Palmdale City Zoning Code
Division 8
GENERAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
§ 17.80.010 Intent and purpose.
The development standards included in this Division are intended to clarify and complement the provisions and standards governing development in each zone.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.80.020 Applicability.
The development standards contained in this Division shall apply to all uses, buildings, and structures in every zone, and shall be in addition to the property development standards specific to each zone. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of this Division and other provisions of this Title, the more restrictive provisions shall apply.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.80.030 Nuisances.
Neither the provisions of this Title nor the granting of any permit provided for in this Title authorizes or legalizes the maintenance of any public or private nuisance.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.81.010 Lot area.
(A)
Easements on Required Lot Area. A street or highway easement may be included in the net area calculation for the purpose of determining the minimum required lot area only in the following circumstances:
(1)
Said lot or parcel of land is a legal lot of record; and the total area subject to all such easements includes not more than 10 percent of the required lot area; or
(2)
The required area for said lot or parcel of land is one acre or more; the total area subject to all such easements includes not more than 10 percent of the required lot area; and the net area of the lot not subject to such easement(s) is minimum 40,000 square feet.
(B)
Required Lot Area Reduced by Public Use. If a lot or parcel of land is the minimum lot size, and thereafter a part of the lot or parcel is acquired for public use exclusively (e.g., dedication, condemnation or purchase, etc.), the remainder of such lot or parcel shall be considered conforming as long as it is not less than 90 percent of the required minimum lot area.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.81.020 Lot width.
(A)
Width Reduced by Public Use. If a lot or parcel of land is the minimum lot width and thereafter a portion of its width is acquired for public use exclusively (e.g., dedication, condemnation or purchase, etc.), the remainder of such lot or parcel of land shall be considered conforming as long as it has not less than 70 percent of the required minimum width.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.81.030 Lot frontage and access.
(A)
Required Frontage. Each lot or parcel of land shall have a street or highway frontage of not less than 45 feet, with the following exceptions:
(1)
Small-lot and attached residential lots pursuant to the development standards in Division 3 (Residential Zones) of this Title.
(2)
Flag Lots. Flag lots may be allowed by the Review Authority if the following criteria are met:
(a)
The flag lot is necessary to preserve slopes, ridgelines, significant habitat areas, and other significant resources;
(b)
The body of the lot meets the lot area, width and depth requirements of the zone;
(c)
The handle portion of the lot is at least 26 feet in width and not more than 120 feet in length;
(d)
The lot has at least 26 feet of frontage on a public or private street with said frontage serving as access to the subject lot only; and
(e)
The address for the lot is clearly visible from the street.
(B)
Access onto Highways, Regional, and Crosstown Streets. No new direct driveway access from a single-family residential lot onto a street type designated in the General Plan as major highway, regional, or crosstown street shall be allowed after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this Title, except when specifically allowed by the City Engineer for an existing legal lot of record when no alternative access is available.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.82.010 Required setbacks.
(A)
Each lot or parcel of land shall have minimum front, side, and rear setbacks as required for the zone in which the property is located (Divisions 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 of this Title), for the specific use when applicable (Division 9 of this Title), or by this Chapter, whichever requirement is the greatest, except as modified by an adopted Specific Plan or planned development.
(B)
Except as allowed in PMC § 17.82.030 (Projections into required setbacks), or as otherwise specified in this Title for specific types of structures (e.g., accessory structures, signs) or through the issuance of a variance or minor exception, structures shall not extend beyond required setback lines as established for each zone.
(C)
Except as otherwise allowed, front and street side setbacks shall be used only for landscaping, pedestrian walkways, utility easements, and driveways.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.82.020 Accessory structures.
(A)
Applicability.
 |
(1)
No accessory building or structure shall be located within a required front, side, or rear setback except as otherwise provided in this Title. The requirements contained in this Section shall apply to detached accessory structures on private property and shall be in addition to any other development standards contained elsewhere in this Title. These include, but are not limited to, garages, carports, sheds, workshops, gazebos, pergolas, and covered patios that are detached from and accessory to the main building on the site. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of this Section and any other provisions of this Title, the stricter regulation shall control.
(2)
For the purposes of this Title, accessory dwelling units are not considered accessory structures; accessory dwelling units are governed by the requirements of PMC § 17.91.010 (Accessory dwelling unit and junior accessory dwelling unit standards) and are exempt from the requirements of this Section.
(3)
If a structure is attached to the principal structure by a common wall, or by a continuation of the roof of the main structure (and not simply by a breezeway or porch), such accessory structure shall be considered a part of the main structure and shall comply in all respects with the requirements of this Title applicable to the main building. Allowed building projections into required setbacks and required building separations are provided in PMC § 17.82.030 (Projections into required setbacks).
(B)
Development Standards for Accessory Structures.
(1)
Relation to Existing Structures. A detached accessory building or structure may only be constructed on a lot on which there is a legally established primary building to which the accessory building or structure is related.
(2)
Amenities. Accessory structures shall not contain indoor cooking facilities (combination of a sink, cooking apparatus, and refrigeration appliance) and shall not be designed for full-time living, guest accommodation (i.e., guesthouses), or rental purposes (see PMC § 17.91.010 (Accessory dwelling unit and junior accessory dwelling unit standards)). Accessory structures may have plumbing for a washer, dryer, toilet, shower, refrigerator, and/or utility sink.
(3)
Separation Between Structures. Minimum distance between structures shall be as required by building and fire codes, and pursuant to PMC § 17.82.050 (Distance between buildings in residential and mixed-use zones).
(4)
Lot Coverage. The total lot coverage of the main dwelling and/or any accessory structures shall not exceed the maximum lot coverage as established by the applicable zone.
(5)
Setbacks and Heights. Accessory structures shall meet the setback and height standards provided in Table 17.82.020-1 (Accessory Structure Setbacks and Height Limits).
Table 17.82.020-1. Accessory Structure Setbacks and Height Limits | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Accessory Structure | Minimum Setback from Property Line | Maximum Height | Additional Standards | ||
Front | Street Side | Rear/Interior Side | |||
Detached garages and carports | Same as for primary structure1 | Same as for primary structure | 10 ft | See the development standards in Divisions 3 through 7 of this Title. | No detached garage or carport facing an existing or proposed alley shall be located less than 15 feet from the center line of said alley. |
Structure/Building ≤ 10 ft tall | Same as for primary structure | 5 ft | ≤ 10 ft | ||
Structure/Building > 10 ft tall | Same as for primary structure | 10 ft | See the development standards in Divisions 3 through 7 of this Title. | ||
Play Equipment | Same as for primary structure | 5 ft | 15 ft | ||
Notes: |
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Figure 17.82.020-1. Accessory Structure Setbacks |
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(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.82.030 Projections into required setbacks.
(A)
Projections Allowed with Restrictions. Projections such as eaves, cornices, awnings, louvers, porches, stairs, flues, and chimneys may encroach into required setbacks according to the standards in Table 17.82.030-1 (Allowed Projections into Setbacks), subject to all applicable requirements of the building and fire code. Where any provision of this Title conflicts with applicable building codes, the more restrictive provision shall apply. The "Limitations/Additional Regulations" column states any dimensional, area, or other limitations that apply to such projections. Table 17.82.030-1 (Allowed Projections into Setbacks) applies to all zones unless otherwise specified.
Table 17.82.030-1. Allowed Projections into Setbacks | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Projection | Front/Street Side Setback | Interior Side Setback | Rear Setback | Limitations/Additional Regulations |
All projections | • Unless otherwise specified, no projection may extend closer than 3 feet to an interior lot line or into a public utility easement. • The total area of all building projections shall not exceed 35% of the primary building facade area. Primary building facade is the facade built at the property or setback line. | |||
Architectural features (eaves, cornices, bay windows, chimneys) | 3 ft | 30 inches | 3 ft | • In no circumstances shall they project closer than 3 feet to the property line. Aggregate width of oriel or bay windows shall not exceed 50% of the length of the wall in which they are located and the width of any individual oriel or bay window shall not exceed 10 feet. • Upper-floor architectural projections shall have a minimum vertical clearance of 8 feet above grade. |
Weather protection (awnings, canopies) | 5 ft | To within 3 feet of rear and side property lines. | Weather protection shall have a minimum vertical clearance of 8 feet above grade. | |
Open, unenclosed fire escapes, and stairways | Prohibited | 3 ft | May be covered but not enclosed. | |
Uncovered and unenclosed stairs, porches, landings, decks, patios, stoops, and similar features ≤ 3 feet in height | 6 ft | 5 ft | 6 ft | In no circumstances shall these encroach closer than 3 feet to the property line. |
Uncovered and unenclosed stairs, porches, landings, decks, patios, stoops, and similar features > 3 feet in height | 3 ft | 6 ft | In no circumstances shall these features encroach closer than 3 feet to the property line. | |
Upper-level balconies and decks | 6 ft | 10 ft | Balconies shall not be closer than 10 feet to any side or rear property line. | |
Covered patios and porches attached to main structure | 3 ft | 0 ft | 10 ft | In no circumstances shall these features encroach closer than 5 feet to the property line. May be covered but not fully enclosed. |
Fireplaces (not wider than 8 feet measured in the general direction of the wall of which it is a part) | 3 ft | |||
Planting boxes or masonry planters not exceeding 42 inches in height | 6 ft | 0 ft | 6 ft | |
Ponds, waterfalls, and other water features | No closer than 3 feet from a property line | Within 3 feet of any property line, the height of water features shall not exceed 6 feet when adjacent to a residentially zoned property. | ||
Evaporative coolers, air conditioners, and compressors | Prohibited | To within 3 feet of rear and side property lines. | Cannot be located in front of any building or on any street side yard when not concealed behind a solid fence | |
Inground and above ground pools and spas, and pool equipment | Prohibited | To within 5 feet of rear and side property lines. | ||
Satellite dishes and antennas | Prohibited | 10 ft | ||
Accessory structures | See PMC § 17.82.020 (Accessory structures) | |||
Figure 17.82.030-1. Allowed Projections into Setbacks |
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(B)
Other Projections.
(1)
Landscape elements including trees, shrubs, and other plants may be located as specified within PMC § 17.86.010 (Landscaping requirements).
(4)
The following features are allowed anywhere in any required setback area without restriction:
(a)
Uncovered landscape features such as paths, benches, flagpoles, sculptures, and similar decorative features.
(b)
Retaining walls, berms, earthen mounds, embankments, and other fill, subject to building and/or grading permits.
(c)
Trellises and arbors to support vines and planting.
(d)
Entry features such as gates, arbors, and similar entry features not exceeding eight feet in height, 10 feet in width, and three feet in depth.
(e)
Irrigation, drainage, and lighting systems.
(f)
Utility poles, wires, and pipes.
(g)
Stormwater treatment features.
(h)
Public art.
(i)
Bicycle parking.
(j)
Disabled access features, including, but not limited to, ramps and mechanical lifts, as required by the California Building Code and/or Americans with Disabilities Act.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.82.040 Reserved.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.82.050 Distance between buildings in residential and mixed-use zones.
(A)
Distance Between Multifamily Residential and Residential Mixed-Use Buildings and Structures.
(1)
A minimum distance of 20 feet front-to-front, front-to-back, or back-to-back, and a minimum of six feet side-to-side or per the building/fire code (whichever is greater) is required between all principal residential/mixed-use buildings established on the same lot or parcel of land.
(2)
A minimum distance of six feet is required between all principal residential buildings and any other detached accessory structure established on the same lot or parcel of land, excluding inground pools and spas.
(B)
Distance Between Single-Family Residential Buildings and Structures.
(1)
For minimum distance between the principal residential building and any detached accessory dwelling unit, see PMC § 17.91.010 (Accessory dwelling unit and junior accessory dwelling unit standards).
(2)
A minimum distance of six feet is required between any other detached accessory structure and a primary residential structure established on the same lot or parcel of land, excluding inground pools, provided building and fire code setbacks are met.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.82.060 Use of setbacks.
Every front, side, or rear setback required by this Title shall be open and unobstructed from the ground to the sky, except as otherwise provided by this Title.
(A)
Vehicle Parking and Storage Within Setbacks. These provisions shall apply to motor vehicles, recreational vehicles, boats, campers, trailers, travel trailers, or any vehicle licensed by the State Department of Motor Vehicles.
(1)
In residential and mixed-use zones, the required front setback and/or street side setback shall not be used for vehicle parking except such portion as is devoted to the driveway use or as stated in PMC § 8.36.060(F)(3). The driveway width shall be limited to the width of the garage fronting onto the street and/or to the width of a single lane driveway leading to the rear portion of the lot, but shall in no event exceed 30 feet total. Under no circumstances shall an intersection curb ramp be utilized as a driveway.
(2)
Vehicles shall not be stored or parked in any required front or street side setback in residential zones except on the driveway, or as required by PMC § 8.36.060(F)(5).
(3)
Vehicles may be stored or parked in any interior side or rear setback; provided, that:
(a)
No more than five percent of the total lot area or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less, shall be used to park or store vehicles in areas that are not enclosed.
(b)
Such vehicles shall be parked or stored on a rock or paved surface as required by PMC § 8.36.060(F)(5).
