Palmdale City Zoning Code
Division 3
RESIDENTIAL ZONES
§ 17.30.010 Purpose.
The purpose of the residential zones is to:
(A)
Reserve adequate land within the City for residential uses having a range of housing types and dwelling unit densities to serve all economic and demographic segments of the population, in conformance with the General Plan and appropriate standards of public health, safety, welfare, and aesthetics;
(B)
Preserve, protect, and enhance the character of the City's different residential neighborhoods;
(C)
Enhance the quality of life for residents;
(D)
Ensure adequate light, air, privacy, and open space for each dwelling unit;
(E)
Protect residential neighborhoods from excessive noise, light and glare, unsightliness, odor, smoke, and other objectionable influences;
(F)
Ensure that the scale and design of new development and alterations to existing development are compatible with surrounding residences and appropriate to the physical and aesthetic characteristics of the surrounding area; and
(G)
Provide for public and semipublic land uses such as parks, schools, day care, and other community uses that will serve City residents and will complement surrounding residential development.
Additional purposes of each residential zone are provided in the subsequent chapters.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.31.010 Purpose and intent.
(A)
Equestrian Residential (ER). This zone is intended for rural single-family residential uses, and secondary agricultural/animal-keeping uses. The areas within this designation are rural in nature, expressed through large lots (parcel sizes are commonly 2.5 acres or larger), unimproved dirt roads, and the integration of dwellings into the natural or agricultural landscape. These areas are generally outside of the City limits, but within the City's sphere of influence. This zone implements the Equestrian Residential General Plan land use designation.
(B)
Low Density Residential (LDR). This zone is intended for mixed rural/suburban single-family residential uses, at a maximum of one dwelling unit per acre. The LDR zone is appropriate for hillside areas, as a transition between rural and suburban areas and in keeping with the County of Los Angeles land use designations within the sphere of influence. Parcel sizes are commonly one acre (or larger), and unimproved dirt roads may be occasionally present. These areas are mostly outside of the City limits (but within the sphere of influence) and are intended to serve as the edge of the urbanized City. This zone implements the Low Density Residential General Plan land use designation.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.32.010 Purpose and intent.
(A)
Single-Family Residential 1 (SFR 1). This zone is intended for detached single-family dwellings in a suburban/semirural environment, at a maximum of two dwelling units per acre. The SFR 1 zone is appropriate to outlying valley areas where large lot subdivisions are desired. Parcel sizes are around 20,000 square feet. These areas are mostly along the edges of developed suburban residential areas, in lower hillside areas where inclines are present, but topography lacks significant slope constraints. This zone implements the Single-Family Residential 1 General Plan land use designation.
(B)
Single-Family Residential 2 (SFR 2). This zone is intended for detached single-family dwellings in a suburban environment, at a maximum of 4.4 dwelling units per acre. The SFR 2 zone is intended for the areas between the valley floor and steeper hillside areas (having less than 10 percent slope). Parcel sizes range from 10,000 to 15,000 square feet. This zone is located mostly along the edges of developed suburban residential areas. This zone implements the Single-Family Residential 2 General Plan land use designation.
(C)
Single-Family Residential 3 (SFR 3). This zone is intended for detached single-family subdivisions containing the City's standard 7,000 square foot minimum lot size (at a maximum of six dwelling units per acre). The SFR 3 zone is appropriate in areas with minimal topography, and these places serve as a lower intensity, family-living environment but are still well connected to surrounding neighborhoods and retail areas. These areas constitute most of the City's developed residential neighborhoods. This zone implements the Single-Family Residential 3 General Plan land use designation.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.33.010 Purpose and intent.
(A)
Residential Neighborhood 1 (RN 1). This zone is intended for a low-density mix of attached and detached residential dwelling units allowing a maximum of 10 dwelling units per acre. The RN 1 zone is appropriate in residential areas within a short distance of employment and retail areas. The RN 1 zone is reserved for areas which are or will be served by adequate infrastructure and services needed to support this level of development. This zone implements the Residential Neighborhood 1 General Plan land use designation.
(B)
Residential Neighborhood 2 (RN 2). This zone is intended for grouped housing such as small-lot single-family residential, townhouses, condominiums, and apartments with on-site recreation and open space allowing a density range of 10 to 20 dwelling units per acre. The RN 2 zone is appropriate in existing residential neighborhood areas or planned developments within a short distance of village centers. The RN 2 zone is reserved for areas which are or will be served by adequate infrastructure and services needed to support this level of development. This zone implements the Residential Neighborhood 2 General Plan land use designation.
(C)
Residential Neighborhood 3 (RN 3). This zone is intended for "missing middle" or middle-density housing such as walkups, garden apartments, and rowhouses allowing a density range of 20 to 30 dwelling units per acre. Although single-family attached and detached housing types are allowed in this zone, this housing type will likely be at the lower end of the density range. The RN 3 zone is appropriate in existing residential neighborhoods or planned developments within a short distance of village centers. The RN 3 zone is reserved for areas which are or will be served by adequate infrastructure and services needed to support this level of development. These neighborhoods provide a transition in scale and intensity between lower intensity residential neighborhoods and more dense neighborhoods or mixed-use areas. This zone implements the Residential Neighborhood 3 General Plan land use designation.
(D)
Residential Neighborhood 4 (RN 4). This zone is intended as a high-intensity, walkable neighborhood with multifamily residential uses allowing a density range of 30 to 50 dwelling units per acre. RN 4 areas are situated near commercial, civic and recreational uses in downtown Palmdale, near Avenue Q, and the future multimodal transit station. These areas are compact and therefore allow a larger number of residents to live near one another, within easy walking distance of parks, schools, shops, transit, and employment. These neighborhoods also act as a buffer between lower intensity residential neighborhoods and intense mixed-use areas. This zone implements the Residential Neighborhood 4 General Plan land use designation.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.34.010 Purpose and intent.
The mobile home (MH) zone applies to areas of the City appropriate for the exclusive and orderly planned development of manufactured/mobile home parks and subdivisions. The purpose of the zone is to establish appropriate regulations and standards pursuant to Section 18000 et seq. of the Health and Safety Code of the State of California. This zone falls within the RN 1 and RN 2 General Plan land use designations.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.35.010 Permissions tables and establishment of an allowed use.
Prior to the establishment of any land use(s) identified in the land use permissions tables, the applicant shall obtain all necessary approvals and permits pursuant to all applicable requirements of this Title. Division 2 (Review Procedures) of this Title identifies the requirements of project proposals and procedures and processing requirements for administrative and discretionary applications.
(A)
Use Classifications. Each land use classification is described in PMC Chapter 17.16 (Definitions). For example, personal service use includes a wide range of individual personal service uses (e.g., beauty parlor, dry cleaning, tanning salons, tailors). Use classifications describe one or more uses having similar characteristics but do not list every use or activity that may be appropriate within the classification. For that reason, the City has established a similar use determination process as described in PMC § 17.24.040 (Determination on unlisted uses).
(B)
Projects of Two or More Land Uses. Where a single parcel is proposed for development with two or more of the land uses listed in the permissions tables at the same time, the overall project will be subject to the highest level of review required by the tables for any individual use; however, all applicable fees shall be paid, and individual applications submitted for each applicable application type.
(C)
Allowed Uses and Approval Types. Generally, a use is either allowed by right, allowed through an approval process, or not allowed. In addition to the requirements for planning entitlements of this Title, other permits may be required prior to establishment of the use (e.g., building permit, engineering permit, or permits required by other agencies). The requirements for planning entitlements include:
(1)
Permitted (P). A land use shown with a "P" indicates that the land use is allowed by right in the designated zone, subject to compliance with all applicable provisions of this Title (e.g., development standards) as well as State and Federal law.
(2)
Accessory Use (A). A land use shown with an "A" indicates that the land use is allowed only as a secondary use in conjunction with a primary use, subject to compliance with all applicable provisions of this Title (e.g., development standards) as well as State and Federal law.
(3)
Minor Use Permit (MUP) Required. A land use shown with "MUP" indicates that the land use is allowed in the designated zone upon issuance of a minor use permit from the designated Review Authority, subject to compliance with all applicable provisions of this Title (e.g., development standards), as well as State and Federal law.
(4)
Conditional Use Permit (CUP) Required. A land use shown with "CUP" indicates that the land use is allowed in the designated zone upon issuance of a conditional use permit from the designated Review Authority, subject to compliance with all applicable provisions of this Title (e.g., development standards) as well as State and Federal law.
(5)
Not Permitted (–).A land use shown with a "–" is not allowed in the applicable zone.
(6)
Temporary Use (T). On occasion, property will be used for an event, activity, or use on a short-term basis. Such use is considered a temporary use. A land use shown with "T" indicates that the land use is allowed by right as a temporary use, subject to compliance with all applicable provisions of this Title (e.g., development standards) as well as State and Federal law.
(7)
Temporary Use Permit Required (TUP). On occasion, property will be used for an event, activity, or use on a short-term basis. Such use is considered a temporary use. A land use shown with "TUP" indicates that the land use is allowed as a temporary use in conjunction with the issuance of a temporary use permit pursuant to PMC § 17.26.100 (Temporary use and special event permits). PMC § 17.98.020 (Temporary uses) provides the regulations for these uses, including development standards and time limits.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.35.020 Allowed uses – Residential zones.
The land use permissions, as established in Table 17.35.020-1 (Allowed Uses – Residential Zones), shall be applicable to all new uses, structures, and activities within the identified zone. Allowed land uses include both primary and accessory uses that are predominately permanent in nature. For regulations on all temporary uses and events, see PMC § 17.26.100 (Temporary use and special event permits). Numeric notes can be found at the end of the table.
