8.0′ Stall Width
8.5′ Stall Width
9.0′ Stall Width
8.0′ Stall Width
8.5′ Stall Width
9.0′ Stall Width
8.0′ Stall Width
8.5′ Stall Width
9.0′ Stall Width
30
24.0
25.0
25.0
36.0
38.5
38.5
33.5
36.0
36.0
31.0
33.0
33.0
35
24.5
26.0
26.0
37.5
40.5
40.5
35.5
38.0
38.0
33.0
35.5
35.5
40
25.5
26.5
26.5
39.0
42.0
42.0
37.0
40.0
40.0
35.0
37.5
37.5
45
26.0
27.5
27.5
40.5
43.5
43.5
38.5
41.5
41.5
36.5
39.0
39.0
50
26.5
28.0
28.0
41.5
45.0
45.0
39.5
43.0
43.0
38.0
41.0
41.0
55
27.0
29.0
28.5
42.5
46.5
46.0
40.5
44.5
44.0
39.0
42.5
42.0
60
28.0
31.5
30.0
43.5
49.5
48.0
42.0
47.5
46.5
41.0
46.0
45.0
65
30.0
34.0
33.0
46.0
52.0
51.0
44.5
51.0
48.5
43.5
49.5
48.0
70
32.0
36.5
35.0
48.0
54.5
53.0
47.0
53.5
52.0
46.0
52.5
51.0
75
34.0
38.5
37.5
50.0
56.5
55.5
49.0
56.0
54.5
48.5
55.0
54.0
80
36.0
41.0
39.5
51.5
58.5
57.5
51.0
58.0
57.0
50.5
57.5
56.5
85
37.5
42.5
41.5
53.0
60.0
59.0
52.5
60.0
58.5
52.5
59.5
58.5
90
39.0
44.5
43.5
54.0
61.5
60.5
54.0
61.5
60.5
54.0
61.5
60.5
Specifications for any parking angle not specifically enumerated can be determined by interpolation from the above table.
C. 
Striping and Marking.
1. 
Each parking space must be clearly striped with paint or other similar distinguishable material, except spaces established in a garage or carport having not more than three parking spaces.
2. 
Striping for parking spaces may be modified by the Zoning Administrator if there is a dual use of the parking facility or if an alternate surfacing material approved by the City. In approving such modification, the Zoning Administrator is authorized to require suitable alternate means of marking the spaces.
D. 
Wheel Stops. Wheel stops must be provided for parking lots with a slope of more than three percent, except that the installation of wheel stops is optional for parking stalls oriented at right angles to the direction of slope. Wheel stops are also required on the perimeter of parking lots that are adjacent to walls, fences, or pedestrian walkways, and when abutting landscaped areas.
E. 
Shopping Cart Storage. When there are businesses that utilize shopping carts, adequate temporary shopping cart storage areas must be well-distributed throughout the parking area.
1. 
No temporary storage of shopping carts is allowed on pedestrian walkways outside of buildings.
2. 
Cart storage may be located adjacent to buildings provided the cart storage is physically separated from the pedestrian walkway and pedestrian walkway is a minimum of four feet wide.
3. 
Shopping carts must have disabling devices, which are activated when they cross a barrier at the perimeter of the premises.
F. 
Parking Access.
1. 
Forward Entry. Parking areas of four or more spaces must be provided with suitable maneuvering room so that all vehicles therein may enter an abutting street in a forward direction.
2. 
Driveway Length. Driveways providing direct access from a public street to a garage or carport must be at least 20 feet in depth.
3. 
Driveway Width.
a. 
The minimum width of a driveway serving one to two residences must be no less than 12 feet total. The maximum width is 20 feet.
b. 
The minimum width of a driveway serving three to seven residential unit is eight feet for a one-way driveway, or 14 feet for a two-way driveway.
c. 
The minimum width of a driveway serving seven or more residential or commercial uses is 10 feet for a one-way driveway, or 20 feet for a two-way driveway.
d. 
The maximum driveway width for non-residential uses is 20 feet for a one-way driveway and 33 feet for a two-way driveway.
4. 
Driveway Accessibility. Driveways must be free of obstruction and accessible to all required parking.
G. 
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations. Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations must be provided consistent with Title 15 (Building and Construction).
H. 
Surfacing. All parking areas must be paved and improved, and all sites must be properly drained, subject to the approval of the Public Works Director.
1. 
Cross-Grades. Cross-grades must be designed for slower stormwater flow and to direct stormwater toward landscaping, bio-retention areas, or other water collection/treatment areas.
2. 
Overflow Parking Areas. Permeable materials must be used in all overflow parking areas and installed in accordance with manufacturer recommended specifications.
3. 
Low Traffic Areas. Turf grids, grassblock permeable pavers, gravel, or similar materials must be installed in areas of low traffic or infrequent use wherever feasible.
I. 
Perimeter Curbing. A six-inch wide and six-inch high concrete curb must be provided along the outer edge of the parking facility, except where said paved area abuts a fence or wall. Curbs separating landscaped areas from parking areas must be designed to allow stormwater runoff to pass through.
J. 
Heat Island Reduction. In order to reduce ambient surface temperatures in parking areas, at least 50 percent of the areas not landscaped must be shaded, of light-colored materials with a Solar Reflectance Index of at least 29, or a combination of shading and light-colored materials.
1. 
Shade may be provided by tree canopies. If shade is provided by tree canopies, the amount of required shading is to be reached within 15 years.
2. 
Shade may also be provided by shade structures, subject to Design Review.
K. 
Landscaping. Landscaping of parking areas must be provided and maintained according to the general standards of Chapter 17.34, Landscaping, as well as the standards of this subsection for all parking areas:
1. 
Landscape Area Required. A minimum of 10 percent of any parking area, excluding setbacks, must be landscaped.
2. 
Materials. All landscape planting areas that are not dedicated to trees or shrubs must be permeable. No hardscape materials are permitted in designated planting areas.
3. 
Layout. Landscaped areas must be well-distributed throughout the parking area.
4. 
Visibility and Clearance. Landscaping in planters at the end of parking aisles must not obstruct driver’s vision of vehicular and pedestrian cross-traffic. Mature trees must have a foliage clearance maintained at eight feet from the surface of the parking area. Other plant materials located in the interior of a parking lot must not exceed 30 inches in height.
5. 
Trees. One tree must be provided per four parking spaces unless a lesser amount is approved through Design Review.
L. 
Screening. Parking areas containing 10 or more spaces must be screened from public streets, according to the following standards.
1. 
Height. Screening of parking lots from adjacent public streets must be three feet in height.
a. 
A reduced height for screening devices of up to 18 inches is permissible when permitted display of automobiles, trucks, recreational vehicles, manufactured homes, boats, motorcycles, and utility trailers is allowed adjacent to public streets.
2. 
Materials. Screening must be consistent with the following:
a. 
Walls. Plain concrete blocks are not allowed as a screening wall material unless capped and finished with stucco or other material;
b. 
Fences. Use of chain-link for screening purposes is prohibited;
c. 
Planting. Plant materials consisting of compact plants that form an opaque screen. Such plant materials must achieve a minimum height of two feet within 18 months after initial installation; and
d. 
Berms. Berms planted with grass, ground cover, or other low-growing plant materials that meet the height requirement for screening.
M. 
Circulation and Safety.
1. 
Visibility. Clear sight lines must be provided for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists entering individual parking spaces, circulating within a parking facility, and entering or exiting a parking facility.
2. 
Services. Parking lots must be designed so that sanitation, emergency, and other public service vehicles can provide service without backing unreasonable distances or making other dangerous or hazardous turning movements.
3. 
Pedestrian Access. Separate vehicular and pedestrian circulation systems must be provided where possible. Multiple-unit residential developments must provide pedestrian access that is separate and distinct from driveways. Parking areas for commercial and mixed-use developments that are 80 feet or more in depth and/or include 25 or more parking spaces must have distinct and dedicated pedestrian access from the commercial use to parking areas and public sidewalks, according to the following standards:
a. 
Connection to Public Sidewalk. An on-site walkway must connect the main building entry to a public sidewalk on each street frontage;
b. 
Materials and Width. Walkways must provide at least five feet of unobstructed width and be hard-surfaced;
c. 
Identification. Pedestrian walkways must be clearly differentiated from driveways, parking aisles, and parking and loading spaces through the use of elevation changes, a different paving material, or similar method; and
d. 
Separation. Where a pedestrian walkway is parallel and adjacent to an auto travel lane, it must be raised and separated from the auto travel lane by a raised curb at least four inches high, bollards, or another physical barrier.
N. 
Alternative Parking Area Designs. Where an applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Review Authority that variations in the requirements of this section are warranted in order to achieve to environmental design and green building objectives, including, without limitation, achieving certification under the LEED™ Green Building Rating System or equivalent, an alternative parking area design may be approved.
O. 
Maintenance. Parking lots, including landscaped areas, driveways, and loading areas, must be maintained free of refuse, debris, or other accumulated matter and must be kept in good repair for the life of the project.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 24-01, 4/16/2024)

§ 17.39.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to:
A. 
Establish permissible limits and permit objective measurement of nuisances, hazards, and objectionable conditions;
B. 
Minimize various potential operational impacts of land uses and development within the City and promote compatibility with adjoining areas and land uses; and
C. 
Affirm City requirements for construction and demolition waste management as they apply to new development.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.39.020 Applicability.

The minimum requirements in this chapter apply to all new and existing land uses in all zoning districts, including permanent and temporary uses, unless otherwise specified.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.39.030 General Requirements.

Land or structures shall not be used or occupied in a manner creating any dangerous, injurious, or noxious conditions, chemical fires, explosive, or other hazards that could adversely affect the surrounding area.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.39.040 Air Quality.

A. 
Compliance. Sources of air pollution must comply with rules identified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Code of Federal Regulations, Title 40), the California Air Resources Board, and the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (APCD).
B. 
APCD Permits. Applicants are responsible for obtaining any and all permits from APCD prior to issuance of final permits by the City.
C. 
Highway Buffer. When development that includes a sensitive receptor is proposed within 500 feet of U.S. Highway 101, an analysis of mobile source emissions and associated health risks shall be required. Such developments shall be required to provide an adequate setback as determined by the Review Authority, from the highway and, if necessary, identify design mitigation measures to reduce health risks to acceptable levels.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.39.050 Liquid or Solid Waste.

A. 
Discharges to Water or Sewers. Liquids and solids of any kind must not be discharged, whether directly or indirectly, into a public or private body of water, sewage system, waterway, or into the ground, except in compliance with applicable regulations of the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB).
B. 
Solid Wastes. Solid wastes must be handled and stored so as to prevent nuisances, health, safety, and fire hazards, and to facilitate recycling. There can be no accumulation outdoors of solid wastes conducive to the breeding of rodents or insects, unless stored in closed containers.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.39.060 Hazardous Materials.

The use, handling, storage, and transportation of hazardous and extremely hazardous materials must comply with the provisions of the California Hazardous Materials Regulations and the California Fire and Building Code, as well as the laws and regulations of the California Department of Toxic Substances Control, the Santa Barbara County Fire Department (County Fire), and the Santa Barbara County Office of Emergency Management.
A. 
Risk Exposure. The City will not allow any use that would expose existing residential or commercial development to significant risk.
B. 
Hazard Assessment Required. All new uses with hazardous materials and any proposed substantial increase in intensity of use with existing hazardous materials must submit a hazard assessment to the City. The hazard assessment must identify the risks posed by the new or expanded use and the geographical extent of significant risk and be approved by County Fire.
C. 
Contaminated Land.
1. 
Before development of a site identified as having been used for the storage of hazardous materials or activities involving the use of hazardous materials, the developer must submit documentation to the City sufficient to demonstrate that:
a. 
Testing has been conducted as required to determine the existence and extent of soil and/or groundwater contamination and either:
i. 
Based on the results of the testing, an appropriate clean-up program is not needed; or
ii. 
An appropriate Soil Management and Safety Plan consistent with subsection (C)(3) below has been developed.
2. 
No development is permitted on land determined to contain actionable contamination until financial responsibility has been accepted for any required remediation. The posting of a bond or other surety in an amount and form acceptable to the Review Authority is required.
3. 
Where required, a site-specific Soil Management and Safety Plan must be developed and submitted as part of the project application. The Plan must, at a minimum:
a. 
Identify and document the extent of contamination;
b. 
Characterize contaminated soil and/or groundwater;
c. 
Identify appropriate personal protective equipment to minimize potential worker exposure to hazards; and
d. 
Provide remediation procedures for contaminated material including, as warranted:
i. 
Interim storage on site.
ii. 
Transportation procedures.
iii. 
Final disposal location.
D. 
Applicant Responsibilities. Development that will involve the generation, use, transportation, and/or storage of hazardous materials must comply with the following requirements:
1. 
The use, storage, transportation, and disposal of hazardous materials, including underground or above-ground storage tanks, must comply with RWQCB requirements and must ensure that the use, storage, transportation, and disposal of hazardous materials does not result in hazardous discharge or runoff; and
2. 
Hazardous materials or wastes stored in closed containers at a facility must be set back a minimum of 50 feet from all property lines.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.39.070 Noise.

A. 
Noise Limits. Noise and land use compatibility criteria specified in Table 17.39.070(A) below apply to all new development and conditions of approval may be imposed to minimize or eliminate incompatibilities.
1. 
Proposals for new development that would cause standards to exceed the Clearly Unacceptable noise exposure for any use may only be approved if the project would provide a substantial benefit to the City.
2. 
These compatibility criteria also may justify denial of an application if a proposed use or adjacent use would be exposed to Clearly Unacceptable noise exposure, as defined in the table.
TABLE 17.39.070(A): NOISE AND LAND USE COMPATIBILITY CRITERIA
Land Use Category
Community Exposure (Ldn or CNEL, dBA)
Normally Acceptable1
Conditionally Acceptable2
Normally Unacceptable3
Clearly Unacceptable4
Residential—Single Unit
50-60
60-65
65-75
75+
Residential—Multiple Unit
50-60
60-65
65-75
75+
Other Residential Uses
50-60
60-65
65-80
80+
Auditoriums, Concert Halls, and Amphitheaters
N/A
50-65
N/A
65+
Park and Recreation Facilities
50-70
N/A
70-75
75+
Other Public/Quasi-Public Uses
50-60
60-65
65-80
80+
Sports Arenas and Outdoor Spectator Sports
N/A
50-70
N/A
70+
Golf Courses, Riding Stables, Water Recreation, and Cemeteries
50-70
N/A
70-80
80+
Lodging
50-65
65-70
70-80
80+
Other Commercial Uses
50-67.5
67.5-75
75+
N/A
Industrial, Transportation, Communication, and Utility, and Agricultural Uses
50-70
70-75
75+
N/A
Notes:
1
Normally Acceptable: Specified land use is satisfactory, based upon the assumption that any buildings involved are of normal conventional construction, without special noise-insulation requirements.
2
Conditionally Acceptable: New construction or development may be undertaken only after detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements is made and needed noise-insulation features are included in the design. Conventional construction, but with closed windows and fresh air supply systems or air conditioning, will normally suffice.
3
Normally Unacceptable: New construction or development is discouraged. If new construction or development does proceed, a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements must be made and needed noise insulation features must be included in the design. See Section 17.39.070(D), Acoustical Study.
4
Clearly Unacceptable: New construction or development must generally not be undertaken.
5
N/A: Not applicable.
B. 
Adjustments to Noise Exposure Limits. The maximum “Normally Unacceptable” or “Clearly Unacceptable” noise levels of Table 17.39.070(A), may be adjusted according to the following provisions. No more than one increase in the maximum permissible noise level will be applied to the noise generated on each property.
1. 
Nuisance Noise. If a noise contains a steady audible tone (i.e., hum or buzz), rises or falls in pitch or volume (i.e., whine or screech), or is a repetitive noise (i.e., hammering or riveting) or contains music or speech conveying informational content, the maximum noise levels will be reduced by five dBA.
C. 
Short Duration Noise. In addition to the durational noise standards above, the following standards apply to episodic noise affecting Residential Uses:
1. 
Noise that is produced for no more than a cumulative period of five minutes in any hour must not exceed 80 dBA; and
2. 
Noise that is produced for no more than a cumulative period of one minute in any hour must not exceed 85 dBA.
D. 
Acoustical Study. The Review Authority may require an acoustical study that includes field measurement of noise levels for any proposed project that would impact or be impacted by noise levels at the Conditionally Acceptable level.
1. 
Acoustical studies must identify noise sources, magnitudes, and potential noise attenuation measures, and describe existing and future noise exposure.
2. 
All costs of the acoustical study and any peer review are borne by the applicant.
E. 
Noise Attenuation Measures. Any project subject to the acoustic study requirements of subsection D, above, must incorporate noise attenuation features deemed necessary to ensure that noise standards are not exceeded.
1. 
Where any portion of a site proposed for a new residential use exceeds 60 dBA CNEL, noise-attenuation features to achieve and maintain an interior noise level of 45 dBA CNEL must be included.
F. 
Exemptions. The following are exempt from the provisions of this section:
1. 
Emergencies. The emission of sound for the purpose of alerting persons to the existence of an emergency, or the emission of sound in the performance of emergency work;
2. 
Warning Devices. Warning devices necessary for the protection of the public safety, such as police, fire, and ambulance sirens;
3. 
Special Events. Occasional outdoor gatherings, public dances, shows, and sporting and entertainment events, provided that such events are conducted pursuant to a permit or license issued by the City;
4. 
Municipal Solid Waste Collection. Collection of solid waste, vegetative waste, and recyclable materials by the City or under contract with the City; and
5. 
Public Works Construction Projects, Maintenance, and Repair. Street, utility, and similar construction projects undertaken by or under contract to or direction of the City, or the State of California or a public utility regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission, as well as maintenance and repair operations conducted by such parties.
G. 
Construction Hours. Construction-related noise-generating activities are subject to the following:
1. 
Limitation on Hours.
a. 
Noise-generating construction activities within 1,600 feet of sensitive receptors are limited to Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
b. 
Noise-generating construction activities not within 1,600 feet of sensitive receptors are limited to Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
c. 
Exceptions to these restrictions for on-site work may be made for good cause at the sole discretion of the Director. Exceptions to these restrictions may be made for good cause at the sole discretion of the Public Works Director or designee, for work in the City right-of-way.
2. 
Holidays. No noise-generating construction activities may occur on State holidays.
3. 
Construction Hours. Construction hours of operation must be posted on site near the entrance of the development site.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 22-06 § 4)

§ 17.40.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to regulate signs as an information system that preserves and enhances the aesthetic character and environmental values of the City, its residential neighborhoods, its visitor-oriented uses, and commercial/industrial areas, while also providing an effective means for members of the public to express themselves through the display of signs. More specifically, this chapter is intended to:
A. 
Promote communications through signs that provide information and orientation and also to promote economic activity and vitality to the community;
B. 
Maintain and enhance the City’s appearance by regulating the design, character, location, number, type, quality of materials, size, illumination, and maintenance of signs;
C. 
Limit commercial signage to on-site locations to ensure that signage is primarily used as identification in order to protect the City’s aesthetic environment from the visual clutter associated with the unrestricted proliferation of signs;
D. 
Restrict signs that may create a nuisance to nearby properties, violate privacy, or create hazards or unreasonable distractions for pedestrians or drivers; and
E. 
Ensure the protection of the rights of free speech and expression are guaranteed by the United States Constitution and State of California Constitution while setting local design standards and expectations.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.40.020 Applicability.

This chapter regulates signs that are located or mounted on private property within the corporate limits of the City, as well as signs located or mounted on public property, over which the City has land use or zoning authority. The provisions in this chapter apply in all zoning districts of the City. No sign within the regulatory scope of this chapter may be erected or maintained anywhere in the City except in conformance with this chapter.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.40.030 Exempt Signs.

