(A)

The commercial zones are established to promote economically vibrant districts that emphasize commerce, while allowing the strategic integration of residential uses. The zones aim to support the city's strong tax base, foster business growth, and create a unique urban character through sustainable environments that are accessible and cater to a variety of transportation modes.

(B)

The primary goals of the commercial zones are to:

(1)

Facilitate commercial development at varying intensities to create active, economically productive urban centers that cater to different neighborhood contexts, supporting both high-intensity commercial activities and neighborhood-serving commerce;

(2)

Allow residential development when integrated with commercial activities, enhancing commercial vitality and creating well-balanced, mixed-use areas; and

(3)

Align new construction with principles of sustainability, resource efficiency, and environmental stewardship to create attractive, lasting environments that contribute to community well-being.

(C)

This chapter defines allowable land uses and establishes standards for development, design, performance, and special regulations to ensure compatibility with adjacent areas, promote urban renewal, and maintain high aesthetic and functional quality throughout the community while bolstering the city's commercial tax base.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

(A)

Downtown commercial (DC). Located in the historic Lomita downtown near the city's civic center complex, the downtown commercial zone is designed to foster a vibrant, pedestrian-oriented environment. This district prioritizes active street scenes with a focus on retail, dining, and entertainment uses that engage the community and visitors. Residential use is permitted only above the ground floor, enhancing the vitality of the downtown area while maintaining an energetic commercial ground level.

(B)

Neighborhood commercial (NC). The neighborhood commercial zone is strategically located along Narbonne Avenue between the busier corridors Lomita Boulevard and Pacific Coast Highway. This district focuses on providing neighborhood-serving commercial uses that are less intense, ensuring compatibility with adjacent single-family residential areas. The zone allows for a range of services and retail establishments that meet the daily needs of nearby residents while maintaining a community-oriented atmosphere. Mixed-use commercial/residential is permitted.

(C)

Community commercial (CC). Situated along major commercial corridors, the community commercial zone attracts visitors from Lomita and surrounding areas. This district permits a broad range of commercial uses, including retail, services, restaurants, offices, and entertainment. Mixed-use commercial/residential is permitted. The district is designed to be a significant contributor to the city's tax base, supporting economic growth and providing diverse amenities for both residents and visitors.

(D)

Regional commercial (RC). The regional commercial zone is located at major street intersections and near city boundaries, serving as a gateway to Lomita. Similar to the community commercial zone, it allows a wide range of commercial uses but places a greater emphasis on supporting high-density housing projects within mixed-use developments. The district is intended to be a major contributor to the city's tax base, promoting economic vitality and accommodating significant commercial and residential growth.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

(A)

The uses identified in table 11-1.41.A specify those uses which are permissible within each commercial district. If a use is not listed as permitted or conditionally permitted, it is prohibited unless specifically determined to be allowed pursuant to section 11-1.41.02. All uses listed shall be conducted within a completely enclosed building unless otherwise specifically provided for in this chapter. The letters and symbols in the columns beneath the district designations mean the following:

• "—" means the use is not permitted.

• "P" means the use is permitted by-right as a principal use within the district.

• "C" means the use is conditionally permitted if a conditional use permit is approved by the planning commission.

• "M" means the use is conditionally permitted if a minor conditional use permit is approved by the community and economic development director.

Table 11-1.41.A: Permitted Uses In Commercial Zones

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24; Ord. No. 870U, § 5(Exh. A), 3-18-25; Ord. No. 871, § 5(Exh. A), 4-1-25)

(A)

This section is designed to allow the city flexibility to address changing market needs and to adapt to new and unique land uses that are not anticipated in the current title. This adaptability ensures that the city can responsibly evolve and accommodate diverse development types, fostering dynamic growth within the community. The community and economic development director has the authority to decide whether unlisted uses may be allowed by right or require a conditional use permit or minor conditional use permit unless explicitly permitted or not permitted. When evaluating proposals for land uses not listed in table 11-1.41.A, the community and economic development director will consider whether:

(1)

The proposed use is consistent with the goals and policies of the general plan;

(2)

The proposed use is consistent with the purpose and intent of the zoning district in which it is located;

(3)

The proposed use is similar to other uses permitted within the same district; and

(4)

The proposed use will not adversely affect the health, safety, or welfare of residents or other persons in the vicinity.