(c)
No inoperative, wrecked, or dismantled vehicles shall be stored in such a way as to be visible from a public street or from an adjoining property as required by PMC § 8.36.060(D)(1)(b).
(B)
Other Storage in Setbacks.
(1)
No open storage shall be allowed in any required front or street side setback adjacent to a street or highway except where otherwise allowed by this Title.
(2)
Animal enclosures, cargo and shipping containers, trailers, manufactured/mobile homes, motor homes, and other similar structures shall not be used for storage purposes.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.82.070 Safety visibility area restrictions.
(A)
Height Limit at Street Corners. Development proposed adjacent to any public or private street, or an alley intersection, shall be designed to provide a traffic safety visibility area (i.e., sight triangle) for pedestrian and traffic safety. It shall be the responsibility of the owner of the real property to remove from such property or any adjacent right-of-way any such obstruction to the traffic safety visibility area.
(1)
Measurement of Safety Visibility Area. The traffic safety visibility area is the triangle formed at the intersection of two streets and/or alley rights-of-way by measuring 20 feet along both the front and side property lines and connecting the lines diagonally across the property.
(2)
Height Limit. No structure, sign, or landscaping shall exceed three feet in height within the traffic safety visibility area (i.e., sight triangle), unless approved by the City Engineer.
Figure 17.82.070-1. Visibility Area |
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(B)
Height Limit at Driveways. A minimum sight triangle extending 10 feet shall be maintained at all driveways.
(1)
Pedestrian Safety. Within a driveway sight triangle, no plant material, tree trunks, signage, walls, fences, or any other obstructions shall interfere with the driver's view of pedestrians on a public sidewalk.
(2)
Height Limit. Within the driveway sight triangle, signage, walls, fences, etc., shall not exceed three feet in height. Within the driveway sight triangle, plant material shall not exceed three feet in height at maturity; trees shall be trimmed so that branches are at least seven feet above top of curb level.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.82.080 Modification of setback requirements.
§ 17.83.010 Purpose.
The following standards are intended to ensure compatibility between adjacent uses of different type and intensity.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.83.020 Applicability.
The standards contained in this Chapter shall apply when a multifamily, commercial, industrial, or public/civic zone is located adjacent to property that is zoned or used for a less intensive use, except as otherwise provided in this Title.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.83.030 Development standards.
(A)
Setbacks and Building Heights. Setbacks and building height transitions for multifamily, mixed-use, commercial/office, industrial, and public/civic zones located adjacent to single-family residential zoned properties can be found in the development standards tables for the applicable base zone (Divisions 3 through 7 of this Title).
(B)
Required Screening. A screening wall or fence shall be required between different zones for new development. Within the required front or street side setback, the wall or fence height shall be reduced pursuant to PMC § 17.86.040 (Walls and fences).
(1)
Between Nonresidential and Residential or Mixed-Use Zones. Where a nonresidentially zoned property abuts a residential or mixed-use zoned property, a solid masonry wall shall be installed along the adjacent interior property lines with a minimum height of six feet and a maximum height of eight feet.
(2)
Between Mixed-Use and Stand-Alone Residential Zones. Where a mixed-use zoned property abuts a residential zoned property, a solid masonry wall shall be installed along the adjacent interior property lines with a minimum height of six feet and a maximum height of eight feet.
(3)
Between Multifamily Residential and Single-Family Residential Zones. Where a multifamily zoned property abuts a single-family residential zoned property, a solid masonry wall shall be installed along the adjacent interior property lines with a minimum height of six feet and a maximum height of eight feet.
(4)
Between Nonresidential Zones. Where a nonresidential property abuts another nonresidential property in the same zone or a different zone, walls are allowed but not required.
(5)
Manufactured/Mobile home Parks and Subdivisions. See PMC § 17.91.050 (Manufactured/mobile home parks) for screening standards.
(6)
Adjacent to Highways and Freeways. Fences, walls, berms and/or other sound attenuation features that border highways and freeways may be constructed to a height of eight feet above natural grade or to such other height as required by the Director, to adequately mitigate the adverse effects of noise and/or for aesthetic reasons as discussed in an environmental document (e.g., an EIR or negative declaration).
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.84.010 Applicability.
Performance standards contained in this Chapter shall apply to any existing or proposed use, or portion thereof, allowed in any zone.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.84.020 Smoke or other particulate matter.
All proposed uses shall comply with the applicable requirements of the Antelope Valley Air Quality Management District.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023; Ord. 1613 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.84.030 Heat, light, and glare.
Any existing or proposed use or portion thereof that creates heat, light, or glare that constitutes or may be considered a nuisance or hazard on any adjacent property, such as use of arc welders or furnaces, security lighting or spot lights, or reflecting building materials or water features, or similar equipment, shall shield or control all sources of heat, light, or glare in such manner as will prevent the issuance, continuance or recurrence of the disturbing emissions.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.84.040 Electromagnetic disturbances and radiation.
Any existing or proposed use or portion thereof that can or may generate any electrical disturbances or produce any electromagnetic or radioactive emanations that can or may be considered a nuisance or hazard shall shield or control the source of the electrical or radioactive emanations in such manner as will prevent the issuance, continuance, or recurrence of any hazardous or disturbing emanations.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.84.050 Noise standards.
Any existing or proposed use or portion thereof that can or may generate noise that constitutes or may be considered a nuisance or hazard on any adjacent property shall control the source of the noise in such manner as will prevent the issuance, continuance, or recurrence of any hazardous or disturbing emanations. All existing or proposed uses shall conform to the Noise Element of the General Plan. All construction activity shall conform to PMC Chapter 8.28 (Building Construction Hours of Operation and Noise Control).
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.84.060 Maintenance of required facilities.
All physical facilities required in this Title, such as buildings and structures, paving, fences, walls, and landscaping, shall be kept and maintained in a neat, clean, orderly, operable, and usable condition.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.84.070 Fire department requirements.
All plans shall meet the requirements of the Fire Department as to adequate fire protection.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.84.080 Public nuisance.
Any existing or proposed use or portion thereof which produces any condition, substance or element including wastepaper, trash, or other debris, that constitutes or may be considered a nuisance or hazard due to its operation or maintenance, but is not subject to the standards contained in this Section, shall be eliminated or controlled as will prevent the issuance, continuance or recurrence of said nuisance or hazard.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.85.010 Utilities, service areas, and building equipment.
(A)
Undergrounding of Utilities.
(1)
All new utility lines 50 kV and less, utility boxes, and utility equipment within a project and along adjacent regional and crosstown streets shall be placed underground 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/their determination that such undergrounding is not practicable.
(2)
Exception.
(a)
In industrial zones, and for public/institutional development consistent with industrial zones, the Review Authority may reduce, waive, or defer requirements for utility line undergrounding and utility equipment screening, pursuant to PMC Chapter 12.04 (Underground Utilities) for portions of buildings not visible from regional and crosstown streets, and less intensive zones; and provided, that such action is determined to have no adverse effects. Additionally, for infill industrial projects in substantially developed industrial zones where utility lines have not been placed underground within the vicinity of the site, the City Engineer may defer utility line undergrounding requirements until such time as lines in the general area are undergrounded.
(b)
In industrial zones, and for public/institutional development consistent with industrial zones, the requirement for undergrounding of utility lines may be waived for remodeling of existing structures where the cost of remodeling is less than 50 percent of the replacement cost of the existing structure as determined for building permits.
(B)
Location of Service Areas, Storage, Utilities, and Equipment. All aboveground utilities and equipment (e.g., electric and gas meters, fire sprinkler valves, irrigation backflow prevention devices, etc.), service areas, and storage areas shall be integrated into building and landscape design and located to minimize impact on the pedestrian experience and neighboring properties by following the standards below:
(1)
Utilities and equipment, service, storage, and nonpassenger loading areas shall be located inside of buildings or on nonprimary street frontages, alleys, parking areas, and/or at the rear or side of buildings and shall be fully screened from view per Subsection (C) of this Section (Service, Storage, Utility, and Equipment Screening).
(2)
Utilities and equipment, service, storage, and nonpassenger loading areas shall not be located within setback areas, along midblock pedestrian connections, within the public right-of-way, and/or within 25 feet of a street corner.
(3)
Except as otherwise required for fire safety as determined by the Director, roof ladders shall only be installed inside the associated building.
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(C)
Service, Storage, Utility, and Equipment Screening. All service and storage areas, utilities, and equipment not housed inside buildings shall meet the following screening standards:
(1)
Screening shall be equal to or higher than the height of the equipment to be screened, unless specified otherwise.
(2)
Screening shall be made of a primary exterior finish material used on other portions of the building, architectural grade wood or masonry, metal, or landscape screening that forms an opaque barrier when planted.
(3)
Roll-up and service doors shall be painted to blend in with the main building colors and shall not face regional and crosstown streets. Where site constraints make the placement of these doors away from regional and crosstown streets infeasible, then doors shall be designed with glass or other architectural features to minimize visual impacts from the street, subject to approval by the Review Authority.
(4)
Long-term shopping cart storage areas shall be completely screened. If screen walls are used, they shall be of sufficient height and length to screen all carts, and shall be made of a primary exterior finish material used on the main building, architectural grade wood or masonry, metal, or landscape screening that forms an opaque barrier when planted.
(5)
All vents, flashing, electrical conduits, etc., shall be painted to match the color of the adjacent surface.
(6)
The installation of gutters and downspouts on the exterior surface of new nonresidential buildings shall be prohibited.
(D)
Location and Screening of Rooftop Equipment. Rooftop elements including roof access, mechanical equipment, and other features needed for the function of the building shall be located to minimize visual impact by meeting the following requirements. Mechanical equipment less than two feet in height, solar panels, wind generators, or green roof features shall be exempt from these requirements.
(1)
Mechanical equipment shall be set back a minimum of 10 feet from the roof edge or screened with a parapet wall.
(2)
Rooftop equipment shall be screened through the use of parapet walls, towers, or other architectural features such that it is not visible from any point at or below the roof level of the subject building (see Subsection (C) of this Section (Service, Storage, Utility, and Equipment Screening)).
(3)
If equipment will be visible from adjacent taller buildings or from higher grades, it shall be painted to match the rooftop in color and should be grouped together where practical.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.85.020 Refuse and recycling.
(A)
Applicability. Any project for which an application for a building permit is submitted after the effective date of this Title shall include adequate, accessible areas for collecting and loading trash, recyclable materials, organic waste, and other refuse as required per State law. These regulations apply to refuse and recycling areas not accessible to the public, and which are used exclusively by the tenants/owners of the development site. The provisions of this Section apply to all development except as follows.
(1)
Single-family or multifamily residential development projects that do not necessitate communal or shared refuse and recycling areas/containers. In such cases, no enclosure structure shall be required; however, individual trash, recycling, and green waste containers shall be stored in such a manner that containers are not visible or screened from public view from the front of the property. Containers may be placed in public view for purposes of collection.
(B)
General Requirements.
(1)
Trash, recycling, and organic waste containers and collection areas shall be adequate in capacity, number, and distribution to accommodate all waste generation of the site. An area for the storage of refuse/recycling shall be provided with minimum clear dimensions pursuant to Figure 17.85.020-1 (Refuse and Recycling Area Layout and Minimum Dimensions) for all multifamily residential uses, and for all nonresidential uses with a gross floor area of less than 25,000 square feet. At minimum, one such area shall be required. For larger projects, additional space(s) may be required as determined by the local waste management service provider based on the type of use, the size of the refuse area proposed, and the frequency of refuse collection. Enclosure size and configuration may be determined during development review for users with specialized requirements. Where practical, enclosures shall be sized to contain transformer boxes or other utility equipment which also requires screening.
Figure 17.85.020-1. Refuse and Recycling Area Layout and Minimum Dimensions |
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(2)
Adequate and accessible enclosures for the storage of trash and recyclable materials shall be provided. An alternative to a trash/recycling enclosure shall include the placement of a bin in a concrete or metal lined pit. The use, location, design, construction, and accessibility of enclosures shall conform to the requirements in this Title, and shall be reviewed and approved by the Review Authority.
(3)
When a site is retrofitted or upgraded to comply with refuse and recycling standards, the location of any new enclosures shall be reviewed by the local disposal service and approved by the Director.
(4)
Solid waste collection areas shall not be used for storage or other purposes.
(5)
To the extent feasible, refuse and recycling areas should be located adjacent to each other/within the same enclosure.
(C)
Location.
(1)
Refuse and recycling collection and trash compactor areas shall be located inside of buildings or inside of enclosures located along alleys or in parking areas at the rear or side of buildings. Refuse collection areas shall be prohibited within any required front setback, street side setback, any required parking spaces, landscape areas, and open space areas.
(2)
Enclosures shall be located a minimum of 10 feet from any structure, 25 feet from any public street, 15 feet from a private street, and in nonresidential areas, 20 feet from any residentially zoned property.
(3)
The location of enclosures shall not conflict with circulation or parking conditions on site. A condition shall not be created where a parked vehicle will obstruct access to an enclosure nor where a disposal truck will obstruct parked vehicles.
(4)
Refuse and recycling enclosures shall be located in order to be easily accessible to refuse collection trucks and to site users. In general, distance from a building entry to the trash enclosure should not exceed 150 feet.