In addition to the regulations of the applicable zone, all land uses are subject to the special use standards identified in the "Specific Use Regulations" column of the allowed use tables. Refer to the referenced Sections for additional operational standards and regulations applicable to the use.
Table 17.35.020-1. Allowed Uses – Residential Zones | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Residential Zones | ||||||||||
Use | ER | LDR | SFR 1 | SFR 2 | SFR 3 | RN 1 | RN 2 | RN 3/RN 4 | MH | Specific Use Regulations |
Aerospace Uses | ||||||||||
Aerospace Manufacturing | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Aerospace Services | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Agriculture and Animal Keeping Uses | ||||||||||
Agricultural Support, Sales, Service, and Storage | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Animal Husbandry and Production | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Animal Raising and Keeping, Domestic | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | See PMC Chapter 17.89 (Animal Keeping) |
Animal Raising and Keeping, Exotic | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Animal Raising and Keeping, Horses | A | A | A | A | A | – | – | – | – | Permitted only on lots 20,000 square feet or greater. See PMC Chapter 17.89 (Animal Keeping). |
Animal Raising and Keeping, Livestock | A | A | A | A | A | – | – | – | – | Permitted only on lots 20,000 square feet or greater. See PMC Chapter 17.89 (Animal Keeping). |
Animal Raising and Keeping, Poultry and Beekeeping | A | A | A | A | A | – | – | – | – | Permitted only on lots 20,000 square feet or greater; provided, that said birds are kept or maintained for the private use of members of the family residing on the premises. Excludes roosters and peafowl. See PMC Chapter 17.89 (Animal Keeping). |
Aquaculture | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Crop Production | MUP | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Farmstands | A | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Garden/Greenhouse, Private | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | |
Horticultural Production | MUP | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Kennels, Private/Hobby | MUP | MUP | MUP | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC Chapter 17.89 (Animal Keeping) |
Stable/Equestrian Facility, Commercial/Public | CUP | CUP | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Stable/Equestrian Facility, Hobby/Private | A | A | A | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC Chapter 17.89 (Animal Keeping) |
Automobile and Vehicle Uses | ||||||||||
Fueling Station | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.070 (Fueling station/vehicle and equipment services and repair) |
Travel Center | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.070 (Fueling station/vehicle and equipment services and repair) |
Vehicle and Equipment Services and Repair, Major | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.070 (Fueling station/vehicle and equipment services and repair) |
Vehicle and Equipment Services and Repair, Minor | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.070 (Fueling station/vehicle and equipment services and repair) |
Vehicle Rental | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Vehicle Sales, New | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.070 (Fueling station/vehicle and equipment services and repair) |
Vehicle Sales, Used | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Vehicle Sales and Rental, Large Vehicles and Equipment | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.070 (Fueling station/vehicle and equipment services and repair) |
Vehicle Towing/Impounding | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.93.040 (Vehicle towing/impounding) |
Vehicle Washing and Detailing | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.180 (Vehicle washing and detailing) |
Vehicle Wrecking/Dismantling | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.93.030 (Salvage yards) |
Eating and Drinking Establishments and Entertainment Uses | ||||||||||
Bar/Nightclub/Lounge | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.020 (Alcoholic beverage establishments) |
Brewpub/Taproom/Wine Bar/Microdistillery | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.020 (Alcoholic beverage establishments) |
Cafe/Bakery | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Cinema/Theater/Performing Arts Center | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Live Entertainment as Accessory Use, Indoor (Accessory) | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Live Entertainment as Accessory Use, Outdoor (Accessory) | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | Regular outdoor events as an accessory use require an MUP. Sporadic events require a TUP (see PMC § 17.98.020 (Temporary uses)). |
Outdoor Dining (Accessory) | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.100 (Outdoor dining (accessory)) |
Outdoor Entertainment | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Restaurant, Bona Fide | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.020 (Alcoholic beverage establishments) |
Restaurant, Dine-In and Take-Out | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Restaurant, Drive-Through | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.050 (Drive-through restaurants and drive-through services) |
Film, Research and Development | ||||||||||
Film Production and Post Production | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Research and Development | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Industrial and Manufacturing Uses | ||||||||||
Artisan Manufacturing/Makers Space | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Brewery/Distillery/Winery – without tasting room or > 10,000 sf | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Brewery/Distillery/Winery – with tasting room and <10,000 sf | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.020 (Alcoholic beverage establishments) |
Commercial Vehicle Parking (Primary) | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.93.010 (Commercial vehicle parking as a primary use) |
Construction and Materials Yards | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Food or Beverage Manufacturing | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Hazardous Materials Facility | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC Chapter 17.96 (Hazardous Materials Facilities) |
Indoor Warehousing, Storage, Wholesaling, and Distribution | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Manufacturing, Outdoors | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Manufacturing/Processing, Light | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Manufacturing/Processing, Heavy | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Mining/Resource Extraction | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Ministorage Warehousing or Facility | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.93.020 (Ministorage warehousing or facility) |
Outdoor Storage (Accessory) | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.120 (Outdoor storage (primary and accessory)) |
Outdoor Storage (Primary) | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.120 (Outdoor storage (primary and accessory)) |
Outdoor Storage (Temporary) | T; TUP | T; TUP | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Salvage Yards | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.93.030 (Salvage yards) |
Temporary Buildings or Storage Facilities (Temporary and Accessory) | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.98.020 (Temporary uses) |
Lodging | ||||||||||
Bed and Breakfast | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | – | – | – | |
Lodging – Extended Stay | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Lodging – Hotels | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Lodging – Motels | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Lodging – Timeshares | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Public, Quasi-Public and Institutional Uses | ||||||||||
Civic/Government | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | – | |
Cultural Institutions | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | – | |
Hospital | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Public Service Facility | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | – | |
Social Service Facilities | – | – | – | – | – | – | MUP | MUP | – | See PMC § 17.94.040 (Social service facilities with congregate meal facilities) |
Recreation, Education, and Public Assembly Uses | ||||||||||
Athletic Fields, Unlighted | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | – | |
Athletic Fields, Lighted | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | – | |
Campground | CUP | CUP | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Cemeteries, Crematories, or Mausoleums | CUP | CUP | CUP | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
College/University | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Commercial Recreation and Sports, Indoor | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Commercial Recreation and Sports, Outdoor | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.94.030 (Golf courses) |
Community Assembly, ≤ 5,000 sf (gross sf) | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | – | See PMC § 17.94.010 (Community assembly uses) |
Community Assembly, 5,001 sf – 12,000 sf (gross sf) | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | – | See PMC § 17.94.010 (Community assembly uses) |
Community Assembly, > 12,000 sf (gross sf) | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | – | See PMC § 17.94.010 (Community assembly uses) |
Family Day Care Center | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | – | See PMC § 17.92.060 (Family day care center) |
Instructional Services, ≤ 5,000 sf | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Instructional Services, > 5,001 sf | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Open Space, Natural | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | – | |
Parks and Recreation Facilities | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | – | See PMC § 17.94.030 (Golf courses) |
Retreat Center | CUP | CUP | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Recreational Vehicle (RV) Park | CUP | CUP | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Schools, Public or Private (TK-12) | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | – | |
Tutoring Facilities | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Vocational/Trade School, ≤ 10,000 sf | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Vocational/Trade School, > 10,001 sf | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Residential Uses | ||||||||||
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) (Accessory) | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | – | See PMC § 17.91.010 (Accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling unit standards) |
Agricultural Worker Housing | P | P | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Caretaker's Unit (Accessory) | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.91.030 (Caretaker's units (accessory)) |
Child Day Care in a Home | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | |
Cottage Food Operation (Accessory) | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | – | See PMC § 17.91.040 (Cottage food operation) |
Cottage Industry (Accessory) | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | – | |
Emergency Shelters | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.94.020 (Emergency shelters) |
Group Residential Home | – | – | – | – | – | CUP | CUP | CUP | – | |
Home Occupation (Accessory) | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | |
Live/Work | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Model Home (on-site) | TUP | TUP | TUP | TUP | TUP | TUP | TUP | TUP | TUP | See PMC § 17.98.020 (Temporary uses) |
Manufactured/Mobile Home Park | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | CUP | See PMC § 17.91.050 (Manufactured/mobile home parks) and 17.91.060 (Manufactured/mobile home park closures) |
Residential Care Facilities, Small | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | – | |
Residential Care Facilities, Large | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | – | See PMC § 17.91.070 (Residential care facilities, large) |
Residential Housing Types | ||||||||||
Single-Family Dwelling, Attached | – | – | – | – | P | P | P | P1 | – | |
Single-Family Dwelling, Detached | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | P1 | – | |
Two-Family Dwelling/Duplex | – | – | – | – | P | P | P | P | – | |