(B)

Any determination on a proposed unlisted use may be referred to the planning commission for review if the community and economic development director determines on a case-by-case basis that commission review would better serve the public interest.

(C)

Recordation. Determinations on unlisted land uses shall be recorded in writing. The record of interpretations shall be kept on file in the planning division and shall be available to the public upon request. Unlisted use determinations will be forwarded in accordance with the procedures for zoning amendments included in section 11-1.70.05, zoning amendments, of this title, for consideration of incorporation into the zoning ordinance, at such time as is deemed appropriate by the community and economic development director.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

The development standards for properties within commercial districts are set forth in table 11-1.42.A. Unless otherwise specified in the referenced sections or in other city regulations governing commercial development, the standards outlined in this table shall apply to all zones described in this chapter. Mixed-use developments shall adhere to the specific development standards outlined in section 11-1.43.05.

Table 11-1.42.A: Commercial Zone Development Standards

Notes:

1.

A minimum of six (6) percent of the lot area not occupied by building(s) or structure(s) shall be landscaped. Both perimeter and nonperimeter landscaping shall be provided. The landscaped areas shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24; Ord. No. 870U, § 5(Exh. A), 3-18-25; Ord. No. 871, § 5(Exh. A), 4-1-25)

(A)

All displays, services, and storage related to permitted business operations in commercial zones must be conducted entirely within an enclosed building, except where otherwise specified or when the following merchandise is sold on the premises:

(1)

Automobiles, motorcycles, boats, trailers, recreation vehicles.

(2)

Petroleum-related items including new tires, new batteries, and similar new equipment when part of a fueling service station.

(3)

Flowers and plants.

(4)

Satellite receiving antennas, subject to a conditional use permit approved by the planning commission.

(B)

Temporary merchandise displayed by licensed retailers is subject to the following conditions:

(1)

A maximum of three (3) articles may be displayed at any one time.

(2)

All displays must be adjacent to the retail store and shall not extend into the public right-of-way.

(3)

Displays shall not occupy any minimum required parking spaces.

(4)

Displays are permitted only during business hours and must be removed when the business is closed.

(C)

Permitted exceptions for outdoor display and storage. Outdoor display and storage may be permitted under the following conditions:

(1)

Construction. Limited outdoor accessory storage of materials and equipment to be used for construction projects in progress shall be permitted.

(2)

Planning commission approval. Outdoor display and storage may be allowed through a site plan approved by the planning commission. Approval may apply to the same lot or parcel where the principal use is located, or on a lot within three hundred (300) feet of the principal use.

(3)

Conditions imposed. The planning commission may impose conditions of approval to ensure that outdoor display and storage activities protect public health, safety, and welfare, such as:

a.

The type and number of materials to be stored or displayed;

b.

Screening fences, walls, or landscaping;

c.

Special setbacks relative to the materials stored or displayed;

d.

Time limits for the display or storage;

e.

Special regulations related to loading access; and/or

f.

Any other conditions deemed necessary by the planning commission.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

(A)

Outside storage of loading bins/containers and/or semi-trailers used for storage shall not be stored/parked anywhere on a lot or parcel of land in excess of forty-eight (48) hours.

(B)

Walls. Each lot or parcel of land with a side or rear lot line adjoining property in a residential zone or a lot containing a residential dwelling unit shall have a solid masonry wall, not less than six (6) feet in height, established along the side and rear lot lines adjoining such zones or units, except as otherwise provided in article 68, special development standards, and except where the adjoining property is used in conjunction with the commercial lot. The height shall be measured from the higher of the finished grade on either side of the wall.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24; Ord. No. 870U, § 5(Exh. A), 3-18-25; Ord. No. 871, § 5(Exh. A), 4-1-25)

Residential uses are conditionally permitted in all commercial zones, subject to planning commission approval of a conditional use permit. Such residential uses must be integrated into commercial sites as part of a comprehensive mixed-use development. Standalone residential uses are prohibited in commercial zones except when proposed as housing development on lots identified in the city's 2021-2029 Housing Element Sites Inventory (refer to article 51. Housing (H) overlay). Standalone residential uses within the housing overlay are permitted by right and do not require a conditional use permit.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24; Ord. No. 870U, § 5(Exh. A), 3-18-25; Ord. No. 871, § 5(Exh. A), 4-1-25)