The following signs are exempt from the requirements of this chapter, provided that they conform to the specified standards of this chapter. Exempt signs do not count toward the total sign area limit for a site.
A. 
Address Signs. Address identification and signage in conformance with all applicable Fire Department and Building Code requirements.
B. 
Change of Business Signs. A temporary attachment or covering of wood, plastic, or canvas over a permitted permanent sign indicating a change of ownership or activity. The temporary sign may be displayed for no longer than 60 days following the change of ownership or activity for which the sign is intended. The temporary sign must be no larger than the previously permitted permanent sign.
C. 
Commemorative Signs. Plaques, memorial signs or tablets, or other form of signage commemorating the site of a historical event, the residence or workplace of a historical figure, or a building whose architectural or historical character is recognized by the City as part of the City’s cultural heritage. The signs may indicate the names of buildings or dates of building erection and may either be attached to or cut into the surfaces of buildings, provided that the signage does not exceed three square feet.
D. 
Construction Signs. A temporary on-site construction sign may be erected for the duration of construction activities, provided it is immediately removed after issuance of Final Inspection Clearance for the project or if the construction is ceased and work on the site is abandoned. A temporary construction sign may not exceed 20 square feet and six feet in height within non-residential zones or eight square feet and four feet in height within residential zones unless a larger area is approved as part of the project’s Development Plan approval.
E. 
Directional Signs. Directional signs that do not exceed two square feet.
F. 
Directional Signs for Open Houses. Off-site signs directing the public to “open house” events, for housing units that are listed for sale or for lease, provided they comply with the following standards:
1. 
For an individual lot, up to three offsite directional signs are allowed;
2. 
For two or more lots premises, dwellings or structures that are for sale, lease, or rent, are permitted on private land in the same development, up to a maximum of six directional signs are allowed;
3. 
No sign exceeds five square feet per side and three feet in height, including support structure, from finished grade;
4. 
The sign or signs may not be placed more than two hours before the start or remain more than two hours after the conclusion of the open house event; and
5. 
No signage may be displayed within the public road right-of-way, nor impede or obstruct pedestrian use of public sidewalks or access ways.
G. 
Door Signs.
1. 
Signs displaying a business as open or closed and do not exceed one square foot.
2. 
Stickers or decals indicating accepted payment types (i.e., credit/debit cards) and do not exceed one square foot.
3. 
Stickers, decals, or etching on glass that display store hours and do not exceed two square feet.
H. 
Flags. Noncommercial flags may be erected and located on a property only in accordance with the following standards:
1. 
Maximum Flagpole Height. If a flag is on a flag pole, the pole height must not exceed 30 feet, or the distance from the base of the pole to the closest property line plus 10 feet, whichever is less.
2. 
Maximum Size. The maximum individual flag area on a lot is 24 square feet in Residential Zone Districts and 32 square feet in all other Zone Districts.
FIGURE 17.40.030(H): FLAGS
I. 
Government Signs. Official notices issued by a court, public body, or office and posted in the performance of a public duty; informational signs posted by the City, notices posted by a utility or other quasi-public agency; signs erected by a governmental body to direct or regulate pedestrian or vehicular traffic; non-commercial bus stop signs erected by a public transit agency, or other signs required or authorized by law.
J. 
Interior Signs. Signs that are located within interior areas of a building, not intended to attract outside attention, and are at least three feet from a window, door, or other exterior wall opening.
K. 
Menu Displays. Menu displays, not exceeding a total of two square feet in cumulative area, mounted on a wall or in a window near the main entrance of establishments serving food to customers who eat on the premises.
L. 
Murals. Murals that do not contain any advertising copy or function as advertising.
M. 
One-Time Event Sign. One-time event signs with a maximum area of 40 square feet.
1. 
One one-time event sign is allowed per street frontage.
2. 
One-time event signs must not be posted more than seven days prior to the special event.
3. 
One-time event signs must be removed within 24 hours of completion of the event.
N. 
On-Site Real Estate Signs. Signs conveying information about the sale, rental, or lease of the subject lot, premises, dwelling, or structure, provided that they comply with the following provisions:
1. 
Illumination. The sign or signs are not illuminated.
2. 
Removal. The sign or signs are removed within seven days after the sale, lease, or rental of the property has been completed.
3. 
Freestanding Real Estate Signs.
a. 
No more than one real estate sign is displayed at any one time per public street frontage per lot;
b. 
The sign or signs do not exceed an aggregate area of 32 square feet within non-residential zones or eight square feet in area within residential zones; and
c. 
The maximum height of the signs and supports is six feet.
FIGURE 17.40.030(N): ON-SITE REAL ESTATE SIGNS
4. 
Real Estate Wall Signs.
a. 
No more than one wall sign may be displayed at any one time per public street frontage;
b. 
Wall signs may not exceed six square feet in area; and
c. 
The maximum height of a wall sign is 12 feet.
O. 
Subdivision Signs. A maximum of three, unlighted, double-faced temporary subdivision signs, not exceeding 40 square feet in area per display face and 15 feet in overall height, may be erected and maintained with a subdivision during sale of the lots. Such signs must be located within the subdivision and also be a minimum distance of 300 feet apart from each other. All subdivision signs must be removed at the close of escrow of the model complex houses.
P. 
Sponsorship Signs. One temporary commercial sponsorship sign for each sponsor or one sign for all sponsors, who support and/or contribute to activities occurring on a premises open to the public. The signs must not to exceed an area of 36 square feet per site and may remain on the premises for a period determined by the host agency or owner not to exceed three months preceding the activity or event and removed within 15 days after the event or activity.
Q. 
Vehicle and Vessel Insignia. On properly licensed vehicles and watercraft: license plates and frames, registration stickers and insignia, and messages relating to the proposed sale, lease, or exchange of the vehicle or vessel.
R. 
Window Signs. Window Signs in “R” zone districts and on residential uses, whether permanent or temporary, one non-illuminated window sign not exceeding three square feet on any building façade when not used to advertise a home occupation.
S. 
Protected Non-Commercial Speech Signs. Non-illuminated temporary signs displaying protected non-commercial messages that are no more than four feet in height and no more than six square feet in area may be displayed at any time. However, during the period of time beginning 60 days before a general, special, primary or runoff election, and ending 15 days after such election, the amount of display area may be doubled. All signage displayed under this section must be removed 15 days after the corresponding election.
T. 
Public Transportation Passenger Terminals. Signs for publicly-operated transportation passenger terminals that are limited to traveler information such as arrival and departure times, including electronic changeable copy signs notwithstanding Section 17.40.060(I) and the limitations therein.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5)

§ 17.40.040 Prohibited Signs.

Unless otherwise permitted by a specific provision of this chapter, the following sign types are prohibited in all zones:
A. 
Animated Signs. Signs that blink, flash, shimmer, glitter, rotate, oscillate, move, or which give the appearance of blinking, flashing, shimmering, glittering, rotating, or oscillating.
B. 
Cabinet or Can Signs. Internally lit cabinet and can signs.
C. 
General Advertising for Hire. Permanent or temporary billboards or signage that publicize or promote other off-site businesses or causes using methods of advertising (in contrast to self-promotion, on-site sales, or on-site advertising).
D. 
Human Directional Signs. Sign holders, spinners, twirlers or other forms of advertising using human billboards.
E. 
Mobile Billboards. Any sign carried or conveyed by a vehicle for the primary purpose of general advertising for hire, excluding signs on taxis and buses.
FIGURE 17.40.040(E): PROHIBITED MOBILE BILLBOARD EXAMPLE
F. 
Portable Signs. Portable signs are prohibited in all City rights-of-way unless issued an Encroachment Permit.
G. 
Pole Signs. A sign that is mounted on a freestanding pole or other support structure placed on or anchored to the ground that is independent from any building or other structure.
H. 
Roof Signs.
1. 
Signs that extend above the roofline or parapet (whichever is higher) of a building with a flat roof, including signs affixed to roof-top mechanical equipment.
2. 
Signs that extend above the deck line of a mansard roof.
3. 
Signs on roof-tops that are only visible from above.
FIGURE 17.40.040(H): ROOF SIGNS
I. 
Signs Located in the Public Right-of-Way or on Public Property. Other than official government signs or warning signs required by law, no inanimate sign can be placed in public right-of-way, on any public utility pole or fire hydrant, or on public property unless authorized by a City Encroachment Permit.
J. 
Signs Affixed to Trees. No sign may be affixed to or cut into any public or private tree or other living vegetation.
K. 
Signs on Terrain. No sign may be cut, burned, marked, or displayed in any manner on a street, sidewalk, rock, outcropping, cliff, or hillside.
L. 
Search Lights and Klieg Lights. When used as attention-attracting devices for commercial sales or special events.
M. 
Signs Creating Traffic Hazards or Affecting Pedestrian Safety. No signs may be placed, located, or situated in such a manner as to constitute a safety hazard or to impede the public use of the public right-of-way, such as:
1. 
Signs placed, mounted, erected, or installed in any manner that obstructs use of any door, window or fire escape;
2. 
Signs mounted or displayed in such a manner that blocks or impedes the normal pedestrian use or public sidewalks. A minimum unobstructed width of four feet must be maintained on sidewalks at all times;
3. 
Signs located in such a manner as to constitute a traffic hazard or obstruct the view of traffic, fire hydrants, any authorized traffic sign, or signal device;
4. 
Signs that may create confusion with any authorized traffic sign, signal, or device because their color, location, or wording, or use of any phrase, symbol, or character interferes with, misleads, or confuses vehicular drivers in their use of roads or conflicts with any traffic control sign or device; or
5. 
Signs at or near any street intersection that distract or will obstruct the free and clear vision of drivers and pedestrians. Other than traffic control signals, no sign may be installed or displayed in the visibility triangle at intersections, as determined by the City.
N. 
Signs for Prohibited Uses. A sign displaying a commercial message promoting a business that is either a prohibited use or has not been established as a legally permitted use.
O. 
Signs that Produce Noise or Emissions. Signs that produce visible smoke, vapor, particles, odor, noise, or sounds that can be heard at the property line, excluding voice units at menu board signs and devices for servicing customers from their vehicles, such as drive-up windows at banks.
P. 
Wind Movement Devices. Balloons, inflatable signs, streamers, banners, pennants, and other attention-getting devices, made of plastic, light-weight fabric, or similar material, designed to rotate or move with the wind. Such devices are prohibited unless permitted by the City as a Temporary Use, pursuant to Section 17.41.260, Standards for Specific Uses and Activities—Temporary Uses.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.40.050 Sign Design Principles.

The following sign design principles will be used as criteria for review and approval a permit for individual signs and for Overall Sign Plans.
A. 
Architectural Compatibility. A sign, including its supporting structure, should be designed as an integral design element of a building’s architecture and be architecturally compatible, in terms of color, materials, and scale, with the building the sign is attached to as well as with surrounding structures to the maximum extent feasible. A sign that covers a window, spills over “natural” boundaries or architectural features, or obliterates parts of upper floors of buildings is detrimental to visual order and would not be compatible. Common indicators of compatibility include:
1. 
Quality sign design and construction;
2. 
Proportional size and scale; and
3. 
Use of materials, shapes and colors that complement the building’s architectural style and the surrounding environment.
B. 
Legibility. The size, length, and proportion of the elements of the sign’s message, including logos, letters, icons and other graphic images, should be selected based on the average distance and average travel speed of the intended viewer. Sign messages oriented towards pedestrians may be smaller than those oriented towards automobile drivers. Colors and materials chosen for the sign text and/or graphics should have sufficient contrast with the sign background in order to be easily read during both day and night.
C. 
Placement. The architectural details of a building often create logical places for signage. Signs should not cover or interrupt architectural details or ornaments of a building’s façade. On buildings with a monolithic or plain façade, signs can establish or continue appropriate design rhythm, scale and proportion. Well-designed and well-located retail signs create visual interest and continuity with other storefronts on the same or adjacent buildings and should not obscure windows or doors.
D. 
Readability. A sign message should be easily recognized and designed in a clear, unambiguous and concise manner, so that a viewer can understand or make sense of what appears on the sign.
FIGURE 17.40.050(D): SIGN READABILITY
E. 
Visibility. A sign should be conspicuous and readily distinguishable from its surroundings, so a viewer can easily see the information it communicates. Appropriate illumination can add to visibility, but the type and strength must be carefully considered.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.40.060 General Provisions for All Sign Types.

A. 
Permit Required. Except as otherwise expressly provided in this chapter, it is unlawful for any person to affix, place, erect, suspend, attach, construct, structurally or electrically alter, move, or display any temporary or permanent sign within the City without first obtaining a Design Review Board approval and issuance of a Zoning Clearance. No Design Review Board approval and Zoning Clearance is required for exempt signs and for cleaning and other normal maintenance of a properly approved sign, unless a structural or electrical change is made.
B. 
Design Review.
1. 
Applications for individual signs that are not subject to Section 17.40.090, Signs—Overall Sign Plan, but are submitted in accordance with the applicable standards of this chapter will be subject to Design Review by the Design Review Board.
2. 
Applications for individual signs submitted in accordance with the applicable standards of this chapter on property with an approved Overall Sign Plan will be subject to Administrative Design Review.
C. 
Owner’s Consent Required. The expressed or written consent of the property owner or business owner is required before any sign may be displayed on any real or personal property within the City.
D. 
Non-Commercial Signs. Non-commercial signs are allowed wherever commercial signage is permitted and are subject to the same standards and total maximum allowances per site or building of each sign type specified in this chapter. A Zoning Clearance for signage is required only if the sign qualifies as a structure and is subject to a building permit under the Building Code. For purposes of this chapter, all non-commercial speech messages are considered “on-site,” regardless of location.
E. 
Maximum Sign Area. The maximum allowable sign area for permanent signs, exclusive of area of exempt signs, is based on the Zoning District in which the sign is located and the type of sign to be used. These standards are established in subsequent sections of this chapter. These standards are maximums permitted and may be reduced during the Design Review process due to site context, visibility needs, and sign design, as determined by the Review Authority.
F. 
Applicable Codes. In addition to complying with the provisions of this chapter, all signs must be constructed in accordance with the Uniform Building Code, the Uniform Sign Code, the Electrical Code, and all other applicable laws, rules, regulations, and policies.
G. 
Encroachment Permits. Signs mounted on private property may project into or above public property or the public right-of-way only with approval of an Encroachment Permit or exemption by the Public Works Director. Violations of this provision shall result in the removal and confiscation of the sign by the City staff.
H. 
Measuring Sign Area. The area of a sign face includes the entire area within the periphery of the sign, which is established by drawing not more than eight straight lines encompassing the extremities of the sign within the smallest possible area. Supporting structures, such as sign bases and columns, are not included in sign area provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags. The area of an individual sign must be calculated as follows:
1. 
Single-Faced Signs. Sign area of single-faced signs is the area of the sign face;
FIGURE 17.40.060(H)(1): SINGLE-FACED SIGNS
2. 
Double-Faced Signs. Where two faces of a double-faced sign are located two feet or less from one another at all points or located at an interior angle of 45 degrees or less from one another, the sign area of double-faced signs is computed as the area of one face. Where the two faces are not equal in size, the larger sign face will be used. Where two faces of a double-faced sign are located more than two feet or greater than 45 degrees from one another, both sign faces are counted toward the total sign area;
FIGURE 17.40.060(H)(2): DOUBLE-FACED SIGNS
3. 
Multi-Faced Signs. On a three-faced sign, where at least one interior angle is 45 degrees or less, the area of two faces (the largest and smallest face) must be summed to determine sign area. In all other situations involving a sign with three or more sides, sign area will be calculated as the sum of all faces; and
FIGURE 17.40.060(H)(3): MULTI-FACED SIGNS
4. 
Three-Dimensional Signs. Signs that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three-dimensional objects (e.g., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks such as a barberpole, etc.), may have a sign area that is the sum of all areas using the four or more vertical sides of the smallest rectangular prism that will encompass the sign.
FIGURE 17.40.060(H)(4): THREE-DIMENSIONAL SIGNS
I. 
Changeable Copy. The use of changeable copy on signage is subject to Design Review and may only be permitted in accordance with the following regulations.
1. 
Electronic Copy. Electronic changeable copy is only allowed in non-residential districts and as follows:
a. 
Zoning Clearance Required. Electronic copy may be used for the following with Design Review Board approval and issuance of a Zoning Clearance.
i. 
Replacement of existing manual changeable copy with electronic copy on conforming signs and those subject to Section 17.40.100.
b. 
Major Conditional Use Permit Required. Electronic copy may be used for the following with approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit.
i. 
New signage to display fuel prices at gas station service sites.
ii. 
New signage for indoor theaters to display current and future showings.
iii. 
New signage for Public/Quasi-Public uses on land with at least 400 feet of continuous street frontage.
c. 
Development Standards. The following development standards apply to signs using electronic copy.
i. 
Maximum Number.
One per legal lot or permitted use.
ii. 
Maximum Height.
10 feet.
iii. 
Maximum Area.
Electronic copy can represent no more than 50 percent of the maximum allowable sign area.
iv. 
Display Duration.
Changes to copy are limited to a maximum of twice per day.
v. 
Light Color.
Light color shall be static and must not give the appearance of animation. No change in light color is permitted without review and approval by the Design Review Board.
vi. 
Light Intensity.
The intensity of the sign lighting may not exceed 0.3 foot-candles over ambient lighting conditions when measured at the nearest property line. All electronic copy must be equipped with a sensor or other device that automatically determines the ambient illumination and programmed to automatically dim according to ambient light conditions, or that can be adjusted to comply with the 0.3 foot-candle limitation.
J. 
Message Substitution. On permitted signs, a commercial message of any type may be substituted, in whole or in part, with a non-commercial message. Additionally, any non-commercial message may be substituted, in whole or in part, with another non-commercial message.
1. 
No Additional Approval. Such message substitution may be made without any additional approval, permitting, registration, or notice to the City. The purpose of this provision is to allow for the updating of information and to prevent any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech or favoring of any particular non-commercial message over any other noncommercial message.
2. 
Limitations. This message substitution provision does not:
a. 
Create a right to increase the total amount of signage on a parcel, lot or land use;
b. 
Affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted;
c. 
Allow a change in the physical structure of a sign or its mounting device; or
d. 
Authorize the substitution of an off-site commercial message in place of an on-site commercial message or in place of a non-commercial message.
K. 
Materials. Sign materials must be appropriate for the type, location, size, and purpose of the sign, whether intended to be a permanent or temporary sign. Vinyl and similar materials may only be used for temporary signs and not as permanent signage materials.
L. 
Illumination. The illumination of signs, from either an internal or external source, must be designed to avoid negatively impacting surrounding properties and roadways. The following standards apply to all illuminated signs:
1. 
Sign lighting must not be of an intensity or brightness that will create a nuisance for residential buildings in a direct line of sight to the sign;
2. 
Signs using exposed light sources, such as neon and other gas-filled tubing, or any interior lighted sign with transparent or translucent faces may be approved by the Design Review Board, provided that the Board determines that the light from the sign would not cause unreasonable glare, annoyance to passersby or neighbors, or create any safety hazards. Unshielded light bulbs are prohibited for the illumination of signs;
3. 
Light sources must be hard-wired fluorescent or compact fluorescent lamps, or other lighting technology that is of equal or greater energy efficiency. Incandescent bulbs or lamps are prohibited, except when used in signs of historic character as part of the architectural design; and
4. 
External light sources must be directed, shielded, and filtered to limit direct illumination of any object other than the sign, according to Chapter 17.35, Lighting.
M. 
Maintenance. Sign must be maintained in a secure and safe condition and must be cleaned, painted, and replaced as necessary to present a neat appearance. If the City determines that a sign is not secure, safe, or in a good state of repair, it must give written notice of this fact to the property owner and specify a time period for correcting the defect. If the defect is not corrected within the time specified by the City, the City may cause such sign to be removed, or altered to correct the defect, at the expense of the sign owner or owner of the property upon which it is located.
N. 
Abandonment. An on-premises sign advertising an activity, business, service or product must be removed within 90 days following the actual discontinuance of the activity, business, service or product. If the sign is not so removed, the Code Enforcement Officer may have the sign removed in accordance with the public nuisance abatement provisions of the Goleta Municipal Code.
O. 
Allowable Sign Area.
1. 
Maximum Sign Area. Table 17.40.060(O) establishes the maximum sign area per zoning district, exclusive of exempt signs and signage allowances for specific uses. For purposes of Table 17.40.060(O), frontage along Highway 101 does not count towards maximum sign area.
TABLE 17.40.060(O): TOTAL MAXIMUM SIGN AREA BY DISTRICT
Zoning District:
Commercial
Office
Industrial
Public and Quasi Public
Total Sign Area Allowed (sq. ft.)
1 per lineal foot of street frontage
0.5 per lineal foot of street frontage
0.5 per lineal foot of street frontage
0.5 per lineal foot of street frontage
2. 
Individual Tenants. When a parcel contains two or more tenants and there is no approved Overall Sign Plan for the site, each individual tenant is limited in overall sign area based on the lineal feet of the façade of that tenant space.
P. 
Flag Lots. In all zoning districts, signage for a flag lot may be grouped with the signage for businesses on either of the neighboring properties. If signage is combined, the total allowed sign area of the sign may be increased to accommodate all properties and permitted uses.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5; Ord. 22-09 § 4; Ord. 24-01, 4/16/2024)

§ 17.40.070 Signage Allowances for Specific Uses and Special Signs.

This section establishes signage allowances for specific uses.
A. 
Agricultural Operations. Signs for agricultural operations and accessory use(s) may be erected subject to the following standards:
1. 
Maximum Number. One sign per street frontage.
2. 
Location. A minimum of five feet from the edge of the public right-of-way.
3. 
Maximum Sign Area. 25 square feet in area per sign.
B. 
Open Space Uses. Signs within the OSAR and OSPR Districts may be erected subject to the following standards:
1. 
Maximum Number. One sign per street frontage.
2. 
Maximum Sign Area. 25 square feet in area per sign.
C. 
Non-Residential Uses in Residential Zoning Districts. Signs for non-residential uses in “R” Zone Districts are allowed subject to the following standards:
1. 
Maximum Number. One freestanding sign and one wall sign.
2. 
Maximum Sign Area. Freestanding signs must not exceed 32 square feet in area per sign. Wall signs must not exceed 10 square feet in area.
3. 
Location. Signs must be a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of the public right-of-way or five feet from any interior lot line.
4. 
Maximum Height. Six feet for freestanding signs. Wall signs must not be more than 12 feet above grade.
D. 
Residential and Mixed-Use Developments. Identification signs for residential and mixed-use developments with more than 10 residential units or parcels are permitted for the purpose of identifying a development subject to the following standards:
1. 
Maximum Number of Signs. One sign per street frontage.
2. 
Maximum Sign Area. 40 square feet per sign.
3. 
Height Limit and Location.
a. 
Outside of all Setbacks. 10 feet maximum height.
b. 
Within a Setback. Five feet maximum height.
E. 
Service and Gas Stations.
1. 
Canopy Signs. Signs on service and gas station canopies must not exceed 25 square feet on each side.
2. 
Gas Pump Signs. Signage on gas pumps shall count toward overall allowable sign area.
F. 
Cinemas. One square foot of signage for each linear foot of street frontage of the lot, up to a maximum of 150 square feet.
G. 
Murals. Murals and other forms of art or artwork that are visible to the public and that contains advertising copy or functions as advertising are subject to zoning review and approval of a Zoning Clearance. Upon review, the Director may require Design Review by the Design Review Board.
H. 
Time and Temperature Devices. Time and temperature devices, not taller in height than permitted signs or larger than 12 square feet, located wholly on private property and bearing no commercial message.
I. 
Vending Machines. If visible from a public right-of-way, each of the following standards apply:
1. 
Signage for outdoor vending machines shall be subject to Design Review;
2. 
A single lot may not contain more than two outdoor vending machines visible from a public right-of-way; and
3. 
In no case shall an outdoor vending machine contain any form of interior lighting or illumination.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.40.080 Additional Standards for Specific Sign Types.

