Zoneomics Logo
search icon

Hawaiian Gardens City Zoning Code

CHAPTER 18

70 - NON-RESIDENTIAL REGULATIONS5


Footnotes:
--- (5) ---

Editor's note— Ord. No. 2024-620, § 2(Att.), adopted January 8, 2025, repealed the former Ch. 18.70, §§ 18.70.010—18.70.110, and enacted a new Ch. 18.70 as set out herein. The former Ch. 18.70 pertained to similar subject matter and derived from Ord. 505 § 2, adopted 2006; Ord. 524 § 7, adopted 2008; Ord. 537 § 1, adopted 2011.


18.70.010 - Parking and loading requirements.

The purpose of the parking and loading regulations is to ensure that all land uses provide adequate off-street parking facilities, loading areas, and vehicle movement areas associated with development. The intent of these regulations is to ensure that the use of land does not interfere adversely with the use of and circulation on public rights-of-way, that private on-site circulation does not pose a potential safety problem, and that surrounding uses are insulated from the impacts of off-street parking and loading facilities. Refer to subsection 18.55.010(F) for parking and loading requirements that apply to mixed-use developments in the C-2 and C-4 zones.

A.

Applicability.

1.

Every land use in the City shall provide permanent off-street parking facilities for vehicles and loading spaces in accordance with the provisions of this section.

2.

The minimum standards of this section shall apply to new buildings or uses, proposed additions to or enlargements of existing buildings or uses, and any proposed changes in building occupancy or building use that would require additional parking spaces.

3.

For any proposed changes in building occupancy or building use that require additional parking spaces, such additional parking shall be required only for the new use or as approved by the granting authority. An existing legally nonconforming building or use shall not be required to conform to the requirements of this section unless a discretionary approval is required.

4.

If the total number of additional parking spaces required to accommodate an enlargement, addition, or change in use under the provisions of this section is more than the total number of existing spaces, then the applicant may apply for a reduction of parking spaces in compliance with subsection G., below.

B.

Parking and loading spaces.

1.

Number of parking spaces. Required off-street parking spaces for specific uses are listed below and in Section 18.50.010 residential parking and loading requirements. The requirement for a use not specifically mentioned shall be the same as for a specified use which has the most similar traffic and/or parking generation characteristics, as determined by the Community Development Director.

NON-RESIDENTIAL OFF-STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS
Use Required Parking
A. Civic Uses
 1. Nursery school, day care centers 1 space/staff member plus 1 space/6 children or 1 space/10 children if adequate drop-off facilities are provided; drop-off facilities must be designed to accommodate a continuous flow of passenger vehicles to safely load and unload children; the adequacy of drop-off facilities proposed shall be determined by the approving authority
 2. Convalescent and/or nursing homes 1 space/4 beds
 3. Hospitals 2 spaces/bed
 4. Educational institutions, public or private
 5. Elementary and junior high school 1 space/faculty member and employee plus 1 space/20 students
 6. Senior high schools 1 space/faculty member and employee plus 1 space/8 students
 7. Colleges and vocational schools 1 space/faculty member and employee plus 1 space/2 students
 8. Churches, convents, monasteries, other religious institutions, and other places of public assembly 1 space/4 seats or 1 space/50 sf when there are no fixed seats (20 lineal inches of bench shall be considered 1 fixed seat)
 9. Public utilities To be determined by the approving authority
 10. Public service agencies 1 space/250 sf of gross floor area
 11. Libraries, public or private 1 space/300 sf of gross floor area
B. Office and Professional Uses
 1. Administrative and professional except medical, dental, and related health services 1 space/250 sf of gross floor area
C. Commercial Uses
 1. Shopping centers and general commercial uses
  Less than 5,000 sf in floor area 1 space/250 sf of gross floor area
  Between 5,000 sf and 20,000 sf in floor area 20 spaces plus 1 space/300 sf beyond 5,000 sf of floor area
  More than 20,000 sf in floor area 70 spaces plus 1 space/350 sf beyond 20,000 sf of floor area
 2. Eating and drinking establishments
  a. Fast food restaurants with drive-in or drive-through for at least 8 vehicles when drive-through is included 1 space/100 sf of gross floor area and an on-site queue line for 8 cars
  b. Take out restaurants 1 space/200 sf of gross floor area
  c. Full service sit-down restaurants 1 space/100 sf of gross floor area
  d. Bars, pubs and cocktail lounges 1 space/50 sf of gross floor area
 3. Gasoline dispensing and/or automotive service stations 1 space/250 sf of gross floor area plus 2 spaces per service bay
 4. Appliance and/or furniture stores 1 space/500 sf of gross floor area
 5. Hotels and motels 1 space/unit; 1 space/employee; 2 spaces for the manager
  a. Retirement hotels 0.6 space/unit plus 1 space/office
 6. Auto, trailer, boat, and/or truck sales 1 space/250 sf of office gross floor area plus 1 space/1,000 sf of lot area devoted for outdoor display and sales plus 2 spaces/service bay
 7. Medical and dental offices or clinics, veterinary offices or clinics 1 space/200 sf of gross floor area
 8. Commercial recreation facilities
  a. Bowling alleys, billiard halls 4 spaces/alley, 2 spaces/billiard table plus required parking for any other uses on the site
  b. Driving range (golf) 1 space/tee plus required parking for any other uses on the site
  c. Miniature golf 3 spaces/hole plus required parking for any other uses on the site
  d. Parks (public or private) To be determined by the approving authority
  e. Skating rinks 1 space/100 sf of gross floor area
  f. Tennis, handball, and racquetball 3 spaces/court plus required parking for additional uses on the site
  g. Theaters
   (1) Motion picture 1 space/4 seats plus 1 space/employee
   (2) Playhouse 1 space/4 seats plus 1 space/employee
 9. Financial institutions 1 space/250 sf of gross floor area
 10. Public assembly 1 space/5 seats plus 1 space/employee
 11. Auto repair shops, body and fender repair shops 1 space/250 sf of gross floor area
 12. Car wash
  a. Full service 1 space per employee per shift, with a minimum of 10 spaces
  b. Self-service 2 spaces per wash bay
 13. Arcades, game and video 1 space/200 sf of gross floor area
 14. Dance halls 1 space/7 sf of dance floor area plus 1 space/35 sf of additional gross floor area
 15. Clubs, lodges, and halls 1 space/35 sf of gross floor area within the main auditorium plus required parking for other uses on the site
 16. Adult business 1 space/200 sf of gross floor area
 17. Beauty parlor, hair salon, nail salon, tanning salon 2 spaces per station
 18. Dry cleaners 1 space/250 sf of gross floor area
 19. Laundromats 1 space per 3 washers
D. Industrial Uses
 1. Manufacturing 1 space/500 sf of gross floor area devoted to manufacturing plus 1 space/250 sf of office uses
 2. Research and development 1 space/300 sf of gross floor area
 3. Storage 1 space/1,000 sf of gross area for the first 20,000 sf devoted to storage plus the required parking for square footage devoted to other uses
1 space/2,000 sf for the area in excess of 20,000 sf
1 space/4,000 sf for area in excess of 40,000 sf
 4. Warehousing 1 space/1,000 sf of gross floor area plus 1 space/250 sf of office uses

 

2.

Number of loading spaces. Aside from the required parking spaces, every commercial, industrial or office use shall provide adequate off-street loading areas to accommodate delivery vehicles associated with the use. Loading space requirements are provided in the table below.