The planning commission, or city council on appeal, may approve a conditional use permit for mixed-use developments only if it first finds that the proposed mixed-use development demonstrates compliance with the following findings, which supersede the findings specified in section 11-1.70.09:

(A)

The proposed mixed-use development is consistent with the general plan and furthers the goals and policies related to land use, housing, and economic development;

(B)

The design, layout, and operating characteristics of the proposed mixed-use development are compatible with existing and future land uses, will not interfere with the use and enjoyment of neighboring developments, and will not result in vehicular or pedestrian hazards;

(C)

The proposed mixed-use development complies with all applicable development standards and zoning regulations and the site is adequate in size and shape to accommodate the proposed use and integrate with the neighborhood and surrounding uses;

(D)

The proposed mixed-use development complies with the objective design standards outlined in section 11-1.43.06, ensuring high-quality design and compatibility with the surrounding urban fabric; and

(E)

The site is adequately served by existing or proposed highways, streets, and other infrastructure, including utilities, public facilities, and services necessary to accommodate the proposed mixed-use development and provide safe access for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

(A)

Mixed-use developments are required to allocate a minimum gross floor area to nonresidential land uses, as defined in article 15, to ensure a functional integration of residential and commercial activities. The minimum nonresidential use requirements shall vary based on the overall site location and size. Mixed-use developments shall dedicate a minimum gross floor area to onsite nonresidential uses in accordance with table 11-1.43.A.

Table 11-1.43.A: Minimum Nonresidential Use Requirement

(B)

For corner lots with multiple street frontages, the minimum nonresidential use requirement shall be measured from the site's longest street frontage.

(C)

The location of the spaces dedicated to onsite nonresidential uses shall be reviewed by the planning commission as part of the conditional use permit application. Generally, nonresidential uses shall be located on the ground floor and oriented towards the street and other public-facing spaces.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

Exemptions for sites identified on the housing element sites inventory. Commercial properties listed on the city's 2021-2029 Housing Element Sites Inventory are exempt from the minimum nonresidential use requirement when projects propose standalone residential development (refer to article 51, housing (H) overlay). Such projects qualify for the exemption by-right in an effort to promote the efficient use of land and enhance residential density by facilitating the redevelopment of smaller, underutilized parcels.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

Mixed-use developments are permitted through a conditional use permit subject to the development standards outlined in table 11-1.43.B. In instances where specific standards for mixed-use developments are not provided, the standards applicable to the underlying commercial zones, as detailed in article 42, shall apply.

Table 11-1.43.B: Mixed-Use Development Standards

Notes:

1.

The minimum open space may be met through a combination of common and private open space and recreational amenities (e.g., swimming pool, clubhouse, fitness room, playground, etc.). All required open space shall be useable.

2.

In cases where the development abuts a street other than Pacific Coast Highway, Narbonne Avenue, Lomita Boulevard or Palos Verdes Drive, the front yard and corner lot - secondary front yard setbacks must be ten (10) feet.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24; Ord. No. 870U, § 5(Exh. A), 3-18-25; Ord. No. 871, § 5(Exh. A), 4-1-25)

Reserved.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

(A)

Mixed-use developments shall provide onsite affordable units equivalent to at least ten (10) percent of the total number of residential dwelling units. The configuration of the units and the income levels served shall be reviewed by the planning commission as part of the conditional use permit process.

(B)

Alternative compliance for onsite affordable housing.

(1)

In-lieu fees. Applicants may pay in-lieu fees based on the development impact fee schedule established by the city council.

(2)

Offsite affordable units. Applicants may provide offsite affordable units, which must be constructed within three (3) years of the project's completion. If this requirement is not met, applicants shall pay in-lieu fees to satisfy their affordable housing obligations.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

(A)

Mixed-use developments incorporating onsite affordable housing units and seeking concessions, waivers, and/or density bonuses pursuant to Government Code §§ 65915—65918 may request the following concessions or waivers in order of the city's preferred incentive categories:

(1)

Residential density.

(2)

Maximum building height.

(3)

Stepbacks from street frontages and adjacent to existing single-story buildings.

(4)

Minimum open space.

(5)

Off-street parking.

(6)

Other provisions of mixed-use development standards.

(B)

A concession or waiver from the minimum gross floor area allocated to nonresidential land uses shall not be permitted. Standalone residential developments are not permitted unless proposed on a housing element site, i.e., 2021-2029 Housing Element Sites Inventory (refer to article 51, housing (H) overlay).