Multifamily Dwelling, Triplex/Quadplex | – | – | – | – | P | P | P | P | – | |
Multifamily Residential, Greater Than or Equal to Five Units | – | – | – | – | – | P | P | P | – | |
Manufactured/Mobile Home | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | CUP | |
Single-Room Occupancy | – | – | – | – | – | – | CUP | CUP | – | |
Sober Living Home | – | – | CUP | CUP | CUP | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.91.080 (Sober living home) |
Supportive Housing | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | – | |
Transitional Housing | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | CUP | – | |
Yard Sales (Temporary Use) | T | T | T | T | T | T | T | T | T | See PMC § 17.98.020 (Temporary uses) |
Retail, Service, and Office Uses | ||||||||||
Adult-Oriented Business | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.010 (Adult-oriented businesses) |
Alcohol and Drug Treatment Facility, Large | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.91.020 (Alcohol and drug treatment facility) |
Alcohol and Drug Treatment Facility, Small | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | – | |
Alcohol Sales, Off-Sale | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.020 (Alcoholic beverage establishments) |
Animal Sales and Services | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Auction Sales, Indoor | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Auction Sales, Outdoor | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
ATM (Accessory) | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Bail Bonds | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Banks, Financial, Savings and Loan Institutions | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Building Materials Sales and Services | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Business to Business Support Services | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Check-Cashing Businesses | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Convenience Market | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Drive-Through Services (Accessory) | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.050 (Drive-through restaurants and drive-through services) |
Farmers' Market (Temporary) | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.98.020 (Temporary uses) |
Food Preparation, Commercial | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Fortunetelling, Palm and Card Reading | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Funeral Homes and Mortuaries | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
General Retail ≤ 5,000 sf | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
General Retail 5,001 sf – 25,000 sf | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
General Retail/Superstore > 25,000 sf | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Grocery Store | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Kennels/Boarding, Commercial | CUP | CUP | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | Permitted only on lots of 20,000 square feet or greater. See PMC § 17.92.080 (Kennels/boarding, commercial). |
Kiosk/Outdoor Vending | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Laundromat | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Massage Establishment, Accessory | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.090 (Massage establishment (accessory)) |
Massage Establishment, Stand-Alone | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Medical Services, Extended Care | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Medical Services, Medical/Dental/Holistic/Clinic | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Medical Services, Urgent Care | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Microblading/Permanent Makeup | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Neighborhood Market | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Nursery/Garden Center | CUP | CUP | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Office, Processing | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Office, Professional/Administrative | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Office, Service | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Outdoor Display | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.110 (Outdoor display) |
Pawnshop | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.130 (Pawnshops) |
Personal Services | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Pet Daycare | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.140 (Pet daycare) |
Resale/Consignment/Thrift Shop | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Smoking Lounge | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Smoke Shop | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.150 (Smoke shop) |
Swap Meet, Indoor | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Swap Meet, Outdoor | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.160 (Swap meet, outdoor) |
Tattoo/Body Art/Piercing | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.170 (Tattoo/body art/piercing establishments) |
Temporary Real Estate Sales Office (Temporary) | TUP | TUP | TUP | TUP | TUP | TUP | TUP | TUP | – | See PMC § 17.98.020 (Temporary uses) |
Veterinary Hospitals | CUP | CUP | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.92.190 (Veterinary hospitals) |
Utility, Transportation, and Communication Uses | ||||||||||
Airports and Heliports | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Collocated Small Wind Energy Systems (CSWES) (Accessory) | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.99.010 (Collocated small wind energy systems) |
Communication/Wireless Telecommunications Facilities, Major | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.95.010 (Communication/wireless telecommunications facilities) |
Communication/Wireless Telecommunications Facilities, Minor | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | – | See PMC § 17.95.010 (Communication/wireless telecommunications facilities) |
Communications, Facilities Within Buildings | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Freight/Trucking Facility | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Light Fleet-Based Services | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Parking Lots and Structures | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Passenger Transportation Facilities | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Recycling Collection Facility, Large | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC Chapter 17.97 (Recycling Facilities) |
Recycling Collection Facility, Small | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC Chapter 17.97 (Recycling Facilities) |
Recycling Processing Facility, Heavy | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC Chapter 17.97 (Recycling Facilities) |
Recycling Processing Facility, Light | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC Chapter 17.97 (Recycling Facilities) |
Reverse Vending Machine | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC Chapter 17.97 (Recycling Facilities) |
Sanitary Landfills | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.98.010 (Sanitary landfills) |
Small Residential Wind Generator Systems (SRWGS) (Accessory) | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | A, MUP | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.99.020 (Small residential wind generator systems) |
Solar Energy System (Primary) | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | See PMC § 17.99.030 (Solar energy system (primary)) |
Utilities, Major | CUP | CUP | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Utilities, Minor | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | MUP | – | |
Utility Yard | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
Notes: |
|---|
1. Permitted within RN 3 only. |
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023; Ord. 1613 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.36.010 Development standards – Residential zones.
Table 17.36.010-1 (Development Standards – Single-Family Residential) and Table 17.36.010-2 (Development Standards – Multifamily Residential) describe the development standards for the residential zones. Additional regulations are also denoted in the right-hand column. Section numbers in this column refer to other Sections of this Title.
Table 17.36.010-1. Development Standards – Single-Family Residential | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Residential Zones – Single-Family Residential Development Standards | ||||||||||
Standards | ER | LDR | SFR 1 | SFR 2 | SFR 3 | RN 1 | RN 2 | RN 3 | Additional Regulations | |
Lot and Density Standards1 | ||||||||||
Net Density (units/acre) | ||||||||||
Minimum | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 10 | 20 | Applies to new development only | |
Maximum | 0.4 | 1 | 2 | 4.4 | 6 | 10 | 20 | 30 | ||
Minimum Net Lot Size per Dwelling Unit (sf) (for new SFR lots) | 80,000 | 40,000 | 20,000 | 10,000 | 7,000 | 3,800 | 1,900 | 1,250 | ||
Minimum Lot Width per Dwelling Unit (ft) (for new SFR lots)1 | 150 | 100 | 100 | 80 | 60 | 40; 50 for corner and reverse corner lots | 30; 40 for corner and reverse corner lots | 20; 30 for corner and reverse corner lots | • | Lots siding onto a railroad right-of-way shall increase the minimum required lot width by an additional 40 feet. |
• | Attached Single-Family Homes/Townhomes: A minimum lot width of 30 to 40 feet may be necessary for townhomes with double loaded attached garages in front, and to comply with parking location and design requirements. Minimum lot width may be reduced to 20 feet if garages are single-car wide, detached and/or accessed from an alley. | |||||||||
• | Small-Lot Detached Single-Family Homes: A lot width of 35 feet may be necessary for small-lot single-family homes with attached double loaded garages in front and to comply with parking location and design requirements. Lot width may be reduced to 30 feet if garages are single-car wide, detached and/or accessed from an alley. | |||||||||
Minimum Lot Depth per Dwelling Unit (ft) (for SFR new lots)1 | 200 | 200 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 75 | 55 | 45 | Where a lot directing backs onto a railroad right-of-way, the minimum lot depth shall be 130 feet. | |
Maximum Unit Size per Dwelling Unit (sf) (for SFR) | – | – | – | – | – | 3,500 | 3,000 | 2,500 | Inclusive of attached garage space. | |
Maximum Lot Coverage (% of lot) | 20 | 30 | 30 | 40 | 50 | 60 | 75 | NA | See PMC § 17.17.050 (Floor area and lot coverage). | |
Building Form and Location | ||||||||||
Maximum Height (ft)/Stories – Primary Structure | 35/2 stories | 35/2 stories | 35/2 stories | 35/2 stories | 35/2 stories | 35/2.5 stories | 40/3 stories | 50/4 stories | • | Projects must comply with both stories and overall height maximums. See PMC § 17.17.030 (Measuring heights). |
• | Architectural features may project above the maximum height by five feet. Architectural features include rooftop stair access and elevator shafts, mechanical equipment, or other rooftop amenities, as approved by the Director. | |||||||||
Maximum Height (ft)/Stories – Accessory Building | 40/2 stories | 40/2 stories | 17/1 story | 17/1 story | 17/1 story | 17/1 story | 17/1 story | 17/1 story | ||
Minimum Distance Between Structures (both between main structures and accessory structures) | See PMC § 17.82.050 (Distance between buildings in residential and mixed-use zones) | |||||||||
Lot Setbacks – Minimums (ft) | Applies to individual lots within a development site. | |||||||||
Front (primary frontage) | 35 | 25 | 20 | 15 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 5 | • | For new single-family attached and detached dwelling units, front-loaded garages shall be set back at minimum 20 feet from the property line. |
• | For RN 3, front-loaded parking is not allowed. | |||||||||
Street Side (corner lots)2 | 35 | 25 | 20 | 15 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 5 | ||
Interior Side | 25 | 20 | 15 | 5 ft minimum on one side of the dwelling unit, and 10 ft minimum required on the garage side | 5 ft minimum on one side of the dwelling unit, and 10 ft minimum required on the garage side | 5 | 5 | 5 | • | Only applies to detached single-family dwellings and the ends of attached single-family dwellings. |
• | Where a railroad right-of-way is located along the side setback of a lot, the minimum side setback for the habitable residential structure(s) on the lot shall be 50 feet. | |||||||||
Interior Side – Zero Lot Line/Common Wall Developments | – | – | – | – | – | 10 ft minimum on one side of the dwelling unit, and no setback required on the opposite side | 10 ft minimum on one side of the dwelling unit, and no setback required on the opposite side | 10 ft minimum on one side of the dwelling unit, and no setback required on the opposite side | See PMC § 17.37.020 (Zero lot line option). | |