(D)
Access. The storage area for refuse and recyclable materials shall be accessible to pedestrians (both residents and/or employees) of the development site and to refuse and recycling haulers. Vehicle access requirements shall be as follows:
(1)
Driveways or travel aisles leading to exterior collection areas or enclosures shall be a minimum of 16 feet in width and paved pursuant to PMC § 17.87.090 (Parking design standards).
(2)
Where driveways do not extend from street to street, a turnaround area for collection vehicles shall be provided. Minimum turning radius for collection vehicles shall be provided at 26/46 feet.
(3)
Driveways or travel aisles shall provide unobstructed paved access for collection vehicles and provide a minimum of 15 feet vertical clearance. In loading areas, minimum overhead vertical clearance shall be 25 feet for loading operations.
(4)
A concrete apron or pad, having a minimum size of 10 feet in width by 20 feet in length, shall be constructed in front of each exterior collection area or enclosure or trash compactor areas or at the point of pick-up by the collection vehicle. The purpose of this pad is to prevent damage to the surrounding asphalt paving. The pad shall have a level surface and shall be paved with concrete. The Director may waive the requirement for, and/or size of, the concrete apron or pad, provided the property owner can demonstrate that the existing asphalt located at the access and servicing areas of the refuse and recycling enclosure has withstood ongoing, regular use without appreciable degradation.
(E)
Enclosures. Exterior collection areas shall be within an enclosure that meets the following standards:
(1)
Minimum Height. Enclosures shall be adequate in height to fully screen containers and materials, with a minimum height of six feet.
(2)
Design and Materials. Refuse/recycling enclosures shall be constructed of a primary exterior finish material used on other portions of the building, masonry, or decorative block, and may be accented with metal.
(3)
Pedestrian Access. For multifamily residential developments, a pedestrian access and separate access for primary collection shall be provided.
(4)
Roofing. A solid roof treatment that is architecturally compatible with the primary buildings on site shall be provided and shall be designed in a manner to prevent windblown trash from leaving the enclosure.
(5)
Bins. All refuse and recycling shall be stored in metal containers to prevent it from being blown outside its walled enclosure by the wind. Lids must always remain closed except when loading or unloading.
(6)
Gates. Solid metal self-closing gates painted to match the enclosure shall be required. All gates shall be post mounted. Gates shall be maintained in working order and shall remain closed except when in use.
(7)
Protection from Bins and Vehicles. Concrete curbs, decorative bollards, or wheel stops shall be installed or constructed inside the enclosure to prevent bins from damaging the enclosure. Concrete curbs or equivalent shall protect the exterior of enclosures from adjacent vehicle parking and travel ways.
(8)
Landscape Screening. Enclosures shall be screened with appropriate plant material wherever they are in view of the general public from the street, access drives, or less intensive zones. Plant material shall be in compliance with the City's approved planting list.
(G)
Signage.
(1)
A sign clearly identifying all refuse and recycling collection and loading areas and the materials accepted therein shall be posted adjacent to all points of direct access to refuse and recycling areas.
(2)
The facility and/or containers shall be clearly marked to identify the type of material to be deposited, operating instructions and hours, and the identity and phone number of the facility operator to call if a machine is inoperative, and shall display a notice stating that no material shall be left outside the refuse or recycling enclosure.
(H)
Maintenance. Maintenance of each enclosure area and any bins and containers shall be the responsibility of the property owner. The property owner shall be responsible for keeping the area clean and free of litter, rodents, and insects. Enclosures that are damaged to the point of nonuse will result in a service interruption if the hauler cannot access the containers and shall be repaired or replaced within 60 calendar days following notification by the City.
(I)
Health and Safety.
(1)
Refuse and recycling areas for mixed-use developments shall meet the standards as set forth in PMC § 17.56.030 (Performance standards for mixed-use zones), and PMC Chapter 17.84 (Performance Standards). If the facility is located in or near an area designated or planned for residential use, special conditions for hours of operation, type of machinery used, lighting, and truck routes may be required, as determined by the Review Authority.
(2)
The facility shall meet all applicable requirements of the Fire Department, Health Department, and Building and Safety.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.86.010 Landscaping requirements.
In all projects proposed or required to provide landscaping as part of the development plan, the landscaping shall be provided pursuant to the provisions in this Chapter.
(A)
Applicability. These standards shall apply to all new development and major additions or renovations of existing properties/structures or existing properties in the City, including any construction, expansion, or improvement on private property which requires the issuance of a building permit or other approval by the City, except business licenses. This Chapter shall not apply to the following:
(1)
Registered local, State or Federal historical sites;
(2)
Open space, ecological restoration, or habitat areas that do not require a permanent irrigation system;
(3)
Mined-land reclamation projects in the MRE zone that do not require a permanent irrigation system; or
(4)
Existing plant collections, as part of botanical gardens and arboretums open to the public.
(B)
Landscape and Irrigation Plan and Review Process.
(1)
All landscaping shall conform to the provisions of PMC Chapter 14.04 (Joshua Tree and Native Desert Vegetation Preservation).
(2)
Projects Subject to the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. Landscaping that meets the applicability criteria specified within PMC § 14.05.030 (Applicability) shall comply with the provisions of PMC Chapter 14.05 (Water Efficient Landscape) and the City Landscaping Design Standards. A landscape and irrigation documentation package shall be prepared and approved pursuant to PMC Chapter 14.05 (Water Efficient Landscape).
(3)
All Other Landscape Projects.
(b)
Landscape and Irrigation Plan. A landscape and irrigation plan shall be submitted to the City Engineer in conjunction with site improvement plans. The plans shall show the exact location of and irrigation for trees, shrubs, and ground cover. The landscape plan shall include, at a minimum, plant name, plant quantity, plant size, location of impervious surfaces, minimum landscape coverage and percentage live plant material, utilities and lighting, irrigation system, and plans for tree retention and removal where applicable. The landscape plan shall also include a water budget that includes the estimated water use (in gallons), the irrigated area (in square feet), precipitation rate, and flow rate in gallons per minute.
(4)
Landscape Plan Review Process. The following landscape plan review process shall be conducted in conjunction with review for the proposed action, pursuant to the requirements of Division 2 (Review Procedures) of this Title.
(a)
Review Authority. The Review Authority shall be the same as the Review Authority of the permit or approval sought for new projects or modifications to existing development.
(b)
Approval of Plans. The Review Authority shall review and approve the landscape and irrigation plan prior to issuance of grading or building permits for new projects or modifications to existing development.
(c)
Approval Required. The landscaping shall not be installed until the applicant receives approval of the landscape and irrigation plan by the Review Authority and the City Engineer, and any applicable permits have been issued.
(d)
Changes to Approved Plans. Changes to the approved landscape and irrigation plans that affect the character or quantity of the plant material or irrigation system design shall be resubmitted for approval before installation.
(C)
Irrigation and Water Efficient Landscape Standards. Required landscape areas shall be supported by a permanent, automatic irrigation system coordinated to meet the needs of various planting areas. Proper irrigation shall be provided for healthy plant growth and maturation, and shall be designed to avoid the watering of structures, public walkways, and pedestrian access areas.
A landscape documentation package prepared and approved pursuant to PMC Chapter 14.05 (Water Efficient Landscape) shall be required for any project that is subject to the procedures and standards set forth in that Chapter. For all other projects, the following shall apply:
(1)
Irrigation systems shall be designed to avoid runoff, excessive low head drainage, overspray or other similar conditions where water flows or drifts onto adjacent property, nonirrigated areas, walkways, roadways, or structures.
(2)
Low-volume irrigation systems with automatic controllers shall be required. Low-volume irrigation systems include drip emitters, bubblers, microsprinklers, and microsprayers utilizing polyethylene drip hose or PVC pipe. Spray heads shall be prohibited.
(3)
The irrigation system shall include an automatic antisiphon irrigation valve.
(4)
Irrigation systems shall be equipped with a meter or submeter and backflow preventer.
(5)
Automatic controllers shall be set to water between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. to reduce evaporation.
(6)
An irrigation schedule indicating the four seasons of watering cycles is recommended for all irrigated landscape areas, and is required for those projects with a total landscape area of 2,500 square feet or more.
(D)
General Standards.
(1)
Landscape design shall conform to the applicable provisions of the General Plan and the City's Landscape Design Standards.
(2)
Common open spaces shall be landscaped pursuant to PMC Chapter 17.38 (Supplemental Standards for Multifamily Residential Development).
(3)
Plants shall be grouped according to their water needs and irrigated separately from other groupings to promote water efficiency.
(4)
Landscaping design shall consider solar heating and cooling techniques. Deciduous trees should be planted to the south and west of buildings, to provide summer shade and winter sunlight.
(5)
Graded, undeveloped portions of project sites proposed for future expansion shall be kept in a weed free condition and appropriate ground cover may be required for erosion control. Graded pad sites may require temporary seeding and irrigation for erosion control and to mitigate visual impacts.
(6)
Minimum Landscape Coverage and Live Plant Material. Setback areas shall be landscaped pursuant to the regulations set forth in the development standards for the applicable zone in Divisions 3 through 7 which establishes minimum landscape coverage and percentage of live plant material. Areas devoted to parking, driveways, and walkways are excluded from the calculation of minimum landscaped area. "Landscaping" shall mean any combination of live plant materials (trees, shrubs, vines, ground cover) and pervious nonplant materials (gravel, stones, decomposed granite, mulch, etc.). Live plant materials include ground cover, shrubs, and trees. The remainder of landscaped yard and setback areas may be rock, gravel, pebbles, stones, or similar natural nonliving, pervious material. Landscaped areas shall be top-dressed with rock, gravel, or an approved alternative. Bare dirt shall be prohibited. Synthetic turf may be counted toward the required minimum landscape coverage but does not count as live plant material.
(7)
Gravel, stones, decomposed granite, mulch, or other hardscape materials used in a parkway or along a pedestrian access shall be compacted or secured in such a way as to avoid spreading over any portion of a pedestrian path.
(8)
Decorative water features such as pools, ponds, and waterfalls used in landscaped areas shall recirculate water, shall use reclaimed water where available, and shall be designed and operated to minimize water loss.
(E)
Plant Types.
(1)
Except in the ER, LDR, SFR 1, SFR 2, and SFR 3 zones, all plants utilized in required landscape areas shall be from the City's approved planting list. In the ER, LDR, SFR 1, SFR 2, and SFR 3 zones it is recommended, but is not required, that required landscaping utilize the above-mentioned plant lists.
(2)
The following species are not allowed, except in the ER, LDR, SFR 1, SFR 2, and SFR 3 zones on properties developed before June 7, 2001:
(a)
Trees: Cottonwood (including Populus fremontii, P. trichocarpa, and P. tremuloides), eucalyptus, willows (Salix), Siberian elms (Ulmus pumila), tamarack (Larix occidentalis), and Arizona (Cupressus glabra) or Leyland cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii); and
(b)
Shrubs and grasses: pampas grass (Cortadera selloana), and common Bermuda (Cynodon dactylon).
(3)
Drought-Tolerant and Native Species. Landscape planting shall incorporate at minimum 50 percent drought-tolerant and native species (especially along natural, open space areas), and shall be suitable for the soil and climatic conditions specific to the site.
(4)
Deep-Rooted Trees. Trees planted within 10 feet of a street, sidewalk, paved trail, parking area, or walkway shall be a deep-rooted species or shall be separated from hardscapes by a root barrier to prevent physical damage to public improvements.
(F)
Plant Size, Spacing, and Location. In order to achieve an immediate effect of a landscape installation and to allow sustained growth of planting materials, minimum plant material sizes, plant spacing, and minimum planter widths (inside measurements) shall be as follows:
(1)
Shrubs Size. All proposed shrubs except accent, color, or ground cover planting shall be a minimum five gallons in size, with a 15-gallon minimum size where required for screening. The minimum planter width for shrubs is three feet.
(2)
Trees Size. The minimum planting size for trees shall be 15-gallon, with 50 percent of all trees on a project site planted at a minimum 24-inch box size, and 20 percent of all trees on a project site planted at a minimum 36-inch box size or larger container. Trees required for screening shall be a minimum of 24-inch box size. Minimum planter width for trees shall be five feet.
(3)
Spacing. The spacing of trees, shrubs, and ground cover plants shall accommodate mature planting size. Where required for screening, spacing shall form an opaque barrier when planted.
(G)
Turf and Synthetic Turf. The following standards shall apply to all project landscaping with the exception of projects that must comply with PMC Chapter 14.05 (Water Efficient Landscape) or existing single-family residential development (see PMC § 17.37.010(G) (Landscaping)).
(1)
Turf areas shall be limited to activity or recreation areas.
(2)
Synthetic turf may be used as a substitute for natural turf for the purposes of water conservation, or in high activity or foot-traffic areas such as sports fields. The following standards shall apply to the use and maintenance of synthetic turf.
(a)
Synthetic turf shall consist of life-like individual blades of grass that emulate real grass in look and color and have a minimum pile height of one and one-half inches.
(b)
Synthetic turf used for pet areas shall be specifically formulated for that purpose.
(c)
A proper drainage system shall be installed underneath to prevent excess runoff or pooling of water.
(d)
Synthetic turf shall be installed and maintained to effectively simulate the appearance of a well-maintained lawn.