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

The following performance standards shall apply to all commercial zoning districts.

(A)

Parking proximity. All required parking must be provided onsite in compliance with the city's off-street parking ordinance. Offsite parking may be permitted with the approval of a minor conditional use permit.

(B)

Outdoor lighting. Outdoor lighting shall be shielded to prevent any direct line of sight between the light source and any residential zoning district or residential dwelling unit. Within fifty (50) feet of a residential zoning district or residential dwelling unit, lighting fixtures shall not be installed higher than twenty (20) feet above the ground. Additionally, outdoor lighting shall not exceed the following illumination levels at the property line:

(1)

Residential adjacent. A maximum of one-half (0.50) foot-candle if the subject property abuts a residential zoning district or a lot containing a residential dwelling unit.

(2)

Nonresidential adjacent. A maximum of two (2.00) foot-candles if the subject property abuts a nonresidential zoning district or a lot containing only nonresidential uses.

(C)

Odor. The odors released from any operation or activity shall not exceed detectable concentration beyond lot lines, measured at any location on the lot lines. Commercial uses with attached residential units shall provide ventilation systems to prevent odors from penetrating residential units.

(D)

Flammable, explosive, and combustible materials. The use or storage of such materials shall conform with the adopted uniform fire prevention code, adopted California Building Code, and any other adopted ordinances or regulations of the city.

(E)

Noise. All developments shall comply with the city-adopted standards for noise. Where a mix of uses is provided, the strictest noise standard for the provided use shall apply.

(F)

Utilities. All new utilities shall be installed underground to the extent possible.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

(A)

The purpose of this chapter is to enrich the cultural and aesthetic landscape of the City of Lomita through the integration of public art within commercial and mixed-use developments. This initiative seeks to foster creativity, educate and cultivate an appreciation of the arts and cultural heritage, and enhance the visual environment for residents and visitors alike. Public art, by embodying the confidence, vitality, and optimism of the community, reflects the city's commitment to diversity and cultural richness. It contributes to a more vibrant, attractive, and livable city, promoting the highest ideals of its citizens.

(B)

In implementing this program, the city aims to establish clear guidelines, procedures, and standards that align with and support the goals and policies outlined in the Lomita General Plan. The integration of public art in private developments across commercial districts is intended to create memorable, engaging spaces that celebrate artistic expression and promote a cohesive community identity.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

Public art shall be defined as an original, permanent work created in any variety of media by a professional artist. This may encompass sculptures, murals, photography, original graphic arts, water features, neon creations, glassworks, mosaics, or any mix of these and other media forms. It also includes permanent furnishings or fixtures attached to a building or its grounds, as well as certain architectural elements like decorative bicycle racks and stained glass that are aesthetically enhanced beyond functional use. Exclusions from the definition of public art include the following:

• Mass-produced art objects of standard design, like playground equipment, benches, statuary, or fountains.

• Decorative or functional architectural elements or details that are solely the work of the building's architect rather than an artist specifically commissioned for the project, whether working alone or in collaboration with the architect.

• Landscape architecture and gardening, unless designed by the artist as an integral component of the artwork.

• Directional elements including super graphics, signage as outlined in Article 67, or color coding, unless part of an original artwork or executed by artists as unique or limited editions.

• Interpretive programs.

• Mechanical or other reproductions of original artworks, except for film, video, photography, printmaking, or other media arts that are specially commissioned.

• Services or utilities required for the artwork's operation or maintenance.

• Artwork not visible to the public.

• Corporate logos or identities.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

The public art requirement shall apply to any of the following development projects within the commercial zoning districts:

(A)

New residential construction. Projects consisting of ten (10) or more dwelling units, including condominiums, apartment complexes, and mixed-use developments with residential components.

(B)

New nonresidential construction. Commercial, industrial, institutional, or mixed-use developments with a project valuation of one million dollars ($1,000,000.00) or more. This includes but is not limited to office buildings, retail centers, and educational facilities.

(C)

Tenant improvements. For nonresidential projects, where the valuation of the tenant improvement project is five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000.00) or more. This encompasses renovations, expansions, and interior improvements of existing nonresidential spaces.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

(A)

Public art valuation. The minimum required investment in public art is established at one-half (0.5) percent of the total construction costs of the applicable project.