This section establishes additional development standards for specific sign types. The standards set forth below are in addition to any standards, allowances, or limitations set forth elsewhere in this chapter.
A. 
A-Frame Signs. A-Frame signs are allowed in Commercial zoning districts, subject to the following standards:
1. 
Maximum Number. Each establishment is limited to no more than one sign.
2. 
Placement. A-Frame signs must be placed on private property directly in front of the business it is identifying.
3. 
Hours of Display. A-Frame signs must be removed during hours when the establishment is not open to the public and may not be displayed after the activity with which they are associated with is over.
4. 
Maximum Size. Six square feet.
5. 
Maximum Height. Four feet.
B. 
Awning and Canopy Signs. Awning and canopy signs may be attached to or painted on the vertical edges or valance of awnings, canopies, arcades, or similar features or structures. Awning and canopy signs are also subject to the additional standards:
1. 
Maximum Number. One sign for each establishment per street frontage having an entrance under or offering service under the awning or canopy.
2. 
Maximum Size. Six square feet of sign area.
3. 
Maximum Height. Awning height is limited to 14 feet.
4. 
Minimum Vertical Clearance. The bottom of the awning must be a minimum of eight feet above the sidewalk.
FIGURE 17.40.080(B): AWNING AND CANOPY SIGNS
C. 
Freestanding Signs. Freestanding signs are subject to the following standards:
1. 
Where Allowed. Freestanding signs are permitted only on a parcel of land with at least 125 feet of continuous street frontage and where the main building is set back at least 20 feet from the lot line. The base of the supporting structure must be set back at least five feet from the edge of the public right-of-way.
2. 
Maximum Number. One sign per street frontage. No more than two separate signs may be placed on each freestanding sign structure if being grouped with a flag lot.
3. 
Maximum Height. The standard allowable height for freestanding signs is four feet. An increased height allowance may be approved as part of an Overall Sign Plan, but in no case exceed six feet in height.
4. 
Maximum Area. 100 square feet. If two signs are placed on the same freestanding structure, the lower sign may not exceed 20 square feet and the areas of the two signs, added together, may not exceed 100 square feet in area.
5. 
Landscaping Required. All freestanding signs require landscaping at the base equivalent to two times the area of the sign if the area is not otherwise part of an approved landscape plan.
FIGURE 17.40.080(C): FREESTANDING SIGNS
D. 
Menu Boards. Any business proposing to include a Menu Board must conform to the following standards:
1. 
Location. Limited to adjacent vehicle queuing lane for the service point of the drive-through.
2. 
Maximum Number. Not to exceed one single-faced sign.
3. 
Maximum Size. Not to exceed 20 square feet and shall count toward the overall allowable sign area for the Use of the lot.
4. 
Maximum Height.
a. 
Freestanding. Not to exceed eight feet.
b. 
Wall Sign. Not to exceed the height of the eave of the roof over the wall on which the sign is located.
5. 
Illumination. Subject to Section 17.35.050(D)(1), Lighting—Exterior Display/Sales Areas.
6. 
Noise. Subject to Section 17.39.070, Performance Standards—Noise.
E. 
Projecting Signs. A sign may project horizontally from the exterior wall of a building or be suspended beneath a marquee, covered walkway, canopy, or awning, provided that such projection or suspension conforms to the following standards:
1. 
Maximum Number. One sign per building or tenant space, whichever is greater.
2. 
Maximum Size. Three square feet.
3. 
Maximum Height. 15 feet measured from grade to the top of the sign.
4. 
Minimum Vertical Clearance. Eight feet above the sidewalk.
5. 
Projection Allowed. A projecting sign may not extend more than three feet from the building to which it is attached. If connected to a marquee or awning, the sign may not extend further than the outer edge from what it is suspended from and must be designed and located so as to cause no harm to street trees.
6. 
Illumination. No special illumination is allowed for projecting signs.
FIGURE 17.40.080(E): PROJECTING SIGNS
F. 
Wall Signs. Wall signs are subject to the following standards:
1. 
Maximum Number. One per street frontage or one per tenant space, whichever is greater.
2. 
Maximum Height. Wall signs may be located up to, but must not exceed, the height of the wall to which they are attached.
3. 
Maximum Size. One-eighth of the building facade area of that portion of the first floor occupied by the tenant and upon which façade the wall sign is to be located, to a maximum of 100 square feet.
4. 
Projection Allowed. Wall signs may not extend more than 12 inches beyond the face of the wall to which they are attached.
5. 
Placement. No wall sign may cover, wholly or partially, any required wall opening.
6. 
Orientation. Unless a different orientation is specifically authorized, each wall-mounted sign must be placed flat against the wall of the building.
FIGURE 17.40.080(F): WALL SIGNS
G. 
Window Signs. Window signs are subject to the following standards:
1. 
Percent of Window. The total area of window sign shall not exceed 10 percent of the window area.
2. 
Maximum Size. 24 square feet.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5; Ord. 22-06 § 4)

§ 17.40.090 Overall Sign Plan.

The purpose of an Overall Sign Plan is to allow coordinated review of all signage on a property subject to approval by the Design Review Board. An Overall Sign Plan allows design creativity and simplifies the review process for individual signs once the Overall Sign Plan is adopted. The total aggregate area of the signs permitted by the Sign Program may be up to 10 percent larger than the total aggregate areas of all signs otherwise permitted by this chapter.
A. 
Applicability. An Overall Sign Plan is required for the following:
1. 
New development in commercial, office, and industrial zoning districts with four or more occupancies in commercial or office developments, including mixed-use projects; and
2. 
All construction and renovation projects involving more than 40,000 square feet of land area where a previous Overall Sign Plan was not approved.
B. 
Processing.
1. 
New Overall Sign Plan shall be subject to Design Review approval by the Design Review Board prior to any subsequent, associated ministerial review by the Director for individual signs.
2. 
Subsequent individual signs on the Overall Sign Plan are not subject to further Design Review Board approval unless such a review is required based on a specific provision of the Plan. When no Design Review Board approval is required, applications for individual signs must be submitted to the Director and reviewed for conformance with the standards of the approved Overall Sign Plan. A Zoning Clearance must be issued if determined that a sign substantially conforms to the previously-approved Overall Sign Plan.
3. 
Applications for individual signs that are not in conformance with the standards of an approved Overall Sign Plan, are subject to a review and approval of a new or revised Overall Sign Plan before the Design Review Board.
C. 
Required Findings. The Design Review Board will only approve a new Overall Sign Plan or changes to an approved Overall Sign Plan shall only be approved, if all of the following findings are made:
1. 
The proposed signage is in harmony with and visually related to the common design elements of the buildings the signage will identify.
2. 
The proposed signage does not cover, alter, or otherwise obscure important associated architectural features of the building.
3. 
The proposed signage does not have significant adverse effects on nearby properties.
4. 
The choice of materials and colors enhance the overall project design.
5. 
Any changes to dimensional or locational standards are appropriate from a design perspective.
6. 
The proposed amount of signage conforms to all applicable development standards of this Title.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 20-09 § 5)

§ 17.40.100 Nonconforming Signs.

A. 
Applicability. All exempt and/or permitted signage that exists within the City on the date this Title becomes effective that is made nonconforming as to this chapter shall be subject to the following provisions of this section. All illegal or unpermitted signs shall be deemed in violation of this Title and are subject to Chapter 17.69, Enforcement.
B. 
Continuance and Maintenance. Routine repair and maintenance may be performed on a nonconforming sign provided there is no expansion of nonconformity. Any repair of a damaged nonconforming sign may not exceed 50 percent of the sign area or a cost of $2,000.00 or more without requiring the entire sign to be brought into conformity with all applicable zoning regulations, unless otherwise specified and allowed as part of this Title.
C. 
Abandonment of Nonconforming Sign. Whenever a nonconforming sign has been abandoned, or the use of the property associated with the nonconforming sign has been discontinued for a period of 90 consecutive days, the sign shall lose its nonconforming status and associated allowances and must be removed. If not removed, the property owner will be in violation of this section.
D. 
Restoration. A nonconforming sign may only be restored if it meets the following criteria:
1. 
The sign has been recognized by the City as a local Historic Resource or is designated either locally, or by the State as a Historic Landmark or as having Historical Merit. Any repairs and restoration shall be subject to any applicable requirements, restrictions, and/or conditions associated with the historic designation, including any special permitting, CEQA, or Design Review requirements;
2. 
If damaged by natural causes (e.g., fire, flood, earthquake, etc.) and the damage does not exceed 50 percent of the total sign area, including hardware and attachments, “in-kind” repairs would be exempt from Zoning Permits provided that the repairs are approved by the Building Department within 45 days and completed within 90 days of the date of damage; or
3. 
If damaged by natural causes (e.g., fire, flood, earthquake, etc.) and the damage exceeds 50 percent of the total sign area, including hardware and attachments, any repairs would be subject to Design Review and approval by the Design Review Board.
E. 
Electronic Changeable Copy. Any and all existing, legally permitted, nonconforming signage structure(s) using manually changeable copy may replace the existing copy with electronic changeable copy only if no structural alterations are made to the existing signage structure(s).
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 22-06 § 4; Ord. 22-09 § 4)

§ 17.41.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to establish standards for specific uses and activities that are permitted or conditionally permitted in several or all base zoning districts. These provisions are intended to minimize the impacts of these uses and activities on surrounding properties and to protect the health, safety, and general welfare of their occupants and of the public.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.020 Applicability.

Each activity covered by this chapter must comply with the requirements of the section applicable to the specific use or activity, in addition to any base zoning district standards where the use or activity is proposed, and all other applicable provisions of this Title. The uses that are subject to the standards in this chapter are allowed only when authorized by the planning permit identified in the base zoning district regulations except where this chapter establishes a different planning permit requirement for a specific use.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.030 Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

A. 
Purpose. The purpose of this section is to allow and regulate accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs) in compliance with Chapter 13 of Division 1 of Title 7 of the California Government Code.
B. 
Effect of Conforming. An ADU or JADU that conforms to the standards in this section will not be:
1. 
Deemed to be inconsistent with the City's General Plan/Coastal Land Use Plan land use designation and zone district for the lot on which the ADU or JADU is located.
2. 
Deemed to exceed the allowable dwelling unit density for the lot on which the ADU or JADU is located.
3. 
Considered in the application of any City ordinance, policy, or program to limit residential growth.
4. 
Required to correct a Nonconforming Zoning Condition, as defined in subsection C.9 below. This does not prevent the City from enforcing compliance with applicable building standards in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17980.12.
C. 
Definitions. As used in this section, terms are defined as follows:
1. 
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). An attached or a detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. An accessory dwelling unit also includes the following:
a. 
An efficiency unit, as defined by Section 17958.1 of the California Health and Safety Code; and
b. 
A manufactured home, as defined by Section 18007 of the California Health and Safety Code.
2. 
Accessory Structure. A structure that is accessory and incidental to a dwelling located on the same lot.
3. 
Complete Independent Living Facilities. Permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-unit or multi-family dwelling is or will be situated.
4. 
Efficiency Kitchen. A kitchen that includes each of the following:
a. 
A cooking facility with appliances.
b. 
A food preparation counter and storage cabinets that are of a reasonable size in relation to the size of the JADU.
5. 
Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU). A residential unit that satisfies all of the following:
a. 
Is no more than 500 square feet of interior livable space in size;
b. 
Is contained entirely within an existing or proposed single-unit dwelling structure. An enclosed use within the residence, such as an attached garage, is considered to be a part of and contained within the single-family structure;
c. 
Includes its own separate sanitation facilities or shares sanitation facilities with the existing or proposed single-unit dwelling structure; and
d. 
If the unit does not include its own separate bathroom, then it contains an interior entrance to the main living area of the existing or proposed single-family structure in addition to an exterior entrance that is separate from the main entrance to the primary dwelling.
e. 
Includes an efficiency kitchen, as defined subsection C.4 above.
6. 
Livable Space. A space in a dwelling intended for human habitation, including living, sleeping, eating, cooking, or sanitation.
7. 
Living Area. The interior habitable area of a dwelling unit, including basements and attics, but does not include a garage or any accessory structure.
8. 
Multi-Family Dwelling. Any structure designed for human habitation that has been divided into two or more legally created independent living quarters.
9. 
Nonconforming Zoning Condition. A physical improvement on a property that does not conform with current zoning standards.
10. 
Passageway. A pathway that is unobstructed clear to the sky and extends from a street to one entrance of the ADU or JADU.
11. 
Proposed Dwelling. A dwelling that is the subject of a permit application and that meets the requirements for permitting.
12. 
Single-Unit Dwelling. Any structure designed for human habitation that has been legally created for a single independent living quarters.
D. 
Approvals. The following approvals apply to ADUs and JADUs created under this section:
1. 
Building Permit Only. Pursuant to Government Code Section 66323, if an ADU or JADU complies with each of the general requirements in subsection E below, the ADU or JADU is allowed with only a Building Permit under this section in each of the scenarios provided in subsection D.1. An ADU and JADU approved under subsection D.1.a may be combined with an ADU approved under subsection D.1.b, and ADUs approved under subsection D.1.c may be combined with ADUs approved under subsection D.1.d.
a. 
Converted on Lot with Single-Unit Dwelling. One ADU and one JADU on a lot with a proposed or existing single-unit dwelling on it, where the ADU or JADU:
i. 
Is either:
(A) 
Within the space of a proposed single-unit dwelling;
(B) 
Within the existing space of an existing single-unit dwelling; or
(C) 
(in the case of an ADU only) Within the existing space of an accessory structure, plus up to 150 additional square feet if the expansion is limited to accommodating ingress and egress; and
ii. 
Has exterior access that is independent of that for the single-unit dwelling; and
iii. 
Has side and rear setbacks sufficient for fire and safety, as dictated by applicable building and fire codes.
iv. 
The JADU complies with the requirements of Government Code Sections 66333 through 66339.
b. 
Limited Detached on Lot with Single-Unit Dwelling. One detached, new-construction ADU on a lot with a proposed or existing single-unit dwelling, if the detached ADU satisfies each of the following limitations:
i. 
The side and rear setbacks are at least four feet.
ii. 
The floor area is 800 square feet of livable space or smaller.
iii. 
The height does not exceed the applicable height limit in subsection E.2.
c. 
Converted on Lot with Multi-Family Dwelling. One or more ADUs within portions of existing multi-family dwelling structures that are not used as livable space, including, but not limited to, storage rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics, basements, or garages, if each converted ADU complies with state building standards for dwellings. Under this subsection D.1.c., at least one converted ADU is allowed within an existing multi-family dwelling, up to a quantity equal to 25 percent of the existing multi-family dwelling units.
d. 
Limited Detached on Lot with Multi-Family Dwelling. No more than two detached ADUs on a lot with a proposed multi-family dwelling, or up to eight detached ADUs on a lot with an existing multi-family dwelling, if each detached ADU satisfies all of the following:
i. 
The side and rear setbacks are at least four feet. If the existing multi-family dwelling has a rear or side yard setback of less than four feet, the City will not require any modification to the multi-family dwelling as a condition of approving the ADU.
ii. 
The height does not exceed the applicable height limit provided in subsection E.2 below.
iii. 
If the lot has an existing multi-family dwelling, the quantity of detached ADUs does not exceed the number of primary dwelling units on the lot.
2. 
ADU Permit.
a. 
Permit Required. Except as allowed under subsection D.1, no ADU, may be constructed without a building permit and ADU permit in compliance with the standards set forth in subsections E and F below. ADUs approved under this subsection D.2 are those that qualify for approval under Government Code Section 66314 through 66322.
b. 
Processing Fee. The City may charge a fee to reimburse it for costs incurred in processing ADU permits, including the costs of adopting or amending the City's ADU ordinance. The ADU permit processing fee is approved by the City Council by resolution.
3. 
Process and Timing.
a. 
Completeness.
i. 
Determination in 15 Days. The City will determine whether an application to create or serve an ADU or JADU is complete and will provide written notice of the determination to the applicant within 15 business days after the City receives the application submittal.
ii. 
Incomplete Items. If the City's determination under subsection D.3.a.i above is that the application is incomplete, the City's notice must list the incomplete items and describe how the application can be made complete.
iii. 
Cure. After receiving a notice that the application is incomplete, the applicant may cure and address the items that were deemed by the City to be incomplete.
iv. 
Subsequent Submittals. If the applicant submits additional information to address incomplete items, within 15 business days of the subsequent submittal the City will determine in writing whether the additional information remedies all the incomplete items that the City identified in its original notice. The City may not require the application to include an item that was not included in the original notice.
v. 
Deemed Complete. If the City does not make a timely determination as required by this subsection a, the application or resubmitted application is deemed complete for the purposes of subsection D.3.c below.
vi. 
Appeal of Incompleteness. An applicant may appeal the City's determination that the application is incomplete by submitting a written appeal to the City Clerk. The Planning Commission will review the written appeal and affirm or reverse the completeness determination and provide a final written determination to the applicant within 60 business days after receipt of the appeal.
b. 
No Discretion or Hearing. Ministerial permits for an ADU or JADU are considered and approved ministerially, without discretionary review or a hearing.
c. 
Deadline to Approve or Deny Ministerial Approvals. The City must approve or deny an application to create an ADU or JADU within 60 days from the date that the City receives a complete application. If the City has not approved or denied the complete application within 60 days, the application is deemed approved unless either:
i. 
The applicant requests a delay, in which case the 60-day time period is tolled for the period of the requested delay; or
ii. 
When an application to create an ADU or JADU is submitted with a permit application to create a new single-unit dwelling or multi-family dwelling on the lot, the City may delay acting on the permit application for the ADU or JADU until the City acts on the permit application to create the new single-unit dwelling or multi-family dwelling, but the application to create the ADU or JADU will still be considered ministerially without discretionary review or a hearing.
d. 
Denial. If the City denies an application to create an ADU or JADU, the City must provide the applicant with comments that include, among other things, a list of all the defective or deficient items and a description of how the application may be remedied by the applicant. Notice of the denial and corresponding comments must be provided to the applicant within the 60-day time period established by subsection D.3.c above.
e. 
Appeal of Denial. An applicant may appeal the City's denial of the application by submitting a written appeal to the City Clerk. The Planning Commission will review the written appeal and affirm or reverse the denial and provide a final written determination to the applicant within 60 business days after receipt of the appeal.
f. 
Coastal Zone. When a complete ADU or JADU application is received, the City will immediately notify the California Coastal Commission of the complete application. The City will not approve an application to create an ADU or JADU in the Coastal Zone unless it is accompanied by a Coastal Development Permit, Coastal Development Permit Waiver, or other form of exemption from the California Coastal Commission.
g. 
Concurrent Review of Demolition Permits. Any required demolition permit for a detached garage that is to be replaced with an ADU is reviewed with the application for the ADU building permit and issued at the same time as the building permit.
E. 
General Requirements. The following requirements apply to all ADUs and JADUs that are approved under subsection D.1 or D.2 above:
1. 
Zoning.
a. 
An ADU subject only to a building permit under subsection D.1 above may be created on a lot in a residential or mixed-use zone.
b. 
An ADU subject to an ADU zoning permit under subsection D.2 above may be created on a lot that is zoned to allow single-family dwelling residential use or multi-family dwelling residential use.
c. 
In accordance with Government Code Section 66333(a), a JADU may only be created on a lot zoned for single-family residences.
2. 
Height.
a. 
Except as otherwise provided by subsections E.2.b and E.2.c below, a detached ADU created on a lot with an existing or proposed single-family or multi-family dwelling unit may not exceed 16 feet in height.
b. 
A detached ADU may be up to 18 feet in height if it is created on a lot with an existing or proposed single-family or multi-family dwelling unit that is located within one-half mile walking distance of a major transit stop or high quality transit corridor, as those terms are defined in Section 21155 of the Public Resources Code, and the ADU may be up to two additional feet in height (for a maximum of 20 feet) if necessary to accommodate a roof pitch on the ADU that is aligned with the roof pitch of the primary dwelling unit.
c. 
A detached ADU created on a lot with an existing or proposed multi-family dwelling that has more than one story above grade may not exceed 18 feet in height.
d. 
An ADU that is attached to the primary dwelling may not exceed 25 feet in height or the height limitation imposed by the underlying zone that applies to the primary dwelling, whichever is lower. Notwithstanding the foregoing, ADUs subject to this subsection E.2.d may not exceed two stories.
e. 
For purposes of this Section, height is the vertical distance between the existing legal grade and the uppermost point of the roof of the structure directly above that legal grade.
3. 
Fire Sprinklers. Fire sprinklers are required in an ADU or JADU if sprinklers are required in the primary residence. The construction of an ADU or JADU does not trigger a requirement for fire sprinklers to be installed in the existing primary dwelling.
4. 
Rental Term. No ADU or JADU may be rented for a term that is shorter than 30 days. This prohibition applies regardless of when the ADU or JADU was created.
5. 
No Separate Conveyance. An ADU or JADU may be rented, but, except as otherwise provided in Government Code Section 66341, no ADU or JADU may be sold or otherwise conveyed separately from the lot and the primary dwelling in the case of a single-unit dwelling lot) or from the lot and all of the dwellings in the case of a multi-family dwelling lot).
6. 
Septic System. If the ADU or JADU will connect to an onsite wastewater-treatment system, the owner must include with the application a percolation test completed within the last five years or, if the percolation test has been recertified, within the last 10 years.
7. 
Owner-Occupancy.
a. 
ADUs. ADUs are not subject to an owner-occupancy requirement.
b. 
JADUs.
i. 
Generally. As required by State law, JADUs are generally subject to an owner-occupancy requirement under State law. A natural person with legal or equitable title to the property must reside on the property, in either the primary dwelling or JADU, as the person's legal domicile and permanent residence.
ii. 
Exceptions. The owner-occupancy requirement in this subsection E.7.b does not apply in either of the following situations:
(A) 
The JADU has separate sanitation facilities (i.e., does not share sanitation facilities with the existing primary dwelling unit structure).
(B) 
The property is entirely owned by another governmental agency, land trust, or housing organization.
8. 
Minimum Size. The minimum floor area of an ADU is 200 square feet for a standard unit. An "efficiency unit" ADU, in accordance with California Health and Safety Code Section 17958.1, may be a minimum of 150 square feet.
9. 
Deed Restriction. For all sJADUs, a deed restriction must be recorded against the title of the property in the Santa Barbara County Recorder's office and a copy filed with the Director. The deed restriction must run with the land and bind all future owners. The form of the deed restriction will be provided.
a. 
The JADU may not be sold separately from the primary dwelling.
b. 
The JADU is restricted to the approved size and to other attributes allowed by this section.
c. 
The deed restriction runs with the land and may be enforced against future property owners.
d. 
The deed restriction may be removed if the owner eliminates the JADU, as evidenced by, for example, removal of the kitchen facilities. To remove the deed restriction, an owner may make a written request of the Director, providing evidence that the JADU has in fact been eliminated. The Director may then determine whether the evidence supports the claim that the JADU has been eliminated. Appeal may be taken from the Director's determination consistent with other provisions of this Title. If the JADU is not entirely physically removed, but is only eliminated by virtue of having a necessary component of an JADU removed, the remaining structure and improvements must otherwise comply with applicable provisions of this Title.
e. 
The deed restriction is enforceable by the Director or their designee for the benefit of the City. Failure of the property owner to comply with the deed restriction may result in legal action against the property owner, and the City is authorized to obtain any remedy available to it at law or equity, including, but not limited to, obtaining an injunction enjoining the use of the JADU in violation of the recorded restrictions or abatement of the illegal unit.
10. 
Building and Safety. All ADUs and JADUs must comply with Title 15 of the Goleta Municipal Code. Construction of an ADU does not constitute a Group R occupancy change under Title 15, as described in Section 310 of the California Building Code, unless the City Building Official makes a written finding based on substantial evidence in the record that the construction of the ADU could have a specific, adverse impact on public health and safety. Nothing in this subsection E.10 prevents the City from changing the occupancy code of a space that was uninhabitable space or that was only permitted for nonresidential use and was subsequently converted for residential use in accordance with this section.
11. 
Rent Reporting. In order to facilitate the City's obligation to identify adequate sites for housing in accordance with Government Code Sections 65583.1 and 66330, the following requirements must be satisfied:
a. 
As part of the building permit application, the applicant must provide the City with an estimate of the projected monthly rent that will be charged.
b. 
Within 90 days after September 1 of each year after issuance of the building permit, the owner must report the actual average monthly rent charged for the ADU or JADU during the prior year ending in September. If the City does not receive the report within the 90-day period, the owner is in violation of this Title, and the City may send the owner a notice of violation and allow the owner another 30 days to submit the report. If the owner fails to submit the report within the 30-day period, the City may enforce this provision in accordance with applicable law.
12. 
Certificate of Occupancy Timing.
a. 
Generally. No certificate of occupancy for an ADU or JADU may be issued before the certificate of occupancy is issued for the primary dwelling unit.
b. 
Limited Exception for State-declared Emergencies. Notwithstanding subsection E.12.a above, a certificate of occupancy for an ADU may be issued before a certificate of occupancy for the primary dwelling if each of the following requirements are met:
i. 
The County of Santa Barbara is subject to a proclamation of a state of emergency made by the California Governor on or after February 1, 2025.
ii. 
The primary dwelling was substantially damaged or destroyed by an event referenced in the Governor's state of emergency proclamation.
iii. 
The ADU has been issued construction permits and has passed all required inspections.
iv. 
The ADU is not attached to the primary dwelling.
F. 
Supplemental Requirements for ADUs. The following requirements apply only to ADUs that require an ADU permit under subsection D.2 above: This subsection F does not apply to ADUs or JADUs approved under subsection D.1 above.
1. 
Maximum Size.
a. 
The maximum size of a detached or attached ADU subject to this subsection F is as follows:
i. 
850 square feet of interior livable space for a studio or one-bedroom.
ii. 
1,000 square feet of interior livable space for a unit with two or more bedrooms.
b. 
An attached ADU that is created on a lot with an existing primary dwelling is further limited to 50 percent of the floor area of the existing primary dwelling.
c. 
Application of other development standards in this subsection F, such as FAR or lot coverage (as applicable), might further limit the size of the ADU, but no application of the percent-based size limit in F.1.b above or of an FAR, front setback, lot coverage limit, or open-space requirement (as applicable) may require the ADU to have less than 800 square feet of interior livable space.
2. 
Lot Coverage. No ADU subject to this subsection F may exceed 10 percent of the total lot area of the subject lot, subject to subsection F.1.c above.
3. 
Setbacks. ADUs subject to this subsection F must observe the following setback requirements:
a. 
Side setback: Four feet.
b. 
Rear setback: Four feet.
c. 
Front setback: 20 feet, subject to subsection F.1.c above.
d. 
No setback is required for an ADU subject to this subsection F if the ADU is constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing structure.
4. 
Separation. The minimum separation between the primary dwelling unit and a detached ADU must be at least five feet for new construction.
5. 
Passageway. No passageway, as defined by subsection C.10 above, is required for an ADU.
6. 
Parking.
a. 
Parking spaces are not required for ADUs.
b. 
No Replacement. When a garage, carport, covered parking structure, or uncovered parking space is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an ADU or converted to an ADU, those off-street parking spaces are not required to be replaced.
7. 
Design Requirements.
a. 
The materials and colors of the exterior walls, roof, and windows and doors must match the appearance of those of the primary dwelling.
i. 
Samples of existing and proposed colors, materials, roofing, and features must be provided as part of a complete ADU application.
b. 
The roof pitch must match that of the dominant roof pitch of the primary dwelling. The dominant roof pitch is the pitch shared by the largest portion of the roof. Roof pitch and roof materials for a newly constructed ADU may be different from that of the primary dwelling on the lot only if accommodating installation of solar energy systems at the same time as construction of the ADU.
c. 
Landscaping is required to enhance the appearance of the ADU as follows:
i. 
At least one 15-gallon size plant shall be provided along every five linear feet of exterior ADU wall in between the ADU and the right-of-way. Alternatively, at least one 24-inch box size plant shall be provided for every 10 linear feet of exterior ADU wall.
ii. 
New landscaping must use water-efficient species only.
d. 
Windows and doors of the ADU may not have a direct line of sight to an adjoining residential property. Fencing, landscaping, or privacy glass may be used to provide screening and prevent a direct line of sight. Samples of proposed vegetative screening and planting locations must be provided as part of a complete ADU application. Exceptions to this design standard apply only to conversion of legally permitted structures that do not include installation of new exterior windows facing an adjacent property line or when only clerestory windows are used and do not provide views into neighboring lots.
e. 
Exterior lighting shall be directed downward, fully shielded, and full cutoff or as otherwise required by the building or fire code.
8. 
Historical Protections. An ADU that is on real property that is listed in the California Register of Historic Resources may not alter the exterior of any structure that is designated as a historic resource or, if the entire lot is designated as a historic resource, it may not alter the exterior of any structure on the lot.
G. 
Impact Fees. The following requirements apply to all ADUs and JADUs that are approved under subsections D.1 or D.2 above:
1. 
No impact fee is required for a JADU or for an ADU that has less than 750 square feet of interior livable space. For purposes of this subsection G.1, "impact fee" means a "fee" under the Mitigation Fee Act (Government Code Section 66000(b)) and a fee under the Quimby Act (Government Code Section 66477). "Impact fee" here does not include any connection fee or capacity charge for water or sewer service.
2. 
A JADU or ADU with less than 500 square feet of interior livable space does not increase assessable space by 500 square feet for purposes of Education Code Section 17620(a)(1)(C), and is therefore not subject to school fees under Education Code Section 17620.
3. 
Any impact fee that is required for an ADU that has 750 square feet or more of interior livable space must be charged proportionately in relation to the square footage of the primary dwelling unit.
H. 
Utility Fees. Converted ADUs and JADUs on a single-unit dwelling lot, created under subsection D.1.a above, are not required to have a new or separate utility connection directly between the ADU or JADU and the utility. Notwithstanding the rest of this paragraph, a direct utility connection is required for separate conveyance of an ADU when separate conveyance is allowed under this Section.
I. 
Nonconforming Zoning Code Conditions, Building Code Violations, and Unpermitted Structures.
1. 
Generally. The City will not deny an ADU or JADU application due to a nonconforming zoning condition, building code violation, or unpermitted structure on the lot that does not present a threat to the public health and safety and that is not affected by the construction of the ADU or JADU.
2. 
Unpermitted ADUs and JADUs Constructed Before 2020.
a. 
Permit to Legalize. As required by State law, the City may not deny a permit to legalize an existing but unpermitted ADU or JADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, if denial is based on either of the following grounds:
i. 
The ADU or JADU violates applicable building standards, or
ii. 
The ADU or JADU does not comply with the State ADU or JADU law or this Section 17.41.030.
b. 
Exceptions:
i. 
Notwithstanding subsection I.2.a above, the City may deny a permit to legalize an existing but unpermitted ADU or JADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, if the City makes a finding that correcting a violation is necessary to comply with the standards specified in California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3.
ii. 
Subsection I.2.a above does not apply to a building that is deemed to be substandard in accordance with California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3.
J. 
Discretionary Approval. Any proposed ADU or JADU that does not conform to all of the objective standards set forth in this Section may be allowed through other applicable City discretionary approval process, including, but not limited to the Modification and Design Review Board processes.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 21-07 § 4; Ord. 22-02 § 8; Ord. 22-16U § 5; Ord. 23-02 § 4; Ord. 24-01, 4/16/2024; Ord. No. 24-06U, 12/3/2024; Ord. No. 24-08, 12/17/2024; Ord. 25-13U, 12/16/2025)