(e)
The use of indoor or outdoor plastic or nylon carpeting as a replacement for synthetic turf or natural turf shall be prohibited.
(f)
Tree root crowns shall be kept a minimum of five feet away from synthetic turf areas.
(g)
Synthetic Turf Maintenance Guidelines.
(i)
Synthetic turf shall be maintained free of moss, mold, algae, and fungi growth.
(ii)
Chemical agents or contaminated water shall not be applied to synthetic turf.
(iii)
A turf groomer shall be used to maintain the distribution of the infill material in the turf and to raise the turf fibers. Brushing should be performed every couple of weeks, raking of the turf should be performed once a month, and cleaning/sanitizing shall be performed once a year.
(H)
Landscape Installation. All plant materials, their location and spacing, and irrigation systems shall be installed and maintained pursuant to the City's Landscaping Design Standards or as otherwise approved by the City Engineer.
(I)
Landscape Maintenance. All landscaping shall be kept in an orderly condition, as follows:
(1)
Prior to the installation of landscaping in the public right-of-way the developer shall provide for the continued maintenance by entering into an agreement with the City;
(2)
Lawn and ground cover shall be trimmed or mowed regularly. All planting areas shall be kept free of weeds and debris. Bare spots in lawns or planters shall be promptly revegetated;
(3)
All plantings shall be kept in a healthy and growing condition. Fertilization, cultivation, and pruning shall be a part of regular maintenance. Good horticultural practices shall be practiced in all instances;
(4)
Plants shall be maintained free of disease and free of infestations of insects, animals, or other pests;
(5)
Irrigation systems shall be kept in working condition. Adjustments, replacements, repairs, and cleaning shall be a part of regular maintenance;
(6)
All significantly injured, decayed, or dead trees and other plant material shall be replaced within 30 days;
(7)
Trees and shrubs shall not overhang or encroach upon walkways, drives, parking areas, and traffic signs to the extent that they interfere with the use of these areas. Tree limbs which overhang public sidewalks shall be kept trimmed to a height of at least eight feet above the sidewalk level. Tree limbs which overhang the street shall be kept trimmed to a height of at least 13 feet above the street level;
(8)
In no case shall landscape areas be allowed to become overgrown. Examples of overgrown landscape materials include:
(a)
Lawn grass species: plants which have established seed heads, lawns that have become thatched and matted, have become infested with herbaceous weeds, or exceed eight inches in height;
(b)
Shrubs and decorative grasses: plants that have grown so large as to block natural light from entering windows, extend over property lines, extend over roof peaks or eaves, or are causing the strangulation of other plants; and
(c)
Trees: plants which display sucker growth, have grown to a height or canopy width which impairs the normal illumination of street lights, extend over property lines, interfere with overhead lines or impact public property;
(9)
Trees shall be staked and tied with lodge poles at the time of installation; and
(10)
Stakes and ties on trees shall be checked regularly for correct functions. Stakes and ties shall be adjusted to avoid creating abrasions or girdling on trunks or branches, and removed after trees are well-established.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023; Ord. 1613 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.86.020 Reserved.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.86.030 Outdoor lighting.
(A)
Applicability. The standards of this Section shall apply to all new development and to exterior alterations and additions that involve replacement light fixtures or systems, except as provided below.
(1)
Exceptions. The following outdoor lighting shall not be subject to the provisions of this Section:
(a)
Public and private street lighting.
(b)
Construction and Emergency Lighting. All construction or emergency lighting fixtures, provided they are temporary and are discontinued immediately upon completion of the construction work or abatement of the emergency.
(c)
Temporary Lighting. Temporary lights used for holiday decorations, and lighting for temporary uses and special events allowed consistent with this Title.
(B)
Photometric Plan. The submittal of a photometric plan shall be required as part of a development application or land use approval (except for lighting on an existing single-family residence) and shall be approved prior to issuance of building permits. All lighting plans shall be prepared and certified for compliance with the requirements of this Section by an electrical engineer registered in the State of California prior to submitting lighting plans to the City. The photometric plan shall consist of a point-by-point foot-candle layout (based on a 10-foot grid center) extending a minimum of 20 feet outside the property lines.
(C)
Prohibited Lighting. The following types of outdoor lighting shall be prohibited:
(1)
Searchlights. Searchlights, laser source lights, or any similar high-intensity light, except for emergency use by police or fire personnel at their discretion, or for approved temporary lighting for a special event approved by the City.
(2)
Hazardous Lighting. Lighting fixtures operated in such a manner as to constitute a hazard or danger to persons or to safe vehicular travel.
(3)
Mercury vapor and low-pressure sodium lighting fixtures.
(4)
Illumination of entire buildings and continuous light strips (banding).
(5)
Roof-Mounted Lighting. Roof-mounted lighting is prohibited, except for security purposes (see Subsection (D)(8) of this Section (Security Lighting)).
(6)
Flashing Light Types. Moving, flashing, animated, laser lights or any other lighting that flashes, blinks, scrolls, alternates, or moves (excluding bi-level lighting).
(D)
General Requirements. The requirements listed below shall apply to all outdoor lighting:
(1)
Dark-Sky Compliance. Pursuant to the International Dark-Sky Association recommendations, the color temperature of outdoor lighting shall not exceed 3,000 Kelvins.
(2)
Nuisance Prevention. All outdoor lighting shall be designed, located, installed, directed downward or toward structures, fully shielded, and maintained in order to prevent glare, light trespass, and light pollution and away from adjoining properties and public rights-of-way, so that no light fixture directly illuminates an area outside of the project site intended to be illuminated.
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(3)
Light Trespass. All lights shall be directed, oriented, and shielded to prevent light trespass or glare onto adjacent properties. The light level at property lines shall not exceed one-quarter foot-candles.
(4)
Fixture Types. All luminaires shall meet the most recently adopted criteria of the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) for "Cut Off" or "Full Cut Off" luminaires.
(5)
Design. All light fixtures for nonresidential projects visible to the general public shall be consistent with the overall architectural style of the project with respect to design, materials, color, and color of light.
(6)
Attachment. Lighting fixtures on buildings shall be attached only to walls or eaves, and the top of the fixture shall not exceed the height of the parapet, roof, or eave of the roof.
(7)
Accent Lighting.
(a)
Architectural features may be illuminated by uplighting; provided, that the lamps are low intensity, and fully shielded such that no glare or light trespass is produced.
(b)
Exposed neon strips, chip strips, and LED lighting are allowed in the nonresidential zones to enhance the architectural features of the building.
(c)
Low-voltage string ornamental lighting may be used in mixed-use, commercial/office, and PF (Public Facilities) zones to accentuate landscaping or decorative architectural features, provided the fixtures are properly maintained, securely attached to the structure, and provide architectural lighting to the building facade.
(8)
Security Lighting. Security lighting fixtures shall not project above the fascia or roof line of the building on which they are mounted. All security lighting fixtures shall be shielded and aimed so that the illumination is directed only to the designated area and shall not cast direct light on other areas. The use of flood-lighting fixtures shall be prohibited. Security lighting fixtures shall be included in the photometric lighting plan.
(10)
Maintenance. Fixtures and lighting shall be maintained in good working order and in a manner that serves the original design intent.
(11)
Timing Controls. All outdoor lighting in nonresidential zones shall be on a time clock or photo-sensor system and turned off during daylight hours and during hours when the building(s) is not in use and the lighting is not required for security.
(12)
Energy-Efficient Fixtures Required. Outdoor lighting shall utilize energy-efficient fixtures and lamps such as metal halide, hard-wired compact fluorescent, LED, or other lighting technology that is of equal or greater efficiency. All new outdoor lighting fixtures shall be energy efficient with a rated average bulb life of not less than 10,000 hours.
(E)
Maximum Height of Freestanding Outdoor Light Fixtures. Height shall be measured from the finished grade to the top of the illumination fixture (excluding decorative elements on the top of the fixture).
(1)
Abutting Residential Zones. The maximum height of on-site freestanding outdoor light fixtures abutting residential zones or within 100 feet of the zone boundary shall be 15 feet.
(2)
Mixed-Use or Multifamily Zones. The maximum height of an on-site freestanding outdoor light fixture within a mixed-use or multifamily residential zone shall be 15 feet.
(3)
Industrial Zones. The maximum height limit for on-site freestanding outdoor light fixtures in industrial zones and public/civic uses consistent with industrial zones shall be 35 feet.
(4)
Other Zones. In all other zones or locations, the maximum height for on-site freestanding outdoor light fixtures shall be 25 feet.
(5)
Outdoor Recreational Facilities. Outdoor light fixtures within the PF (Public Facility) zones for active recreation (public or private) including, but not limited to, baseball diamonds, soccer and football fields, golf driving range, tennis courts, and swimming pools shall not exceed 70 feet in height. The lighting intensity shall not exceed 50 horizontal foot-candles measured from the infield. The installation shall limit off-site spill (off the parcel containing the sports facility) to the maximum extent possible consistent with the illumination constraints of the design. The luminaire shall be fully shielded.
(6)
Additional Height. Taller light fixtures may be approved through a minor use permit for portions of a development not visible to the public and if there is no glare or light trespass into areas visible to the public.
(F)
Minimum Lighting Requirements.
(1)
Parking Areas. Lighting in parking, garage, and carport areas shall be maintained with a minimum of one-half foot-candle illumination at the darkest spot on the parking area during hours of darkness. There shall be no more than a four-to-one (4:1) average illumination ratio (average to minimum) level of illumination shown between lighting fixtures. The maximum average illumination across the parking lot shall be no more than 2.4 foot-candles. All lighting shall be on a time-clock or photosensor system. Lighting used to illuminate parking areas shall be designed and located to prevent light trespass or glare, pursuant to Subsection (D)(2) of this Section (Nuisance Prevention).
(2)
Multi-Unit Residential Developments. Aisles, passageways, and entryways/recesses related to and within the building complex shall be illuminated with an intensity of at least one-quarter foot-candle at the ground level during the hours of darkness.
(3)
Nonresidential Developments. All exterior doors, during the hours of darkness, shall be illuminated with a minimum of one-quarter foot-candle of light.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.86.040 Walls and fences.
(A)
Applicability and Exemptions. Unless otherwise exempt below, a building permit is required for new fences, walls, and screening over six feet in height in all zones.
(1)
Required Fences and Walls. The requirements of this Section shall not apply to a fence or wall required as an environmental mitigation measure or required by any law or regulation of the County, State, or Federal government, or any agency thereof.
(2)
Temporary Fencing. Nothing in this Section shall be deemed to prohibit the erection of a temporary fence, including chain-link fencing, around construction projects or in an effort to otherwise temporarily secure a parcel in compliance with the building code and other applicable requirements of this code. If chain-link fencing is used, it shall be vinyl-coated with a maximum height of eight feet.
(B)
Maximum Height. Fences and walls shall be measured pursuant to PMC § 17.17.030(E) (Fence and Wall Height Measurement). Tiering of walls shall be allowed as long as the horizontal distance between the walls is a minimum of three feet, which must be landscaped. Unless otherwise specified and per PMC § 17.82.070 (Safety visibility area restrictions), fences, walls, and similar screening structures shall be limited to a maximum height as follows:
(1)
Residential and Mixed-Use Zones.
(a)
Within Required Front Setbacks.
(i)
Three feet for a sight-obscuring wall, fence, or hedge. Open view fencing may be allowed up to five feet in height.
(ii)
On residential lots of 20,000 square feet or more, a six-foot-high open view fence may be located within the required front setback. Any gates for vehicles must be set back a minimum of 20 feet from the property line to allow for vehicle parking when the gate is closed.
(iii)
Walls and fencing within the front setback shall be located within the property line of the subject parcel. A wall, fence, or hedge a maximum of three feet high may be located a minimum of 12 feet from the face of curb or edge of easement.
(iv)
If fencing is located across the driveway, it shall operate using an automated rolling gate, or open inward, away from the public right-of-way. Any main gate shall open away from the public right-of-way.
(b)
Within Required Street Side Setbacks. Six feet. An additional foot is allowed (maximum seven feet); provided, that the portion of the fence exceeding six feet in height consists of open view fencing.
(c)
Within Required Interior Side and Rear Setbacks. Six feet. An additional foot is allowed (maximum seven feet); provided, that the portion of the fence exceeding six feet in height consists of open view fencing.
(2)
Commercial/Office Zones.
(a)
Within Required Front Setbacks. Three feet for a sight-obscuring wall, fence, or hedge. Open view fencing may be allowed up to five feet in height.
(b)
All Other Required Setback Areas. Six feet. An additional foot is allowed (maximum seven feet); provided, that the portion of the fence exceeding six feet in height consists of open view fencing.
(3)
Industrial Zones.
(a)
Within Required Front Setbacks. Three feet for a sight-obscuring wall, fence, or hedge. Open view fencing may be allowed up to five feet in height.
(b)
All Other Required Setback Areas. Eight feet.
(c)
Exceptions.
(i)
See outdoor storage screening standards in PMC § 17.92.120 (Outdoor storage (primary and accessory)).
(ii)
A fence or wall up to 12 feet in height may be approved with a minor site plan review, based upon a finding that no adverse visual or aesthetic impacts will occur on adjacent properties and public rights-of-way.