(B)

Compliance methods. Developers can meet this requirement through one of the following methods:

(1)

Direct installation. Incorporation of public art either on-site or at an approved offsite location that is visually accessible to the general public and enhances the community's public spaces.

(2)

In-lieu contribution. Making a monetary contribution to the city's public art fund. The contribution shall be established by the city fee schedule adopted by the city council. This fund will be used to commission, purchase, and maintain public artworks throughout the city.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

(A)

Onsite placement. Public art should be strategically placed within the development to maximize visibility and engagement with the public. It should be oriented towards pedestrian traffic and accessible for public viewing. The integration of the artwork with the site's landscape and architectural design is encouraged to enhance the overall aesthetic and experiential quality of the development.

(B)

Offsite placement. In instances where onsite placement is not feasible or does not contribute to the public art goals of the city, developers may propose an alternative offsite location for public art contribution. The proposed location must be within the City of Lomita and accessible to the public, and it should align with the city's broader public art objectives.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

(A)

The Public Art Program of the City of Lomita is committed to fostering innovative artistic expressions and enhancing the city's aesthetic and cultural environment through the incorporation of diverse art forms in commercial districts. Public art in Lomita should strive to establish a sense of place and community identity through themes that are open to imaginative interpretation.

(B)

Themes. Artwork may be representational or nonrepresentational and should aim to resonate with a wide audience. The following suggested thematic content intend to serve as guidance to inspire artists and developers, without mandating specific subjects or styles.

(1)

Natural beauty and urban integration. Artwork that depicts or is inspired by the interplay between natural landscapes and urban elements.

(2)

Cultural diversity and community. Representations that celebrate the diverse cultures and communities of Southern California, fostering a sense of inclusion and community unity.

(3)

Historical narratives. Pieces that explore or reinterpret the history of Lomita and its development, contributing to a shared community heritage.

(4)

Contemporary life and visions for the future. Artworks that reflect the contemporary urban experience and Lomita's aspirations for the future, including interpretations of the Southern California lifestyle.

(C)

Installation and maintenance. Artworks must be designed and installed with consideration for public safety, accessibility, and long-term maintenance. Artists and developers are encouraged to:

(1)

Ensure durability by selecting materials and designs that withstand local environmental conditions and require minimal maintenance;

(2)

Promote accessibility through installation in a manner accessible to all segments of the community, enhancing public interaction and enjoyment; and

(3)

Complement and enhance the immediate environment, contributing positively to the site's character and the overall urban fabric.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)

(A)

Projects requiring discretionary review.

(1)

The public art component of development projects requiring discretionary review, such as conditional use permits or variances, will be reviewed by the planning commission. Review may occur concurrently with other discretionary applications required for the project. The application must detail the developer's proposed method for complying with the public art requirement, including the location and medium of the direct art installation(s).

(2)

Location and medium approval. The planning commission will assess the appropriateness of the proposed public art location to ensure accessibility and visibility by the public. Considerations will include the integration of the art within the site, the potential for public engagement, and the contribution of the artwork to the aesthetic quality of the development and surrounding area.

(3)

Deferred art selection. Developers have the flexibility to choose the specific content, theme, and/or art style of the public art piece after the planning commission's initial review. The final selection of the artwork, including detailed designs and artist information, must be submitted to the community development department for approval before installation. This step is designed to encourage developers to invest thoughtful consideration into the art selection process, prioritizing the engagement of local artists and commissioning artworks that resonate with and enhance the identity of the project site, aligning with the city's vision for cultural enrichment and aesthetic integration.

(B)

Projects not requiring discretionary review.

(1)

Community development department review. For development projects that do not require discretionary review by the planning commission, the proposed location and medium of the public art installation must be submitted to the community and economic development director. This submission should occur prior to the issuance of building permits to ensure that the public art component is integrated into the project plans from the outset.

(2)

Deferred art selection. Similar to projects undergoing discretionary review, developers may opt to defer the final selection of the public art piece's content, theme, and/or art style until a later stage in the project. However, the planning commission shall provide final approval of the artwork before installation. This deferred selection process enables developers to carefully consider art choices, prioritize local artist engagement, and commission works that resonate with the project site and align with the city's vision for cultural enrichment and aesthetic integration.

(Ord. No. 863, § 3(D), 10-3-24)