§ 17.41.040 Accessory Uses.

Accessory uses that are not permitted uses within a Zone District must comply with the requirements of this section and are allowed only when in conjunction with a principal use on the premises.
A. 
Determination of Use as Accessory. Accessory uses must serve the purpose of and be incidental, subordinate, and related to the principal use, which can be demonstrated by elements, including, but not limited to:
1. 
The floor area and/or lot area devoted to the use;
2. 
The economic importance of the use;
3. 
The expenses devoted to the use;
4. 
The hours of operation of the use;
5. 
The number of employees devoted to the use; and
6. 
The number of customers/visitors generated by the use.
B. 
Permit Required. No permit or approval is required for accessory uses beyond what is required for the principal use(s) on the premises. However, the accessory uses must be included on any submittal for the principal use(s). In cases where the principal use requires a Conditional Use Permit, accessory uses may be further limited or even prohibited.
C. 
Size. Unless otherwise allowed in this Title, the aggregate floor area of non-residential accessory uses is limited as follows:
1. 
Structure or tenant space with floor area of less than 1,000 square feet: Maximum 25 percent of the structure or tenant space.
2. 
Structure or tenant space with floor area of 1,000 to 3,000 square feet: Maximum 250 square feet or 15 percent of the structure or tenant space, whichever is greater.
3. 
Structure or tenant space floor area of more than 3,000 square feet: Maximum 600 square feet or 10 percent of the structure or tenant space, whichever is greater.
4. 
Additional square footage may be allowed pursuant to approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit.
D. 
Parking. Parking for accessory uses must be provided based upon Chapter 17.38, Parking and Loading.
E. 
Prohibited Uses. The following uses are prohibited from being accessory uses:
1. 
Adult-oriented businesses;
2. 
Cannabis uses, except when accessory to other cannabis businesses;
3. 
Liquor stores;
4. 
Oil and gas facilities;
5. 
Bar/nightclub/lounge, except in hotels, restaurants, resorts, golf courses, breweries, wineries, and distilleries; and
6. 
Heavy manufacturing.
F. 
Exempt Accessory Uses. Any accessory uses that are specifically defined and regulated under this Title, including, but not limited to, family day care facilities, are exempt from this section.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 21-07 § 4)

§ 17.41.050 Adult-Oriented Businesses.

Adult-oriented businesses must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses:
A. 
Development Standards. Adult-oriented businesses must comply with the following development and operational standards.
1. 
Specific Location. Adult-oriented businesses must be located as follows:
a. 
Any lot with an adult-oriented business must at least 1,000 feet from a lot containing the following uses:
i. 
Any educational institution, including, without limitation, public or private schools for primary or secondary education, nursery schools or day care facilities, religious and/or cultural institutions, or private or public parks.
ii. 
Another adult-oriented business.
b. 
Adult bookstores, adult novelty stores, or adult video stores must be located on a lot at least 600 feet from any Residential “R” Zone District lot.
c. 
Adult live entertainment theaters, adult motion picture or video arcades, and adult motion picture theaters must be located on a lot at least 1,000 feet from any Residential “R” Zone District lot.
2. 
Hours of Operation. Adult-oriented business hours of operation are limited to the time period between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
3. 
Display. No adult-oriented business may display or exhibit any material in a manner which exposes to the public view, photographs or illustrations of specified sexual activities, nude, or partially nude adults or models in poses which emphasize or direct the viewer’s attention to the subject’s genitals. Adult news racks are also subject to this limitation.
4. 
Security Program. An on-site security program must be prepared and implemented as follows:
a. 
Interior Lighting. All interior portions of the adult-oriented business, except those devoted to mini-motion or motion pictures, must be illuminated during all hours of operation with a lighting system that provides a minimum maintained horizontal illumination of not less than two foot-candles of light on the floor surface.
b. 
Security Guards. Security guards may be required if it is determined by law enforcement that their presence is necessary.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.060 Animal Keeping.

The following standards apply to the noncommercial keeping of animals.
A. 
Household Pets. The keeping of small domestic household pets such as cats, dogs, and birds for residential purposes is allowed. The keeping of more than three dogs aged six months or more is subject to approval of a Minor Conditional Use Permit, pursuant to Chapter 17.57, Conditional Use Permits.
B. 
Other Animals. Other Animals are allowed based on the following regulations:
1. 
Horses.
a. 
Residential Districts. The minimum lot size required for the keeping of horses is 20,000 square feet. No more than one horse is permitted per 20,000 square feet of lot area provided no more than five horse are permitted on any one lot.
b. 
Agricultural District. Horses are permitted consistent with subsection (B)(2) below.
2. 
Other Large Animals. Large animals, such mules, goats, cows, swine, or other similar size animal are only allowed in the Agriculture Zone District on parcels larger than one acre in size and not to exceed one large animal per 20,000 square feet of lot area.
3. 
Small Animals. Small animals (e.g., bees, chickens, ducks, rabbits, etc.) are permitted, provided that:
a. 
Such small animals are for the domestic use or enjoyment of the residents of the lot only and are not kept for commercial purposes.
b. 
Keeping of such small animals is not injurious to the health, safety, or general welfare of the neighborhood and does not create offensive noise or odor as determined by the Director after advice from the County Public Health Department or the Mosquito and Vector Management District of Santa Barbara County.
4. 
Enclosures. Pens, coops, cages, and other enclosures for such small animals are no closer than 20 feet to any dwelling on another lot.
C. 
Prohibited Animals. No predatory wild animals, roosters, peacocks, endangered animals, or otherwise protected animals are allowed to be kept within the City.
D. 
Odor and Vector Control. Animal enclosures and feed areas must be maintained free from litter, garbage, and the accumulation of waste and manure so as to prevent the proliferation of flies, other disease vectors and offensive odors. Manure must not be allowed to accumulate within setback areas.
E. 
Containment. Animals must be effectively contained on site and not able to run free on any other lot under separate ownership or in a public road right-of-way.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 24-01, 4/16/2024)

§ 17.41.070 Automobile/Vehicle Service and Repair.

Automobile/vehicle service and repair facilities must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses:
A. 
Applicability. This section applies to all major and minor automobile/vehicle service and repair uses as well as any other uses, such as auto dealerships or service stations that perform auto servicing as an accessory use.
B. 
Spray/Paint Booths. Spray booths must be fully-enclosed and separated a minimum of 500 feet from residential “R” zone districts, parks, schools, and day care facilities, unless approved with a Major Conditional Use Permit approval.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.080 Automobile/Vehicle Washing.

Automobile/vehicle washing facilities must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses:
A. 
Recycled Water. A recycled water system is required.
B. 
Hours of Operation. When adjacent to a Residential “R” Zone District, the hours of operation are limited to 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., seven days a week.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.090 Cannabis Uses.

A. 
Purpose. This section establishes standards to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, enact strong and effective regulatory and enforcement controls in compliance with State law, protect neighborhood character, and minimize potential for negative impacts on people, communities, and the environment by establishing minimum land use requirements for all cannabis activities including the cultivation, distribution, transportation, storage, manufacturing, processing, and sales.
B. 
Applicability. The standards of this section apply to all cannabis uses and activities as defined in this Title. Additionally:
1. 
All cannabis uses and activities shall comply with the provisions of this section, as well as all applicable State laws, regardless of whether the use existed or occurred prior to the effective date of this section.
2. 
Nothing in this section is intended, nor shall it be construed, to allow persons to engage in conduct that endangers others or causes a public nuisance, or allows any use relating to personal or commercial cannabis activity that is illegal under State law.
3. 
Nothing in this section is intended, nor shall it be construed, to exempt cannabis uses from compliance with all other applicable City regulations, including development standards, as well as other applicable provisions of the Goleta Municipal Code, State and local cannabis licensing requirements, or compliance with any applicable State laws.
4. 
All persons operating facilities and conducting cannabis activities, as defined in this section, are subject to possible Federal prosecution, regardless of the protections provided by State or local law.
C. 
Cannabis-Related Terms. If a term in this section is not defined in this Title or in other provisions of the Goleta Municipal Code, the definition shall be as in State Cannabis Laws or, in cases where a definition is not provided in State Cannabis Laws, as determined by the Director.
D. 
Cannabis Personal Use Cultivation. This subsection applies only to personal use cultivation.
1. 
Location. Personal use cultivation, consistent with the requirements of this subsection, is allowed all Base Zoning Districts and a Zoning Permit is not required.
2. 
Standards.
a. 
Cultivation is limited to six plants per private residence for adult use pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 11362.2, as amended. Cultivation is limited to the number of plants allowable under State Cannabis Laws for one qualified patient per private residence.
b. 
Personal use cultivation is limited to indoor cultivation in a permanently affixed, fully enclosed structure.
c. 
No cannabis odors shall be detectable from any place outside the residence. An odor absorbing ventilation and exhaust system must be installed if the odor generated inside the residence is detected outside the property or premises, or anywhere on adjacent property or public rights-of-way, or within another unit located within the same building as the cultivation.
d. 
No exterior evidence of cultivation occurring at the property can be visible from the public right-of-way.
e. 
Cultivation is limited to parcels with a residence and a full-time resident on the premises where the cultivation is occurring.
f. 
Grow lights must not exceed 1,200 watts per light and are prohibited from producing a glare that interferes with other residents’ reasonable enjoyment of life or property.
g. 
Cannabis plants cultivated must remain at least 12 inches below the ceiling.
h. 
Cultivation shall not occur on required on-site parking areas unless that required parking is replaced in compliance with the City’s Inland and Coastal Zoning Ordinances.
i. 
Cultivation shall not interfere with the primary occupancy of the building or structure, including regular use of the kitchen(s) or bathroom(s).
j. 
The living plants and any cannabis produced by the plants in excess of 28.5 grams must be kept within the person’s private residence in a locked space.
k. 
Generators. The use of generators for cultivation is prohibited, except for temporary use in the event of a power outage or for emergency use.
i. 
For purposes of this subsection, emergency use is defined in accordance with 17 California Code of Regulations, Section 93115, as may be amended.
ii. 
For purposes of this subsection, the limit on use of a generator in an emergency is 90 days. The use of CO2 or any volatile solvents to manufacture cannabis products is prohibited.
l. 
Nothing in the section is intended, nor shall it be construed, to preclude any landlord from limiting or prohibiting personal cultivation by tenants.
m. 
Nuisance abatement. Any violation of this section is declared to be a public nuisance and may be abated by the City pursuant to Title 1 of the Goleta Municipal Code.
n. 
Personal use cultivation is exempt from the requirements of Section 17.41.040, Standards for Specific Uses and Activities—Accessory Uses.
E. 
Commercial Cannabis Uses. The following standards apply to commercial cannabis uses:
1. 
Outdoor Cultivation and Mixed-Light Cultivation. Outdoor cultivation and mixed-light cultivation are prohibited.
2. 
All Allowed Cannabis Uses.
a. 
Licenses.
i. 
State Cannabis License. The permittee of a cannabis use that requires one or more of the State cannabis license types set forth in California Business and Professions Code must:
(1) 
Obtain the requisite State Cannabis License for the cannabis use prior to the commencement of the use; and
(2) 
Conduct the cannabis use in compliance with the State Cannabis License at all times.
ii. 
City Cannabis Business License (CBL). The permittee of a cannabis use must:
(1) 
Obtain a CBL (Goleta Municipal Code, Ch. 5.09) from the City of Goleta prior to the commencement of the use; and
(2) 
Conduct the cannabis use in compliance with the CBL at all times.
b. 
Location.
i. 
Measurements. Distance requirements (buffers) between parcels specified in this section must be the horizontal distance measured in a straight line between the closest property line of the first lot to the closest property line of the second lot without regard to intervening structures.
ii. 
Distance. Cannabis uses, except for storefront cannabis retailers, shall not be subject to prohibitive buffer requirements based on the following:
(1) 
School providing K-12 education;
(2) 
Day Care Centers; and
(3) 
Youth Centers.
3. 
Accessory Uses.
a. 
For all cannabis accessory uses, the principal use must also be a cannabis use.
b. 
Cannabis uses shall not have non-cannabis related accessory uses.
c. 
Volatile manufacturing as an accessory use is only allowed in IG, IS, and BP.
d. 
A cannabis microbusiness shall not have an accessory use and shall not be an accessory use.
e. 
All accessory cannabis uses must adhere to the standards for such uses as identified in this section.
f. 
Accessory cannabis uses must adhere to the standards set forth for accessory uses in Section 17.41.040, Standards for Specific Uses and Activities—Accessory Uses.
4. 
Storefront Cannabis Retailer.
a. 
Location.
i. 
Separation. A storefront cannabis retailer shall not be located within 600 feet from another storefront cannabis retailer that was legally established before or after the adoption of this Title.
ii. 
Goleta Valley Community Center. A storefront cannabis retailer shall not be located within 600 feet from the Goleta Valley Community Center property.
iii. 
Schools. A storefront cannabis retailer shall not be located within 600 feet from a school providing K-12 education.
iv. 
Residential. A storefront cannabis retailer shall not be located within 100 feet of a parcel within an “R” Zone District.
v. 
Day Care Centers or Youth Centers. No prohibitive buffers are required from day care centers or youth centers.
b. 
Limit of Businesses. A limit of six storefront cannabis retailer uses is established no more than one of which may be located in the -OTH Old Town Heritage Overlay District.
c. 
On-Site Consumption Prohibited. On-site consumption is prohibited. The premises of each storefront cannabis retailer shall be visibly posted with a clear and legible notice indicating that smoking, ingesting, or otherwise consuming cannabis on the premises or in the areas adjacent to the retailer is prohibited.
d. 
Drive-Through Facilities. Drive-through facilities are prohibited.
5. 
Non-Storefront Cannabis Retailer. On-site consumption is prohibited. The premises of each non-storefront cannabis retailer shall be visibly posted with a clear and legible notice indicating that smoking, ingesting, or otherwise consuming cannabis on the premises or in the areas adjacent to the retailer is prohibited.
6. 
Cannabis Microbusiness. No storefront retail is allowed except where a cannabis dispensary was legally located prior to June 16, 2009.
7. 
Cannabis Events. Temporary events where cannabis, cannabis products, or devices for the use of cannabis or cannabis products are displayed, manufactured, offered, either individually or in any combination, for retail sale and includes delivery are prohibited.
F. 
Inspection. All permitted cannabis use sites are subject to review and inspection from law enforcement, Fire Department, and the City or any agents of the State or City charged with enforcement of this Ordinance and any other State or local license.
G. 
Industrial Hemp. It is unlawful for any person to engage in, conduct or carry on any commercial industrial hemp business or any commercial industrial hemp activity. This includes, but is not limited to, cultivating, manufacturing, processing, transporting, distributing, testing or selling any cannabidiol (CBD) oil derived from industrial hemp, CBD products derived from industrial hemp, industrial hemp oil that is not derived from industrial hemp seeds, industrial hemp seed oil that has been enhanced with CBD or other cannabinoids and CBD products derived from cannabis. Notwithstanding the previous sentence it shall not be unlawful to sell industrial hemp which has been approved by the California Department of Public Health-Food and Drug Branch as a food additive or dietary supplement as industrial hemp seeds and industrial hemp seed oil which is only extracted from the seeds of industrial hemp plants.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.100 Community Gardens.