NON-RESIDENTIAL OFF-STREET LOADING SPACE REQUIREMENTS
Building Floor Area Required Loading Space
Commercial Uses
Under 15,000 square feet None
15,001 to 45,000 square feet 1 loading space
45,001 to 75,000 square feet 2 loading spaces
75,001 to 105,000 square feet 3 loading spaces
Over 105,000 square feet 4 loading spaces
Industrial Uses
Under 5,000 square feet None
5,001 to 50,000 square feet 1 loading space
50,001 to 100,000 square feet 2 loading spaces
100,001 to 150,000 square feet 3 loading spaces
Over 150,000 square feet 4 loading spaces
Hospitals and Institutions
Under 5,000 square feet None
5,001 to 30,000 square feet 1 loading space
30,001 to 90,000 square feet 2 loading spaces
Over 90,000 square feet 3 loading spaces
Hotels, Motels, Motor Hotels and Office Buildings
Under 5,000 square feet None
5,001 to 40,000 square feet 1 loading space
40,001 to 90,000 square feet 2 loading spaces
Over 90,000 square feet 3 loading spaces

 

a.

Loading space shall be located to serve the site and building without blocking vehicular movement to a driveway or parking stall.

b.

The loading space shall not be permitted in a required off-street parking area.

c.

Individual loading space shall be at least ten feet wide and 24 feet long, with a minimum height clearance of 14 feet.

d.

All loading docks and doors facing a public street shall be screened from view.

e.

Access to the loading space shall not be taken directly from a street. Maneuvering areas shall not include the street right-of-way.

f.

Loading spaces shall be clearly marked with a minimum of three-inch lettering and kept clear and unobstructed at all times when it is not in use.

g.

Loading and unloading areas shall be designed in conformance with Chapter 6.47 of the Hawaiian Gardens Municipal Code, urban stormwater mitigation, management and discharge, and applicable NPDES requirements.

h.

Handicap accessible parking spaces. Handicap accessible parking spaces shall be provided and constructed in accordance with State Building Code (Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations) and the sign requirements of the California Vehicle Code, Sections 22511.7 and 22511.8. In addition, the following standards shall be implemented:

3.

Stacking and waiting lanes. In addition to parking and loading spaces, land uses with drive-in/drive-through facilities such as banks, car washes, fast food restaurants, gas stations, photo-finishing booths, and ATMs shall provide separate stacking and waiting lanes, which do not count toward the required parking spaces. Stacking space for at least five cars at 18 feet each shall be provided.

4.

Fractions. If the calculation of required parking spaces results in a fractional number, the fraction shall be rounded up to the next whole number.

5.

Mixed occupancies. In case of mixed uses within a building or a lot, the total requirements for off-street parking facilities shall be the sum of the requirements for the various uses computed separately. Parking for one use shall not be considered as providing the required parking facilities for any other use, unless specifically allowed under a shared parking arrangement, and complying with the provisions for shared parking below.

6.

On-street parking. On-street parking spaces shall not be used in meeting the required off-street parking spaces.

7.

Walkways. Pedestrian access and walkways adjacent to parking spaces shall not count toward required parking spaces.

C.

Handicap accessible parking spaces. Handicap accessible parking spaces shall be provided and constructed in accordance with State Building Code (Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations) and the sign requirements of the California Vehicle Code Sections 22511.7 and 22511.8. In addition, the following standards shall be implemented:

1.

Handicap accessible parking spaces shall be located on the shortest possible accessible route from adjacent parking to an accessible building entrance. In facilities with multiple accessible building entrances with adjacent parking, handicap accessible parking spaces shall be dispersed and located near the accessible entrances.

2.

Handicap accessible parking spaces shall be provided as follows and shall count towards the total parking spaces required:

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE PARKING SPACES
Total Parking Spaces in the Lot Number of Handicap Accessible Parking Spaces
1 to 25 1
26 to 50 2
51 to 75 3
76 to 100 4
101 to 150 5
151 to 200 6
201 to 300 7
301 to 400 8
401 to 500 9
501 to 1,000 2% of total
Over 1,000 20 plus 1 space per 100 above 1,000

 

D.

Parking layout and dimensions. Parking facilities shall be designed to conform to the following minimum standards:

1.

Parking space, drive aisles, driveways, and other parking lot facilities shall have the minimum dimensions indicated below.

REGULAR PARKING SPACE DIMENSIONS
Space Angle Space Width Space Depth One-Way Aisle Two-Way Aisle* Width of Space Parallel to Aisle
10' 10' 15' 20' 22'
30° 9' 17' 10" 12' 20' 18'
45° 9' 20' 7" 15' 20' 12' 8"
60° 9' 22' 18' 22' 10' 5"
90° 9' 20' 24' 24' 9'

 

*Wider aisles may be required for fire access and emergency vehicles.

2.

Parking spaces parallel to the property line shall not be less than ten feet by 22 feet per vehicle.

3.

For angled parking, the minimum distance of the first parking space for angle parking shall be ten feet from the property line.

4.

Tandem parking arrangements shall not be considered as meeting the minimum requirements established by this section, unless the development requires more than 500 spaces and a valet parking attendant is on duty during business hours.

5.

No more than 20 percent of the required parking spaces shall be compact spaces. All compact spaces shall be marked "Compact" and located as far as possible from buildings. Parking space in excess of those required under this section may be provided as compact spaces. Minimum compact parking space dimensions are provided in the table below.

COMPACT PARKING SPACE DIMENSIONS
Space Angle Space Width Space Depth One-Way Aisle Two-Way Aisle Width of Space Parallel to Aisle
9′ 9′ 14′ 20′ 9′
30° 8′ 15′ - 10″ 12′ 20′ 16′
45° 8′ 18′ - 6″ 15′ 20′ 11′ 3″
60° 8′ 19′ - 8″ 18′ 22′ 9′ 2″
90° 8′ 18′ 24′ 24′ 8′

 

6.

Parking spaces shall be striped to clearly show the layout of the parking stalls. Striping shall be at least four inches in width and shall be maintained in a clear, visible, and orderly manner at all times. Space width shall be measured perpendicularly from center of stripe to center of stripe.

E.

Location of parking facilities. Off-street parking facilities shall be located as specified in this section. Where a distance is specified, such distance shall be the walking distance measured from the nearest point of the parking facilities to the nearest point of the building that such facility is required to serve.

1.

Parking facilities shall be located on the same property as the use the parking is intended to serve, unless a minor exception is granted by the Community Development Director or the use requiring the parking is located in a parking district and all of the following conditions are met.

a.

The parcels containing the use and the off-site parking are under common ownership or appropriate agreements with the property owner of the parking parcel are established prior to approval of the off-site parking facility.

b.

The parcel to be used for parking is not separated or divided from the building or use it is intended to serve by Carson Street, Norwalk Boulevard, other major highway, Coyote Creek or the Artesia-Norwalk Storm Drain Channel.

c.

For hospitals, large group homes, institutions, rooming and lodging houses, adult retirement homes, congregate care facilities, and community clubs, parking facilities shall be located no farther than 150 feet from the facility.

d.

For uses other than those specified above, parking facilities shall be located no farther than 500 feet from the facility.

e.

The use of the off-site parcel would not be detrimental to public safety.

F.

Driveways. Each required parking space shall be provided with adequate ingress and egress through a paved driveway.

1.

Vehicular access.

a.