(4)
Public Facilities and Open Space Zones.
(a)
Within Required Front Setbacks. Three feet for a sight-obscuring wall, fence, or hedge. Open view fencing may be allowed up to five feet in height.
(b)
All Other Required Setback Areas. Six feet. An additional foot is allowed (maximum seven feet); provided, that the portion of the fence exceeding six feet in height consists of open view fencing.
(c)
Exceptions.
(i)
See outdoor storage screening standards in PMC § 17.92.120 (Outdoor storage (primary and accessory).
(ii)
A fence or wall up to eight feet in height may be approved with a minor site plan review, based upon a finding that no adverse visual or aesthetic impacts will occur on adjacent properties and public rights-of-way.
(6)
Decorative Features. Support posts or columns not exceeding 18 inches in width may exceed maximum allowable fence heights by a maximum of four inches. One entry gateway, trellis, or other entry structure is allowed in the required front or street-facing setback of each lot; provided, that the maximum height or width of the structure does not exceed 10 feet. Such decorative feature shall not have any solid obstruction that exceeds two feet in diameter between the height of three and 10 feet.
(7)
Recreational Fencing. Residential sports court fencing in residential zones shall comply with the standards set forth in PMC § 17.37.030 (Residential sports courts). Tennis court fencing in all other zones shall not exceed the height of 15 feet and shall observe the setback of accessory structures within the zone. However, not less than a five-foot setback shall be provided to any property line.
(8)
Pools, Spas, and Similar Features. Swimming pools, spas, and other similar water features shall be enclosed in compliance with building code requirements.
(C)
Materials.
(1)
Allowed Materials. Acceptable fencing materials shall consist of engineered wood, masonry, wrought iron, durable vinyl, or other similar durable materials, as approved by the Review Authority. Walls or fences in industrial zones which are not visible to the general public from a freeway, regional or crosstown street, or less intensive zones, may be of other materials as approved by the Review Authority.
(2)
Prohibited Materials. Fencing composed of natural wood, plywood, solid metal, tires, garage doors, and other salvageable materials shall be prohibited. Treated wood may be allowed only as gates or as split rail fencing utilized adjacent to walking or hiking trails.
(3)
Hazardous Fencing Materials. The use of barbed wire, razor wire, ultrabarrier, electrified, broken glass, and other hazardous fencing shall be prohibited, with the following exceptions:
(a)
Where such fencing is required by any law or regulation of the City, the State of California, Federal government, or other public agency.
(b)
Where the use of the site includes public safety facilities, such as police stations and fire stations.
(c)
Within the ER and LDR zones, the use of barbed wire or electrified fence in conjunction with any fence, wall, or hedge, or by itself is allowed; provided, that the barbed wire or electrified fence is used in conjunction with animal keeping or other agricultural activities, and that it is separated from any public access (i.e., road, trail, etc.) by a regular fence or wall that is a minimum of six feet in height. Such fences shall also be adequately signed with warnings.
(d)
Within the LI, HI, AI, and MRE zones, barbed wire may be allowed atop fencing that is at least eight feet in height, where the Review Authority finds such fencing is necessary for security purposes.
(4)
Limitation on Chain-Link Fencing.
(a)
Residential Zones. Chain-link fencing shall be prohibited in residential and mixed-use zones unless it qualifies as temporary fencing as described within Subsection (A)(2) of this Section (Temporary Fencing).
(b)
Nonresidential Zones. In nonresidential zones, chain-link fencing shall not be visible from public streets or adjacent residential or mixed-use zones.
(c)
Vacant and Abandoned Properties. Vacant properties in any zone may be fenced with vinyl-coated chain-link fencing not to exceed the height pursuant to Subsection (B)(5) of this Section (Vacant or Abandoned Lots) when the purpose of such fencing is to prevent unauthorized use, dumping, or vehicular soil disturbance that results in fugitive dust or nuisance conditions. Such fencing of vacant properties shall not be construed to allow use of the property for outdoor storage. Barbed wire shall be prohibited.
(5)
Anti-Graffiti Treatment. Walls shall be constructed of a graffiti-resistant material consisting of a hard, smooth, impermeable surface (e.g., ceramic tile or baked enamel), or treated with an anti-graffiti sealant.
(6)
Retaining Walls. Retaining walls shall be constructed of masonry material such as brick, concrete, or paver block.
(D)
Wall and Fence Design.
(1)
Plain, concrete (precision) block shall be prohibited as a fence/wall material. Concrete block must be finished with stucco, include varying textures and/or colors (e.g., decorative split-faced block) and capped with a decorative cap.
(2)
In the commercial/office zones, where open-view fencing is required for security purposes and is visible from public rights-of-way, decorative fencing such as tubular steel or wrought iron shall be used. Masonry pilasters and/or landscaping may be required by the Review Authority to provide visual interest.
(3)
All new sound walls, masonry walls, or nontransparent fences that face a public right-of-way or publicly accessible path or open space, and that are 50 feet in length or longer and four feet in height or taller shall be designed to minimize visual monotony through at least two of the following:
(a)
Changes in plane. A minimum one-foot depth offset for every 50 to 75 feet of wall.
(b)
Changes in height. Wall inserts and/or decorative columns or pilasters every 40 feet to provide relief.
(c)
Changes in material. Changes in material and/or material texture.
(d)
Landscaping. Continuous and opaque landscape screening.
(4)
Exceptions. Walls or fences in industrial zones which are not visible to the general public from major highway, regional or crosstown streets, or less intensive zones, may be of other materials and design as approved by the Review Authority.
(E)
Maintenance. Fencing and walls shall be continuously maintained, with no sign of rust or disrepair.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023; Ord. 1613 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.87.010 Intent and purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to ensure the provision of adequate, accessible, secure, screened, and well maintained parking areas. Properly provided and designed parking will facilitate the intended use of the property; reduce traffic congestion and safety concerns; protect the neighborhoods from the effects of vehicular noise and traffic generated by adjacent nonresidential land use districts; assure maneuverability of emergency vehicles; and provide a positive visual experience.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023; Ord. 1627 § 4 (Exh. A), 2023)
§ 17.87.020 Applicability.
(A)
New Buildings and Land Uses. On-site vehicle parking, bicycle parking, and loading spaces shall be provided pursuant to this Chapter at the time any main building or structure is erected, or any new land use is established.
(B)
Existing Nonresidential Buildings.
(1)
When a change in use, expansion of use, or expansion of floor area creates an increase of 25 percent or more in the number of required vehicle parking or loading spaces, additional parking and loading shall be provided for such addition, enlargement, or change in use. For existing uses with nonconforming parking conditions, additional parking shall be provided for the new additions or enlargements, and not for the entire building or site.
(2)
Bicycle parking shall be provided for any change in use, expansion of use, or expansion of floor area.
(3)
A change in tenancy or ownership is not considered a change in use unless the new occupant is in a different use classification than the former occupant.
(4)
Additional parking and loading spaces are not required for the reconstruction of an existing building when there is no increase in floor area.
(5)
If the number of existing vehicle parking, bicycle parking, and/or loading spaces is greater than the requirements for a proposed use, the number of excess parking or loading spaces may be counted toward meeting the requirements for any change, alteration, or major addition or renovation.
(C)
Existing Residential Buildings. Parking pursuant to this Chapter shall be provided where additional dwelling units are created through the alteration of an existing building or construction of an additional structure or structures. Parking for ADUs and JADUs shall be provided pursuant to PMC § 17.91.010 (Accessory dwelling unit and junior accessory dwelling unit standards).
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.87.030 General provisions.
(A)
Existing Parking and Loading to Be Maintained. No existing parking and loading area serving any use may be reduced in amount or changed in design or location below the requirements for such use unless equivalent substitute facilities are provided, and unless otherwise allowed by this Chapter. The provision for off-street parking facilities shall be a continuing obligation of the property owner so long as any use requiring vehicle parking continues.
(B)
Nonconforming Parking and Loading. An existing use of land or structure shall not be deemed to be nonconforming solely because of a lack of parking and/or loading facilities required by this Chapter as long as facilities used for parking and/or loading are not further reduced in number to less than what is required as of the date of adoption of this code.
(C)
Parking Areas. Motorized vehicle parking is only allowed within garages, carports, parking lots, and other approved structures and locations that have been developed in conformance with this Title.
(D)
Stacked and Valet Parking. Stacked or valet parking is allowed if an attendant is present, or an automated system is in place to move vehicles. Uses with valet parking shall provide an approved valet parking plan which includes insurance provisions for patrons. Such provisions shall be reviewed by the City Attorney and approved by the Review Authority. If stacked parking managed by an attendant is used for required parking spaces, an acceptable form of guarantee must be filed with the Director ensuring that an attendant will be present while the parking lot is in operation.
(E)
Assigned Parking. Lots developed with multiple uses and a shared parking area shall not assign parking spaces to individual tenant spaces or uses, except that parking spaces for residential uses in a mixed-use development shall be assigned to residential occupants.
(F)
Unbundling Parking for Residential Uses. The following rules apply to the sale or rental of parking spaces accessory to attached single-family residential developments and multifamily developments of five units or more, unless waived by the Director as infeasible. One hundred percent affordable housing projects shall be exempt from this requirement.
(1)
Required Unbundling. All off-street spaces shall be leased or sold separately from the rental or purchase fees for dwelling units for the life of the dwelling units, such that potential renters or buyers have the option of renting or buying a residential unit at a price lower than would be the case if there were a single price for both the residential unit and the parking space.
(2)
Use of Unbundled Spaces. Owners or lease holders have the right of first refusal to parking spaces built for their unit or use. Remaining residential unbundled parking spaces that are not leased or sold to on-site users built for their unit or use may be leased to other on-site users or to off-site residential users on a month-to-month basis.
(3)
Reoccupancy of Use. New owners or leaseholders shall have the opportunity to lease or purchase parking spaces built for their unit or use upon occupancy of the residential use.
(4)
Hierarchy of Right of First Refusal. In cases where there are fewer parking spaces than dwelling units, the parking spaces shall be offered first to the potential owners or renters of three-bedroom or more units, second to owners or renters of two-bedroom units, and then to owners and renters of other units. Spaces shall be offered to tenants first. Nontenants may lease with a provision for 30 days to terminate the lease.
(5)
Affordable Units. For deed-restricted affordable units, the tenant may choose to either receive one parking space, which shall be included within the unit's affordable rent level, or receive a rent discount equivalent to half the amount charged for monthly lease of a parking space, in exchange for not receiving a parking space. Tenants of affordable units shall not be permitted to sublease their parking spaces.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.87.040 Permit requirements and exemptions.
(A)
Permit Requirements. New parking lots and modifications or expansions to existing parking lots will be evaluated as part of the project review for other permits and approvals (e.g., site plan review, minor modification). At a minimum, a minor site plan review shall be required for new parking lots and expansions to existing parking lots to determine compliance with all applicable provisions of this Title. A zoning clearance shall be required for modifications to existing parking lots.
(B)
Exempt Activities. Parking lot improvements listed below shall be considered minor in nature if they do not alter the number or configuration of parking stalls and are therefore exempt from zoning clearance or minor modification requirements. However, exempt activities listed herein may require other permits (e.g., grading permit).
(1)
Repair of any defects in the surface of the parking area, including repairs of holes and cracks;
(2)
Resurfacing, slurry coating, and restriping of a parking area with identical delineation of parking spaces;
(3)
Repair or replacement in the same location as damaged planters and curbs; and
(4)
Work in landscape areas, including sprinkler line repair or replacement of landscape materials, except removal of trees.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.87.050 Vehicle parking requirements and calculations.
(A)
Minimum Number of Vehicle Spaces Required. Each land use shall be provided at least the number of parking spaces stated in Table 17.87.060-1 (Required Number of Vehicle Parking Spaces). The parking requirement for any use not listed in Table 17.87.060-1 (Required Number of Vehicle Parking Spaces) shall be determined by the Director based upon the requirements for the most similar comparable use, the characteristics of the proposed use, and any other relevant data regarding parking demand (e.g., parking demand analysis of similar facilities within the City or region).
(1)
Additional Parking Required. Nothing in this Chapter shall be deemed to limit the power of the Review Authority to require adequate provision of parking spaces as a condition of approval of a site plan review, minor site plan review, or as a development standard when, under the circumstances of a particular case, a greater number than specified in this Chapter is found to be necessary.
(B)
Accessible Spaces. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) parking spaces shall be provided pursuant to State and Federal regulations and shall be considered in the calculation of required spaces.
(C)
Electric Vehicle Charging Spaces.
(1)
Nonresidential Development. Nonresidential development shall provide electric vehicle charging stations pursuant to CALGreen.
(2)
Multifamily Residential Development. New multifamily residential developments with 40 or more parking spaces shall be equipped with raceways, wiring, and power to support future Level 2 EV charging stations at a rate of one for every 20 parking spaces. To incentivize the provision of electric vehicle charging stations, required parking may be reduced by two spaces for every Level 2 EV charging station provided, up to a maximum of a 10 percent reduction in total required parking. Notwithstanding the above, all electric vehicle charging facilities shall comply with the requirements in the California Building Code and California Electrical Code.
(D)
Calculation of Required Spaces. The following rules apply to the calculation of vehicle parking spaces in this Chapter:
(1)
Parking Ratios.