Community gardens must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses:
A. 
Management. Community gardens may be organized by community groups, nonprofit organizations, land owners, or the City. A responsible representative must be designated for each community garden who will serve as liaison between gardeners, property owner(s), and the City.
B. 
Operational Plan. The applicant must submit an operational plan to the City that identifies roles and responsibilities, contact information, and operations of the community garden.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.110 Day Care Facilities.

Day care facilities, including nurseries, preschools, and facilities for children or adults, providing supervision and non-medical care for durations of less than 24 hours per day must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards:
A. 
Permit Required. Day care facilities operating as the principal use on a subject parcel shall be subject to the following permit requirements unless a different requirement is required by this Title:
1. 
Exempt. Day care facilities are allowed and exempt from Zoning Permits and approvals in the following districts: CC, OT. CG, BP, OI, and PQ.
2. 
Minor Conditional Use Permit. Day care facilities are allowed with the approval of a Minor Conditional Use Permit in the following districts: RS, RP, RM, RH, CR, VS, and CI.
3. 
Major Conditional Use Permit. Day care facilities are allowed with the approval of a Major Conditional Use Permit in the following districts: IS and IG.
4. 
Not Allowed. Day care facilities are not allowed in the following districts: RMHP, OSPR, OSAR, and AG.
B. 
Accessory Use. Day care facilities operating accessory to another principal use on a subject parcel shall be exempt from the requirement for a Major Conditional Use Permit where otherwise required pursuant to Section 17.41.040(C)(4).
C. 
Licensing. In addition to any State licensing requirements, all day care facilities shall require a Business License from the City.
D. 
Required Parking/Loading. One designated parking space for each 10 patrons, plus one drop-off/loading space for each 10 patrons.
E. 
Contact Person(s). The current name(s) and telephone number(s) of the operator(s) must be on file with the Planning and Environmental Review Department at all times.
F. 
Development Impact Fees. All day care facilities shall be subject to the City’s fee reductions program for beneficial projects (day care and child care).
G. 
Incentives.
1. 
Director. The Director may grant the following incentive to developers for constructing and operating a day care facility.
a. 
Processing. Priority processing of applications for day care facilities will be provided.
2. 
All Review Authorities. The Review Authority may grant one or more of the following incentives to developers for constructing and operating a day care facility.
a. 
Parking Reduction. The number of required parking spaces may be reduced up to 20 percent, through the approval of a Land Use Permit, for a day care facility with an approved TDM Program.
b. 
Lot Coverage.
i. 
As Accessory Use. Day care facilities operating accessory to a principal use will not be counted toward the overall lot coverage of the site.
ii. 
As Principal Use. Day care facilities operating as a principal use may increase the maximum allowable lot coverage by up to 10 percent.
c. 
Other. The Review Authority may grant up to five percent bonus for up to one requested Modification, pursuant to Chapter 17.62, for a day care facility project.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.41.120 Eating and Drinking Establishments.

Where eating and drinking establishments include outdoor dining and seating facilities, these facilities must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards:
A. 
Applicability. The standards of this section apply to outdoor dining and seating located on private property and in the right-of-way. Outdoor dining and seating located within the public right-of-way is subject to an Encroachment Permit issued by the Public Works Department prior to its establishment and operation.
B. 
Enclosure. Any awnings or umbrellas must be adequately secured and/or retractable.
C. 
Pedestrian Pathway. A four-foot pedestrian pathway must be maintained and unobstructed. If there is more than a four-foot-wide pathway provided, outdoor dining may be located outside of the required four feet.
D. 
Litter Removal. Outdoor dining and seating areas must remain clear of litter at all times.
E. 
Hours of Operation. The hours of operation for outdoor dining are limited to the permitted hours of operation of the associated eating and drinking establishment.
F. 
Parking. Where an outdoor dining and seating area occupies 200 square feet or less, additional parking spaces for the associated eating and drinking establishment are not required. Parking must be provided according to the required ratio in Chapter 17.38, Parking and Loading, for any outdoor dining and seating area exceeding 200 square feet.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.130 Emergency Shelters.

Emergency shelters must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses:
A. 
Permit Required. Unless Discretionary Approval of a Conditional Use Permit is required pursuant to Table 17.08.020, a Land Use Permit is required where emergency shelters are allowed.
B. 
Proximity. No emergency shelter is permitted within 300 feet of a site with an operating emergency shelter.
C. 
Number of Residents. Not more than 25 persons may be served on a nightly basis. A shelter operator may request a higher capacity with Discretionary Approval of a Minor Conditional Use Permit by demonstrating that the combined shelter capacity in the City is less than the most recent homeless census.
D. 
Length of Stay. Maximum length of stay of a person in an emergency shelter is limited to 180 days in any 12-month period.
E. 
Management. Each emergency shelter must have an on-site management office, with at least one staff member on duty at all times the emergency shelter is in operation. A minimum of two staff members must be on duty when more than 10 beds are occupied.
F. 
Security. If required by law enforcement, an emergency shelter must have on-site security staff, with at least one security staff present at all times the emergency shelter is in operation.
G. 
Site Design. Client waiting, intake, and pick-up areas must be located inside a building or interior courtyard, or at a rear or side entrance.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.41.140 Family Day Care.

A. 
Applicability. The following standards shall apply to all family day care facilities providing childcare and operating as an accessory use to the principal residential use of a lot, unless otherwise preempted by State law:
1. 
Permit Required. No permit is required for family day care facilities.
2. 
Residency. The operator of a family day care must be a full-time resident of the dwelling unit in which the facility is located.
3. 
Development Impact Fees. Family day care facilities are not subject to development impact fees pursuant to Chapter 17.70.
4. 
Licensing. A family day care facility must obtain a State license, but shall not require a Business License from the City.
B. 
Small Family Day Care. Small family day care facilities must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses, unless otherwise preempted by State law:
1. 
Number. A small family day care facility may provide care for more than six and up to eight children, as defined in California Health and Safety Code Section 1597.44.
C. 
Large Family Day Care. Large family day care must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses, unless otherwise preempted by State law:
1. 
Number. A large family day care facility may provide care for more than 12 children and up to and including 14 children, as defined in California Health and Safety Code Section 1597.465.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.150 Farmworker Housing.

Farmworker housing must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses:
A. 
Location. In Residential Districts, farmworker housing providing accommodations for six or fewer employees is a single-unit use subject only to those standards and permit procedures as they apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zoning district.
B. 
Operation Permit. Before commencement of the use, the applicant must have a valid permit to operate from the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).
C. 
Deed Restriction. Farmworker housing must be deed restricted or otherwise restricted for occupancy to qualifying farmworker households.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.160 Group Residential.

Group residential facilities must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses:
A. 
Proximity. No new group residential is permitted within 300 feet of a site with an operating group residential facility.
B. 
Minimum Lot Area. The minimum lot area is 12,000 square feet.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.170 Home Occupations.

Home occupations must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses:
A. 
Applicability. This section applies to home occupations in any residential unit in the City regardless of the zone district designation. This section does not apply to family day care, which is regulated separately in Section 17.41.140, Standards for Specific Uses and Activities—Family Day Care.
B. 
Permit Required. A Zoning Clearance is required for home occupations where clients or customers are served on site. If no clients or customers are served on site, no permit is required.
C. 
Residential Appearance. The residential appearance of the dwelling unit within which the home occupation is conducted must be maintained.
1. 
Location. All home occupation activities must be conducted entirely within the dwelling unit and/or an associated garage or accessory structure(s) on the same lot, subject to applicable provisions for garage parking.
2. 
Maximum Size. The space exclusively devoted to the home occupation (including any associated storage) must not exceed 25 percent of the combined floor area of the dwelling unit, accessory structure(s), and available garage not used for parking.
3. 
Employees. One employee or independent contractor other than residents of the dwelling may be permitted to work at the location of a home occupation.
4. 
On-Site Client Contact. Customer and client visits are permitted; however, the home occupation shall not generate pedestrian or vehicular traffic in excess of that customarily associated with the zone district in which the use is located.
5. 
Employee/Client Parking.
a. 
Customers, clients, and/or employees must park on site. If the site cannot accommodate an on-site parking space, they may park directly on the street adjacent to and in close proximity to the home.
b. 
Parking required for customers/clients/employees may be provided on site in a tandem configuration.
6. 
Hours of Operation. Employees, visitors, students, and/or clients are permitted between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
7. 
Vehicles. Only one vehicle, owned by the operator of the home occupation, and not to exceed one ton in capacity, may be used by the operator in conjunction with the home occupation.
8. 
Signage. No commercial signage for the home occupation is allowed on site.
9. 
Hazardous Materials. Activities conducted, and equipment or materials used, must not change the fire safety or occupancy classifications of the premises, nor use utilities different from those normally provided for residential use. There must be no storage or use of toxic or hazardous materials other than the types and quantities customarily found in connection with a dwelling unit.
10. 
Nuisances. A home occupation must be conducted such that no offensive or objectionable noise, dust, vibration, smell, smoke, heat, humidity, glare, refuse, radiation, electrical disturbance, interference with the transmission of communications, interference with radio or television reception, or other hazard or nuisance is perceptible on adjacent lots or in neighboring units in a multipleunit building.
D. 
Multiple Home Occupations. Multiple home occupations in a dwelling are allowed provided the space exclusively devoted to the home occupations, including any associated storage, complies with all other provisions in this section.
E. 
Prohibited Uses. The following uses are not permitted as home occupations:
1. 
Adult-oriented businesses;
2. 
Automobile/vehicle sales and services;
3. 
Eating and drinking establishments;
4. 
Hotels and motels;
5. 
Hospitals;
6. 
Fire arms manufacturing and on-site sales; and
7. 
Cannabis uses.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.180 Live/Work Units.

Live/work units must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses, of this Title:
A. 
Permit Required. Where allowed, a Land Use Permit is required.
B. 
Nonresidential Uses. Work activities in live/work units are limited to uses that are permitted outright or allowed with a Land Use Permit or Conditional Use Permit within the zone district the units are located in.
C. 
Sale or Rental of Live or Work Portions of Unit. No portion of a live/work unit may be separately rented or sold as a commercial space for a person or persons not living on the premises, or as a residential space for a person or persons not working on the premises.
D. 
Configuration. The nonresidential area shall be limited to the first floor or main floor of the live/work unit. The residential and nonresidential areas of the live/work unit shall be integrated, contiguous, and accessible from each other.
E. 
Outdoor Living Area. Common or private outdoor living area must be provided for the use of occupants at a rate of at least 60 square feet per live/work unit. This space may be attached to individual units or located on the roof or adjoining the building in a yard.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 22-06 § 4; Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.41.190 Mobile Vendors.

Mobile vendors are neither regulated nor prohibited by this Title.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.200 Outdoor Sales.

Outdoor sales facilities must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following:
A. 
Permit Required. Where permissible, seasonal and temporary sales, such as Christmas tree and pumpkin lots, are subject to Section 17.41.260, Standards for Specific Uses and Activities—Temporary Uses.
B. 
Permanent Outdoor Display and Sales. The permanent outdoor display of merchandise must comply with the following standards:
1. 
Relationship to Main Use. The outdoor display and sales area must be directly related to a business occupying a primary structure on the subject parcel.
2. 
Display Locations.
a. 
Outdoor sales or display located within the public road right-of-way is subject to an Encroachment Permit issued by the Public Works Department.
b. 
The displayed merchandise must not disrupt the vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian circulation on the site, obstruct driver or rider visibility or otherwise create hazards for vehicles, bicyclists, or pedestrians.
c. 
Except for automobile/vehicle sales, rentals, and leasing, a four-foot pedestrian pathway must be maintained and remain unobstructed by either merchandise or displays. If there is more than a four-foot-wide pathway provided, merchandise may be displayed in an area outside of the required four feet.
3. 
Allowable Merchandise. Only merchandise generally sold at the business is permitted to be displayed outdoors.
4. 
Refuse/Litter. The operator is responsible for collecting all trash created from outdoor sales operations.
5. 
Monitoring. All outdoor sales locations must be monitored by store personnel.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.41.210 Personal Storage.

Personal storage facilities must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses:
A. 
Prohibited Activity. No living plants, animals, or persons may be kept in a personal storage unit. No retail sales, repair, or other commercial use may be conducted out of a personal storage unit. No live music or noise amplification is allowed.
B. 
No Hazardous Materials Storage. No storage of hazardous materials is permitted.
C. 
Notice to Tenants. As part of the rental process, the facility manager must inform all tenants of conditions restricting storage of hazardous materials and use limitations of the storage units, including no habitation. These restrictions must be included in rental contracts and posted at a conspicuous location within the front of each rental unit.
D. 
Open Storage. Open storage, outside an enclosed building, is limited to vehicles and trailers with a valid registration which are screened from public view.
E. 
Hours of Operation. Hours of operation are limited to 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. if the facility abuts a Residential Zone District.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.220 Residential Care Facilities.

Residential care facilities must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses:
A. 
Small Residential Care Facilities. There are no City-specific standards for small residential care facilities.
B. 
Large Residential Care Facilities.
1. 
Proximity. No large residential care facility is permitted within 300 feet of a site with an operating large residential care facility.
2. 
Common Open Space. At least 50 square feet of common open space must be provided for each person who resides in the facility.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 22-06 § 4)

§ 17.41.230 Service and Gas Stations.

Service and gas stations must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses:
A. 
Site Design.
1. 
Designs must incorporate landscaping and screen walls to screen vehicles while allowing eyelevel visibility into the site. Fleet fuel stations in industrial zoning districts are exempt from this requirement.
2. 
Propane tanks, vapor-recovery systems, air compressors, utility boxes, garbage, recycling containers/enclosures, and other similar mechanical equipment must be screened from public view, where feasible.
B. 
Air and Water Stations. Air and water stations must be identified on site plans and located outside required setback areas.
C. 
Pump Islands. Pump islands must be located a minimum of 15 feet from any lot line to the nearest edge of the pump island. A canopy or roof structure over a pump island may encroach up to 10 feet within this distance.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.240 Short-Term Vacation Rentals.

A property owner may only rent, offer to rent, or advertise for rent, a short-term vacation rental to another person in compliance with Chapter 5.08 of the Goleta Municipal Code.
A. 
License Required. No Zoning Permit is required for short-term vacation rentals. However, a City Short-Term Vacation Rental License is required from the City Finance Director.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 24-01, 4/16/2024)

§ 17.41.250 Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) Housing.

Single-room occupancy (SRO) housing must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards, where allowed by Part II, Base Zoning District Standards and Allowed Uses.
A. 
Residential Density. If SRO housing contains a common kitchen that serves all residents, the Review Authority may increase the maximum allowable number of individual units available for rent by 20 percent above the number otherwise allowed by the base density applicable to residential development in the zoning district where the project is located.
B. 
Design.
1. 
Maximum Occupancy. Each living unit must be designed to accommodate a maximum of two persons.
2. 
Minimum Width. A unit comprised of one room, not including a bathroom, must not be less than 12 feet in width, and must comply with applicable State Health and Safety Code minimum size requirements.
3. 
Entrances. All units must be independently accessible from a single main entry, excluding emergency and other service support exits.
4. 
Cooking Facilities. Cooking facilities must be provided either in individual units or in a community kitchen. Where cooking is in individual units, each unit must have a sink with hot and cold water; a counter with dedicated electrical outlets and a microwave oven or a properly engineered cook top unit pursuant to Building Code requirements; at minimum a small refrigerator; and cabinets for storage.
5. 
Bathroom. A unit is not required to, but may contain partial or full bathroom facilities. A partial bathroom facility must have at least a toilet and sink. If a full bathroom facility is not provided, common bathroom facilities must be provided that meet the standards of the California Building Code for congregate residences with at least one full bathroom per floor.
6. 
Closet. Each unit must have a separate closet.
7. 
Common Area. At least 200 square feet in area of interior common space must be on the ground floor near the entry to serve as a central focus for tenant social interaction and meetings.
C. 
Tenancy. Tenancy of SRO Housing is limited to 30 or more days.
D. 
Management Plan. A management plan must be submitted with the permit application for an SRO Housing for review and approval by the Review Authority. At minimum, the management plan must include the following:
1. 
Security/Safety. Proposed security and safety features such as lighting, security cameras, access, and natural surveillance through design that maximizes visibility of spaces;
2. 
Management Policies. Management policies, including desk service, visitation rights, occupancy restrictions, and use of cooking appliances;
3. 
Rental Procedures. All rental procedures, including the monthly tenancy requirement;
4. 
Staffing and Services. Information regarding all support services, such as job referral and social programs; and
5. 
Maintenance. Maintenance provisions, including sidewalk cleaning and litter control, recycling programs, general upkeep, and the use of durable materials.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.41.260 Temporary Uses.