All uses which adjoin a major highway shall, whenever possible, take access by way of a secondary road. An acceleration/deceleration lane may be required to serve the site if access is from a major highway.

b.

Access to driveways shall be located so as not to interfere with the traffic flow on adjacent streets.

c.

Access driveways across sidewalks or pedestrian ways shall be designed in such a manner as to promote pedestrian safety.

2.

Driveways.

a.

Driveways shall be at least 24 feet wide for two-way traffic and 12 feet wide for one-way traffic if serving a non-residential use.

b.

All driveways shall maintain a vertical clearance of at least ten feet.

c.

No more than one driveway for every 50 feet of street frontage shall be provided for each parcel.

d.

One driveway may serve adjacent uses or abutting properties only if proper easements and agreements are executed and filed with the City and recorded with the County Recorder.

e.

Where required for public safety, appropriate entrance, exit and directional signs shall be posted at the driveways and parking areas and maintained by the property owner.

f.

Abandoned and unused existing driveway approaches shall be removed and replaced with sidewalk, curb, and gutters in accordance with City standards and at the expense of the lot owner.

g.

Fire lanes shall be adequately marked and patrolled to prevent parking and other obstructions.

3.

Parking on driveways.

a.

"No Parking" signs, with lettering not less than two inches in height, shall be conspicuously placed and maintained at the entrance to a driveway and at every 50 feet.

b.

Where the driveway serves more than five parking spaces, no vehicle shall be parked or left on the driveway except for temporary loading and unloading of passengers or goods.

4.

Pedestrian access. Internal walkways shall be provided to assure safe access to the building from parking areas, adjacent properties, and public sidewalks.

G.

Adjustments to off-street parking requirements. The number of parking spaces required by this section may be reduced in compliance with the following requirements and procedures.

1.

Shared parking. Shared parking may be permitted for non-residential multi-tenant properties only to meet the requirements of this section under the following circumstances:

a.

The uses generate parking demands separately such that each use would require parking during hours when the remaining uses are not in operation.

b.

The minimum number of parking spaces provided shall meet the requirements of the use with the single greatest parking demand, based on a shared parking study prepared by the applicant and based upon established standards such as the ITE Parking Manual and the ULI Shared Parking Methodologies.

c.

Shared parking arrangements for commercial centers and industrial developments shall be permitted subject to the following provisions:

i.

The uses sharing the parking facilities shall be located on the same or contiguous lots.

ii.

A 25 percent reduction in parking may be allowed if the combination of uses in the same building or premises will not necessitate the provision of the number of parking spaces that would be required if the uses were developed independently.

iii.

All parties sharing parking facilities shall sign a shared parking agreement, subject to approval by the City Attorney and the Community Development Director, which shall be recorded with the County of Los Angeles Recorder's office. The agreement shall continue to be valid upon change of ownership of the property subject to the agreement or any lawfully existing building or structure on said properties.

iv.

Shared parking arrangements shall be authorized by a minor use permit issued by the Community Development Director for the use for which the parking is provided.

v.

The parcel to be used for shared parking is not separated or divided from any building or use it is intended to serve by Carson Street, Norwalk Boulevard, other major highway, Coyote Creek or the Artesia-Norwalk Storm Drain Channel.

vi.

For hospitals, large group homes, institutions, rooming and lodging houses, adult retirement homes, congregate care facilities, and community clubs, shared parking facilities shall be located no farther than 150 feet from the farthest facility or use.

vii.

For uses other than those specified above, shared parking facilities shall be located no farther than 500 feet from the farthest facility or use.

viii.

The shared parking facilities shall not be detrimental to public safety.

2.

Parking management plan. When a parking management plan to mitigate impacts associated with a reduction in the number of required off-street parking spaces is required by this section, the parking management plan shall include the following applicable parking management mechanisms:

a.

Restricting land uses to those that have hours or days of operation so that same parking spaces can be used by two or more uses without conflict.

b.

Restricting land uses with high parking demand characteristics.

c.

Restrictions on the number or location of employee parking spaces.

d.

Securing off-site parking in compliance with subsection 18.70.010(E) location of parking facilities.

e.

Providing parking attendants and valet parking.

f.

Parking area design, including the use of tandem parking and variations on the dimensions normally required by this chapter.

3.

Minor exception. The Community Development Director may approve a minor exception to reduce parking requirements by up to ten percent under the following conditions:

a.

Change in use. Parking requirements, increased by virtue of a change in use, may be reduced by the Community Development Director when all of the following conditions are present:

i.

The structure(s) was designed and intended for nonresidential use; and

ii.

The structure(s) was built before the effective date of the current parking requirements.

b.

Expansion of structure area. Parking requirements, increased by virtue of an expansion of structure area may be reduced with the approval of a minor exception when all of the following conditions are present:

i.

No substantial change in use or intensification is involved. That is, the expansion is in relation to the existing lines or types of merchandise carried or service provided and no new product lines or types of merchandise or services are being added as a result of the expansion;

ii.

The increase in floor area does not exceed 25 percent of the existing gross floor area;

iii.

The probable long-term occupancy of the structure, based on its design, will not generate additional parking demand; and

iv.

The structure or structures were originally built before the effective date of the current parking requirements.

H.

General requirements.

1.

Off-street parking facilities for a specific building or use shall not be applied towards the minimum parking requirements for other buildings or uses.

2.

All off-street parking areas, driveways, and driving aisles shall be paved, striped, and marked to clearly define access lanes, parking spaces and internal circulation, in accordance with adopted City standards. Such surfacing shall be designed, constructed, and maintained to prevent surface water ponding. Drainage of runoff shall not be allowed across public sidewalks. Every three years, all parking areas and drive aisles shall be slurry sealed.

3.

Driveways and parking areas shall be surfaced and improved with Portland concrete cement or asphaltic concrete and maintained in good serviceable condition at all times.

4.

All off-street parking facilities shall be kept clean and free of dust, mud, or trash on a regular maintenance schedule. Where landscaping is provided, adequate irrigation and maintenance shall be provided.

5.

Fuel station pump islands shall not count as required parking.

6.

Bicycle or motorcycle parking stalls shall not count as required parking spaces.

7.

Bumpers, wheel stops, stall markings, and other vehicular controls are required for off-street parking facilities serving uses other than single family residential as set forth in the City of Hawaiian Gardens' Public Works Standards. Planting aisles may be used in lieu of bumpers or wheel stops at the discretion of the Community Development Director. Vehicles may overhang in a landscaped planter box, provided that the encroachment does not exceed one foot.

8.

Parking areas shall be separated from an adjacent street or alley by a fence or a concrete curb not less than five inches in height. Curbs shall be installed a minimum of four feet from any wall, fence, building, street, alley, right-of-way or other structure. The minimum standard curb radius shall be six feet at all aisle corners. Concrete curbs shall also be installed along the borders of parking areas, driveways, loading areas and similar facilities where they abut landscaped areas.

9.

Lighting of open parking areas shall be cut-off lighting directed toward the parking surface to avoid light and glare impacts to adjacent properties.

10.

If off-street parking facilities for an existing use do not conform to the minimum requirements of this section, the use will not be considered a nonconforming use pursuant to Section 18.100.130 nonconforming uses and structures.

11.

Required parking spaces and areas shall be maintained for the duration of the use requiring such areas.

12.

Required parking spaces shall not be placed in front of entry points or doorways.

13.