(a)
Floor Area. Where an on-site parking or loading requirement is stated as a ratio of parking spaces to floor area, the floor area is assumed to be net floor area, unless otherwise stated.
(b)
Employees. Where an on-site parking or loading requirement is stated as a ratio of parking spaces to employees, the number of employees shall be based on the largest shift that occurs in a typical week.
(c)
Bedrooms. Where a parking requirement is stated as a ratio of parking spaces to bedrooms, any rooms meeting the standards of the building code as a sleeping room shall be counted as a bedroom.
(d)
Students. Where a parking or loading requirement is stated as a ratio of parking spaces to students (including children in day care), the number is assumed to be the number of students at the State-certified capacity or at building code occupancy where no State certification is required.
(e)
Seating. Where fixed seats provided are either benches, bleachers, or pews, such seats shall be calculated at one seat for every 32 inches, and one seat for every 24 inches of booth length for dining.
(f)
Assembly Area. All rooms or areas that can be logically used for seating, in addition to any fixed seating area, shall be calculated in determining the parking requirement for assembly areas.
(2)
Sites with Multiple Uses. The number of parking spaces is computed based on the primary uses on the site except as stated in Subsection (D)(3) of this Section (Accessory Uses). When there are two or more separate primary uses on a site, the minimum parking for the site is the sum of the required or allowed parking for the individual primary uses, unless a reduction is approved pursuant to PMC § 17.87.070 (Exceptions and reductions to required parking).
For example, following would be the required number of spaces for a public park and recreation facility with the following amenities:
Table 17.87.050-1. Example Parking Calculation for Site with Multiple Uses | ||
|---|---|---|
Primary Use/Amenities | Required Vehicle Spaces per Table 17.87.060-1 | Calculated Number of Spaces |
Active recreation area – 5 acres | 10 spaces/net acre of active recreational area (e.g., athletic fields) within a park or playground | 50 spaces |
Tennis courts – 6 courts | Tennis, racquet, or handball facilities: 3 spaces/court | 18 spaces |
Pool – 20,000 sf | Pools: 2 spaces/1,000 sf of pool area, minimum 5 spaces | 40 spaces |
Amphitheater – 20,000 sf | 1 space/8 fixed seats or 1 space/100 sf of assembly area if no fixed seats | 200 spaces |
TOTAL | 308 spaces | |
(3)
Accessory Uses. When more than 20 percent of the floor area on a site is an accessory use, the required or allowed parking is calculated separately for the accessory use. An example would be a 10,000-square-foot building with a 7,000-square-foot warehouse and a 3,000-square-foot accessory retail area. The minimum parking would be computed separately for the retail and warehouse uses, except as provided in Table 17.87.060-1 (Required Number of Vehicle Parking Spaces).
(4)
Fractions. If the calculation for parking needs results in the requirement for a fraction of a parking space, the value shall be rounded to the nearest whole number.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.87.060 Required vehicle spaces.
(A)
Parking Schedule. Each land use is subject to the following minimum vehicle parking space requirements unless otherwise provided in another Section of this Title. All spaces may be uncovered unless otherwise specified. "Not applicable" shall mean that there is no minimum vehicle parking space requirement for the specified use.
Table 17.87.060-1. Required Number of Vehicle Parking Spaces | |
|---|---|
Use | Number of Required Spaces |
Aerospace Uses | |
Aerospace Manufacturing | 1 space/employee1, plus 5 guest spaces, plus space to accommodate all service trucks/vehicles |
Aerospace Services | 1 space/employee, plus 5 guest spaces, plus space to accommodate all service trucks/vehicles |
Agriculture and Animal Keeping Uses | |
Agricultural Support, Sales, Service, and Storage | 1 space/employee |
Animal Husbandry and Production | Not applicable |
Animal Raising and Keeping (domestic, livestock, horses, poultry) | Not applicable |
Farmstands | Not applicable |
Garden/Greenhouse, Private | Not applicable |
Horticultural/Crop Production/Aquaculture | 1 space/employee |
Kennels, Private/Hobby | Not applicable |
Stable/Equestrian Facility, Commercial/Public | 1 space/4 stables |
Stable/Equestrian Facility, Hobby/Private | Not applicable |
Automobile and Vehicle Uses | |
Fueling Station | 1 space/employee, plus additional spaces for convenience store and/or service/repair if included (see Convenience Store and Vehicles and Equipment Services and Repair). If a convenience store is included, see "General Retail" for additional required parking. If service bays are included, see "Vehicle and Equipment Services and Repair" for additional required parking. |
Travel Center | 1 space/employee, plus truck space parking sufficient to accommodate the use, plus additional parking required (per this table) for additional uses |
Vehicle and Equipment Services and Repair, Major | 2 spaces/service bay |
Vehicle and Equipment Services and Repair, Minor | 2 spaces/service bay |
Vehicle Rental | 3 spaces/1,000 sf of office or retail area, 1 space for each rental vehicle for planned fleet inventory, plus 1 space/service bay when repair services are included |
Vehicle Sales, New | 3 spaces/1,000 sf of office area, 1 space for each sale vehicle for planned fleet inventory, 2.5/1,000 sf of gross floor area in the showroom, plus 1 space/service bay when repair services are included |
Vehicle Sales, Used | 3 spaces/1,000 sf of office or retail area, 1 space for each sale vehicle for planned fleet inventory, 2.5/1,000 sf of gross floor area in the showroom, plus 1 space/service bay when repair services are included |
Vehicle Sales and Rental, Large Vehicles and Equipment | 2 spaces/1,000 sf of office or retail area, plus 1 space/1,000 sf of outdoor display |
Vehicle Towing/Impounding | 1 space/employee, plus sufficient vehicle spaces to accommodate all impounded vehicles |
Vehicle Washing and Detailing | 2 spaces/service bay or lane |
Vehicle Wrecking/Dismantling | 5 spaces, plus 1 space/employee |
Eating and Drinking Establishments and Entertainment Uses | |
Bar/Nightclub/Lounge | Greater of: 1 space/3 seats or 10 spaces/1,000 sf for indoor areas, for outdoor dining/seating areas > 450 sf in size: 1 space/150 sf of outdoor dining and seating area over 450 sf |
Brewpub/Taproom/Wine Bar/Microdistillery | Greater of: 1 space/3 seats or 6 spaces/1,000 sf for indoor areas, for outdoor dining/seating areas > 450 sf in size: 1 space/150 sf of outdoor dining and seating area over 450 sf |
Cafe/Bakery | Greater of: 1 space/4 seats or 5 spaces/1,000 sf for indoor areas, for outdoor dining/seating areas > 450 sf in size: plus 1 space/150 sf of outdoor dining and seating area over 450 sf |
Cinema/Theater/Performing Arts Center | 1 space/4 fixed seats, or 1 space/40 sf of assembly area if seats are not fixed |
Live Entertainment as Accessory Use, Indoor (Accessory) | Not applicable |
Live Entertainment as Accessory Use, Outdoor (Accessory) | Not applicable |
Outdoor Dining (Accessory) | Not applicable |
Outdoor Entertainment | 1 space/4 fixed seats or 1 space/60 sf of assembly area if seats are not fixed, or 1 space/1,000 sf of lot area |
Restaurant, Bona Fide | Greater of: 1 space/3 seats or 6 spaces/1,000 sf for indoor areas, for outdoor dining areas > 450 sf in size: 1 space/150 sf of outdoor dining and seating area over 450 sf |
Restaurant, Dine-In and Take-Out | Greater of: 1 space/3 seats or 6 spaces/1,000 sf for indoor areas, for outdoor dining areas > 450 sf in size:1 space/150 sf of outdoor dining and seating area over 450 sf |
Restaurant, Drive-Through | 1 space/employee plus 4 spaces for pickup |
Film, Research and Development | |
Film Production and Post Production | 2.5 spaces/1,000 sf, plus space to accommodate all service trucks/vehicles |
Research and Development | 2.5 spaces/1,000 sf. For developments where office space exceeds 25% of the gross floor area, parking for that portion of office space shall be required at 4 spaces/1,000 sf. |
Industrial and Manufacturing Uses | |
Artisan Manufacturing/Makers Space | 2 spaces/1,000 sf |
Brewery/Distillery/Winery – without tasting room or > 10,000 sf | 2 spaces/1,000 sf, plus space to accommodate all service trucks/vehicles |
Brewery/Distillery/Winery – with tasting room and < 10,000 sf | 2 spaces/1,000 sf, plus 1 space/4 seats in tasting room area, plus space to accommodate all service trucks/vehicles |
Commercial Vehicle Parking (Primary) | Not applicable |
Construction and Materials Yards | 1.5 spaces/1,000 sf |
Food or Beverage Manufacturing | 1 space/1,000 sf, plus space to accommodate all service trucks/vehicles |
Hazardous Materials Facility | 1 space/employee, plus space to accommodate all service trucks/vehicles |
Indoor Warehousing, Storage, Wholesaling, and Distribution | 0.5 spaces/1,000 sf or 1 space/employee1 whichever is less, plus space to accommodate all service trucks/vehicles |
Manufacturing, Outdoors | 0.5 spaces/1,000 sf of outdoor storage area or 1 space/employee1 whichever is less, plus space to accommodate all service trucks/vehicles |
Manufacturing/Processing, Light | 1 space/1,000 sf, plus space to accommodate all service trucks/vehicles |
Manufacturing/Processing, Heavy | 1 space/1,000 sf, plus space to accommodate all service trucks/vehicles |
Mining/Resource Extraction | Not applicable |
Ministorage Warehousing or Facility | 1 space/75 storage units, plus 3 spaces/1,000 sf of office area. A minimum of 5 spaces shall be provided. |
Outdoor Storage (Accessory) | Not applicable |
Outdoor Storage (Primary) | 0.5 space/1,000 sf, plus space to accommodate all service trucks/vehicles |
Outdoor Storage (Temporary) | Not applicable |
Salvage Yards | 1 space/employee, plus space to accommodate all service trucks/vehicles |
Temporary Buildings or Storage Facilities (Temporary and Accessory) | Not applicable |
Lodging | |
Bed and Breakfast | 1 space/guest room, plus 2 spaces/resident owner or manager |
Lodging – Hotels, Motels, Extended Stay | 1 space/guest room, plus 4 spaces/1,000 sf of eating area in a restaurant/cafe, plus 1 space/70 sf of seating area in a ballroom/banquet hall, plus 1 space/3 employees |
Lodging – Timeshares | 1 space/unit, plus 1 space/10 units for guest and staff parking, plus 4 spaces/1,000 sf of eating area in a restaurant/cafe, plus 1 space/70 sf of seating area in a ballroom/banquet hall |
Public, Quasi-Public and Institutional Uses | |
Civic/Government | 2.5 spaces/1,000 sf of gross floor area |
Cultural Institutions | 2.5 spaces/1,000 sf |
Hospital | Adequate number as determined through review process |
Public Service Facility | Adequate number as determined through review process |
Social Service Facilities | 4 spaces/1,000 sf |
Recreation, Education, and Public Assembly Uses | |
Athletic Fields, Unlighted | Not applicable (see required spaces for primary use) |
Athletic Fields, Lighted | Not applicable (see required spaces for primary use) |
Campground | 1 space/campsite, plus 1 space/onsite caretaker |
Cemeteries, Crematories, or Mausoleums | 1 space/6 fixed seats or 1 space/150 sf of assembly area if no fixed seats |
College/University | Adequate number as determined through review process |
Commercial Recreation and Sports, Indoor | • Health, Fitness and Sports Clubs: 4.5 spaces/1,000 sf • Bowling Alleys and Billiard Clubs: 3 spaces/bowling lane and/or billiard table plus additional spaces for accessory uses (e.g., restaurant) • Pools: 2 spaces/1,000 square feet of pool area, minimum 5 spaces • Indoor Tennis, Racquet, or Handball Facilities: 3 spaces/court • Coin-Operated Electronic Amusement Centers: 4.5 spaces/1,000 sf • All Other Recreational Uses: 2 spaces/1,000 sf Plus 4 spaces/1,000 sf for associated restaurant/cafe/commercial uses. |
Commercial Recreation and Sports, Outdoor | • Golf Facilities: ◦ Pitch and Putt: 3 spaces/hole ◦ Driving Range: 1 space/tee ◦ Golf Course: 5 spaces/hole • Outdoor Tennis, Racquet, or Handball Facilities: 3 spaces/court • Pools: 2 spaces/1,000 square feet of pool area, minimum 5 spaces • Community Assembly/Amphitheaters: 1 space/8 fixed seats or 1 space/100 sf of assembly area if no fixed seats • All Other Recreational Uses: 1 space/1,000 sf of lot area Plus 4 spaces/1,000 sf for associated restaurant/cafe/commercial uses. |
Community Assembly, ≤ 5,000 sf (gross sf) | 1 space/4 fixed seats, or 1 space/40 sf of assembly area if no fixed seats |
Community Assembly, > 5,001 sf – 12,000 sf (gross sf) | 1 space/4 fixed seats, or 1 space/40 sf of assembly area if no fixed seats |
Community Assembly, >12,000 sf (gross sf) | 1 space/4 fixed seats, or 1 space/40 sf of assembly area if no fixed seats |