This section establishes standards for certain uses that are intended to be of a limited duration of time and will not permanently alter the character or physical features of the site where they occur.
A. 
Exempt Temporary Uses. The following minor and limited duration temporary uses are exempt from the permit requirements of this section. Other permits, such as Building Permits, may be required.
1. 
Car Washes. Car washes conducted by a qualifying sponsoring organization on non-residential properties. Sponsorship is limited to educational, fraternal, religious, or service organizations directly engaged in civic or charitable efforts, or to tax exempt organizations in compliance with Section 501(c) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Service Code. Temporary car washes may not occur on a site more than one time per month and may not operate for a continuous period of more than 12 hours or more than 16 hours in any two-day period.
2. 
Emergency Activities. Emergency public health and safety activities.
3. 
Garage Sales. Garage sales of personal property conducted by a resident of the premises and occurring during daylight hours and no more often than four times within any 12-month period per residence and for a maximum of three consecutive days each.
4. 
On-Site Construction Yards. On-site contractors’ construction yards, including temporary trailers and storage of equipment, in conjunction with an approved construction project on the same site. The construction yard must be removed immediately upon completion of the construction project, or the expiration of the companion Building Permit authorizing the construction, whichever occurs first.
5. 
Temporary Real Estate Sales Office. A temporary real estate sales office within the area of an approved development project, solely for the first sale of units, approved as part of the overall project.
6. 
Filming. The temporary use of a site for the filming of commercials, movies, or videos if a Film Permit is obtained pursuant to Chapter 12.05 of the Goleta Municipal Code or is exempt from the requirements of Chapter 12.05.
7. 
Parades, Assemblies, and Special Events. The temporary use of a site for a parade, assembly, or other special event if a Special Event Permit is obtained pursuant to Chapter 12.07 of the Goleta Municipal Code.
8. 
Seasonal Youth Leagues. The continued use of active recreation facilities for the purposes they were designed and permitted, including year-end tournaments attended by fewer than 500 persons.
B. 
Temporary Use Permit Required. The following uses may be permitted pursuant to Chapter 17.56, Temporary Use Permits, subject to the following standards. Additional or more stringent requirements may be established through the Temporary Use Permit process in order to prevent the use from becoming a nuisance with regard to the surrounding neighborhood or the City as a whole.
1. 
Special Events and Temporary Sales. Short term special events, outdoor sales, and displays that do not exceed five consecutive days, may be permitted in accordance with the following standards:
a. 
Location. Events are limited to non-residential zone districts.
b. 
Number of Events. No more than four events at one site are allowed within any 12-month period. Additional event may be allowed pursuant to a Minor Conditional Use Permit approval in accordance with subsection C.
c. 
Time Limit. When located adjacent to a Residential Zone District, the hours of operation are limited to 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
2. 
Temporary Outdoor Sales. Temporary outdoor sales, including, but not limited to, grand opening events, and other special sales events, may be permitted in accordance with the following standards:
a. 
Temporary outdoor sales must be part of an existing business on the same site.
b. 
Outdoor display and sales areas must be located on a paved or concrete area on the same lot as the structure(s) containing the business with which the temporary sale is associated.
c. 
Location of the displayed merchandise must not disrupt the normal circulation of the site, nor encroach upon driveways, bicycle paths, pedestrian walkways, or required landscaped areas, or obstruct sight distances or otherwise create hazards for vehicle, bicycle, or pedestrian traffic.
3. 
Temporary Seasonal Sales. Seasonal sales of holiday related items, such as pumpkins and Christmas trees, for a period not longer than 45 days in a non-residential zone district.
4. 
Temporary Off-Site Construction Yards. Off-site contractor construction yards, in conjunction with an approved construction project. Upon expiration of the Temporary Use Permit, the construction yard must be immediately removed.
5. 
Temporary Real Estate Sales. On-site real estate sales from a manufactured or mobile unit office for the temporary marketing, sales, or rental of residential, commercial, or industrial development if not approved as part of an overall project.
6. 
Temporary Residence. A manufactured or mobile home used as a temporary residence of the property owner when a Building Permit for a new single-unit dwelling has been approved but occupancy has not yet been granted, or for temporary caretaker quarters during the construction of a subdivision, multi-family, or non-residential project.
7. 
Temporary Structure. A temporary classroom, office, or similar portable structure, including a manufactured or mobile unit, may be approved, for a maximum of 12 months. The structure may be used as an accessory use or as the first phase of a development project in a non-residential zone district.
8. 
Temporary Work Trailer.
a. 
A trailer may be used as a temporary work site for employees of a business:
i. 
During construction of a subdivision or other development project when a Building Permit had been approved; or
ii. 
Upon demonstration by the applicant that the temporary work site is a short-term necessity, while a permanent work site is being obtained.
b. 
A permit for temporary work trailers may be granted for up to 12 months and may be extended one time for an additional 12 months at the discretion of Director.
9. 
Similar Temporary Uses. Similar temporary uses which, at the discretion of the Director, are determined to be compatible with the zone district and surrounding land uses and are necessary because of unusual or unique circumstances beyond the control of the applicant.
10. 
Large Outdoor Gatherings. The use of active recreation facilities for the purposes they were designed and permitted, which are attended by 500 or more persons.
C. 
Minor Conditional Use Permit Required. Review and approval of a Minor Conditional Use Permit is required for temporary uses as follows:
1. 
Uses.
a. 
Any temporary use the Director determines to have substantial and detrimental impacts to surrounding properties, such as noise or traffic impacts.
b. 
Any temporary use where occurrences of the temporary use occur over a period greater than 12 months.
c. 
Any other temporary use not identified as being exempt or as requiring a Temporary Use Permit.
2. 
Required Findings. The following findings must be made for a temporary use that is subject to a Minor Conditional Use Permit:
a. 
All findings required for Conditional Use Permits pursuant to Section 17.57.050.
b. 
All findings required for Temporary Use Permits pursuant to Section 17.56.040.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 21-05 § 3)

§ 17.41.270 Hydrogen Fueling Stations.

This section provides procedures for the review of hydrogen fueling stations where the Building Official finds that the hydrogen fueling station could have a specific adverse impact upon the public health or safety.
A. 
Exempt. Where the Building Official does not make a finding that the hydrogen fueling station could have a specific adverse impact upon the public health or safety, the hydrogen fueling station is exempt from all standards and requirements of this Title.
B. 
Permit Required. Where the Building Official makes a finding that the hydrogen fueling station could have a specific adverse impact upon the public health or safety, issuance of a Land Use Permit is required.
C. 
Location. The hydrogen fueling station must be on a parcel that satisfies either of the following:
1. 
The parcel is zoned for industrial or commercial development and does not contain any residential units; or
2. 
The parcel was previously developed with service station. For purposes of this subsection, “service station” means any establishment which offers for sale or sells gasoline or other motor vehicle fuel to the public.
D. 
Standards. Hydrogen fueling stations shall meet all of the following, as applicable:
1. 
Health and safety standards and requirements imposed by State and local permitting authorities.
2. 
Safety and performance standards established by the Society of Automotive Engineers and accredited nationally recognized testing laboratories.
3. 
Any rules established by the State Air Resources Board, Energy Commission, or Department of Food and Agriculture regarding safety, reliability, weights, and measures.
4. 
Guidance established by the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, as outlined in the Hydrogen Station Permitting Guidebook.
E. 
Finding for Approval. The Director shall issue a Land Use Permit for a hydrogen fueling station if the following findings can be made:
1. 
The proposed hydrogen fueling station installation would not have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety.
2. 
The proposed hydrogen fueling station meets the standards of this section.
No additional findings are required for a hydrogen fueling stations, notwithstanding any other provisions of this Title.
F. 
Finding for Denial. If the Director denies the project based on a finding in subsection E above, the denial shall include a finding by the Building Official that there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact and the basis for the rejection of potential feasible alternatives of preventing the adverse impact.
(Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.41.280 Low Barrier Navigation Centers.

Low barrier navigation centers must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following:
A. 
Zone Districts. Low barrier navigation centers are allowed in zone districts that allow mixed-use residential development and any non-residential zone district that allows multi-unit dwellings.
B. 
Permit Required. A Land Use Permit is required.
C. 
Use Requirements. The low barrier navigation center shall:
1. 
Offer services to connect people to permanent housing through a services plan that identifies services staffing.
2. 
Be linked to a coordinated entry system, so that staff in the interim facility or staff who co-locate in the facility may conduct assessments and provide services to connect people to permanent housing.
3. 
Comply with Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 8255) of Division 8 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.
4. 
Have a system for entering information regarding client stays, client demographics, client income, and exit destination through the local Homeless Management Information System as defined by Section 578.3 of Title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
D. 
Processing Timelines. Within 30 days of receipt of an application for a low barrier navigation center, the City shall notify the applicant whether the application is complete pursuant to Government Code Section 65943. Within 60 days of receipt of a completed application for a low barrier navigation center, the City shall act upon its review of the application.
(Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.41.290 Supportive Housing.

Supportive housing must be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following:
A. 
General Application of Standards and Procedures. Supportive housing is subject only to those standards and permit procedures as they apply to other residential dwellings of the same type (use) in the same zone.
B. 
Ministerial Processing. Notwithstanding subsection A above, if the requirements of Government Code Section 65651(a) are met, the following processing requirements apply:
1. 
Conversion of Existing Development. Supportive housing that is converted from an existing use in zone districts that allow multiple-dwelling units, including as part of mixed-use developments, a Land Use Permit is required.
2. 
New Development. Supportive housing that requires new construction, the procedures and standards of Chapter 17.44, Multiple-Unit and Mixed-Use Objective Design Standards, apply.
C. 
Supportive Services Plan Required. An applicant for a supportive housing use subject to this section shall provide the City with a plan for providing supportive services, with documentation demonstrating that supportive services will be provided onsite to residents in the project, as required by Government Code Section 65651, and describing those services, which shall include all of the following:
1. 
The name of the proposed entity or entities that will provide supportive services.
2. 
The proposed funding source or sources for the provided on-site supportive services.
3. 
Proposed staffing levels.
D. 
Parking Exception. No parking is required for units occupied by supportive housing residents if the development is located within one-half mile of a public transit stop. Off-street parking for other units shall comply with the parking requirements for other residential dwellings of the same type (use) in Table 17.38.040(A).
E. 
Processing Timelines. The City shall notify the applicant whether their supporting housing use application is complete within 30 days of receipt of an application to develop supportive housing in accordance with this section. The City shall complete its review of the application within 60 days after the application is complete for a project with 50 or fewer units, or within 120 days after the application is complete for a project with more than 50 units.
F. 
Reduction in Residents. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, the City shall, at the request of the project owner, reduce the number of residents required to live in supportive housing if the project-based rental assistance or operating subsidy for the supportive housing project is terminated through no fault of the project owner, but only if all of the following conditions have been met:
1. 
The owner demonstrates that it has made good faith efforts to find other sources of financial support.
2. 
Any change in the number of supportive service units is restricted to the minimum necessary to maintain project’s financial feasibility.
3. 
Any change to the occupancy of the supportive housing units is made in a manner that minimizes tenant disruption and only upon the vacancy of any supportive housing units.
(Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.41.300 Community Clinics Providing Reproductive Health Services.

An application for development associated with a Community Clinic Providing Reproductive Health Services may avail itself of the following standards, consistent with California Government Code Section 65914.900.
A. 
Applicability. The following requirements must be met for approval under this Section.
1. 
The requirements of Government Code Section 65914.900(a)(5) through (8) are met.
2. 
The development is consistent with all objective design review standards of this Title applicable to the site in effect when the application is submitted.
B. 
Permit Required. Any eligible project processed pursuant to this Section shall require a Land Use Permit or a Coastal Development Permit, if located within the Coastal Zone.
C. 
Design Review. Design Review of projects processed pursuant to this Section shall be conducted by the Director and shall only include consistency with adopted objective design standards.
D. 
Processing Timeline. The City shall approve or deny the application within 60 days of submission of the application unless the City provides written documentation of a conflict with this Section, pursuant to subsection E.1 below.
E. 
Conflicts. If the City determines that the development is in conflict with any of the requirements in this Section, then all of the following apply:
1. 
The City shall provide the applicant written documentation of the standard or standards with which the development conflicts, and an explanation for the reason or reasons the development conflicts with that standard or standards. Such written documentation shall not be construed as a denial.
2. 
The applicant may submit materials to the City to address and resolve the conflict identified in subsection E.1.
3. 
Within 60 days after the City has received the materials submitted pursuant to subsection E.2. the City shall determine whether the development as supplemented or amended is consistent with the objective planning standards specified in this Section.
F. 
Appeals. Appeals of development pursuant to this Section shall be processed consistent with Section 17.52.120.
1. 
Exception. Where the applicant appeals a denial of a Land Use Permit pursuant to this Section, the City shall provide final written determination on the appeal no later than 60 days after receipt of the appeal.
G. 
Discontinuation of the Use. If a Community Clinic Providing Reproductive Health Services associated with development approved pursuant to this Section is not established on the site within six months after the certificate of occupancy is granted or ceases operation for six months or more, the development must meet the requirements for such development otherwise required by this Title.
(Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.42.010 Purpose and Applicability.

This chapter provides standards and procedures to regulate the development, siting, installation, and operation of wireless telecommunications antennas and related facilities consistent with the applicable requirements of Federal law. The regulations are intended to provide for the appropriate development of wireless telecommunication facilities within the City to meet the needs of residents, business owners, and visitors while protecting public health and safety and preventing visual blight and degradation of the community’s aesthetic character.
The requirements of this chapter apply to all telecommunications facilities within the City, not otherwise regulated by the City, pursuant to Goleta Municipal Code Chapter 12.20, Wireless Facilities in Public Road Rights-of-Way, that transmit and/or receive wireless electromagnetic signals, including, but not limited to, personal communications services (cellular and paging) and radio and television broadcast facilities.
A. 
These facilities include small and large cell facilities on privately-owned property and wireless facilities on public property not regulated by Goleta Municipal Code Chapter 12.20.
B. 
The requirements apply to telecommunication facilities that are the primary use of a property as well as those that are accessory facilities.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.42.020 Permit Requirements.

This section establishes the permit requirements for all new and existing wireless telecommunication facilities within the City.
A. 
Exempt. The following types of telecommunication facilities that do not exceed the maximum height permitted by this Title are exempt from requiring a Zoning Permit:
1. 
Licensed amateur radio antennas and citizen band operations.
2. 
Hand-held, mobile, marine, and portable radio transmitters and/or receivers.
3. 
Emergency services radio.
4. 
Radio and television mobile broadcast facilities.
5. 
Antennas and equipment cabinets or rooms, and other telecommunications facilities, where the antenna and support equipment are completely hidden from public view within a permitted structure or fully concealed by a permitted architectural feature on the exterior of a structure.
6. 
A single ground-mounted or building-mounted receive-only radio or television antenna, including any mast, or a receive-only radio or television satellite dish antenna, subject to the following restrictions:
a. 
Residential Districts.
i. 
Satellite Dish One Meter or Less. A satellite dish that does not exceed one meter in diameter and is for the sole use of a resident occupying the same residential parcel is permitted anywhere on a lot in the residential district so long as it does not exceed the height of the ridgeline of the primary structure on the same parcel.
b. 
Non-Residential Districts.
i. 
Satellite Dish Two Meters or Less. A satellite dish that does not exceed two meters in diameter is permitted anywhere on a lot in a non-residential district so long as the location does not reduce required parking, diminish pedestrian or vehicular access, or require removal of required landscaping.
7. 
City-owned and operated facilities used for public purposes.
8. 
Telecommunication facilities subject to FCC ruling (WT Docket No. 17-79, WC Docket No. 17-84; FCC 18-133).
9. 
Any other private or commercial antenna or wireless communications facility that is exempt from all local regulation and development standards, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or a permit issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). The owner or operator of such facility shall provide the Director with a copy of a current FCC or CPUC permit or a copy of applicable FCC regulations along with the required building permit application, or if no building permit is required, prior to its installation.
B. 
Zoning Clearance. The following types of telecommunication facilities that do not exceed the maximum height permitted by this Title must receive issuance of a Zoning Clearance prior to approval of any building permit for installation:
1. 
Existing Facilities. Minor modifications to existing wireless facilities, including replacement inkind or with smaller or less visible equipment, that meet the standards set forth in this Title and will have little or no change in the visual appearance of the facility require the review and issuance of a Zoning Clearance.
2. 
New Facilities on Private Lands or Structures. When located within a residential or nonresidential zone district, the following types of new telecommunication facilities require review and approval of a Zoning Clearance.
a. 
Residential Districts.
i. 
Satellite Dish Greater than One Meter. A satellite dish that is greater than one meter in diameter, is not located within a required front yard or side yard abutting a street and is screened from view from any public right-of-way and adjoining property.
ii. 
Antennas. An antenna that is mounted on any existing building or other structure that does not exceed 25 feet in height. The antenna must be for the sole use of a resident occupying the same residential parcel on which the antenna is located.
b. 
Non-Residential Districts.
i. 
Satellite Dish Greater than Two Meters. A satellite dish that is greater than two meters in diameter that is not located within a required front yard or side yard abutting a street and is screened from view from any public right-of-way and adjoining property.
ii. 
Mounted Antennas. An antenna that is mounted on any existing building or other structure when the overall height of the antenna and its supporting tower, pole or mast does not exceed a height of 30 feet, or 25 feet if located within 20 feet of a Residential district.
iii. 
Freestanding Antennas. A free-standing antenna and its supporting tower, pole, or mast that complies with all applicable setback ordinances when the overall height of the antenna and its supporting structure does not exceed a height of 30 feet or 25 feet if located within 20 feet of a Residential district.
C. 
Land Use Permit or Coastal Development Permit. The following types of telecommunication facilities that do not exceed the maximum height permitted by this Title must receive approval of a Land Use Permit, pursuant to Chapter 17.55, or a Coastal Development Permit, pursuant to Chapter 17.61, prior to approval of a building permit for installation:
1. 
All Zone Districts.
a. 
Co-Located Facilities. Permitted when proposed to be co-located on a facility that was subject to a discretionary permit issued on or after January 1, 2007 and an environmental impact report was certified, or a negative declaration or mitigated negative declaration was adopted for the wireless telecommunication collocation facility in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act and the collocation facility incorporates required mitigation measures specified in that environmental impact report, negative declaration, or mitigated negative declaration.
b. 
Non-Stealth Facilities. Non-stealth facilities where the antenna and support equipment are clearly visible from public viewing areas but are not subject to review by the Design Review Board, pursuant to Chapter 17.58, Design Review.
D. 
Conditional Use Permit. Discretionary Approval of both a Minor Conditional Use Permit, pursuant to Chapter 17.57, and Design Review, pursuant to Chapter 17.58 are required for the following:
1. 
All new telecommunication facilities that do not fall into one of the permit types above.
2. 
Any alteration to an existing facility that does not fall into the limited standards for a minor change to a previously approved project, pursuant to Chapter 17.36, Nonconforming Uses and Structures.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 21-07 § 4)

§ 17.42.030 Development Standards.