Parking areas for five or more vehicles and abutting a residential zone shall be separated from the residential lot by a six-foot high solid masonry wall. The wall along the front yard area of the adjacent lot shall be no more than 42 inches high.

I.

Use of parking areas.

1.

Required parking and loading spaces and areas shall not be used for the sale or display of goods and services, or for the sale, display, or repair of motor vehicles.

2.

Temporary use of parking areas for special events or sales may be permitted subject to the conditions of the temporary use permit for the temporary use.

3.

All required off-street parking spaces shall be designed, located, constructed and maintained so as to be fully and independently usable and accessible at all times during business hours.

4.

No owner or tenant shall lease, rent, or otherwise make unavailable to intended users any off-street parking spaces required by this title.

5.

All non-residential off-street parking facilities shall be used for the purpose of parking temporary vehicles used only by employees or patrons of the facility. Any parking reconfiguration or use shall be approved by the Community Development Director. No parking facilities shall be rented or leased for any purpose unless approved by the Community Development Director.

J.

Parking districts.

1.

Establishment of parking districts. The City Council may establish parking districts that are intended to:

a.

Address the parking needs within a designated area on an area-wide basis rather than on a parcel-by-parcel basis;

b.

Establish parking management programs to achieve the most efficient use of available parking facilities within a designated area;

c.

Reduce traffic congestion and parking shortages; and

d.

Encourage common and joint use parking facilities.

e.

Required parking spaces and areas shall be maintained for the duration of the use requiring such areas.

2.

In-lieu fee required. Within parking districts established by the City Council and shown on the zoning map, off-street parking requirements for nonresidential uses may be satisfied by payment of an in-lieu parking fee established by the City Council. Payment of the in-lieu fee shall be made before issuance of a building permit or a certificate of occupancy.

3.

Use of revenue. Fee revenue shall be used to provide public parking lots in the vicinity of the uses paying the in-lieu fee.

(Ord. No. 2024-620, § 2(Att.), 1-8-2025)

18.70.020 - Landscaping and screening.

The purpose of this section is to provide landscaping and buffering guidelines to improve the aesthetic appearance of the City and to promote compatibility between land uses. In addition, this section encourages the use of water efficient techniques in the design and maintenance of landscaping, promotes the safety of pedestrians and motorists, and enhances the distinctive character of the City. This section shall apply to all new projects, additions and existing properties. Refer to subsection 18.55.010(H) for landscaping and screening requirements that apply to mixed-use developments in the C-2 and C-4 zones.

A.

Landscaping standards.

1.

Landscaped area. At least ten percent of the project site shall be landscaped, which may include parking lot areas and required setback areas.

2.

Landscape design. All open areas within a project site including required setback areas, excluding parking areas and driveways, shall be landscaped with sod, shrubs, and trees. A minimum one tree shall be installed for every 200 square feet of landscaped area. A combination of 24- and 36-inch box evergreen trees shall be used.

a.

Landscape designs shall consider such factors as the function of the landscape elements, compatibility to the area, consistency with the building and its architectural design.

b.

The plant material selected shall be suitable for the given soil and climate conditions and shall be in accordance with the City's standard plant material palette, as approved by the Community Development Director.

c.

The landscape plan shall incorporate measures for the preservation of existing mature trees on site, as feasible. The area under the drip line of existing trees which are to be saved shall be fenced during construction to protect the trees from damage and to prevent soil compaction, along with other tree protection measures as necessary.

d.

Yard areas and all unpaved open areas shall be landscaped with sod, trees and/or shrubs.

3.

Installation of required landscaping. All required landscaping shall be installed prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy from the Building and Safety Division.

4.

Safety. Trees and shrubs shall be planted in a manner that at maturity they do not interfere with utility lines, sight lines for traffic safety or encroach on adjacent property.

5.

Irrigation of landscaping. All landscaped areas shall include an automation irrigation system approved by the City that provides adequate coverage and irrigation. Water runoff into the public right-of-way is prohibited. Efficient water conservation systems such as drip irrigation systems are encouraged.

6.

Maintenance guarantee. The owner or responsible person of the development project is responsible for maintaining or assuring the ongoing maintenance of installed landscaping so that the landscaping continues to thrive. This shall include proper pruning, mowing of lawns, weeding, removal of litter, fertilizing, replacement of plants when necessary and application of appropriate quantities of water to all landscaped areas. In addition, landscape maintenance practices which foster long term landscape water conservation shall be employed.

B.

Parking lot landscaping.

1.

Requirement. All landscaped areas shall be continuously maintained. The landscape areas shall include at least one tree per 200 square feet, under planted with groundcover. A combination of 24- and 36-inch box evergreen trees shall be used. Landscaping fingers at least four feet in width shall be provided for every ten parking stalls within any parking row. Where double rows of parking are provided, diamond or island planters shall be provided at an interval of one planter for every ten pairs of parking stalls.

2.

Street frontage. For commercial developments, a landscape strip a minimum of five feet wide shall be provided along the street frontage of a parking lot in compliance with subsection D., below.

3.

Planting bed requirements. The planting bed shall have a width of no less than four feet, a minimum area of 24 square feet, and be bounded by a concrete curb or equal, having a height of six inches. The dimensions of the concrete curb shall not count toward the required area requirements for the planting bed.

4.

Distribution of landscaping. In complying with the ten percent landscaping requirement, the landscaping shall be distributed throughout the parking areas as evenly as possible.

5.

Utilization of additional space. All areas in a parking lot not used for driveways, maneuvering areas, parking spaces, trash or equipment enclosures or walks, shall be landscaped and maintained.

6.

Irrigation. Landscape design shall facilitate the implementation of landscape maintenance practices which foster long-term water conservation.

C.

Plant materials. The planted area shall use a combination of trees, shrubs, vines on walls and ground cover/sod/perennials shrubs. Plants selected shall be checked for suitability in regard to eventual size and spread, susceptibility to disease and pests, and adaptability to existing soil and climatic conditions. Landscape design and construction shall emphasize drought-tolerant materials when possible. All landscape materials shall be subject to approval by the Community Development Director for appropriateness and consistency with the objective of water conservation.

1.

Trees. Trees shall be a combination of 24- and 36-inch box size at the time of planting.

2.

Shrubs. Shrubs shall be a minimum 15 gallons in size at the time of planting.

3.

Ground cover. Ground cover shall be used throughout, and be planted at least eight inches on center. At least 50 percent of all landscaped areas containing trees and shrubs shall be underplanted with groundcover, with the remaining areas to incorporate a minimum two-inch layer of compost or mulch.

4.

Turf. Sod incorporated into the landscape design shall not constitute more than 25 percent of the total landscaping area. Said turf shall be of a drought-tolerant variety.

5.

Location of trees.

a.

Trees within a parcel or street trees shall be located and maintained to preserve a clear zone of at least ten feet from fire hydrants, utility poles, overhead utility wires, street light luminaries, and aboveground utility structures such as transformer enclosures.

b.

All trees shall be planted at least five feet from underground utility such as water, storm drain, gas, electric and telephone, and eight feet from sanitary sewer lines.

c.

Trees shall not obstruct vision clearance areas.

d.

The tree shall be at least three feet from any meter box.

e.

The tree shall be at least eight feet from driveways.

f.

Street trees shall be provided within the public right-of-way (ROW) or within a five-foot wide easement behind the ROW. Generally, the tree shall be located approximately three feet behind the curb or sidewalk.

g.