Rear | 45 | 40 | 30 | 20 | 20 | 15 | 15 | 15 | Where a railroad right-of-way is located along the rear setback of a lot, the minimum side setback for the habitable residential structure(s) on the lot shall be 50 feet. | |
Alley (when present) | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | ||
Garage Frontage | ||||||||||
Maximum Parking Frontage on a Public Street (for new residential development) | – | The garage portion(s) of any new primary single-family residential structure shall be designed to comply with at least one of the following criteria: 1. The garage doors shall not extend across more than 40% of the street facing facade of the primary residential structure. 2. The garage is attached to the primary residential structure through a breezeway or other portion of the primary structure, and is located in the rear of the lot. 3. The garage is detached from the primary residential structure and located within the rear of the lot. 4. The garage is designed with a side-on entry, with decorative windows facing the street. 5. The garage doors shall not extend across more than 50% of the street facing facade of the primary residential structure, and shall comply with at least one of the following criteria: a. The entire area above the garage is developed as a habitable space. Any garage bays that are in excess of 40% of the street facing facade shall be recessed at least two feet from the rest of the garage; or b. Any garage bay that is in excess of 40% of the street-facing facade shall be recessed at least 10 feet from the rest of the garage door facade. A decorative trellis a minimum of eight feet in depth shall be provided above the entire width of the recessed garage bay; or c. The habitable portion of the house or a covered porch shall project a minimum of six feet in front of all garage doors. 6. Other alternative designs as reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission. | 60% | 60% | – | For RN 1 and RN 2 SFR: Applies to new development. Garage doors that face the street shall not occupy more than the stated percentage of the width of any street-facing building facade. This limitation does not apply to frontages along alleys. | ||||
Open Space Standards | ||||||||||
Minimum Usable Open Space (sf per unit) | – | – | – | – | – | 300 sf total per unit, of which 150 ft must be private | 200 sf total per unit, minimum 100 sf of private open space required for ground-level units and 60 sf of private open space for upper-level units | 200 sf total per unit; minimum 100 sf of private open space for ground-level units and 60 sf of private open space for upper-level units | • | Setback areas are not considered usable open space unless they are at least 20 feet wide. Minimum private open space is 6 feet in either direction. |
• | See PMC § 17.38.050 (Open space). | |||||||||
Maximum front yard paving | A maximum of 40 percent of the required front yard setback, excluding the driveway, shall be covered with impervious surfaces. | |||||||||
Minimum Required Landscaping | See PMC § 17.37.010(G) (Landscaping) | See PMC § 17.86.010 (Landscaping requirements) | ||||||||
Other Standards | See additional standards in PMC Chapter 17.37 (Supplemental Standards for Single-Family Residential Development), Division 8 (General Development Standards), Division 9 (Special Regulations), Division 10 (Environmental Management), and the City of Palmdale Multifamily and Mixed-Use Design Standards[1] (Adopted by Ordinance 1594) | |||||||||
Notes: |
|---|
1. The lot depth to width ratio shall not exceed 3:1. |
2. For lots of record, created and recorded prior to the effective date of this Zoning Ordinance for which the alternate section was specifically allowed, the front yard setback may include the landscaped parkway located between the edge of the sidewalk and the property line. |
Table 17.36.010-1. Development Standards – Single-Family Residential | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Residential Zones – Single-Family Residential Development Standards | ||||||||||
Standards | ER | LDR | SFR 1 | SFR 2 | SFR 3 | RN 1 | RN 2 | RN 3 | Additional Regulations | |
Lot and Density Standards1 | ||||||||||
Net Density (units/acre) | ||||||||||
Minimum | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 10 | 20 | Applies to new development only | |
Maximum | 0.4 | 1 | 2 | 4.4 | 6 | 10 | 20 | 30 | ||
Minimum Net Lot Size per Dwelling Unit (sf) (for new SFR lots) | 80,000 | 40,000 | 20,000 | 10,000 | 7,000 | 3,800 | 1,900 | 1,250 | ||
Minimum Lot Width per Dwelling Unit (ft) (for new SFR lots)1 | 150 | 100 | 100 | 80 | 60 | 40; 50 for corner and reverse corner lots | 30; 40 for corner and reverse corner lots | 20; 30 for corner and reverse corner lots | • | Lots siding onto a railroad right-of-way shall increase the minimum required lot width by an additional 40 feet. |
• | Attached Single-Family Homes/Townhomes: A minimum lot width of 30 to 40 feet may be necessary for townhomes with double loaded attached garages in front, and to comply with parking location and design requirements. Minimum lot width may be reduced to 20 feet if garages are single-car wide, detached and/or accessed from an alley. | |||||||||
• | Small-Lot Detached Single-Family Homes: A lot width of 35 feet may be necessary for small-lot single-family homes with attached double loaded garages in front and to comply with parking location and design requirements. Lot width may be reduced to 30 feet if garages are single-car wide, detached and/or accessed from an alley. | |||||||||
Minimum Lot Depth per Dwelling Unit (ft) (for SFR new lots)1 | 200 | 200 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 75 | 55 | 45 | Where a lot directing backs onto a railroad right-of-way, the minimum lot depth shall be 130 feet. | |
Maximum Unit Size per Dwelling Unit (sf) (for SFR) | – | – | – | – | – | 3,500 | 3,000 | 2,500 | Inclusive of attached garage space. | |
Maximum Lot Coverage (% of lot) | 20 | 30 | 30 | 40 | 50 | 60 | 75 | NA | See PMC § 17.17.050 (Floor area and lot coverage). | |
Building Form and Location | ||||||||||
Maximum Height (ft)/Stories – Primary Structure | 35/2 stories | 35/2 stories | 35/2 stories | 35/2 stories | 35/2 stories | 35/2.5 stories | 40/3 stories | 50/4 stories | • | Projects must comply with both stories and overall height maximums. See PMC § 17.17.030 (Measuring heights). |
• | Architectural features may project above the maximum height by five feet. Architectural features include rooftop stair access and elevator shafts, mechanical equipment, or other rooftop amenities, as approved by the Director. | |||||||||
Maximum Height (ft)/Stories – Accessory Building | 40/2 stories | 40/2 stories | 17/1 story | 17/1 story | 17/1 story | 17/1 story | 17/1 story | 17/1 story | ||
Minimum Distance Between Structures (both between main structures and accessory structures) | See PMC § 17.82.050 (Distance between buildings in residential and mixed-use zones) | |||||||||
Lot Setbacks – Minimums (ft) | Applies to individual lots within a development site. | |||||||||
Front (primary frontage) | 35 | 25 | 20 | 15 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 5 | • | For new single-family attached and detached dwelling units, front-loaded garages shall be set back at minimum 20 feet from the property line. |
• | For RN 3, front-loaded parking is not allowed. | |||||||||
Street Side (corner lots)2 | 35 | 25 | 20 | 15 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 5 | ||
Interior Side | 25 | 20 | 15 | 5 ft minimum on one side of the dwelling unit, and 10 ft minimum required on the garage side | 5 ft minimum on one side of the dwelling unit, and 10 ft minimum required on the garage side | 5 | 5 | 5 | • | Only applies to detached single-family dwellings and the ends of attached single-family dwellings. |
• | Where a railroad right-of-way is located along the side setback of a lot, the minimum side setback for the habitable residential structure(s) on the lot shall be 50 feet. | |||||||||
Interior Side – Zero Lot Line/Common Wall Developments | – | – | – | – | – | 10 ft minimum on one side of the dwelling unit, and no setback required on the opposite side | 10 ft minimum on one side of the dwelling unit, and no setback required on the opposite side | 10 ft minimum on one side of the dwelling unit, and no setback required on the opposite side | See PMC § 17.37.020 (Zero lot line option). | |
Rear | 45 | 40 | 30 | 20 | 20 | 15 | 15 | 15 | Where a railroad right-of-way is located along the rear setback of a lot, the minimum side setback for the habitable residential structure(s) on the lot shall be 50 feet. | |
Alley (when present) | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | ||
Garage Frontage | ||||||||||
Maximum Parking Frontage on a Public Street (for new residential development) | – | The garage portion(s) of any new primary single-family residential structure shall be designed to comply with at least one of the following criteria: 1. The garage doors shall not extend across more than 40% of the street facing facade of the primary residential structure. 2. The garage is attached to the primary residential structure through a breezeway or other portion of the primary structure, and is located in the rear of the lot. 3. The garage is detached from the primary residential structure and located within the rear of the lot. 4. The garage is designed with a side-on entry, with decorative windows facing the street. 5. The garage doors shall not extend across more than 50% of the street facing facade of the primary residential structure, and shall comply with at least one of the following criteria: a. The entire area above the garage is developed as a habitable space. Any garage bays that are in excess of 40% of the street facing facade shall be recessed at least two feet from the rest of the garage; or b. Any garage bay that is in excess of 40% of the street-facing facade shall be recessed at least 10 feet from the rest of the garage door facade. A decorative trellis a minimum of eight feet in depth shall be provided above the entire width of the recessed garage bay; or c. The habitable portion of the house or a covered porch shall project a minimum of six feet in front of all garage doors. 6. Other alternative designs as reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission. | 60% | 60% | – | For RN 1 and RN 2 SFR: Applies to new development. Garage doors that face the street shall not occupy more than the stated percentage of the width of any street-facing building facade. This limitation does not apply to frontages along alleys. | ||||
Open Space Standards | ||||||||||
Minimum Usable Open Space (sf per unit) | – | – | – | – | – | 300 sf total per unit, of which 150 ft must be private | 200 sf total per unit, minimum 100 sf of private open space required for ground-level units and 60 sf of private open space for upper-level units | 200 sf total per unit; minimum 100 sf of private open space for ground-level units and 60 sf of private open space for upper-level units | • | Setback areas are not considered usable open space unless they are at least 20 feet wide. Minimum private open space is 6 feet in either direction. |
• | See PMC § 17.38.050 (Open space). | |||||||||
Maximum front yard paving | A maximum of 40 percent of the required front yard setback, excluding the driveway, shall be covered with impervious surfaces. | |||||||||
Minimum Required Landscaping | See PMC § 17.37.010(G) (Landscaping) | See PMC § 17.86.010 (Landscaping requirements) | ||||||||
Other Standards | See additional standards in PMC Chapter 17.37 (Supplemental Standards for Single-Family Residential Development), Division 8 (General Development Standards), Division 9 (Special Regulations), Division 10 (Environmental Management), and the City of Palmdale Multifamily and Mixed-Use Design Standards[1] (Adopted by Ordinance 1594) | |||||||||
Notes: |
|---|
1. The lot depth to width ratio shall not exceed 3:1. |
2. For lots of record, created and recorded prior to the effective date of this Zoning Ordinance for which the alternate section was specifically allowed, the front yard setback may include the landscaped parkway located between the edge of the sidewalk and the property line. |
Figure 17.36.010-1. Maximum Parking Frontage Along a Primary Street |
|---|
 |
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023; Ord. 1613 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
[1]
Editor's Note: Said City of Palmdale Multifamily and Mixed Use Design Standards are included as an attachment to this title.