Family Day Care Center | 1 space/employee plus 1 space/8 children/adults for loading and unloading |
Instructional Services, ≤ 5,000 sf | 1 space/employee plus 1 space/4 students |
Instructional Services, > 5,001 sf | 1 space/employee plus 1 space/4 students |
Open Space, Natural | Not applicable |
Parks and Recreation Facilities | • 10 spaces/net acre of active recreational area (e.g., athletic fields) within a park or playground, plus 5 spaces/net acre of passive recreational area; minimum 5 spaces • Additional spaces shall be required for uses such as swimming pools, gymnasiums, and tennis courts as follows: ◦ Golf Course: 5 spaces/hole ◦ Tennis, racquet, or handball facilities: 3 spaces/court ◦ Pools: 2 spaces/1,000 sf of pool area, minimum 5 spaces ◦ Gymnasiums: 2 spaces/1,000 sf ◦ Community Assembly/Amphitheaters: 1 space/8 fixed seats or 1 space/100 sf of assembly area if no fixed seats |
Retreat Center | Adequate number as determined through review process |
Recreational Vehicle (RV) Park | 1 space/travel trailer/RV site |
Schools, Public or Private (TK-12) | • Elementary and Middle Schools: 1.5 spaces/classroom, plus 1 space/2 employees or admin personnel • High School: 5 spaces/classroom, plus 1 space/2 employees or admin personnel |
Tutoring Facilities | 1 space/employee plus 1 space/4 students |
Vocational/Trade School ≤ 10,000 sf | 1 space/employee, plus 1 space/3 students |
Vocational/Trade School > 10,001 sf | 1 space/employee, plus 1 space/4 students |
Residential Uses | |
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) (Accessory) | See PMC § 17.91.010 (Accessory dwelling unit and junior accessory dwelling unit standards) |
Agricultural Worker Housing | 1 space/employee, plus 1 space/unit or 1 space/3 beds |
Caretaker's Unit (Accessory) | 1 space/unit |
Child Day Care in a Home | 1 space/nonresident employee plus one space for loading and unloading children plus parking required for the residential housing type |
Cottage Food Operation (Accessory) | None beyond the parking required for the residential housing type |
Cottage Industry (Accessory) | None beyond the parking required for the residential housing type |
Emergency Shelters | 1 space/employee, plus 1 space/20 temporary residents |
Group Residential Home | 1 space/employee, plus 1 space/bedroom/sleeping room |
Home Occupation (Accessory) | None beyond the parking required for the residential housing type |
Live/Work | 2 spaces/1,000 square feet of nonresidential area plus 1 space for each residential unit |
Model Home (on-site) | Not applicable |
Manufactured/Mobile Home Park or Subdivision | 2 spaces/unit (may be tandem), plus 1 guest space/5 home lots (may be provided on street) |
Residential Care Facilities, Small | 1 space/employee, plus 1 space/facility vehicle, plus 1 space/6 beds |
Residential Care Facilities, Large | 1 space/employee, plus 1 space/facility vehicle, plus 1 space/8 beds |
Residential Housing Types | |
Single-Family Dwelling – Attached | 2 spaces/unit, of which 1 shall be enclosed |
Single-Family Dwelling – Detached | 2 enclosed spaces/unit |
Two-Family Dwelling/Duplex | • 1 space/studio or one-bedroom unit • 2 spaces/unit with two or more bedrooms Minimum 1 space/unit shall be enclosed |
Multifamily Dwelling, Triplex/Quadplex | • 1 space per studio or one-bedroom unit • 2 spaces per unit with two or more bedrooms Minimum 1 space/unit shall be covered. |
Multifamily Residential, Greater Than or Equal to 5 Units | • 1 space per studio or one-bedroom unit • 1.5 spaces per two-bedroom unit • 2 spaces per unit with three or more bedrooms Minimum 0.5 space per unit shall be covered. Plus 0.2 guest space per unit For senior housing developments (62 years or age or older): 0.5 space/unit. Plus 0.1 guest space per unit |
Manufactured/Mobile Home | See "Manufactured/Mobile Home Park or Subdivision." Manufactured/mobile homes not within a manufactured/mobile home park or subdivision shall provide parking pursuant to the parking requirements for a "Single-Family Dwelling – Attached" or "Single-Family Dwelling – Detached" |
Single-Room Occupancy | 0.5 space/unit |
Sober Living Home | 1 space/employee plus 1 space/7 beds |
Supportive Housing | 1 space/employee plus 1 space/7 beds |
Transitional Housing | 1 space/employee plus 1 space/7 beds |
Yard Sales (Temporary Use) | Not applicable |
Retail, Service, and Office Uses | |
Adult-Oriented Business | Greater of: 1 space/3 fixed seats or 4 spaces/1,000 sf |
Alcohol and Drug Treatment Facility, Large | 1 space/employee plus 1 space/7 beds |
Alcohol and Drug Treatment Facility, Small | 1 space/employee plus 1 space/7 beds |
Alcohol Sales, Off-Sale | 4 spaces/1,000 sf |
Animal Sales and Services | 4 spaces/1,000 sf |
Auction Sales, Indoor | 1 space/3 fixed seats or 1 space/50 sf in the seating area used for the auction if no fixed seats |
Auction Sales, Outdoor | 1 space/1,000 sf of lot area devoted to sales and display |
ATM (Accessory) | 1 space/ATM (if stand-alone) |
Bail Bonds | 3 spaces/1,000 sf |
Banks, Financial, Savings and Loan Institutions | 3 spaces/1,000 sf |
Building Materials Sales and Services | 2 spaces/1,000 sf interior sales area, plus 1 space/1,000 sf exterior sales and storage area |
Business to Business Support Services | 2 spaces/1,000 sf, plus 1 space/service or fleet vehicle |
Check-Cashing Businesses | 3 spaces/1,000 sf |
Convenience Market | 4 spaces/1,000 sf |
Drive-Through Services (Accessory) | Not applicable |
Farmers' Market (Temporary) | 1 space/1,000 sf of lot area devoted to sales and display |
Food Preparation, Commercial | 2 spaces/1,000 sf, plus 1 space/service or fleet vehicle |
Fortunetelling, Palm and Card Reading | 3 spaces/1,000 sf |
Funeral Homes and Mortuaries | 1 space/4 fixed seats or 1 space/40 sf of assembly area where no seats or where temporary or moveable seats are provided |
General Retail ≤ 5,000 sf | 5 spaces/1,000 sf |
General Retail 5,001 sf – 25,000 sf | 25 spaces for the first 5,000 sf; plus 4 spaces/1,000 sf above 5,000 sf |
General Retail/Superstore > 25,000 sf | 105 spaces for the first 25,000 sf; plus 3 spaces/1,000 sf above 25,000 sf |
Grocery Store | 25 spaces for the first 5,000 sf; plus 4 spaces/1,000 sf above 5,000 sf |
Kennels/Boarding, Commercial | 3 spaces/1,000 sf |
Kiosk/Outdoor Vending | Not applicable |
Laundromat | 4 spaces/1,000 sf |
Massage Establishment, Accessory (Accessory) | Not applicable |
Massage Establishment, Stand-Alone | 3 spaces/1,000 sf |
Medical Services, Extended Care | 1 space/employee, plus 1 space/facility vehicle, plus 1 space/3 beds |
Medical Services, Medical/Dental/Holistic/Clinic | 5 spaces/1,000 sf |
Medical Services, Urgent Care | 4 spaces/1,000 sf |
Microblading/Permanent Makeup | Greater of: 4 spaces/1,000 sf or 2 spaces/chair |
Neighborhood Market | 4 spaces/1,000 sf |
Nursery/Garden Center | 2 spaces/1,000 sf of building floor area; 1 space/1,000 sf of outdoor display area |
Office, Processing | 7 spaces/1,000 sf |
Office, Professional/Administrative | 4 spaces/1,000 sf |
Office, Service | 5 spaces/1,000 sf |
Outdoor Display | Not applicable |
Pawnshop | 5 spaces/1,000 sf |
Personal Services | Greater of: 4 spaces/1,000 sf or 2 spaces/chair |
Pet Daycare | 4 spaces/1,000 sf |
Resale/Consignment/Thrift Shop | 5 spaces/1,000 sf |
Smoking Lounge | Greater of: 1 space/3 fixed seats or 5 spaces/1,000 sf |
Smoke Shop | 5 spaces/1,000 sf |
Swap Meet, Indoor | 3 spaces/1,000 sf of floor area devoted to sales and display |
Swap Meet, Outdoor | 1 space/1,000 sf of lot area devoted to sales and display |
Tattoo/Body Art/Piercing | Greater of: 4 spaces/1,000 sf or 2 spaces/chair |
Temporary Real Estate Sales Office (Temporary) | 1 space/employee, plus 2 guest spaces |
Veterinary Hospitals | 4 spaces/1,000 sf |
Utility, Transportation, and Communication Uses | |
Airports and Heliports | Adequate number as determined through review process |
Collocated Small Wind Energy Systems (CSWES) (Accessory) | Not applicable |
Communications/Wireless Telecommunications Facilities, Major | 1 space/maintenance vehicle operated or kept on site; minimum 2 spaces |
Communications/Wireless Telecommunications Facilities, Minor | 1 space/maintenance vehicle operated or kept on site; minimum 2 spaces |
Communications, Facilities Within Buildings | 3 spaces/1,000 sf of office space, plus 1 space/service or fleet vehicle |
Freight/Trucking Facility | 2 spaces/1,000 sf of office space, plus 1 space/service or fleet vehicle |
Light Fleet-Based Services | 2 spaces/1,000 sf of office space, plus 1 space/service or fleet vehicle |
Parking Lots and Structures | Not applicable |
Passenger Transportation Facilities | Adequate number as determined through review process |
Recycling Collection Facility, Large | 1 space/employee, plus 1 space/service or fleet vehicle |
Recycling Collection Facility, Small | 1 space/employee, plus 1 space/service or fleet vehicle; plus 3 spaces required for accessory small recycling collection facilities located at the established parking lot of the primary use |
Recycling Processing Facility, Heavy | 1 space/employee, plus 1 space/service or fleet vehicle |
Recycling Processing Facility, Light | 1 space/employee, plus 1 space/service or fleet vehicle |
Reverse Vending Machine | 3 spaces |
Sanitary Landfills | 1 space/employee, plus 1 space/service or fleet vehicle |
Small Residential Wind Generator Systems (SRWGS) (Accessory) | Not applicable |
Solar Energy System (Primary) | 1 space/maintenance vehicle operated or kept on site; minimum 2 spaces |
Utilities, Major | 1 space/maintenance vehicle operated or kept on site; minimum 2 spaces |
Utilities, Minor | 1 space/maintenance vehicle operated or kept on site; minimum 2 spaces |
Utility Yard | 1 space/service or fleet vehicle |
Notes: |
|---|
1. Number of employees shall be based on the largest shift that occurs in a typical week. |
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023; Ord. 1613 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023; Ord. 1659, 8/19/2025)
§ 17.87.070 Exceptions and reductions to required parking.
The number of parking spaces required by PMC § 17.87.060 (Required vehicle spaces) may be reduced as follows if the Director finds any or all of the following criteria are applicable, that the number of parking spaces provided is adequate and such reduction will not create a traffic safety hazard. In the event the City Engineer determines additional spaces are needed for traffic safety, or an intensification of use is proposed on the site, the City may require provision of the additional spaces. Parking reductions are cumulative, up to a maximum of 50 percent; all applicable parking reductions may be applied in determining the number of required parking spaces.
(A)
Transit Access. When a site has a bus stop with frequent transit service (every 15 minutes on average during peak hours) located within a quarter mile, a maximum 10 percent reduction to the required number of automobile parking spaces shall be allowed.
(B)
Bus Turnout. Where required or agreed to by the City and the transit authority, provisions for a bus turnout shall be provided. When such a turnout is provided, the number of on-site parking spaces may be reduced by a maximum of either five spaces or two- and one-half percent of the required number of spaces.
(C)
Carpool/Vanpool Spaces. When a site has dedicated parking spaces for carpool or vanpool vehicles, a maximum five percent reduction to the required number of automobile parking spaces shall be allowed.
 |
(D)
Motorcycle/Scooter Spaces. When a site has dedicated parking spaces for motorcycles, scooters, or electric carts reductions to the minimum dimensions for parking spaces shall be allowed.
(E)
Adjacent On-Street Parking. For nonresidential uses and the nonresidential portion of a mixed-use development, the Director may approve on-street parking spaces located adjacent to the subject site toward the number of required parking spaces, provided the parking spaces meet the dimensional standards of this Chapter.
(F)
Car Sharing Programs. Required parking spaces may be substituted with designated carshare vehicle parking spaces, and the required number of parking spaces may be reduced, pursuant to the following:
(1)
Carshare Parking Designation. A maximum of 10 percent of the required parking spaces may be designated as carshare vehicle parking spaces.
(2)
Reduction Allowed.
(a)
Parking Areas with 50 or Fewer Parking Spaces. A five percent reduction in the required parking shall be allowed where five percent of the required spaces are designated as carshare vehicle parking spaces.
(b)
Parking Areas with 51 or More Parking Spaces. A 10 percent reduction in the required parking shall be allowed where 10 percent of the required spaces are designated as carshare vehicle parking spaces.