Tree wells shall be provided around trees located within the parkway of a public right-of-way.

h.

Street trees shall be 40-foot palm trees or other species as approved by the Community Development Director.

6.

Number of trees. There shall be a minimum of one street tree for every 25 linear feet of street frontage within or adjacent to the development.

7.

Street tree maintenance and replacement.

a.

Newly planted trees shall be watered until established and shall be maintained in a flourishing manner. Trees shall be replaced consistent with the City's suggested street tree list.

b.

All street trees and parkways shall be watered and maintained by the abutting owner in front of whose property such trees are planted.

c.

The planting, removal, trimming, pruning of trees in all public parks, parkways and street right-of-way within the City of Hawaiian Gardens shall be maintained by the Public Works Department.

D.

Perimeter buffering/screening.

1.

Screening requirement. Perimeter buffering, which may include a combination of landscape materials, low level walls and structures, shall be used to screen parking areas, loading areas, and utilities from public view.

2.

Perimeter landscape strip. A landscape strip shall be provided and maintained, except in a required driveway or other access area that is no less than five feet in depth measured horizontally from the front property line adjacent to the public right-of-way. The perimeter landscape strip shall consist of trees, shrubs, groundcover, and/or turf.

3.

Buffer areas abutting residential use. A landscape buffer shall be provided and maintained on non-residential sites when the side or rear yard of the parcel abuts a residentially zoned parcel. The buffer area shall be planted with a minimum of one tree per every ten linear feet along the adjacent property line. Tree placement does not have to be linear or equal spacing. Shrubs, groundcover, and/or turf shall be planted to provide 100 percent coverage within one year of planting. Where possible, vines shall be grown onto walls and fences to soften their appearance.

E.

Landscape design review. All landscape plans shall be reviewed and approved by the Community Development Director. Plans shall be prepared by a landscape designer. All quantities, species, and spacing shall be determined by the Community Development Director. Landscape plans are to be designed so as to achieve an immediate effect and shall have at least 75 percent of actual planted area.

(Ord. No. 2024-620, § 2(Att.), 1-8-2025)

18.70.030 - Trash and recycling enclosures.

The purpose of this section is to ensure that all uses in the City are provided with trash receptacles to promote public health and safety, as well as to screen areas used for the storage of trash receptacles from public view. This section shall apply to all new developments, additions and existing properties. Refer to subsection 18.55.010(I)(2)(c) for landscaping and screening requirements that apply to mixed-use developments in the C-2 and C-4 zones.

A.

Trash receptacles.

1.

All waste material, debris, refuse or garbage shall be kept in an enclosed building or properly contained in a closed container designed for such purposes. Each development shall be provided with facilities for the storage and collection of trash.

2.

All trash, rubbish, recycling, and garbage receptacles shall be regularly cleaned, inspected and maintained in clean, safe and sanitary conditions.

3.

All trash storage shall be located for convenient vehicular access for pick up and disposal.

4.

Trash and recycling receptacles shall not be stored within the setback area of a rear or side yard which abuts a public street. If located or placed in such rear or side yard, the receptacles shall be screened from view from such street.

B.

Collection areas. Commercial, industrial, and other non-residential developments shall provide on-site collection areas of trash, waste, garbage refuse, and recyclable materials.

1.

Trash collection areas shall be located within 200 feet of the building they are designed to serve.

2.

All outside trash and garbage collection areas shall be enclosed by a view-obscuring masonry wall, six feet in height on three sides, so that contents are not visible from any public street or adjacent property.

3.

Trash enclosures shall be provided in accordance with the following:

a.

Trash enclosures shall have a minimum of 35 square feet in area. The size of the enclosure(s) shall be determined by the Community Development Director, based upon the size and nature of the facility.

b.

Trash enclosures shall be six feet high, constructed of concrete blocks and shall have screened gates or doors that are self-closing and latching.

c.

Trash enclosures shall be provided with a roof.

d.

The floor of the trash enclosure shall be a concrete pad which shall extend five feet beyond the opening of the trash enclosure.

e.

The gate or door shall be of sufficient width to provide convenient access to the storage area for deposit and removal of wastes, waste bins, and other contents.

f.

The trash enclosure shall be provided with a lid or cover if the bins are left open, to prevent windblown trash and debris.

g.

Clear visibility for adjacent drive aisles shall be maintained.

h.

Trash enclosures shall be located so as to minimize disturbance to single family residential development. Trash enclosures shall be at least 50 feet away from any single-family residential zone, unless the adjacent property is undeveloped and the City determines that the setback will not fulfill its intended purpose at the present time.

i.

In accordance with Section 6.47.090 of the Hawaiian Gardens Municipal Code, trash enclosure areas shall not be designed in the path of drainage nor shall roof drainage downspouts discharge into the trash enclosure.

j.

The disposal of hazardous wastes into trash containers used for municipal trash disposal so as to cause a discharge into the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) is prohibited by law.

(Ord. No. 2024-620, § 2(Att.), 1-8-2025)

18.70.040 - Fences, walls, gates, and hedges.

This section outlines the regulations for the design, construction, and maintenance of fences, walls, gates, and hedges for the separation of parcels and property, and as a means of promoting privacy, preventing nuisance impacts on adjacent uses, and promoting community character. All non-residential developments shall be improved with a fence or wall in accordance with the provisions below, except for the front yard setback, which is optional. The property owner shall be responsible for the construction of any walls or fences that occur within their property. The Community Development Director may require that the lot be surveyed by a licensed surveyor for verification of lot lines prior to construction.

Although most walls and fences under six feet in height do not require building permits, property owners are required to submit plans to the Community Development Department for administrative review. This section shall apply to all new projects, additions and existing properties.

Refer to subsection 18.55.010(I) for fences, walls, gates, and hedges requirements that apply to mixed-use developments in the C-2 and C-4 zones.

A.

Maximum heights.

1.

Any fence, wall, gate, or hedge located in the required front yard shall be between a minimum height of 36 inches and a maximum height of 42 inches if made of solid materials or a maximum height of 48 inches if it is a wrought iron fence or combination thereof. Fences or walls adjacent to side and rear property lines shall be six feet in height.

2.

Plant materials provided within side and rear yards, which are used for buffering, may exceed eight feet in height, provided that they do not obscure the vision of any driveway approach.

3.

The portion of the fence or wall functioning as a retaining wall shall be counted in determining the overall fence or wall height. The height of the wall or fence shall be measured from the finished grade of the adjacent sidewalk.

4.

No fence, wall, or hedge located within the rear 20 feet of a through lot shall exceed 42 inches in height.

5.

Under no circumstance shall any wall or fence be allowed to exist anywhere on the property that exceeds the height limitations of the respective setback area as described above between the perimeter property line and the face of the building.

6.

The owner of any vacant lot or unoccupied building shall be responsible for keeping such land free of all rubbish, refuse, weeds and debris and enclosed by a six-foot chain link fence around the entire perimeter of the property. The fence shall be installed with the proper top rails and post at the proper intervals. The fence shall be knuckled at the bottom and top to avoid sharp edges. Access gates shall be adequately provided for vehicle entry.

7.

All swinging gates shall be prohibited from encroaching into the public right-of-way.

8.

If a fence or wall is constructed adjacent to a public street, the fence or wall shall be approved by the Community Development Director in terms of its compatibility and harmony with the proposed building and overall site development.

9.

All fences walls and hedges must conform to the vision clearance areas. See Section 18.90.120.