All wireless telecommunication facilities shall be located, developed, and operated in compliance with all of the following development and operational standards and with applicable standards of the base Zone District that they are located in.
A. 
Location and Siting.
1. 
All wires and/or cables necessary for operation of an antenna shall be placed underground or attached flush with the surface of the building or the structure of the antenna.
2. 
No new freestanding facility, including a tower, lattice tower, or monopole, shall be located within 1,000 feet of another freestanding facility, unless appropriate camouflage techniques have been used to minimize the visual impact of the facility to the extent feasible, and mounting on a building or co-location on an existing pole or tower is not feasible.
3. 
All wireless telecommunication facilities shall meet the building setback standards of the district which they are to be located.
4. 
When feasible, providers of personal wireless services shall co-locate facilities in order to reduce adverse visual impacts. The Director may require co-location or multiple-user wireless telecommunication facilities based on a determination that it is feasible and consistent with the purposes and requirements of this chapter.
5. 
When determined to be feasible and consistent with the purposes and requirements of this chapter, the Director shall require the applicant to make unused space available for future co-location of other wireless telecommunication facilities, including space for different operators providing similar, competing services.
B. 
Support Structures. Support structures for wireless telecommunication facilities may be any of the following:
1. 
A new ground-mounted monopole that allows for co-location of at least one other similar wireless communications provider.
2. 
A monopole mounted on a trailer or other type of portable foundation, but only if used as a temporary wireless communications facility and subject to Chapter 17.56, Temporary Use Permits.
3. 
An existing non-residential building.
4. 
An existing structure other than a building, including, but not limited to, light poles, electric utility poles, water towers, smokestacks, billboards, lattice towers, and flag poles. This term includes an electric utility pole erected to replace an existing electric utility pole, if the replacement pole will serve both electric and wireless communications functions, and if the replacement pole is substantially equivalent to the predecessor pole in placement, height, diameter and profile.
5. 
An alternative tower structure such as a clock tower, steeple, functioning security light pole, functioning recreational light pole, or any similar alternative-design support structure that conceals or camouflages the wireless telecommunication facility. The term “functioning” as used herein means the light pole serves a useful and appropriate lighting function as well as a wireless communications function.
6. 
Existing publicly-owned and operated monopole or a lattice tower exceeding the maximum height limit.
C. 
Height Requirements.
1. 
Freestanding Antenna or Monopole. A freestanding antenna or monopole shall not exceed the height limit of the district in which it is located.
2. 
Building-Mounted Facilities. Building-mounted wireless telecommunication facilities shall not exceed a height of 15 feet above the height limit of the district or 15 feet above the existing height of a legally established building or structure, whichever is higher, measured from the top of the facility to the point of attachment to the building.
3. 
Facilities Mounted on Structures. Wireless telecommunication facilities mounted on an existing structure shall not exceed the height of the existing structure unless camouflaged as part of the structure design, except antennas may extend up to 15 feet above the height of an electric utility pole.
4. 
Facilities Mounted on Light Poles. A functioning security light pole or functioning recreational light pole shall have a height consistent with existing poles in the surrounding area or height usually allowed for such light poles.
D. 
Design and Screening. Wireless telecommunication facility structures and equipment shall be located, designed and screened to blend with the existing natural or built surroundings, as well as any existing support structures, so as to reduce visual impacts to the extent feasible.
1. 
Stealth Facilities. State of the art stealth design technology shall be utilized as appropriate to the site and type of facility. Where no stealth design technology is proposed for the site, a detailed analysis as to why stealth design technology is physically and technically infeasible for the project shall be submitted with the application.
2. 
Other Facility Types. If a stealth facility is not feasible, the order of preference for facility type is, based on their potential aesthetic impact: façade-mounted, roof-mounted, ground-mounted, and free-standing tower or monopole. A proposal for a new ground-mounted or free-standing tower shall include factual information to explain why other facility types are not feasible.
3. 
Minimum Functional Height. All free-standing antennas, monopoles, and lattice towers shall be designed to be the minimum functional height and width required to support the proposed antenna installation, unless it can be demonstrated that a higher antenna, monopole, or tower will facilitate co-location.
4. 
Camouflage Design. Wireless telecommunication facilities that are mounted on buildings or structures shall be designed to match existing architectural features, incorporated in building design elements, camouflaged, or otherwise screened or painted to minimize their appearance in a manner that is compatible with the architectural design of the building or structure. New facilities must not include the use of faux trees as camouflage.
5. 
Equipment Cabinets. Equipment cabinets shall be located within the building upon which antennae are placed, if technically feasible. Otherwise, equipment cabinets and buildings, and associated equipment such as air conditioning units and emergency generators, shall be screened from view by a wall or landscaping, as approved by the Review Authority. Any wall must be architecturally compatible with the building or surrounding area.
6. 
Landscaping. Landscaping shall be provided for and maintained to screen any ground structures or equipment visible from a public right-of-way.
7. 
Lighting. Artificial lighting of a telecommunication facility, including its components, is prohibited, unless required by the Federal Aviation Administration. A motion-sensor light may be used for security purposes if the beam is directed downwards, shielded from adjacent properties, and kept off except when personnel are present at night.
8. 
Advertising. No advertising shall be placed on wireless telecommunication facilities, equipment cabinets, or associated structures.
E. 
Security Features. All facilities shall be designed to minimize opportunities for unauthorized access, climbing, vandalism, graffiti, and other conditions that would result in hazardous conditions, visual blight, or attractive nuisances.
1. 
Fencing. Security fencing, if any, shall not exceed the fence height limit of the base district. Fencing shall be effectively screened from view through the use of landscaping. No chain link fences shall be visible from public view.
2. 
Maintenance. The permittee shall be responsible for maintaining the site and facilities free from graffiti.
F. 
Radio Frequency and Noise Standards.
1. 
Radio Frequency. Wireless telecommunication facilities shall comply with Federal standards for radio frequency emissions and interference. Failure to meet Federal standards may result in termination or modification of the permit.
2. 
Noise. Wireless telecommunication facilities and any related equipment, including backup generators and air conditioning units, shall not generate continuous noise in excess of 40 dBA measured at the property line of any adjacent residential property, and shall not generate continuous noise in excess of 50 dBA during the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and 40 dBA during the hours of 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. measured at the property line of any non-residential adjacent property. Backup generators shall only be operated during power outages and for testing and maintenance purposes. Testing and maintenance shall only take place on weekdays between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
G. 
Co-Location. The applicant and owner of any site on which a wireless facility is located shall cooperate and exercise good faith in co-locating wireless facilities on the same support structures or site. Good faith shall include sharing technical information to evaluate the feasibility of co-location and may include negotiations for erection of a replacement support structure to accommodate co-location. A competitive conflict to co-location or financial burden caused by sharing information normally will not be considered as an excuse to the duty of good faith.
1. 
All facilities shall make available unused space for co-location of other wireless telecommunication facilities, including space for these entities providing similar, competing services. Colocation is not required if the host facility can demonstrate that the addition of the new service or facilities would impair existing service or cause the host to go offline for a significant period of time. In the event a dispute arises as to whether a permittee has exercised good faith in accommodating other users, the City may require the applicant to obtain a third-party technical study at applicant’s expense. The City may review any information submitted by applicant and permittee(s) in determining whether good faith has been exercised.
2. 
All co-located and multiple-user telecommunication facilities shall be designed to promote facility and site sharing. Telecommunication towers and necessary appurtenances, including, but not limited to, parking areas, access roads, utilities and equipment buildings, shall be designed to be shared by site users whenever possible.
3. 
No co-location may be required where it can be shown that the shared use would or does result in significant interference in the broadcast or reception capabilities of the existing telecommunication facilities or failure of the existing facilities to meet Federal standards for emissions.
4. 
Failure to comply with co-location requirements when feasible or cooperate in good faith as provided for in this chapter is grounds for denial of a permit request.
H. 
Fire Prevention. All wireless telecommunication facilities shall be designed and operated in a manner that will minimize the risk of igniting a fire or intensifying one that otherwise occurs.
1. 
At least one-hour fire resistant interior surfaces shall be used in the construction of all buildings.
2. 
The exterior walls and roof covering of all above-ground equipment shelters and cabinets shall be constructed of materials rated as non-flammable in the Building Code.
3. 
Monitored automatic fire extinguishing systems approved by County Fire shall be installed in all equipment buildings and enclosures.
4. 
Openings in all above-ground equipment shelters and cabinets shall be protected against penetration by fire and wind-blown embers to the extent feasible.
I. 
Surety Bond. As a condition of approval, an applicant for a building permit to erect or install a wireless telecommunication facility shall be required to post a cash or surety bond in a form and amount acceptable to the City Attorney to cover the full removal costs of the facility in the event that its use is abandoned or the approval is otherwise terminated or revoked.
J. 
Photo-Simulations. All applications for development associated with new or existing telecommunication facilities that are subject to this Title shall provide color photo-simulations that visually depict each of the applicable development standards of this section.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.42.040 Required Findings.

A. 
Findings for All Telecommunication Projects. In additional to any required findings for the specific Zoning Permit or Discretionary Action require by this chapter for the approval of a wireless telecommunication facility, and all common procedures findings of Section 17.52.070, the Review Authority shall make all of the following additional project-specific findings:
1. 
The proposed telecommunication facility conforms with all applicable development standards of this chapter.
2. 
The proposed telecommunication facility will be a co-located facility, or additional findings for non-co-located facilities can be made.
3. 
The proposed site results in fewer or less severe environmental impacts than any feasible alternative site.
4. 
The proposed facility will not be readily visible, or it is not feasible to incorporate additional measures that would make the facility not readily visible.
5. 
The applicant has demonstrated that the facility will be operated within the frequency range allowed by the Federal Communications Commission and complies with all other applicable safety standards.
6. 
The applicant has demonstrated that there is a need for service (i.e., coverage or capacity) and the area proposed to be served would not otherwise be served by the carrier proposing the facility.
B. 
Additional Findings for Facilities Not Co-Located. In additional to all findings required in subsection A, in order to approve a wireless telecommunication facility that is not co-located with other existing or proposed facilities or a new ground-mounted antenna, monopole, or lattice tower the Review Authority must make at least one of the following additional findings:
1. 
The applicant has made good faith and reasonable efforts to locate the proposed wireless facility on an existing support structure to accomplish co-location, but no sites exist or are available within the area where coverage or capacity improvements are needed;
2. 
Co-location or siting on an existing structure is not feasible because of technical, aesthetic, or legal considerations (i.e., co-location would have more significant adverse effects on views or other environmental considerations; co-location is not permitted by the property-owner; co-location would impair the quality of service to the existing facility; or, co-location would require existing facilities at the same location to go off-line for a significant period of time).
C. 
Setback Reductions. Any request for a reduction to a required setback must be reviewed as part of the Discretionary Review of the Conditional Use Permit, pursuant to Chapter 17.57, Conditional Use Permits, or by submitting an application for a modification to be concurrently processed with the applicable Ministerial Permit. The Review Authority must still be able to make all applicable Findings for Approval to approval the project with the setback reduction.
D. 
Other Exceptions to Development Standards. The Review Authority may waive or modify requirements of this Title upon making a finding that strict compliance with any specific requirement would result in noncompliance with applicable Federal or State law.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.42.050 Abandonment/Removal of Facilities.

A. 
The service provider shall notify the Director of the intent to vacate a site at least 30 days prior to the vacation.
B. 
The permit for any antenna or tower that is not operated for a continuous period of 12 months shall be deemed lapsed and the site will be considered abandoned unless:
1. 
The Zoning Administrator has determined that the same operator resumed operation within six months of the notice; or
2. 
The City has received an application to transfer the permit to another service provider as provided for in Section 17.42.060, Telecommunications Facilities—Transfer of Ownership.
C. 
No later than 90 days from the date the use is discontinued or the provider has notified the Zoning Administrator of the intent to vacate the site, the owner of the abandoned antenna or tower or the owner of the property on which the facilities are sited shall remove all equipment and improvements associated with the use and shall restore the site to its original condition as shown on the plans submitted with the original approved application or as required by the Zoning Administrator.
1. 
The provider or owner may use any bond or other assurances provided by the operator to accomplish the required restoration.
2. 
The owner or the owner’s agent shall provide written verification of the removal of the wireless telecommunications facility within 30 days of the date the removal is completed.
D. 
If the antenna or tower is not removed within 30 days after the permit has lapsed under subsection B above, the site shall be referred to Code Enforcement and the Zoning Administrator may cause the antenna or tower to be removed at the owners’ expense or by calling any bond or other financial assurance to pay for removal.
1. 
If there are two or more users of a single tower, then this provision shall apply to the abandoned antenna but not become effective for the tower until all users cease using the tower.
2. 
The requirement for removal of equipment in compliance with this section shall be included as a provision in any lease of private property for wireless telecommunications facilities.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6; Ord. 23-05 § 4)

§ 17.42.060 Transfer of Ownership.

In the event that the original permittee sells or otherwise transfers its interest in a wireless telecommunications facility, or an interest in a wireless telecommunications facility is otherwise assumed by a different carrier, the succeeding carrier must assume all responsibilities concerning the project, including, without limitation, City-issued permits for the project, and will be held responsible to the City for maintaining consistency with all project conditions of approval. A new contact name for the project and a new signed and recorded “Agreement to Comply with Conditions of Approval” must be provided by the succeeding carrier to the Director within 30 days of the transfer of interest in the facility.
(Ord. 20-03 § 6)

§ 17.43.010 Purpose and Intent.

The purpose of this chapter is to establish standards for new development that is subject to discretionary or ministerial review and that could impact sensitive and protected archaeological and/or tribal cultural resources including sites, places, and landscapes of documented traditional cultural significance, within the City. This chapter outlines the procedures and criteria for the identification and protection of these resources. Specifically, this chapter is intended to:
A. 
Preserve and protect archaeological and/or tribal cultural resources in accordance with PRC Section 21084.3(b)(2), including:
1. 
Protect the cultural character and integrity of the archaeological and/or tribal cultural resource.
2. 
Protect the traditional use of the archaeological and/or tribal cultural resource.
3. 
Protect the confidentiality of the archaeological and/or tribal cultural resource.
B. 
Foster awareness, recognition, and stewardship of the City’s archaeological and/or tribal cultural resources; and
C. 
Protect, restore, and enhance significant archaeological and/or tribal cultural resources, such as native villages; seasonal campsites; burial sites; stone tool quarry sites; hunting sites; traditional trails; sites with rock carvings or paintings; documented sacred sites and places of traditional cultural value, as identified by local Tribes including areas traditionally used to gather plants for food, medicinal, or economic purposes; and objects, features, and artifact scatters, including agricultural, ranching, mining, irrigation, utility, and transportation-related features (e.g., canals, fences, roads, refuse scatters, etc.).
Consistent with Government Code Section 6254(r) (the “Public Records Act”) and Public Resources Code Section 21802.3(c) (“AB 52”), Native American archeological resources and tribal cultural resources records collected from tribes and the Native American Heritage Commission pursuant to this chapter are exempt from disclosure under the Public Records Act.
(Ord. 22-05 § 8)

§ 17.43.020 Applicability.

Unless exempted, new development that requires earth-disturbing activities shall be subject to the regulations and reporting requirements of this chapter. This section outlines the exempt and non-exempt project types.
A. 
Exempt Development. The following development is exempt from the requirements of this chapter unless development is determined to be subject to Section 17.43.020(B):
1. 
Improvements/work that do not require or are expressly exempt from a Building Permit as provided in Section 105.2 of the 2019 California Building Code as amended irrespective of the presence of native or disturbed soils. As of the 2019 California Building Code, the following improvements/work are exempt from Building Permit requirements including, but are not limited to:
a. 
One-story detached accessory structures of less than 120 square feet without foundation.
b. 
Fences and block walls not over seven feet high.
c. 
Retaining walls that are not over four feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II, or IIA liquids.
d. 
Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade and not over any basement or story below and area not part of an accessible route.
e. 
Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches deep, are not greater than 5,000 gallons and are installed entirely above ground level.
f. 
Swings and other playground equipment accessory to detached one- and two-family dwellings.
g. 
Temporary motion picture, television, and theater stage sets and scenery.
h. 
Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems.
i. 
Oil derricks.
j. 
Water tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity is not greater than 5,000 gallons and the ratio of the height to diameter or width is not greater than 2:1.
2. 
Earth-disturbing activities affecting four cubic feet or less of native soils or no native soils and not located within a documented archaeological site and/or tribal cultural resource. Four cubic feet of disturbance of native soils is measured individually unless each disturbance occurs less than eight feet apart (typical distance for footings). Examples include, but are not limited to:
a. 
Ongoing, active agricultural operations in areas continuously used for crop cultivation.
b. 
A city project that does not involve earth disturbance beyond the footprint (width, length, and depth) of the existing facility or plant or tree.
c. 
A utility project within an existing road right-of-way that does not exceed the depth of the lowest utility line found within the affected block of road right-of-way where the project is located.
d. 
Irrigation lines, landscaping, and footings for fences, patio covers, and similar minor accessory improvements that reuse previously excavated/disturbed areas.
3. 
Unless exempted by Section 17.43.020(A)(1), earth-disturbing area is located within a previously disturbed area where evidence, as documented in as-built plans, previous grading plans, or other documentary evidence, is provided that the previous earth disturbance affected depths equal to or greater than the development being considered.
4. 
Interior alterations and improvements to existing structures that do not involve earth-disturbing activities.
5. 
Planting of trees.
6. 
Proposed areas of earth disturbance of more than four cubic feet of native soils that meet at least one of the following criteria:
a. 
Emergency projects as defined by Public Resources Code Section 21060.3 undertaken by the City, another public agency, or utility.
b. 
A previous Preliminary Archaeological Assessment (PAA) or a Phase 1 Report was prepared within the last five years by a qualified archaeologist that includes the proposed disturbance area and documents that there are no documented resources within the proposed earth-disturbing area and the proposed earth-disturbing area has little to no potential to contain subsurface archaeological and/or tribal cultural resources.
B. 
Non-Exempt Development. The following development is not exempt and shall comply with the requirements of this chapter.
1. 
Earth-disturbing activities of any depth or size that are located within a documented archaeological site and/or tribal cultural resource.
2. 
Earth-disturbing activities of more than four cubic feet of native soils that are not located within a documented archaeological site and/or tribal cultural resource and do not meet the exemptions listed above in Section 17.43.020(A).
(Ord. 22-05 § 8; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.43.030 Site Assessment and Permit Requirements for Non-Exempt Development.

A. 
Assessment Level Requirements. Non-exempt developments are subject to the following:
1. 
A PAA shall be required when the proposed earth-disturbing area is located within a paved, developed, or ornamental landscaped area.
a. 
If the PAA reveals that the proposed disturbance area does not contain a documented archaeological and/or tribal cultural resource and the proposed area where earth-disturbing activities are proposed has little or no potential to contain subsurface archaeological resources as determined by the qualified archaeologist and no tribal cultural resources have been identified by the Chumash Tribal representatives, no further review is necessary, and the development is subject to the permit outlined in subsection (B)(1) below.
b. 
If the PAA reveals that the proposed area where earth-disturbing activities are proposed contains or potentially contains archaeological resources as determined by the qualified archaeologist and/or tribal cultural resources as identified by Chumash Tribal representatives, then the development shall be subject to the requirements outlined in subsections (A)(3) and (B)(2) of this section.
2. 
A Phase 1 Report shall be required when the proposed earth-disturbing area is located within an area that is not paved, developed, or is not located in an ornamental landscaped area. This applies even if the earth surface has sustained previous disturbances from grading, vegetation clearance, or other modifications.
a. 
If the Phase 1 Report reveals that the proposed earth disturbance area does not contain a documented archaeological and/or tribal cultural resource and the proposed earth disturbance area has little or no potential to contain subsurface archaeological and/or tribal cultural resources, no further review is necessary and subject to the permit outlined in subsection (B)(1) below.
b. 
If the Phase 1 Report reveals that the proposed earth disturbance contains or potentially contains archaeological and/or tribal cultural resources, then the development shall be subject to the requirements outlined in subsections (A)(3) and (B)(2) of this section.
3. 
An Extended Phase 1 Report shall be required, if it is determined in the judgment of a qualified archaeologist when preparing a PAA or Phase 1 Report, that archaeological and/or tribal cultural resources could be present. A local Chumash monitor shall be invited to observe the Extended Phase 1 field work at the applicant’s expense.
a. 
If the Extended Phase 1 Report reveals that the proposed earth disturbance area does not contain a documented archaeological and/or tribal cultural resource and the proposed earth disturbance area has little or no potential to contain subsurface archaeological and/or tribal cultural resources, no further review is necessary, and the development is subject to the permit outlined in subsection (B)(1) below.
b. 
If the Extended Phase 1 Report reveals that the proposed earth disturbance area contains or potentially contains archaeological and/or tribal cultural resources, then the development shall be subject to the permit requirements outlined in subsection (B)(2) below.
B. 
Permit Requirements. In addition to any other permits/approval needed pursuant to the provisions of Title 17, the following permits are required of non-exempt development:
1. 
Zoning Clearance. A Zoning Clearance shall be required for development subject to the site assessment provisions of subsections (A)(1)(a), (A)(2)(a), and (A)(3)(a) above.
2. 
Minor Conditional Use Permit. A Minor CUP is required for development on a site that has archaeological and/or tribal cultural resources as identified in subsections (A)(1)(b), (A)(2)(b), and (A)(3)(b).
(Ord. 22-05 § 8)

§ 17.43.040 Development Standards.

A. 
The following standards are applicable to all permits issued under this chapter:
1. 
If unanticipated discovery of archaeological and/or tribal cultural resources occurs during earth-disturbing activities, earth-disturbing activities must be stopped immediately until a qualified archaeologist can evaluate the significance of the archaeological and/or tribal cultural resource pursuant to standards set forth in Council Resolution No. 08-40, Environmental Thresholds and Guidelines Manual as amended, and local Chumash tribal representative(s) can evaluate the importance of the find.
2. 
If human remains are uncovered as a result of earth-disturbing activities, work must stop immediately and the Planning and Environmental Review Department must be contacted, and the applicant must follow the procedures identified by Public Resources Code Section 5097.98.
3. 
As applicable, recommendations identified in the Preliminary Archaeological Assessment, Phase 1 Report, or Extended Phase 1 Report and agreed upon by the City, must be implemented and printed on the approved building plans.
B. 
For development that is subject to the Minor CUP requirement of subsection 17.43.030(B)(2), on-site monitoring by a qualified archaeological monitor and local Chumash Native American consultant/monitor shall be required for all grading, excavation, and site preparation that involves earth-disturbing activity.
(Ord. 22-05 § 8)

§ 17.43.050 Native American Communication.

Development that is subject to the requirements of this chapter shall be subject to the following requirements.
A. 
For all development requiring a Minor CUP and subject to California Environmental Quality Act review, the City shall consult with California Native American Tribes in accordance with Public Resources Code Section 21080.3.1.
B. 
For all development requiring ministerial approval for which a Preliminary Archaeological Assessment or a Phase 1 Report is prepared, the City will make the studies available to Native American Tribes upon request.
(Ord. 22-05 § 8)

§ 17.44.010 Introduction.

A. 
Purpose and Intent. The purpose of the design standards of this chapter is to provide the public, building and design professionals, and Review Authorities with objective criteria for eligible residential and mixed-use development in the City. The intent is to provide clear design direction that enhances an area’s unique character and sense of place, respects existing neighborhood compatibility and privacy, and ensures a high-quality living environment.
B. 
Applicability. The provisions of this chapter apply to the following:
1. 
Multiple-unit residential and mixed-use development in all Zone Districts that qualify for streamlined, ministerial processing pursuant to California Government Code Section 65913.4;
2. 
Residential development where at least 20 percent of the residential units are affordable to lower-income households that is either:
a. 
On a vacant parcel that was used in the City’s previous two Housing Elements sites inventories to accommodate lower-income units, or
b. 
On a nonvacant parcel that was used in the City’s previous Housing Element sites inventory to accommodate lower-income units; or
c. 
Sites that are rezoned to RH pursuant to Housing Element 2023-2031 subprogram HE 2.1(a).
3. 
Any other project that qualifies for objective, ministerial review pursuant to State housing law.
4. 
Residential projects that consist of 100 percent affordable housing units for extremely low-, very low-, low-, and moderate-income households, except for any unit(s) dedicated to on-site management.
C. 
Consistency with Objective Standards. Projects shall comply with all objective City policies, development standards, and design standards as established in the General Plan and the Goleta Municipal Code.
1. 
Exception. Any concessions, incentives, or waivers of development standards pursuant to Chapter 17.27, Density Bonus and Other Incentives of this Title.
2. 
Conflicting Standards. Projects must meet objective standards in this chapter in addition to all pertinent requirements of the Goleta Municipal Code. If there is any conflict between these objective standards and existing City and/or State objective standards, the more restrictive objective standard applicable to the project shall apply.
D. 
Permit Required. Any eligible project processed pursuant to this chapter shall require a Land Use Permit or a Coastal Development Permit, if located within the Coastal Zone.
E. 
Design Review. Design Review of projects processed pursuant to this chapter shall be conducted by the Director and shall only include consistency with adopted objective design standards.
1. 
Required Findings. Other than those findings required pursuant to Section 17.52.070, Findings for Approval, no additional findings are required. Additionally, no findings for Design Review, including those in Section 17.58.080, shall be required for approval of the project.
(Ord. 22-14 § 4; Ord. 23-05 § 4; Ord. 23-17 § 4; Ord. No. 24-05, 12/3/2024; Ord. 25-10, 12/2/2025)

§ 17.44.020 Site Design.

