Lawndale City Zoning Code
CHAPTER 17
30 DESIGN REVIEW
§ 17.30.010 Intent.
The design review procedure is enacted to assure that proposed new residential structures meet all aspects of this code, are harmonious with the surrounding area within all R-1, R-2, R-3 and R-4 zones and do not pose a threat to the public health, safety and general welfare of the city and its citizens. In addition, the design review process will assure orderly development while protecting the character of existing neighborhoods, and prevent inferior development which would have a deleterious effect on the local and surrounding environments by reason of use, design, appearance or other criteria affecting property value.
(Ord. 724-93 § 5; Ord. 960-06 § 12)
§ 17.30.020 Design review.
A.
A development project that consists of or results in a maximum of one detached or attached dwelling unit on a single parcel of land shall be submitted to the community development director or his or her designee for review and approval.
B.
A development project that consists of or results in two or more dwelling units located on a single parcel of land shall be submitted to the planning commission for review and consideration at a duly noticed public hearing.
C.
Any development proposal that consists of or results in two or more dwelling units and is to be located on a lot or parcel of land that has less than forty feet of street frontage or a lot area of less than five thousand square feet shall be submitted to the planning commission for review and consideration at a duly noticed public hearing.
D.
All decisions concerning any design review conducted by the community development director shall be final, unless appealed to the planning commission within fifteen calendar days after the date of such action in accordance with the provisions of this code.
E.
All decisions concerning any design review conducted by the planning commission shall be final, unless appealed to the city council within fifteen calendar days after the date of such action in accordance with the provisions of this code.
F.
Applications for design review that are to be submitted to the planning commission shall follow the same procedures as a conditional use permit.
(Ord. 724-93 § 5; Ord. 960-06 § 13)
§ 17.30.030 Findings.
In approving or conditionally approving an application for a design review, all the following findings must be made:
A.
That the proposed development site plan and the building design features will integrate harmoniously and enhance the character and design of both the immediate neighborhood and the surrounding area;
B.
That the site plan and building design will improve the community appearance by preventing extremes of building bulk and mass;
C.
That the site plan and design of the buildings, parking areas, landscaping, illumination and other design features demonstrate that proper consideration has been given to both the functional aspects of the site development and the visual effects as seen from public spaces;
D.
That the site plan and building design substantially conform to the city's adopted design guidelines.
(Ord. 724-93 § 5; Ord. 960-06 § 14)
§ 17.30.040 Design criteria.
The design review procedure shall be applied according to the following design criteria:
A.
The building height, bulk and other design features shall be proportionate to the site and the surrounding area;
B.
The site layout, orientation, and location of structures, and their relationship to one another and to open spaces, parking areas, pedestrian walks, illumination and landscaping should be interrelated and arranged to achieve a safe, efficient and harmonious development;
C.
The grading and development of sites should respect the qualities of the natural terrain and landscape— mature trees and other natural features;
D.
Building sites should be developed to achieve a harmonious relationship with existing and proposed adjoining developments;
E.
Each building shall reflect due consideration of a total site design program that reflects quality contemporary design practices;
F.
The proposed project shall substantially comply with the design elements set forth in the city's adopted design guidelines;
G.
The mechanical equipment or machinery, trash storage areas and other exterior service areas shall be screened from view from all public spaces.
(Ord. 724-93 § 5; Ord. 960-06 § 15)
§ 17.30.050 Design review fee.
The design review fee shall be the same as that for the special use permit.
(Ord. 724-93 § 5)
§ 17.30.060 Administration of design review approval.
The issuance of a building permit shall be subject to the site plan and design review approval. Changes to a project or proposal shall be governed by Chapter 17.25 of this title. If there is substantial change from the original site and design plans, the project shall be resubmitted to the approving body or entity.
(Ord. 724-93 § 5; Ord. 960-06 § 16)