B.

Materials.

1.

Masonry, wrought iron fencing materials or combination thereof shall be used for fences, walls, or gates. Existing block walls may be salvaged at the discretion of the Community Development Director, provided the wall is repaired and resurfaced with a stucco coating. Chain link fencing is not permitted in the City.

2.

Vine-covered walls shall be allowed subject to approval by the Community Development Director.

3.

No barbed or razor wire shall be used or maintained as part of any fence, wall, gate or hedge. No sharp point, including glass, shall project from the top of the fence or wall.

4.

No salvaged materials, scrap wood, or recycled materials shall be used for fencing or walls. Fencing and walls shall be constructed with all new materials.

5.

Existing legal nonconforming fences or walls should be maintained or repaired.

6.

All swinging gates shall be prohibited from encroaching into the public right-of-way.

7.

Plastic slats may be used as a screening material for existing chain link fences. No other material or fabric may be used for screening or attached on any type of fence in the City.

8.

It shall be the applicant's responsibility to eliminate double wall at property lines. The developer shall make every effort with neighboring parcels to negotiate a new wall and cover all expenses.

(Ord. No. 2024-620, § 2(Att.), 1-8-2025)

18.70.050 - Lighting and security.

This section regulates lighting and security standards for non-residential developments. The intensity and design of all lighting fixtures shall be reviewed and subject to the approval of the Community Development Director. Refer to subsection 18.55.010(H)(3)(i) for lighting and security requirements that apply to mixed-use developments in the C-2 and C-4 zones.

A.

Security lighting. Ample security and safety lighting shall be provided within all portions of the development, including parking lot lighting, step lighting and other illumination necessary to assure safety.

B.

Location. The placement of exterior lights shall not direct light into adjacent structures or lots or into vehicular traffic on off-site adjacent roadways.

C.

Design. Incorporation of lighting on a building shall emphasize architectural details, materials, surface elements, and/or colors, and avoidance of excessively bright or glaring illumination. All fixtures shall be of the same basic or complementary design to assure visual continuity.

D.

Glare. Exterior lighting (except for street lighting and warning, emergency or traffic signals) shall be installed in such a manner that the light source will be sufficiently obscured to prevent glare on public streets and walkways or into any residential area.

E.

Shields. Exposed sources of light shall be shielded so as not to create a nuisance across lot lines.

F.

Lighting for signs. Light sources and fixtures provided as part of a sign are regulated under Section 18.90.050 signs and advertisements.

(Ord. No. 2024-620, § 2(Att.), 1-8-2025)

18.70.060 - Outdoor storage, display and uses.

The section regulates outdoor storage and the use of yard areas for storage, display, or parking in the non-residential zones. All screening shall be in compliance with Section 18.70.040 and subject to approval by the Community Development Director.

A.

Limitation on outdoor uses. All uses shall be conducted totally within an enclosed building or structure, except for those uses that are customarily conducted in the open, including: auto trailer sales areas, car sales area, miniature golf course, service stations, tree/plant nurseries, drive in restaurants, Christmas tree sales, temporary storage of contractor supplies during construction, patio dining, and other uses determined to be similar as approved by the Community Development Director.

B.

Front and side yards. No portion of any required front yard or side yard on the street side of a corner lot shall be used for the storage of motor vehicles, trailers, airplanes, boats, or parts of these vehicles, trailers, airplanes, or boats.

C.

Equipment. All materials, machinery, and equipment shall be stored within an enclosed building or fully screened so as not to be visible from adjoining or adjacent lots, except for the following: off-street parking of passenger vehicles or pick-up trucks.

D.

Recreation vehicles. Recreational equipment shall not be stored on non-residential parcels unless enclosed within a building.

E.

Vehicle storage. Overnight exterior storage of more than ten vehicles or use of more than ten percent of lot area for storage or activities not located within an enclosed building shall require a minor use permit.

F.

Mechanical equipment. All mechanical equipment, including air conditioning compressors and similar machinery, located on roof tops or at the ground level shall be completely screened from view by an enclosure constructed of permanent, noncombustible materials that is consistent with the architectural design and color of the adjacent building. All such equipment shall be maintained in a clean and proper condition, to prevent the collection of litter and debris and to avoid emission of unnecessary noise, dust, or fumes. Refer to subsection 18.55.010(I)(2)(b) for enclosure requirements related to utility and mechanical equipment that apply to mixed-use developments in the C-2 and C-4 zones.

G.

Building materials. No portion of any property shall be used for storage of building materials, except when required for ongoing construction pursuant to a valid building permit issued by the City.

H.

Service station vehicles. Vehicles and equipment shall not be stored outside of a building when the repair service portion of a service station is not open for business.

I.

Outdoor display. Outdoor display of for rent or sale vehicles, equipment, garden supply, or building materials are not permitted in non-residential zones. An exception would be the private sale of a vehicle.

1.

A building not less than 300 square feet of floor area shall be provided in the same parcel or adjacent parcel.

2.

Display materials shall be set back five feet from the street and shall not be located within required parking areas.

3.

Areas used for display shall be surfaced with two inches of black top or other hard pavement.

J.

Painting. Painting (except color matching) and sandblasting shall not occur in the open unless properly screened.

K.

Repair and construction activities. Outdoor maintenance activities shall occur only from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday. No construction allowed on Sunday.

L.

Containers. Containers, trash bins, and other storage containers used for outdoor storage shall be subject to the following standards:

1.

No more than one container is allowed on any one parcel.

2.

Containers shall not be used for outdoor storage for more than 30 days.

3.

Use of containers shall be subject to approval of a temporary use permit by the Community Development Director.

(Ord. No. 2024-620, § 2(Att.), 1-8-2025)

18.70.070 - Height of structures.

A.

Height of buildings. No penthouse or roof structures for the housing of elevators, stairways, tanks, ventilating fans or similar equipment, towers, steeples, or other structures shall exceed the height limit provided in this title.

B.

Height of structures. Flagpoles, HVAC equipment, elevator shafts, chimneys, and smokestacks shall not extend more than ten feet above the height limit specified in this title, provided that the same may be safely erected and maintained at such height in view of the surrounding conditions and circumstances.

(Ord. No. 2024-620, § 2(Att.), 1-8-2025)

18.70.080 - Property maintenance.

This section outlines the regulations relating to the maintenance of private property in the City, so as to protect the public health, safety and welfare and to create and maintain a livable community.

A.

Property owner responsibility.

1.

Every owner, lessee, occupant or person having charge of property within the City is required to maintain such property in a manner so as not to create any hazard to the health, safety and welfare of the public or to violate the provisions of this section.

2.

No use or activity shall create any amount of heat, humidity, blowing or vented air or gases that can be detected in amounts deemed annoying to an average person at the property line, unless a solid fence shields the source sufficiently from the adjoining lot.

3.

All uses shall be conducted totally with an enclosed building, except for those uses which are customarily conducted in the open, as determined by the Community Development Director.

4.

The owner, lessee, occupant or person having charge of property remains liable for violations hereof regardless of any contract or agreement with any third party regarding such property. The duty imposed by this section on a property owner shall in no instance relieve those persons herein referred to from the similar duty.

B.

Classification of nuisances. The following acts and conditions when performed or existing upon any lot or parcel of land within the City are declared to be unlawful and are defined as and declared to be public nuisances which are injurious or potentially injurious to the public health, safety and welfare, which have a tendency to degrade the appearance and property values of surrounding property or which cause damage to public rights-of-way:

1.