[2]
Editor's Note: Said City of Palmdale Multifamily and Mixed Use Design Standards are included as an attachment to this title.
§ 17.37.005 Compliance.
New single-family structures, and alterations to existing single-family structures, shall comply with the supplemental standards in this Chapter.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.37.010 Detached single-family residential standards.
(A)
Purpose. The following detached single-family residential design standards are intended to ensure that single-family detached homes are well-designed while allowing for flexibility and creativity. A broad range of configurations is allowed including cluster homes, cottages, auto courts, and other configurations that meet the allowed density requirements and development standards of the applicable zone.
 |
(B)
Applicability. This Section shall apply to allowed construction or installation of all detached single-family residential structures, additions thereto, and all accessory structures including but not limited to garages, guest houses, and second dwelling units, except as otherwise authorized by State law or PMC § 17.91.010 (Accessory dwelling unit and junior accessory dwelling unit standards).
(C)
Site Planning Standards.
(1)
Access and Connectivity.
(a)
Private Street Placement. Where a private street serves more than one lot and would abut existing single-family zoned properties, it shall be placed where it would abut the least number of existing single-family zoned properties. Private street access on corner development sites shall be located as far as possible from intersections. Where a private street serves lots on both sides of the private street, the private street shall be double-loaded with lots on either side.
 |
(b)
Turnaround Areas. Dead-end private streets longer than 150 feet shall provide a vehicle turnaround area of adequate size and dimension to accommodate maneuvering of emergency vehicles as required by the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
(c)
Sound Barrier Walls. If a development has sound barrier walls, it shall provide frequent pedestrian and bicycle connections between the community and surrounding areas at distances no more than 600 feet apart.
(d)
External Connectivity. Streets within any proposed subdivision or building site shall be aligned with existing and planned streets in the surrounding area to create a continuous street pattern. All streets in any subdivision or development site shall connect to other streets and to existing and planned streets outside the proposed subdivision or development to the extent feasible. Any cul-de-sac or other dead-end street longer than 300 feet shall be connected to other streets by a pedestrian path. If a development is gated, it shall provide frequent pedestrian and bicycle connections between the gated community and surrounding areas at distances no more than 600 feet apart.
 |
(e)
Pedestrian Pathways/Sidewalks. New development shall be required to provide pedestrian pathways/sidewalks connecting to the public sidewalk and other planned or existing pedestrian routes or trails. A pedestrian pathway/sidewalk shall connect the primary common building entry or entries to the public sidewalk on each street frontage. Pedestrian pathways/sidewalks, a minimum of five feet wide, shall be provided from the public right-of-way to all primary common entryways and common areas, guest parking, and centralized trash enclosures (if provided). This is not applicable to a typical single-family detached residential subdivision.
(2)
Street and Pathway Landscaping.
(a)
Private Street and Pathway Landscaping. All publicly accessible private streets and pathways shall provide a combination of trees, shrubs, and ground cover in a minimum five-foot-wide planting strip. Trees shall be planted at a minimum of one tree for every 35 feet of linear street/path. Shrubs and groundcover shall cover at least 30 percent of the planting strip.
(3)
Parking.
(a)
Parking Location.
(i)
Required parking shall be provided on each lot, or within a common parking area (e.g., common guest parking lots or common parking within auto court developments), or in a combination of the two.
(ii)
Curb cuts and driveways providing access to parking shall be provided from an alley or secondary/private street, rather than from the public right-of-way, whenever such alley or secondary/private access is feasible.
(iii)
Parking is not allowed in the front setback area for individual lots and building sites, except within approved driveways.
(b)
Garage Design.
(i)
A fully enclosed two-car garage with a clear and free minimum interior dimension of 20 feet in width and 22 feet in length shall be provided, except on lots having a width of 50 feet or less, a fully enclosed tandem garage with a clear and free minimum interior dimension of 12 feet in width by 44 feet in depth may be provided. All garages shall be constructed in compliance with the City Building and Safety Division requirements.
(ii)
Detached garage structures shall be designed using at least two of the same exterior finish materials and/or colors used on the principal structure and shall be provided with decorative sectional roll-up doors constructed of durable material, such as wood or metal. Doors constructed of plywood sheeting shall not be allowed. The roof material shall be the same as the principal structure.
(iii)
When the width of the driveway exceeds 20 feet (as measured five feet in front of the garage), a decorative driveway, which may consist of paver treatments, colored and stamped concrete, decorative concrete finishes, or other treatments as approved by the Director, shall be required.
Figure 17.37.010-1. Example Residential Auto Court Site Plan |
|---|
 |
(4)
Services and Utilities.
(a)
Utilities. All new utility boxes and equipment and utility connections shall be undergrounded pursuant to PMC Chapter 12.04 (Underground Utilities) unless otherwise prohibited by the utility provider (e.g., water backflow prevention device that must be placed above ground) or the City Engineer grants an exemption following his/her determination that such undergrounding is not practicable.
(b)
Utility Hookups. Utility hookups and an area to accommodate installation of a clothes washer and dryer shall be provided within the primary structure or within an enclosed accessory structure.
(c)
Location of Aboveground Utilities and Service Areas. All aboveground utilities and equipment (e.g., electric and gas meters, fire sprinkler valves, irrigation backflow prevention devices, etc.) shall be integrated into building and landscape design and located to minimize impact on the pedestrian experience and neighboring properties by adhering to the below standards:
(i)
Utilities and equipment shall be located on nonprimary street frontages, alleys, parking areas, and/or at the rear or side of buildings.
(ii)
Utilities and equipment shall not be located within the front or street side setback area of the lot or development site.
(iii)
Utilities and equipment shall be fully screened from view (see Subsection (C)(4)(d) of this Section (Service, Utility, and Equipment Screening)).
(iv)
Air-Conditioning Equipment. No new roof-mounted air conditioning equipment or evaporative coolers visible from the public right-of-way shall be allowed. Push-through air conditioning units or evaporative coolers may be allowed on any side or rear elevation, as long as they are not visible from any public right-of-way. Air conditioning equipment shall be ground-mounted, set back a minimum of five feet from any side or rear property line and shall not be located within the required front yard setback.
(v)
Refuse and Recycling.
A.
Single-family residential development projects shall not necessitate communal or shared trash and recycling areas/containers. In such cases, no enclosure structure shall be required; however, individual trash and recycling containers shall be stored in such a manner that containers are not visible from public view from the front of the property. Containers may be placed in public view for purposes of collection only on the scheduled collection day and shall be removed from public view following said collection.
B.
For cluster homes, cottages, and auto courts, common refuse and recycling containers and collection areas shall be adequate in capacity, number, and distribution to accommodate all waste generation of the site. The number of containers and collection areas shall be reviewed by the local disposal service and approved by the Director. Common refuse and recycling collection areas shall be located inside of enclosures located along alleys, in parking areas, or at the rear or side of buildings and shall be fully screened from view per the screening standard in Subsection (C)(4)(d) of this Section (Service, Utility, and Equipment Screening). Communal refuse collection areas shall be prohibited on primary frontages (the front lot line as defined by PMC Chapter 17.16 (Definitions)).
(d)
Service, Utility, and Equipment Screening. Screening of common refuse collection areas, utilities, and equipment shall meet the following standards:
(e)
Mailboxes. If mailboxes are clustered, they shall meet the following standards:
 |
(i)
The clustered mailbox unit(s) and any associated shelters shall be designed using exterior finish materials and colors used on the surrounding residential units.
(ii)
Group mailboxes shall be illuminated with lights and fixtures similar to those used externally throughout the development and shall be in compliance with PMC § 17.86.030 (Outdoor lighting).
(iii)
Design and location of group mailboxes shall conform to United States Postal Service requirements.
(D)
Building and Facade Design Standards.
(1)
Foundation. All dwelling units shall be placed on permanent foundations pursuant to City Building and Safety Division requirements.
(2)
Accessory Structures. Accessory structures over 120 square feet such as detached garages, porches, pergolas, and other similar structures shall be architecturally compatible with the primary residential structure by incorporating at least two of the same colors, materials, design elements, or roof materials. Attached solid patio covers with a 3:12 pitch or greater shall substantially match the existing roof material and color. If a pitch less than 3:12 is proposed, the roof shall only be required to match the color of the primary structure roof. If open lattice is proposed, it shall match the existing trim color of the primary structure.
(3)
Architectural Variability. For all developments involving four or more contiguous lots, there shall be multiple "distinctly different" front facade designs. No more than two houses shall be of the same front facade design as any other house directly adjacent along the same block face and side of the street. Mirror images of the same configuration do not meet the intent of "distinctly different." "Distinctly different" shall mean that a single-family dwelling's elevation must differ from other house elevations in the following (see Subsection (D)(4) of this Section (Facade Modulation and Articulation)):
(a)
Number of stories (optional);
(b)
Modulation strategies – at least one;
(c)
Articulation strategies – at least one; and
(d)
Variation in materials – different material palette, with a different primary material.