A. 
Building Placement and Orientation.
1. 
Street Wall. If buildings on adjacent properties establish a contiguous street wall along the primary street frontage, new buildings shall be located to maintain the contiguous street wall, with allowances for variation in facade and entrances which are projected or recessed.
2. 
Visibility of Entrances. On all lots 60 feet or less in width, at least one primary building entrance or individual unit entrance shall be visible from the front or street side lot line. See Section 17.44.030(C).
3. 
-OTH Old Town Heritage Overlay District. Buildings located with street frontage(s) along Hollister Avenue shall comply with the zero setback provisions of Section 17.19.040, Front Setback, Hollister Avenue Frontage, of this Title.
B. 
Vehicular Parking and Access. Vehicular parking and access shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 17.38, Parking and Loading, of this Title. In addition, projects shall provide the following:
1. 
Primary Access. Side street or alley access shall serve as the primary vehicular access to parking areas, if available. If not available, the primary street shall serve vehicular access.
2. 
Number of Access Points.
a. 
Normal Lots. A maximum of one vehicle access point from the street is permitted per 100 feet of street frontage.
b. 
Corner Lots.
i. 
One vehicular access point is permitted per lot where all street frontages are less than 100 linear feet.
ii. 
Two vehicular access points are permitted on lots where at least one street has a frontage of 100 linear feet or more.
FIGURE 17.44.020(B)(2): VEHICULAR ACCESS POINTS
3. 
Parking Location. Parking areas shall not be located within any front or street side setback or between any primary structure and the primary street.
4. 
Loading and Service Areas. In addition to the provisions below, loading and service areas shall comply with the standards of Section 17.38.100, On-Site Loading, as applicable.
a. 
All required loading and service areas shall be located adjacent to a façade other than the primary street frontage.
b. 
Loading and service areas shall be located so as to not disrupt or block the flow of on-site and off-site vehicular traffic.
c. 
Loading and service areas shall not be located adjacent to residential dwelling units or common open space areas.
d. 
Loading and service areas shall be screened from view with walls, solid fencing, and/or landscape privacy screening as described in Section 17.44.020(E).
5. 
Enhanced Paving for Entrance Driveways. Paving treatment using patterned and/or colored pavers, brick, or decorative colored and/or scored concrete shall be used for entrance driveways, a minimum of 12 feet in length, and spanning the width of the entrance driveway.
Figure 17.44.020(B)(5): ENHANCED PAVING FOR ENTRANCE DRIVEWAYS
6. 
Vehicle Light Intrusion. Vehicle headlights shall be obstructed from direct alignment with habitable interior spaces with a minimum three-foot high evergreen shrub or vine and/or features such as fencing or walls.
C. 
Pedestrian Circulation and Access.
1. 
General. The following pedestrian walkways shall be provided and interconnected within the site:
a. 
Pedestrian walkways shall connect residential dwelling units to areas throughout the site, such as vehicle parking areas, bicycle parking areas, common open space, waste and recycling enclosures, and other amenities.
b. 
Pedestrian walkways shall connect public sidewalks, building entrances, and vehicle parking areas.
c. 
Pedestrian walkways shall connect building entrances and vehicle parking areas through the site interior to all transit stops directly adjacent to the site.
2. 
Pedestrian Walkways. Pedestrian walkways shall be provided with a minimum width of four feet along their entire length and shall be designed as follows:
a. 
Through Lot Connection. Through lots located more than 300 feet from a street intersection, measured from the closest point of the lot, shall provide a publicly accessible sidewalk or walkway connecting the two streets.
b. 
Materials. Walkways shall be constructed of firm, stable and slip-resistant materials, such as poured-in-place concrete (including stamped concrete), permeable paving, decomposed granite, or concrete pavers.
c. 
Paving for Pedestrian Crossings. Where an intersection of pedestrian and vehicle access exists, enhanced paving treatment using patterned and/or colored pavers, brick, or decorative colored and scored concrete shall be used. Pedestrian crossings shall feature enhanced paving a minimum width of five feet and span the length of the intersecting drive area.
FIGURE 17.44.020(C)(2): PEDESTRIAN WALKWAYS
d. 
-OTH Old Town Heritage Overlay District. Covered pedestrian walkways within the -OTH overlay shall contain a repeating colonnade or arcade element.
e. 
Maintenance. Pedestrian walkways shall be maintained in good condition for the life of the project and shall not be allowed to fall into disrepair so as to constitute a nuisance or hazard to the public.
3. 
Enhanced Paving for Building Entrances. Primary building entrances shall provide decorative and accent paving that contrast in color and texture from the adjacent walkway paving. Grasscrete is prohibited.
D. 
Common and Restricted Open Space. Common and restricted open spaces for multiple-unit developments shall comply with the minimums required by the base Zone District in Chapter 17.07, Residential Districts, Section 17.24.120, Mixed-Use Development, and the Rules of Measurement established in Section 17.03.130, Restricted and Common Open Space, of this Title.
1. 
Common Open Space. Projects shall provide common space according to the standards below. Rooftops shall not be used to satisfy any part of the common open space requirement.
a. 
Number of Common Open Spaces. Projects shall provide common open spaces proportionate to the number of dwelling units as established below:
i. 
One to 25 Dwelling Units. At least one common open space shall be provided.
ii. 
26 to 50 Dwelling Units. At least two common open spaces shall be provided.
iii. 
51 to 75 Dwelling Units. At least three common open spaces shall be provided.
iv. 
76 or More Dwelling Units. At least four common open spaces shall be provided.
b. 
Visibility. Common open space shall be located and arranged to allow a clear line of sight into the space from pedestrian walkways on the interior of the site.
E. 
Landscaping. Landscaping shall be used for all outdoor areas that are not specifically used for parking, driveways, walkways, or open space.
1. 
Additional Landscaping Requirements. Landscaping must comply with Chapter 17.34, Landscaping, including requirements for all requirements of the State and City’s Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance (WELO), where applicable.
2. 
Plant Materials. Plant materials are limited to native or non-invasive drought-tolerant species.
3. 
Parking and Loading Area Landscaping. Parking and loading area landscaping must comply with subsection 17.38.110(K), Landscaping.
4. 
Landscape Buffer. A landscape buffer of minimum width of five feet shall be located between all ground-level restricted open spaces and pedestrian walkways. The buffer shall be planted with dense evergreen shrubs and/or vines which grow to or are maintained at a minimum height of four feet.
Figure 17.44.020(E)(4): LANDSCAPE BUFFER
5. 
Pedestrian Walkways. Pedestrian walkways shall be flanked on both sides with landscaping, and may include a mix of turf, groundcover, and shrubs. Both sides of walkways shall provide trees which shall be spaced to shade at least 25 percent of the overall walkway length at maturity.
Figure 17.44.020(E)(5): PEDESTRIAN WALKWAYS
6. 
Number of Plants. A minimum of one 15-gallon tree or equivalent box size and 10 five-gallon shrubs shall be planted for every 1,000 square feet of required landscape area.
7. 
Groundcover. Groundcover shall be sized and located to cover at least 75 percent of all landscape areas that are not planted with shrubs or trees within five years of installation.
a. 
While groundcovers and shrubs are establishing, a minimum layer of three-inch bark mulch or decorative gravel shall be placed within all landscape areas to provide 100 percent coverage of such landscape areas.
8. 
Plant Selection. Artificial or synthetic plants, except for turf, are prohibited. Artificial turf is not permitted in front or street side setbacks.
9. 
Solar Access. Landscaping shall not obstruct solar access to adjacent solar collectors for water heating, space heating or cooling, or electricity generation.
10. 
Privacy. Landscape screening shall obscure direct sight lines into dwelling units and restricted open space areas from communal areas such as parking areas, common mailboxes, and pedestrian walkways. Landscape screening may be used in combination with walls, fencing, and/or trellises to screen views.
a. 
Location. Landscape screening shall fit within associated planting areas and canopy sizes must not overlap with building foundations or eaves.
b. 
Plant Selection. Landscape screening shall use evergreen trees, shrubs, and/or vines located and sized to buffer views. Deciduous species, perennials, and grasses or grass-like plants are not permitted for privacy screening.
c. 
Minimum Sizes. Landscape screening and vegetation shall use the following minimum container sizes at time of planting:
i. 
Trees. 15-gallon size.
ii. 
Shrubs. Five-gallon size.
iii. 
Vines. Five-gallon size.
(Ord. 22-14 § 4; Ord. 24-01, 4/16/2024)

§ 17.44.030 Building Design.

A. 
Building Form, Massing, and Articulation.
1. 
Building Form and Vertical Hierarchy. Buildings that are three stories or more in height shall be designed to differentiate between a defined base; a middle or body; and a top, cornice, or parapet cap. Buildings two stories or less shall include a defined base and a top, cornice, or parapet cap. All buildings shall achieve this effect through at least two of the following:
a. 
Color, texture, or material changes.
b. 
Variations, projections, or reveals in the wall plane.
c. 
Variations in fenestration size or pattern.
d. 
Decorative architectural details, such as cornices and columns.
Figure 17.44.030(A)(1): BUILDING FORM AND VERTICAL HIERARCHY
2. 
Wall Plane Variation. Building façades visible from the primary street shall not extend more than 30 feet in length without either an architectural element or a five-foot variation in depth in the wall plane. Building entrances, front porches, upper-story setbacks, projections, and recessions, such as stoops, bay windows, overhangs, and trellises, count towards this requirement.
Figure 17.44.030(A)(2): WALL PLANE VARIATION
3. 
All-Sided Architecture. Buildings shall be designed and articulated with common details, articulation, materials, and elements on all sides.
4. 
Corner Lots. Buildings located on corner lots shall include one or more of the following features on both street-facing façades, located within 25 feet of the corner of the building closest to the intersection:
a. 
An entrance to a ground-floor use or a primary building entrance.
b. 
A different material application, color, or fenestration pattern of windows and doors from the rest of the façade.
c. 
A change in height of at least 18 inches from the height of the abutting façade.
Figure 17.44.030(A)(4): CORNER LOT TREATMENTS
5. 
Roof Line Variation. Roof lines shall not extend more than a length of 40 feet without at least one prominent change as described below:
a. 
Variation in roof form, such as hip, mansard, gable, shed, and flat with parapet.
b. 
Variation in architectural elements, such as parapets or varying cornices.
c. 
Variation of roof height of at least 18 inches (as measured from the highest point of each roof line).
Figure 17.44.030(A)(5): ROOF LINE VARIATION
6. 
Flat Roofs and Parapets.
a. 
Where rooftop equipment is located within 10 feet of a roof edge, a parapet shall be provided that is a minimum of six inches taller than all roof-top equipment.
b. 
Interior side of parapet walls shall not be visible from a common open space or public right-of-way.
c. 
Parapets shall be capped with precast treatment, continuous banding, projecting cornices, dentils, or similar edge treatment.
B. 
Building and Dwelling Unit Entrances. See subsection 17.44.020(B) for orientation of building and dwelling unit entrances within a site.
1. 
Primary Building Entrance.
a. 
Street-Facing Entrance. Buildings located within 20 feet of the primary street right-of-way shall have a ground-level primary building entrance facing the primary street.
b. 
-OTH Old Town Heritage Overlay District. Buildings located along Hollister Avenue shall provide at least one primary building entrance every 50 feet along Hollister Avenue. Primary building entrances shall provide one or more of the following:
i. 
Entrance flanked by columns, decorative fixtures, or other similar elements.
ii. 
Entrance recessed within a large arch or cased decorative opening.
iii. 
Entrance emphasized by a change in roofline of at least 12 inches, or a tower or similar break in the wall façade.
iv. 
Entrance covered by a large portico projecting at least six feet from the wall façade.
v. 
Entrance covered by an awning.
Figure 17.44.030(B)(1)(b): PRIMARY BUILDING ENTRANCES, OLD TOWN HERITAGE OVERLAY DISTRICT
2. 
Individual Dwelling Unit Entrance.
a. 
General Requirement. All individual unit entrances shall have either a projected sheltering element or be recessed from the main façade; the projection or recess shall have a minimum depth of 24 inches.
b. 
Visibility. All individual unit entrances shall be illuminated or shall face towards a common area or public street.
c. 
Street-Facing Unit Entrance. Each dwelling unit located within 20 feet of a primary street right-of-way shall include at least one street-facing porch, balcony, or patio unless a setback of five feet or less is provided.
d. 
Upper-Floor Unit Entrance. Exterior entrances to individual dwelling units on upper floors are permitted. No exterior access corridor located above the ground floor may provide access to five or more upper-floor dwelling units.
3. 
Architectural Treatments. Entrances for buildings and individual dwelling units shall incorporate at least two of the following architectural treatments:
a. 
Feature window details;
b. 
Towers;
c. 
Decorative veneer or siding;
d. 
Porches or stoops; or
e. 
Changes in roof line or wall plane.
Figure 17.44.030(B)(3): ARCHITECTURAL TREATMENTS FOR ENTRANCES
C. 
Windows and Doors.
1. 
Location. Windows and doors shall be located so they do not directly align with windows and doors of adjacent dwelling units.
2. 
Privacy. Where windows are proposed within 10 feet of a window on another building, the design and placement shall avoid unfiltered/direct views into the adjacent site and shall be designed with one or more of the following:
a. 
Use non-transparent or obscured glazing, such as frosted/patterned glass. Reflective glazing is not permitted.
b. 
Provide permanent architectural screens or affixed louvers at windows.
c. 
Offset windows horizontally at least 12 inches from any windows in adjacent buildings (edge to edge), so as not to have a direct line-of-sight into adjacent units.
3. 
Window Treatment.
a. 
Windows shall either be recessed at least three inches from the plane of the surrounding exterior wall or shall have a trim or windowsill at least one-half inch in depth.
b. 
Windows Facing a Public Street. Windows facing a public street shall feature enhanced window treatments, such as decorative architectural brackets, trim, shutters, awnings, and/or trellises.
Figure 17.44.030(C)(3): WINDOW TREATMENT
D. 
Materials and Colors.
1. 
Wall Material. The primary exterior siding material for buildings shall be wood, composite wood, stone, stone veneer, granite, slate, brick, brick veneer, stucco, plaster, fiber cement, vinyl, aluminum, or steel. The use of exposed plywood or glass curtain walls is prohibited.
2. 
Wall Color. The color of exterior walls shall have a light reflectance value of 50 percent or greater.
3. 
Window Consistency. Window frame materials and color shall be used on all elevations.
4. 
Material and Color Transition. Changes in material or color shall occur at inside corners of intersecting walls or at architectural features that break up the wall plane, such as columns.
Figure 17.44.030(D)(4): MATERIAL AND COLOR TRANSITION
5. 
Accent Material. Use of two or more accent materials, such as glass, tile, brick, stone, concrete, or plaster, shall be incorporated to highlight building features.
6. 
Affordable units and market rate units in the same development shall be constructed of the same exterior materials and details such that the units are not distinguishable from one another in quality and detail.
E. 
Parking Structures.
1. 
Wall Plane Variation. Building façades visible from the primary street shall not extend more than 30 feet in length without at least one of the following: a five-foot variation in depth in the wall plane, architectural element, or other prominent feature that provides visual interest.
2. 
Materials and Colors. The parking structure shall utilize the same colors and materials as the primary buildings.
3. 
Articulation. The exterior of the parking structure shall apply at least one of the following as articulation:
a. 
Applied materials, such as brick, stone, and/or siding, which extend at least two inches from the face of the structure to the face of the applied materials. Painted concrete, smooth concrete, or stucco walls shall not be considered sufficient articulation.
b. 
Decorative architectural features, such as cut metal screens, awnings, trellises, louvers, and/or decorative security grills.
4. 
Vertical Plantings. Vertical plantings shall be located between openings, entrances, and architectural accent features. Plantings shall be evergreen vegetation that will grow to a minimum height equivalent to 75 percent of the height of the parking structure; container size shall be selected to achieve a height of at least 50 percent of the height of the parking structure within at least two years from time of installation.
F. 
Garages and Carports.
1. 
Garages.
a. 
Garage doors shall be recessed a minimum of six inches from the surrounding wall plane.
b. 
Garage doors shall not occupy more than 50 percent of the width of any building façade. This limitation does not apply to detached garages located in the rear half of a lot.
c. 
Garages shall feature at least one of the following treatments:
i. 
Garage door windows.
ii. 
Paneled garage door surface.
iii. 
Two different colors.
2. 
Carports. Carports shall incorporate the same colors and materials as the primary residential or mixed-use building design.
(Ord. 22-14 § 4)

§ 17.44.040 Mixed-Use Standards.

A. 
Ground Floor Height. The ground floor of a mixed-use building shall have a minimum floor height of 12 feet, measured from finished ground floor to the bottom of the finished second floor.
B. 
Ground Floor Transparency. Exterior walls facing a public street shall include transparent windows and doors for at least 50 percent of the building wall area located between three and seven feet above the elevation of the sidewalk. Parking garages are not required to meet the ground floor transparency requirement.
Figure 17.44.040(B): GROUND FLOOR TRANSPARENCY
C. 
Street-Facing Setbacks. Street-facing setbacks shall be landscaped and/or prepared for use by pedestrians. The setback area on each lot shall contain at least two amenities per 50 linear feet, such as benches, drinking fountains, shade structure, or other design element (e.g., public art, planters, kiosks, etc.).
D. 
Street-Facing Entrance. Mixed-use buildings located within 20 feet of a primary street right-of-way shall incorporate at least one primary building entrance directly from the public sidewalk or right-of-way. The primary building entrance shall include weather protection that is a minimum six feet wide and four feet deep by recessing the entrance or providing an awning or similar weather protection element.
(Ord. 22-14 § 4)

§ 17.44.050 Utilitarian Elements.

A. 
Bicycle Parking. Bicycle parking shall comply with the provisions of Section 17.38.090, Bicycle Parking, of this Title.
B. 
Trash, Recycling, and Green Waste Container Enclosures. Enclosures for recycling, green waste, and any other waste containers required by law are required for multiple-unit and mixed-use developments, and shall comply with the provisions of Section 17.24.140, Trash, Recycling, and Green Waste Storage Areas, of this Title. Enclosures shall be located within a building, incorporated into the exterior building design, or located within a detached enclosure designed and placed as follows:
1. 
Location. The enclosure shall be located to the rear or side of the building(s) and located outside of view from a public right-of-way.
2. 
Materials. The enclosure shall incorporate the materials and colors of the primary residential or mixed-use building design.
C. 
Fences and Walls. Fences and walls shall comply with the provisions of Section 17.24.090, Fences, Freestanding Walls, and Hedges, of this Title.
1. 
Fences and walls shall be designed with the same materials and colors as the primary residential or mixed-use building(s).
2. 
Where fences and walls of different materials or finishes intersect, a natural transition or break, such as a column or pilaster, shall be provided.
D. 
Lighting. Lighting shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 17.35, Lighting, of this Title.
E. 
Screening of Mechanical Equipment. Equipment and utilities shall comply with the provisions of Section 17.24.170, Screening of Mechanical Equipment, of this Title.
F. 
Vents and Exhaust. All wall-mounted vent and exhaust elements shall be located at interior corners of building walls or behind building elements that conceal them from public view. All flashing, sheet metal vents, exhaust fans or ventilators, and pipe stacks shall be painted a color to match the adjacent roof or wall material.
(Ord. 22-14 § 4)

§ 17.45.010 Loss of Multi-Unit Dwellings.

In addition to the requirements of Section 17.45.020 below, the City will not allow the demolition or other loss of any conforming dwelling unit unless associated with a project that will create at least as many residential dwellings as will be demolished or lost.
A. 
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, if a dwelling unit is determined by the City's Building Official to be unsafe, presents a public hazard, is not securable, or is in imminent danger of collapse so as to endanger persons or property, it must be demolished. The Building Official's determination in this matter will be governed by applicable law.
(Ord. No. 24-05, 12/3/2024)

§ 17.45.020 New Development Under State Law.

A. 
Any development on a site that currently has residential uses, or within the past five years has had residential uses that have been vacated or demolished, that are or were subject to affordability restrictions as detailed in Government Code Section 65583.2(g)(3), shall replace those units affordable to the same or lower income level in accordance with Government Code Section 65583.2(g)(3).
B. 
In accordance with Government Code Section 66300.6(a), no housing development project, as defined by Government Code Section 65905.5(b)(3), that will require the demolition of a residential dwelling unit shall be approved unless the project will create at least as many residential dwellings as will be demolished.
C. 
In accordance with Government Code Section 66300.6(b), no development project that will require the demolition of occupied or vacant protected units, as that term is defined in Government Code Section 66300.5(h) or that is located on a site where protected units were demolished in the previous five years, shall be approved unless all the requirements of Government Code Section 66300.6(b) are met. When this subsection applies, all applicable requirements of Government Code Section 66300.6(b) must be met.
(Ord. No. 24-05, 12/3/2024)

§ 17.45.030 Timing of Replacement.

The City shall not issue a certificate of occupancy for any other Building Permits for the project until all certificates of occupancy have been issued for the replacement unit(s).
(Ord. No. 24-05, 12/3/2024)