Structures or buildings, both permanent and temporary, or other lot improvements, which are subject to any of the following conditions:

a.

Faulty weather protection including, but not limited to, crumbling, cracked, missing, broken, or loose exterior plaster or other siding, roofs, windows, doors, or unpainted or deteriorated surfaces causing unsightliness, dry rot, warping or termite infestation, structures covered with temporary tarps.

b.

Buildings or structures which are not completed and left unfinished within six months of the set construction schedule and for which the permit for such construction has expired.

c.

Unoccupied buildings which have been left unlocked or otherwise open or unsecured from intrusion by persons, animals or the elements or which are boarded up by a method or materials not approved by the Community Development Department.

d.

Fences or walls which are in a hazardous condition, or which are in disrepair, or which hinder free access to public sidewalks.

e.

Abandoned or unoccupied buildings which have been left to remain stagnant and deteriorating causing unsightliness.

f.

Abandoned or unoccupied buildings which have been left to remain stagnant and deteriorating, causing unsightliness.

g.

Structures that have not been repainted in a uniform color throughout as a result of graffiti or maintenance.

h.

Structures that have been repainted to a non-earth tone color.

2.

Dead, decayed, diseased or hazardous trees; weeds and other overgrown vegetation likely to harbor rats, vermin or nuisances or weeds and other vegetation which constitutes a fire hazard.

3.

Inoperative, disabled, dismantled or partially dismantled vehicles, trailers, campers, boats, and other mobile equipment, including non-motorized trailers, stored in areas not intended for storage or as a primary use.

4.

Hazardous pools, ponds, iceboxes, refrigerators, neglected machinery, excavations or stagnant water.

5.

Storage or scattering over the property of any of the following:

a.

Debris, rubbish or trash not stored in trash receptacles.

b.

Abandoned, discarded, broken, wrecked, inoperable or discarded furnishings, appliances, machines and tools, or similar objects of equipment.

c.

Discarded building materials, machinery, parts, remnants, unusable inventory.

d.

Use of tarps for areas used for storage or other use visible from the public right-of-way.

6.

Packing boxes and other debris materials or objects stored in yards and visible from public streets.

7.

Trash and recycling receptacles stored in front or side yards and visible from public streets.

8.

Temporary signs that advertise or are related to events which have already taken place.

9.

Abandoned signs which no longer correctly identifies, exhorts or advertises any person, business, lessor, owner, product or activity conducted or available on the premises where such sign is located and which has not been changed or removed within one month of a tenancy change.

10.

Unpaved or deteriorated parking lots containing uneven surfaces, drainage problems or that are hazardous to the public.

11.

All activities conducted that are objectionable by reason of noise, odor, dust, mud, smoke, vibration, or other similar causes.

12.

Maintenance of premises in such condition as to be detrimental to the public health, safety or general welfare or in such manner as to constitute a public nuisance as defined by Section 3480 of the California Civil Code.

13.

Outdoor ornaments, decorations and Christmas lighting being displayed between the months of February through October.

14.

Uses not expressly permitted or conditionally permitted by the underlying zoning regulations.

C.

Declaration of nuisance. Whenever the Community Development Director finds that a nuisance, as defined above, exists on any premises located within the City, the Director shall serve upon the property owner a notice of violation in accordance with the provisions of Section 18.100.180 enforcement of this Zoning Code. In addition, the Community Development Director may enforce the Zoning Code through the administrative citation process as outlined in Chapters 1.12 and 1.13 of the Hawaiian Gardens Municipal Code.

(Ord. No. 2024-620, § 2(Att.), 1-8-2025)

18.70.090 - Non-residential design guidelines.

A.

Design guidelines have been developed to promote high quality development, to protect the City from the adverse effects of poor design, to encourage originality, creativity, and compatibility within the neighborhood, and to enhance the beauty, livability and prosperity of the community. All development within the City, including additions, shall conform to the design standards outlined below. These standards shall be utilized during the site plan review and approval process for each development. Compliance with the design guidelines shall be determined by the Community Development Director. Refer to Section 18.55.010 for design standards that apply to mixed-use developments in the C-2 and C-4 zones. Applicability. New buildings and structures, exterior remodeling and exterior changes of or to an existing building for which compliance with this Zoning Code is required shall be subject to review for compliance with the design standards in this section. However, the following buildings, physical improvements, and site development are not subject to these standards:

1.

Interior design and interior modifications to buildings or structures.

2.

Remodeling projects that do not involve changes in the architectural style of the building or structure, such as window and door openings, handrails, and stairways.

3.

Seismic retrofit projects.

B.

General provisions.

1.

Development shall be compatible with the character of the neighborhood and surrounding sites and shall not be detrimental to the orderly and harmonious development of the surrounding areas and of the City. The height and bulk of any proposed building and structure on site should be in scale and in proportion with surrounding structures and not dominate the site or neighborhood.

2.

All required site plans shall meet or exceed the minimum development standards (i.e., setbacks, open space, density, signage, lighting standards, minimum parking and loading areas, and landscaping requirements) established in this Zoning Code.

3.

Site plan and layout of buildings, parking areas, pedestrian and vehicular access ways, and other site features shall give proper consideration to on-site circulation.

4.

Site access and circulation shall not negatively impact adjacent roadways or neighborhood traffic.

5.

Electrical and similar mechanical equipment and trash and storage areas shall be screened from public view.

6.

Archaeological and historical resources should be preserved and protected to the extent feasible.

7.

Commercial development shall not have significant adverse effects (such as lighting glare, traffic, building mass/scale, excessive noise) on residences in an abutting residential district.

8.

A solid masonry wall of six feet in height (minimum and maximum) shall be constructed along the side and rear property lines that abut a parcel that has a different zone than the parcel proposed for development. Landscaping (trees and shrubs) shall be incorporated adjacent to the non-residential side of the wall to help break up and soften the impact of long, flat wall surfaces.

9.

Building elevations, design characteristics and other architectural and aesthetic features, shall not be unsightly, undesirable, or obnoxious in appearance; shall create an orderly and aesthetically pleasing environment; and shall be harmonious and compatible with existing development in the area.

10.

New development or remodeling shall be designed in such a way as to upgrade the appearance and quality of the area.

11.

No use activity or process shall be conducted which produces electromagnetic interference with radio or television reception in neighboring residential or commercial areas.

12.

New development should incorporate energy and water conservation design to the extent possible.

13.

Address numbers shall be clearly visible from the frontage street.

14.

All backflow devices shall be screened from public view and integrated into the site plan in a way that does not detract from the appearance of the building.

15.

All utility lines shall be placed underground, including facilities and wires for power, telephones, gas, cable television, etc. All conduit lines shall be incorporated into the building and not permitted on the exterior of any building.

16.

Window and door security gates or guards may only be installed on the interior of the structure.

C.

Design guidelines. The following guidelines shall be utilized for site plan review, as applicable.

1.

In addition to the height and setback requirements for each zone, changes in material, height, projections in the vertical and horizontal plane or similar façade changes are required on visible exterior building walls.

2.

No continuous building wall is allowed to extend for more than 50 feet without a recess or change in plane.

3.

Rooftop equipment shall be incorporated into the design of the structure so that it is completely enclosed on all sides and concealed from view by at least six-inch high screening, roofing or parapet above the uppermost part of the equipment.

4.

Conduit lines shall be incorporated into the building and not permitted on the exterior of any building.