The number of required different front facade designs shall be pursuant to Table 17.37.010-1 (Architectural Variability). |
Table 17.37.010-1. Architectural Variability | |
|---|---|
Total Number of Dwelling Units | Minimum Number of Facade Designs |
4 – 8 | 2 |
9 – 20 | 3 |
21 – 30 | 4 |
31 – 40 | 5 |
41 – 60 | 6 |
61 – 100 | 7 |
>100 | 8 |
 |
(4)
Facade Modulation and Articulation.
(a)
Modulation. Residential units shall employ at least two of the following building modulation strategies:
(i)
Varied roof forms, including but not limited to changes in roof height, offsets, change in direction of roof slope, dormers, parapets, etc.;
(ii)
Use of balconies, front porches, overhangs, or covered patios; and/or
(iii)
Projections, offsets, and/or recesses of the building wall at least one foot in depth, including but not limited to bay windows, chimneys, brackets, and cornices.
(b)
Articulation. All building elevations that face a street or a cluster driveway shall employ varied facade articulation of wall surfaces. Facades shall incorporate at least three of the following features, consistent with the design style, which provide articulation and design interest:
(i)
Variation in texture or material, provided all exterior wall textures and materials are consistent with the overall architectural style of the dwelling;
(ii)
Building base (typically bottom three feet) that is faced with a stone or brick material, or is delineated with a channel or projection;
(iii)
Railings with a design pattern and materials such as wood, metal, or stone which reinforces the architectural style of the building;
(iv)
Decorative trim elements that add detail and articulation, such as door surrounds with at least a two-inch depth, decorative eave detailing, belt courses, etc.;
(v)
Decorative window elements such as lintels, shutters, window boxes, etc.; and/or
(vi)
Increased roof overhangs at least 18 inches deep.
(5)
Side and Rear Elevations.
(a)
In no case shall any side or rear elevation be a solid blank wall with no articulation.
(b)
Side facades facing a private street or cluster driveway shall include details which are compatible with those on the front facade, with similar types and treatments of roofs, windows, shutters, planter boxes, and other architectural elements.
(6)
Building Entries.
(a)
Orientation.
(i)
Dwelling units that abut a public right-of-way shall orient the primary entryway toward the public street. Exceptions to this requirement may be approved by the Director for projects where the project site is located on a regional or crosstown street, provided the facade facing the public street is designed with similar details and treatments to those of the front facade.
(ii)
Dwelling units located in the interior of a development shall orient the primary entryway toward and be visible from a private street, pedestrian pathway, or open space that is connected to a public right-of-way or private street.
(iii)
Projection or Recess. Building entrances shall have a roofed projection (such as a porch) or recess with a minimum depth of at least six feet and a minimum area of 36 square feet. Exceptions to this requirement may be approved by the Director for alternative designs that create a welcoming entry feature facing the street, such as a trellis or landscaped courtyard entry.
 |
(iv)
Grade. Ground floor/entry height shall be a maximum of three feet above grade.
(7)
Building Roofs.
(a)
Roof Form. Primary roof forms shall be gable, hipped, flat, or shed.
(b)
Roof Pitch. Steep roofs with a rise to run ratio over 6:12 (26.6 degrees) shall be prohibited.
(c)
Gable Overhangs. All residential structures shall have eave and gable overhangs of not less than 12 inches measured from the vertical side of the residential structure, unless overhangs are architecturally incompatible with the design of the structure as approved by the Director.
(d)
Roof Materials. Roof materials shall be noncombustible; shake and composite shingles shall be prohibited on any new single-family residential structure.
(e)
Roof Vents. All roof vents shall be flat or similar style.
(8)
Window Trim or Recess. Trim at least two inches in depth shall be provided around all windows, or windows shall be recessed at least two inches from the plane of the surrounding exterior wall (see Figure 17.37.010-2 (Window Trim or Recess)).
Figure 17.37.010-2. Window Trim or Recess |
|---|
 |
(E)
Colors and Materials.
(1)
Variation in Materials. Each home shall incorporate at least three materials for facades.
 |
(2)
Siding Materials. Siding material shall consist of stucco, wood, brick, stone, or decorative concrete block. Synthetic products of a similar appearance, equivalent durability, and providing equivalent fire resistance may be allowed. Metal siding, if utilized, shall be nonreflective and horizontally overlapping. The exterior covering material shall extend to a point at or near grade except that if an approved solid wood, metal, concrete, or masonry perimeter foundation is used, the exterior covering material need not extend below the top of the foundation.
(3)
Building Component Colors. All vents, gutters, downspouts, flashing, electrical conduits, etc., shall be painted to match the color of the adjacent surface.
(F)
Transitions and Privacy.
(1)
Window Placement. Windows on adjacent units shall be offset by at least three feet to avoid direct sightlines into and from neighboring properties.
(2)
Upper-Story Decks and Balconies. Upper-story decks and/or balconies over 20 square feet in area shall be set back a minimum of 15 feet from the property line when adjacent to a single-family zoned property.
(3)
Landscape Buffer. For development projects of six units or more, a landscaped planter strip of at least three feet in width shall be provided along the abutting property line between a small lot subdivision/development and any adjoining low-density residential zoning district boundaries. Trees shall be planted within this area every 20 to 40 feet on center (depending on the tree species and canopy at maturity) to provide screening between the small lot subdivision/development and the adjacent low-density residential uses.
(G)
Landscaping.
(1)
Trees. Every single-family residential lot shall be required to have one street tree installed per street frontage; corner lots shall have one tree planted in the front setback and two trees planted in the street side setback for a total of three trees. Within the public right-of-way, the species of trees and the standards for installation shall conform with the City's Landscaping Design Standards. Trees planted beyond the public right-of-way are recommended but not required to conform with the City's Landscaping Design Standards.
(2)
Landscaping provided between the back of sidewalk, or where no sidewalk exists, from the back of curb and any perimeter subdivision wall abutting a regional, crosstown, or connector street shall be installed pursuant to the City's Landscaping Design Standards and approved by the City Engineer.
(3)
Landscape Standards. Front setback landscaping associated with new construction shall comply with the requirements of PMC Chapter 14.05 (Water Efficient Landscape). The following standards shall apply to all substantially modified front setback landscaping and any portion of a street side setback located between the back of curb and any perimeter fence, wall, or structure, and visible from the right-of-way for existing single-family residential development.
(a)
A minimum of 60 percent of the front setback area, excluding the driveway, shall be landscaped. "Landscaping" shall mean any combination of trees, shrubs, vines, ground cover, gravel, stones, decomposed granite, mulch, or other pervious nonplant materials, pursuant to Subsection (G)(3)(d) of this Section. Bare dirt shall not be allowed.
(b)
A minimum of one shrub of any container size per 50 square feet of landscape area, excluding the driveway, shall be provided.
(c)
No living turf is permitted. Artificial turf may be utilized within a maximum of 10 percent of the front yard as an "accent point only" and shall be maintained and replaced when weathered or worn.
(d)
The use of bark mulch is not allowed in the public right-of-way and shall only be used as an accent adjacent to the residence. The use of stabilized decomposed granite, rock and cobble is highly encouraged. A porous fabric weed barrier shall be installed beneath all rock or mulched areas with the exception of the stabilized decomposed granite.
(H)
Common Open Space. Within the RN 1, RN 2, and RN 3 zones, common open space shall be subject to the following standards:
(1)
Common open space shall be landscaped with trees, shrubs, and groundcover with the exception of areas used for amenities which enhance usability such as play/exercise equipment, benches, picnic tables, swimming pools, and the like. It shall provide at least one tree. Additional trees shall be provided at a rate of one tree per 1,000 square feet.
 |
(2)
Common open space areas shall have a minimum useable width of 20 feet and a slope of no more than five percent.
(3)
Common open space shall be accessible by all units.
(4)
Amenities. Common open space shall provide recreational amenities which may include but are not limited to a swimming pool; spa; clubhouse; tot lot with play equipment; picnic shelter – barbecue area; court game facilities; improved softball or baseball fields; exercise equipment; dog park; or day care facilities. The number of amenities shall be provided pursuant to Table 17.37.010-2 (Required Open Space Amenities).
Table 17.37.010-2. Required Open Space Amenities | |
|---|---|
Number of Units | Number of Open Space Amenities |
0 – 6 | 0 |
7 – 25 | 1 |
26 – 50 | 2 |
51 – 100 | 3 |
101 – 200 * | 4 |
Notes: |
|---|
*Add 1 amenity for each 100 additional units or fraction thereof. |
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023; Ord. 1658, 7/15/2025)
§ 17.37.020 Zero lot line option.
(A)
Applicability. This Section applies to new single-family residential subdivisions in the RN 1, RN 2, and RN 3 zones.
(B)
All or part of the setback requirements of interior yards along property lines adjoining other private lots may be waived with the written approval of the City and the property owner of the lot adjoining the yard which is being encroached upon. This written agreement shall take the form of a zero lot line agreement which shall be recorded on the chain of title of both properties involved. The zero lot line agreement shall describe, in detail, the extent of said waiver. Zero lot line agreements shall be executed between private property owners only. Swimming pools are not eligible for zero lot line agreements.
(C)
Approval of a zero lot line agreement shall be subject to the following requirements:
(1)
All building and fire code requirements related to construction shall be met;
(2)
Approval regarding the provision of adequate access shall be obtained by the Los Angeles County Fire Department; and
(3)
Where the setback is reduced to less than three feet, a maintenance access easement of five feet in width shall be provided on the adjoining property.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.37.030 Residential sports courts.
(A)
Purpose and Intent. It is the purpose of this Section to establish specific standards for tennis courts and play courts within residential zones. The intent is to preserve the integrity of the existing residential areas by preventing negative health, safety, and aesthetic impacts while allowing residents the opportunity to establish tennis courts or play courts on properties of sufficient size and configuration to accommodate this use.
(B)
Development Standards. In all residential zones, a residential sports court shall be allowed as an accessory structure on a lot or site containing a primary residential use subject to the following standards:
(1)
Limited Use. When located on a single-family residential lot, a residential sports court shall be used only by the occupants of the principal dwelling, or their nonpaying guests. The court shall not be rented, used for paid instructional or commercial purposes, and may not be utilized as a sports team practice facility. When located within multifamily residential complexes, a residential sports court shall be used only by occupants of the on-site dwelling units, or their nonpaying guests.
(2)
Property Standards. One residential sports court (including applicable walls and/or fences) may be allowed on a lot of record.
(3)
Location. Residential sports courts shall be located in the rear or side yard area only and shall not be located closer than 10 feet to the property line. No residential sports court may be located between the front lot line and the front facade of the primary residential structure.
(4)
Setbacks and Building Separation.n
(a)
Within ER, LDR, SFR 1, SFR 2, and SFR 3 zones, minimum setbacks for residential sports courts, measured from the property line to the court fence, paved or hard-court edge, shall be as follows:
(b)
Within the RN 1, RN 2, and RN 3 zones, structural separation between the court fence, paved, or hard-court edge and any other fence, building or structure shall be 10 feet.
(5)
Fence Standards. Residential sports court fencing shall not exceed 15 feet in height. The fence may be plastic-coated chain link, colored dark green, dark brown or black, or dark-colored mesh netting or wind screen material. Galvanized chain link or solid fencing shall be prohibited.
(6)
Lighting. Lighting for residential sports courts shall conform to the following minimum standards:
(a)
Light standards shall not exceed 15 feet in height above the grade of the sports court;
(b)
Light fixtures shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from any property line and shall not be located within any front or side setback;
(c)
Lighting fixtures shall be focused directly downward and be designed with sharp cut-off shields to prevent glare onto adjacent properties; and
(d)
Lighting for residential sports courts shall not be used between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
(7)
Lot Coverage. Residential sports courts shall not be included in calculations for lot coverage and may be included in calculations for open space requirements. The graded area for a tennis or game residential sports court shall not exceed 7,700 square feet.
(8)
Grading. Grading associated with the development of residential play courts shall comply with the following:
(a)
Retaining walls constructed for a court exceeding four feet in height at any point along the wall shall be reviewed and approved by the Director and the City Engineer.
(b)
A residential sports court shall not be located on slopes where the natural terrain prior to grading exceeds a 2:1 grade or within natural drainages.
(9)
Screening. A residential sports court shall be adequately screened on all sides facing a rear or side lot line. Such screening shall be composed primarily of landscaping which shall be maintained in a healthy condition. All landscaping and irrigation plans will be reviewed and approved by the City Engineer.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.38.005 Generally.
All multifamily housing shall be designed and constructed pursuant to the following standards.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.38.010 Multifamily residential objective design standards.
All new multifamily residential development shall be designed pursuant to the City of Palmdale Multifamily and Mixed-Use Design Standards[1] (adopted by Ordinance No. 1594).
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
[1]
Editor's Note: Said City of Palmdale Multifamily and Mixed Use Design Standards are included as an attachment to this title.
§ 17.38.020 Site design and access.
In addition to the standards in PMC Chapter 17.87 (Off-Street Parking and Loading), all multifamily residential developments shall comply with the following site design and access standards:
(A)
Turnaround Areas. Dead-end private streets longer than 150 feet shall provide a vehicle turnaround area. Dead-end streets shall be no more than 400 feet in length.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.38.030 Services and utilities.
All utilities, storage, and service areas shall be located and designed pursuant to PMC Chapter 17.85 (Utilities and Services). In addition, the following standards shall apply to multifamily residential projects:
(A)
Refuse collection areas shall be located as far as possible from the residential portion of mixed-use buildings and open space areas. Additional regulations for refuse collection areas can be found in PMC § 17.85.020 (Refuse and recycling).
(B)
Mailboxes. Where common mailboxes are provided, they shall be located within 100 feet of the project entry or near recreational facilities, and the location must be approved by the U.S. Postal Service. If outdoor cluster mailboxes are provided, they shall meet the following standards:
(1)
The clustered mailbox unit(s) and any associated shelters shall be designed using exterior finish materials and colors used on the surrounding residential units.
(2)
Cluster mailboxes shall be illuminated with lights and fixtures similar to those used externally throughout the development and shall be in compliance with PMC § 17.86.030 (Outdoor lighting).
(3)
Design and location of group mailboxes shall conform to United States Postal Service requirements.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.38.040 Security and lighting.
(A)
Adequate internal and external decorative lighting shall be provided along walkways and within all publicly accessible or common areas of the development for security purposes pursuant to PMC § 17.86.030 (Outdoor lighting).
(B)
All light fixtures visible to the general public are encouraged to be consistent with the overall architectural style of the project with respect to design, materials, color, and color of light.
(C)
Residential units shall be designed to ensure the security of residents through the provision of separate and secured entrances and exits that are directly accessible to parking areas. Shared or common residential entrances shall automatically lock upon closing.
(D)
Management and security plans shall be submitted for review and approval for multifamily and residential mixed-use developments with 10 or more dwelling units. On-site management shall be required for all developments with 16 or more units or as allowed by State law.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.38.050 Open space.
(A)
Private Open Space. Private open space areas are intended for private use for each dwelling unit and may include balconies (covered or uncovered), private gardens, private yards, terraces, decks, and porches, among others. Entry porches and required setback areas with a dimension less than 20 feet shall not be counted toward private open space requirements. Private open spaces shall meet the following standards:
(1)
Be directly accessible from a residential unit;
(2)
Provide a minimum dimension of six feet in any direction;
(3)
Provide a minimum clear height dimension of eight feet; and
(4)
May be covered but cannot be enclosed. Private open space is considered enclosed when the space between a floor, decking, or ground level and a roof structure has more than two sides taller than 50 inches in height.
(B)
Common Open Space. This Section applies to common open spaces in multifamily residential projects and residential mixed-use projects. Private common open spaces may be indoor rooms or outdoor open spaces that are shared and accessible only to building residents and their visitors. They can be located at the ground level, on parking podiums, or on rooftops, provided they are adequately landscaped. Common open spaces may include courtyards, gardens, play areas, outdoor dining areas, recreational amenities, rooftop amenities, and community rooms, among others.
(1)
Design and Dimensions. Common outdoor open spaces shall meet the following standards. Entry porches and required setback areas with a dimension less than 20 feet shall not be counted toward common open space requirements.
(a)
Provide a minimum dimension of 20 feet in any direction;
(b)
A maximum of 40 percent of the common open space may be covered but cannot be enclosed. Common open space is considered enclosed when the space between a floor, decking, or ground level and a roof structure has sides taller than 50 inches in height on more than two sides;
(c)
Courtyards enclosed on four sides shall have a minimum dimension of 40 feet and have a minimum courtyard width to building height ratio of 1.25:1;
(d)
The open space shall include places to sit and shade structures;
(e)
A minimum of 20 percent of the open space area shall be planted with trees, ground cover, and/or shrubs; and
(f)
Slopes shall not exceed five percent.
(2)
Amenities. All multifamily developments with five or more dwelling units shall provide recreational amenities within the site which may include but are not limited to a swimming pool; spa; clubhouse; tot lot with play equipment; picnic shelter – barbecue area; court game facilities; improved softball or baseball fields; exercise equipment; or day care facilities. The number of amenities shall be provided pursuant to Table 17.38.050-1 (Required Open Space Amenities).
Table 17.38.050-1. Required Open Space Amenities | |
|---|---|
Number of Units | Number of Open Space Amenities |
0 – 4 | 0 |
5 – 50 | 1 |
51 – 100 | 2 |
101 – 200 | 3 |
201 – 300 * | 4 |
Notes: |
|---|
*Add 1 amenity for each 100 additional units or fraction thereof. |
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.38.060 Neighborhood transitions.
(A)
Transition to Lower Density Building Types. When a building has a rear property line abutting a single-family residential zoned parcel, starting from the third floor up, each subsequent floor shall be stepped back by 15 feet for every two floors.
 |
Figure 17.38.060-1. Transitions to Lower Density Building Types |
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 |
(B)
Window Placement. When a residence is located within 10 feet of a side property line, windows on the residence shall be offset a minimum of three feet from windows of the nearest building on the adjacent property.
(C)
Balcony Placement. Upper-story balconies shall be offset a minimum of 10 feet opposite windows of adjacent single-family residences.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.38.070 Dwelling unit requirements.
(A)
Laundry Facilities. Each dwelling unit shall be equipped with connections for installation of a standard-sized washer and dryer, or common laundry facilities shall be provided containing a minimum of one washing machine and one dryer for every five dwelling units or a fraction thereof. If common laundry facilities are provided, they shall be dispersed throughout the project either in every building and/or every other floor. If individual facilities are provided, the proposed floor plans shall demonstrate compliance with this requirement.
(B)
Cable-Ready. Units shall be pre-wired to accommodate cable reception.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.39.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to provide objective zoning standards for two-unit developments and urban lot splits within single-family residential zones, to implement the provisions of State law as reflected in Government Code Section 66411.7 et seq., to facilitate the development of new residential housing units consistent with the General Plan, and to ensure public health and safety.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.39.020 Approval process.