5.

An elevation of a building facing the sidewalk shall be visually and physically penetrable, incorporate architectural elements to provide visual interest and relief from flat surfaces (e.g., textured materials, offset planes, differentiated piers and columns, recessed entries and windows, and awnings), and compatibly landscaped.

6.

Earth tone colors are required on all exterior finish, rather than bright or fluorescent colors.

7.

Uses which are located within the ground floor of a structure facing a sidewalk shall be "pedestrian-friendly" (such as high customer turnover uses: restaurants, clothing stores, food stores, health clubs, personal services, and community service organizations).

8.

Exterior vending machines such as soft drink dispensers, ice cube freezers and the like are allowed under a minor use permit, in accordance with Section 18.100.050. Newspaper racks are acceptable if they are designed and integrated with the structure and subject to Chapter 5.26 of the Hawaiian Gardens Municipal Code.

9.

Trash receptacles should be placed at entrances to buildings containing take out and fast food restaurants. No logos, company colors, or advertising area allowed in the receptacles.

10.

Awnings (constructed of durable, fade-resistant, and easily maintainable materials), overhangs, porticoes, trellises, and other design elements which provide protection to pedestrians should be encouraged and located at a height to provide sufficient room for pedestrians.

11.

Landscaped open space setbacks and plazas between the sidewalk and commercial building should be at the approximate elevation of the abutting sidewalk.

12.

Accessory structures and additions.

a.

Accessory structures shall have the same roof design, finish materials and color as those used on the main structure to which the accessory structure is related. Existing structures should be repainted to enhance the overall appearance of the property.

b.

Any structure or building addition shall match existing color, bulk, architecture, roof design, treatment and materials of the main structure on the site.

c.

Site services should be located on the least visible side of the building or site or within interior building spaces.

d.

Boundary and other walls should be generally of the same decorative masonry or wrought iron, which is complementary in color, texture, and material to the development as a whole.

e.

All utility lines shall be placed underground, including facilities and wires for power, telephone, cable television, etc. All conduit lines shall be incorporated into the building and not permitted on the exterior of any building.

f.

Mechanical equipment on the ground or on the roof should be screened from view from adjacent properties and the public right-of-way by an enclosure designed as part of the building or by appropriate landscaping.

g.

Water heaters, utility boxes such as electrical boxes, gas meters and landscape irrigation equipment, and other utilities should be painted to match the structure or be appropriately screened from view.

h.

Window and door security gates or guards may only be installed on the interior of the structure.

13.

Open space.

a.

Public open spaces, plazas and outdoor commercial uses should be well maintained and kept free of debris.

b.

Landscaping should be integrated into the architectural scheme so as to accent and enhance appearance of the development.

c.

Existing mature trees (over eight inches of trunk diameter) should be considered for preservation in the site planning.

14.

Performance standards.

a.

Nuisance. All activities conducted on the premises shall not be objectionable by reason of excessive noise, odor, dust, mud, smoke, vibration, or other similar causes.

b.

Glare or heat. Any operation producing intense glare or heat shall be conducted within an enclosed building or with other effective screening in such a manner as to make such glare or heat completely imperceptible at any point along the property lines.

c.

Vibration. Industrial operations shall cause no inherent and recurring vibration perceptible without instruments at any point along the property lines. Transportation facilities and temporary construction activities are excluded from this restriction.

d.

Smoke. No person shall emit or cause to be emitted into any air contamination source of emission of any air contaminant which is of a shade or density as to obscure a person's vision to a degree in excess of 20 percent opacity. Emissions from fireplaces used for non-commercial, non-industrial or recreational purposes are exempt from this restriction.

e.

Odors. No person shall cause or allow the emission of odorous air contaminants from any source such as to result in detectable odors at the property line. Uses producing air pollution or objectionable odors are subject to the regulations of the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). Evidence of compliance with SCAQMD regulations shall be required as a condition of approval.

f.

Construction activity. Construction activity is limited to 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday to Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday. No construction activity is allowed on Sunday and City-observed holidays.

g.

Electromagnetic interference. No use, activity, or process shall be conducted which produces electromagnetic interference with radio, television, or telephone reception in neighboring areas.

h.

Radiation. All operations using or storing radioactive materials shall comply with the applicable regulations of the County Department of Health.

(Ord. No. 2024-620, § 2(Att.), 1-8-2025)

18.70.110 - Temporary emergency shelters.

This section provides standards for the establishment and operation of emergency shelters in compliance with Government Code Section 65583.

A.

Maximum number of beds. Each emergency shelter may have a maximum of 40 beds.

B.

Parking. Off-street parking shall comply with Section 18.70.010 parking and loading requirements. Non-operational and unregistered vehicles shall not be kept on site.

C.

Design and amenities.

1.

Exterior waiting area. Each emergency shelter shall provide an exterior waiting area of at least ten square feet per bed to accommodate clients and to prevent queuing into the public right-of-way. An exterior waiting area shall be physically separated from the public right-of-way.

2.

Facility layout. Living, dining, and kitchen areas shall be physically separated from sleeping areas.

3.

Sleeping area. Each emergency shelter shall provide at least 35 square feet of sleeping area per bed.

4.

Bathroom facilities. Each emergency shelter shall provide facilities for personal care (i.e., bathroom and shower facilities).

5.

Telephone services. The shelter shall provide landline telephone services separate from the office phone in order to provide privacy. Any payphones provided shall allow call-out service only.

6.

Additional standards. Each emergency shelter shall comply with applicable Building Code, Fire Code, and State Department of Social Services licensing requirements.

7.

Security lighting. Each emergency shelter shall provide exterior security lighting subject to approval by the Director. Lighting shall be designed and positioned to avoid light spill onto any abutting residential properties.

D.

Location restriction.

1.

Minimum separation distance. An emergency shelter shall be located at least 300 feet away from another emergency shelter.

2.

Measurement of separation distance. The distance of separation shall be measured in a straight line between property lines of each shelter without regard to intervening structures or objects.

E.

Operational standards.

1.

Length of stay. The maximum length of stay shall be 14 days. Hours of operation shall be limited to the hours between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.

2.

On-site management. Each emergency shelter shall provide on-site supervision at all times.

3.

Congregation in neighborhood prohibited. The shelter operator shall:

a.

Patrol the surrounding area within 1,000 feet for one hour after the closing of the shelter each morning to ensure that shelter residents are not congregating in the neighborhood.

b.

Regularly patrol the area surrounding the shelter site during hours that the shelter is in operation to ensure that persons who have been denied access are not congregating in the neighborhood.

4.

Contact information. The operator shall provide information about how to contact the operator with questions or concerns regarding shelter operations. The contact information shall be posted on site where it is readily viewable by an employee, shelter inhabitant, or representative of a governmental agency.

5.

Litter and graffiti. The owner/operator shall:

a.

Maintain the exterior of the premises, including signs and accessory structures, free of litter and graffiti at all times;

b.

Provide for daily removal of trash from the premises and abutting sidewalks or alleys within 20 feet of the premises; and

c.

Remove graffiti within 48 hours of written notice from the City.

6.

Controlled access. The facility and/or the premises shall be accessed by one entrance.

7.

Supplemental services. Supplemental services (e.g., food, counseling, access to other social programs, etc.) may be offered on the inside of the premises to serve only persons staying at the shelter.

(Ord. No. 2024-620, § 2(Att.), 1-8-2025)