An urban lot split housing development shall be administratively approved through a zoning clearance review pursuant to PMC § 17.26.030 (Zoning clearance review) if it meets the requirements in this Chapter.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.39.030 Applicability and criteria.
(A)
This Section applies to all parcels within single-family residential zones (ER, LDR, SFR 1, SFR 2, and SFR 3) except as prohibited below.
(B)
Not on Prohibited Land. The property shall not be located in any of the following areas and shall not fall within any of the following categories:
(1)
Historic. An historic district or property included on the State Historic Resources Inventory, as defined in Section 5020.1 of the Public Resources Code, or within a site that is designated or listed as a City landmark or historic property or district pursuant to a City ordinance.
(2)
Farmland. Prime farmland or farmland of Statewide importance as further defined in Government Code Section 65913.4(a)(6)(B).
(3)
Wetlands. Wetlands as defined in the United States Fish and Wildlife Service Manual, Part 660 FW 2 (June 21, 1993).
(4)
Fire Zone. A very high fire hazard severity zone as further defined in Government Code Section 65913.4(a)(6)(D). This shall not apply to sites excluded from the specified hazard zones by a local agency, pursuant to subdivision (b) of Government Code Section 51179, or sites that have adopted fire hazard mitigation measures pursuant to existing building standards or State fire mitigation measures applicable to the development.
(5)
Hazardous Waste Site. A hazardous waste site that is listed pursuant to Section 65962.5 or a hazardous waste site designated by the Department of Toxic Substances Control pursuant to Section 25356 of the Health and Safety Code, unless the State Department of Public Health, State Water Resources Control Board, or Department of Toxic Substances Control has cleared the site for residential use or residential mixed-use.
(6)
Flood Zone. A special flood hazard area subject to inundation by the one percent annual chance flood (100-year flood) as determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in any official maps published by FEMA. If an applicant is able to satisfy all applicable Federal qualifying criteria in order to provide that the site satisfies this Section and is otherwise eligible for streamlined approval under this Section, the City shall not deny the application on the basis that the applicant did not comply with any additional permit requirement, standard, or action adopted by the City that is applicable to that site. A development may be located on a site described in this Section if either of the following are met:
(a)
The site has been subject to a letter of map revision prepared by FEMA and issued to the City; or
(b)
The site meets FEMA requirements necessary to meet minimum floodplain management criteria of the National Flood Insurance Program as further spelled out in Government Code Section 65913.4(a)(6)(G)(ii).
(7)
Floodway. A regulatory floodway as determined by FEMA in any of its official maps, published by FEMA, unless the development has received a no-rise certification pursuant to Section 60.3(d)(3) of Title 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations. If an applicant is able to satisfy all applicable Federal qualifying criteria in order to provide that the site satisfies this Section and is otherwise eligible for streamlined approval under this Section, the City shall not deny the application on the basis that the applicant did not comply with any additional permit requirement, standard, or action adopted by the City that is applicable to that site.
(8)
Planned for Habitat Conservation. Lands identified for conservation in an adopted natural community conservation plan, habitat conservation plan, or other adopted natural resource protection plan as further spelled out in Government Code Section 65913.4(a)(6)(I).
(9)
Habitat for Protected Species. Habitat for protected species identified as candidate, sensitive, or species of special status by State or Federal agencies, fully protected species, or species protected by the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. Sec. 1531 et seq.), the California Endangered Species Act (Chapter 1.5 (commencing with Section 2050) of Division 3 of the Fish and Game Code), or the Native Plant Protection Act (Chapter 10 (commencing with Section 1900) of Division 2 of the Fish and Game Code).
(10)
Conservation Easement. Lands under a conservation easement.
(C)
Rental Housing. Notwithstanding any provision of this Chapter or any local law, the proposed two-unit development would not require the demolition or alteration of any of the following types of housing:
(1)
Affordable Housing. Housing that is subject to recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts rents to levels affordable to persons and families of moderate-, low-, or very low-income.
(2)
Housing that is subject to any form of rent or price control through a public entity's valid exercise of its police power.
(3)
Housing that has been occupied by a tenant in the last three years.
(D)
Ellis Act Housing. The parcel is not a parcel on which an owner of residential real property has exercised the owner's right under Chapter 12.75 (commencing with Section 7060) of Division 7 of Title 1 of the Government Code to withdraw accommodations from rent or lease within the last 15 years before the date that the development proponent submits an application.
(E)
Demolition. The proposed two-unit development does not include the demolition of more than 25 percent of the existing exterior structural walls unless the site has not been occupied by a tenant in the last three years.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.39.040 Standards and requirements.
(A)
Standards. The proposed two-unit development shall comply with all objective development standards and design review standards in Division 3 (Residential Zones) of this Title applicable to the parcel as provided in the zone in which the parcel is located, and objective subdivision standards in PMC Title 16 (Subdivisions); provided, however, that:
(1)
Number of Units Allowed on Each Parcel. Only two primary dwelling units may be located on any lot created through an urban lot split that utilized the two-unit development provision. Accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units are not permitted on these lots.
(2)
Unit Size. The City shall not impose any objective zoning, subdivision, or development standards that would have the effect of physically precluding the construction of two units on either of the resulting parcels or that would result in a unit size of less than 800 square feet. Any modifications of development standards shall be the minimum modification necessary to avoid physically precluding two units of 800 square feet each on each parcel.
(3)
Setbacks. Except for those circumstances described in Subsection (A)(2) of this Section (Unit Size), the setback for side and rear lot lines shall be four feet, except that no setback shall be required for an existing legally created structure, or a structure constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing legally created structure. The front setback shall be as set forth in the single-family residential zone in which the property is located.
(4)
Nonconforming Conditions. The City shall not require the correction of nonconforming zoning provisions as a condition of approval for the urban lot split.
(5)
Connected Structures. The City shall not reject an application solely because it proposes an adjacent or connected structure; provided, that the structure meets building code safety standards and is sufficient to allow a separate conveyance.
(6)
Utility Hook-Ups. The proposed two-unit development shall provide a separate gas, electric, and water utility connection directly between each dwelling unit and the utility.
(7)
Septic Tanks. For a two-unit development connected to an on-site wastewater treatment system, the applicant must provide a percolation test completed within the last five years, or if the percolation test has been recertified, within the last 10 years.
(8)
Access. All lots shall have existing access, provide new access, or adjoin the public right-of-way. All access drives shall have a minimum width of 12 feet.
(9)
(10)
Fire Sprinklers. Units created through the two-unit development process shall be fire-sprinklered if they fall with a very high fire hazard severity zone or high fire hazard severity zone, as identified in the General Plan.
(11)
Minimum Construction Standards. All new units constructed pursuant to this Chapter shall be subject to the minimum construction standards for single-family homes as provided in PMC Chapter 17.37 (Supplemental Standards for Single-Family Residential Development). In the instance that there are discrepancies between the provisions of this Chapter and those requirements specified within PMC § 17.37.010 (Detached single-family residential standards) the provisions of this Chapter shall apply.
(B)
Rental Period. Dwelling units created through the two-unit development process may be used for residential uses only and may not be used for rentals of less than 31 days.
(C)
Demolished Units. If any existing dwelling unit is proposed to be demolished, the applicant shall comply with the replacement housing provisions of Government Code Section 66300(d).
(D)
Owner-Occupancy Requirement. Where there is no urban lot split, one unit in a two-unit development must be owner-occupied, including a requirement to record a covenant notifying future owners of the owner-occupancy requirements.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023; Ord. 1613 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.39.050 Specific adverse impacts.
In addition to the criteria listed in this Chapter, the City may deny the housing development if the Building Official makes a written finding, based upon a preponderance of the evidence, that the proposed housing development project would have a specific adverse impact, as defined and determined in Government Code Section 65589.5(d)(2), upon the public health and safety or the physical environment and for which there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific adverse impact. A "specific adverse impact" is a significant, quantifiable, direct, and unavoidable impact, based on objective, identified written public health or safety standards, policies, or conditions as they existed on the date the application was deemed complete. Inconsistency with this Title or the General Plan land use designation and eligibility to claim a welfare exemption are not specific health or safety impacts.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.39.060 Required affidavit.
(A)
An applicant for an urban lot split as specified herein shall sign an affidavit in a form approved by the City Attorney to be recorded against the property stating the following:
(1)
That the applicant intends to occupy one of the housing units as his/her/their principal residence for a minimum of three years from the date of approval. This requirement shall not apply when the applicant is a "community land trust" or a "qualified nonprofit corporation" as the same are defined in the Revenue and Taxation Code.
(2)
That the uses shall be limited to residential uses.
(3)
That the rental of any unit created by the urban lot split shall be for a minimum of 31 days.
(4)
That the maximum number of units to be allowed on the parcel is two, including but not limited to units otherwise allowed pursuant to density bonus provisions, accessory dwelling units, and junior accessory dwelling units.
(5)
That the proposed housing development would not require demolition or alteration of any of the following types of housing:
(6)
If any existing housing is proposed to be altered or demolished, provide a comprehensive history of the occupancy of the units to be altered or demolished for the past three years (five years if an existing unit is to be demolished).
(B)
Where there is no urban lot split, one unit in a two-unit development must be owner-occupied, including a requirement to record a covenant notifying future owners of the owner-occupancy requirements.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.39.070 Enforcement.
The City Attorney shall be authorized to abate violations of this Chapter and to enforce the provisions of this Chapter and all implementing agreements and affidavits by civil action, injunctive relief, and any other proceeding or method permitted by law. Remedies provided for in this Chapter shall not preclude the City from any other remedy or relief to which it otherwise would be entitled under law or equity.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)