For example, if a development was required to provide 100 vehicle parking spaces, and they provide 10 as carshare spaces, they would receive a 10 percent reduction in total required vehicles spaces for a total of 90 spaces (10 of which would be designated for carshare).
(3)
Accessibility. Car share spaces shall be made available to a car share organization for the purposes of providing car share services for service subscribers. In addition to conforming to the requirements of this Chapter, the parking area shall be designed to be accessible to local and nonlocal car share subscribers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
(a)
Exception. Car share parking spaces may be occupied by noncar share vehicles, if it is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Director that no car share organization can make use of the parking spaces. These spaces shall not be separately leasable and shall be made available on a first come first serve basis.
(4)
Deed Restriction. Prior to issuance of a building permit, a deed restriction shall be recorded identifying the number and location of the car share parking spaces. The location of the car share spaces shall be subject to approval by the Director or Review Authority, as applicable.
 |
(G)
Shared Parking. Required parking facilities for two or more uses, structures, or parcels of land may be satisfied by the same parking facilities used jointly, to the extent that the owners or operators show that the need for parking facilities does not materially overlap (e.g., uses primarily of daytime versus nighttime nature; weekday uses versus weekend uses); and provided, that the right of joint use is evidenced by a recorded deed, lease, contract, covenants, conditions, or restrictions (CC&Rs), or similar written instrument are executed and recorded ensuring that required parking is provided and that the uses and operating characteristics of all participating uses are maintained. The total number of spaces and their distribution through the site shall be substantiated through a parking demand study and a parking management plan prepared by a qualified traffic engineering professional.
(1)
Review Process. Requests for shared parking shall be considered as follows:
(a)
Existing Development. Where the request involves an existing development, an application shall be filed pursuant to PMC § 17.26.040 (Minor modification to approved plans).
(b)
New Development. Where the shared parking is being proposed as part of a site plan review or minor site plan review application, the request shall be processed concurrently with said applications.
(2)
Findings and Conditions of Approval. Shared parking requests shall be subject to review and approval based on the following criteria and findings:
(a)
Factors evaluated to establish shared parking arrangements shall include operating hours, seasonal/daily peaks in parking demand, the site's orientation, location of access driveways, transit service, accessibility to other nearby parking areas, pedestrian connections, distance to the parking area, availability of parking spaces, special trip reduction programs (e.g., subsidized vanpooling, transit, shuttle, or telecommuting), and cooperation of adjacent owners;
(b)
The parking demand, rates, and/or number of parking spaces required shall be based on well-recognized sources of parking data such as the Urban Land Institute (ULI) or Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) reports. If standard rates are not available or are limited, the applicant may collect data at similar sites to establish local parking demand rates. If the shared parking plan assumes use of an existing parking facility, then field surveys shall be conducted to determine actual parking accumulation;
(c)
The peak hours of parking demand from all uses do not coincide so that peak demand will not be greater than the parking provided;
(d)
Commercial/nonresidential parking demand often occurs at different times of the day;
(e)
Residential parking spaces will be available to residents between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.;
(f)
The efficiency of parking provided will equal or exceed the level that can be expected if parking for each use were provided separately;
(g)
If a privately owned parking facility is proposed to serve two or more separate properties, a legal agreement shall be established between property owners guaranteeing access to, use of, and management of designated spaces;
(h)
Signage does not prohibit or reserve parking spaces for a particular use;
(i)
All shared parking spaces are located in order to be reasonably accessible to the uses they serve and are not separated from such uses by any street, unless otherwise approved by the Review Authority; and
(j)
Pedestrian connections are provided from any shared parking spaces to all the uses that they are proposed to serve.
(3)
Additional Requirements. Nothing in this Section shall preclude the Review Authority from placing additional conditions to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of the City or to establish the number or percentage of off-street parking to be shared.
(H)
Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Programs. Reductions in the number of parking spaces provided may be approved by the Review Authority through the minor exception process pursuant to PMC Chapter 17.23 (Variances and Minor Exceptions) when the applicant has provided substantial evidence that TDM efforts may be effective in reducing vehicle demand. Such a program may require such provisions as:
(1)
Land set aside for additional parking if determined necessary;
(2)
In-lieu payments for transportation demand related services and programs;
(3)
Periodic monitoring and certification that the TDM effort is being maintained; and/or
(4)
Penalties for noncompliance (including suspension or revocation of occupancy permit).
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023; Ord. 1641 § 4 (Exh. A), 2024)
§ 17.87.080 Use of parking spaces.
(A)
General. Except as otherwise provided by this Title, required parking spaces must be available for residents, guests, renters, customers, or employees of the use. Parking and loading areas shall be accessible for their intended purpose during all hours of operation.
(B)
No area designated as a required parking area in connection with any designated building or use shall be operated as a commercial or public lot providing parking spaces for the general public or the occupants, tenants, customers, clients, or residents of any use or activity for a fee or other compensation, unless approved by the Review Authority. Required parking spaces may not be assigned in any way to a use on another site, except for shared parking pursuant to PMC § 17.87.070(G) (Shared Parking).
(C)
Required parking spaces shall not be used for sale, display, rental, storage, or repair of motor vehicles.
(D)
Residential Zones.
(1)
No vehicle which is registered for commercial purposes pursuant to applicable provisions of the Vehicle Code of the State of California or other jurisdiction and which has a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or more shall be parked or left standing on any residentially zoned property, in excess of 30 consecutive minutes unless it falls within the exceptions given in PMC § 10.04.040.
(2)
Light auto repair and maintenance activities on vehicles owned and operated by the resident of a dwelling unit are permitted only within the dwelling unit's garage, and shall be conducted pursuant to PMC Chapter 8.36. Any waste oil, automobile fluids or automobile parts shall be disposed of as prescribed by State law and local ordinance. No vehicle repair or maintenance activities, or storage of inoperable vehicles, are permitted within driveway areas, front yard setbacks or in rear or side yard areas which are visible from a public right-of-way. No commercial auto repair activities are permitted in the residential zones.
(E)
Commercial/Office and Industrial Zones. Required parking spaces shall not be used or allowed to be used for the repair, servicing, or storage of vehicles, or for the storage of recycling bins, property, or materials, nor shall the racks and pump blocks used in auto repair shops or other similar uses be considered in calculating required parking spaces.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023; Ord. 1613 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.87.090 Parking design standards.
The following design standards shall apply to all off-street parking areas:
(A)
Location and Orientation.
(1)
Residential Uses. Required parking for residential uses shall be on the same lot as the dwelling or use they serve, or on a parcel or tract owned in common by all the owners of the properties that will use the parking area:
(a)
Single-Family Residential. For single-family detached residential uses, parking shall not be located within a required front, street-facing side, or rear setback. For attached single-family residential uses, driveways may count toward the required parking so long as the driveway is at least 20 feet long. Parking shall only be allowed in a garage or approved driveway. There shall be no expansion of parking areas through the addition of paved areas in the front, side, or rear yards without the appropriate approval as outlined within Division 2 (Review Procedures) of this Title.
(b)
Multifamily Residential and Residential Mixed-Use.
(i)
Off-street parking spaces for multifamily dwelling types shall be located on the same development site and on the same lot or parcel, but in no event more than 200 feet from the dwelling unit for which the parking space is provided. No parking space shall be located in the required front, side, or rear setback area, except as otherwise provided in this Title.
(ii)
Off-street parking serving multifamily and residential mixed-use development shall be located in one of the following facilities:
A.
Surface parking lots, garages, or carports located to the side or rear of residential buildings in relation to adjacent streets. If a site fronts on two or more streets, the standard shall apply on the street with the highest classification in the General Plan. If a site fronts on two public streets of equal classification, the Director may determine on which frontage to meet the standard.
B.
Parking structures in which parking is located underground or the exterior facades are treated with an external skin, facade articulation strategy, or an integrated building facade. See PMC § 17.87.090(Q) (Surface Parking Screening).
(2)
Nonresidential Uses. Parking shall be located on the same lot, or, with a reciprocal parking and access agreement approved by the City, on a lot contiguous to the building, structure, or use to be served. Where feasible, parking shall be located to the side or rear of buildings in relation to adjacent streets. Where parking is proposed to be located off-site, the location of such parking, and where applicable the lot itself, shall be approved by the Review Authority. Any term agreements between private property owners shall be recorded and shall require review by the City Attorney and approval by the Director, Review Authority, and/or City Engineer as applicable prior to execution. Pedestrian access shall be available within a distance of not more than 300 feet measured from the nearest point of public access to the building, to the nearest part of the off-site parking area, unless otherwise approved by the Review Authority. Such separated parking areas shall be useable without causing unreasonable traffic congestion, detriment to any residential neighborhood, or safety concern to pedestrian or vehicular traffic in the vicinity.
(B)
Size. Parking spaces and maneuvering aisles shall meet the minimum dimensions required by this Section. Screening walls, roof support posts, columns, or other structural members shall not intrude into the required dimensions for parking spaces.
(1)
Standard Parking Spaces and Drive Aisles. The minimum basic dimension for standard parking spaces is nine feet in width and 18 feet in length, with a minimum vertical clearance of seven feet. End spaces where clear back-out space is restricted on one side shall be 11 feet in width. Table 17.87.090-1 (Parking Space and Drive Aisle Dimensions) provides the dimensions of spaces (stalls) and aisles according to angle of parking spaces and is accompanied by Figure 17.87.090-1 (Parking Space and Drive Aisle Dimensions).
(2)
Compact Spaces. A compact parking space shall have minimum dimensions of eight feet in width and 15 feet in depth. For nonresidential uses with 20 or more required parking spaces, up to 25 percent of the required spaces provided may be compact size as defined in this Title. For unassigned/guest stalls for residential uses with more than 25 spaces, up to 25 percent of the required spaces may be compact. Compact car parking spaces shall be clearly marked "compact cars only," "compact," or "c."
Table 17.87.090-1. Parking Space and Drive Aisle Dimensions | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Stall Type | Minimum Space and Aisle Dimensions | ||||
A Stall Width | B Stall Length | C Stall Depth (Aisle to Curb) | D Drive Aisle Width | ||
One-Way | Two-Way | ||||
Parallel | 9 ft | 22 ft | 9 ft | 12 ft | 26 ft |
30 Degree | 9 ft | 18 ft | 17 ft | 16 ft | 26 ft |
45 Degree | 9 ft | 18 ft | 19 ft | 18 ft | 26 ft |
60 Degree | 9 ft | 18 ft | 20 ft | 20 ft | 26 ft |
90 Degree | 9 ft | 18 ft | 18 ft | 26 ft | 26 ft |
Compact Stalls, all angles | 8 ft | 15 ft | – | Same as standards above per stall type | |
Figure 17.87.090-1. Parking Space and Drive Aisle Dimensions |
|---|
Angled Parking Spaces |
 |
Parallel Parking Spaces |
 |
Key: | |
|---|---|
a = Stall width | c = Stall depth |
b = Stall length | d = Drive aisle width |
(3)
Accessible Spaces. Whenever any off-street parking is required, spaces shall be provided pursuant to the latest version of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations.
(4)
Spaces Abutting Fences and Walls. Each parking space adjoining a wall, fence, column, or other obstruction higher than one-half foot in the vicinity of where a vehicle door may be located shall be widened by two feet to accommodate access to the vehicle through the door.
(5)
Overhang. Two and one-half feet of the sidewalk width located perpendicular to parking stall may be counted as part of the overall parking space length.
(6)
Minimum Dimensions for Residential Garages and Carports. Garages and carports serving residential uses shall be constructed to meet the following minimum inside dimensions and related requirements:
(a)
A single car garage or carport: 10 feet in width by 20 feet in length.
(b)
A two-car garage or carport: 20 feet in width by 22 feet in length.
(c)
A garage or carport containing three or more spaces: 9 feet in width by 18 feet in length per space.
(d)
A tandem garage or carport: 10 feet in width by 40 feet in length.
(e)
The vertical clearance for garage or carport parking spaces shall not be less than eight feet.
(7)
Reduced Parking Space Length and Width Prohibited. No reduction of parking space length or width shall be allowed.
(C)
Tandem Parking. Tandem parking may be allowed to satisfy parking requirements pursuant to the following:
(1)
No more than two vehicles shall be placed one behind the other.
(2)
Both spaces shall be assigned to the same residential dwelling unit or nonresidential establishment for employee parking.
(3)
Tandem parking to meet required parking for nonresidential uses may be used for employee parking only; the maximum number of tandem parking spaces shall not exceed 50 percent of the total number of spaces.
(4)
Tandem parking for visitors or customers may be allowed with valet parking, subject to approval by the appropriate Review Authority.
(5)
Tandem parking to meet required parking for multifamily residential development shall be located within an enclosed structure; the maximum number of tandem parking spaces shall not exceed 25 percent of the total number of spaces.
(6)
Tandem parking shall not be used to meet the guest parking requirement.
(D)
Parking Access. Parking access areas shall be designed to ensure vehicular access to parking spaces as determined by the City Engineer.
(1)
Access Hierarchy. Parking and service area access shall be provided from the following, in order of preference: (a) from an alley; (b) in the absence of an existing or proposed alley, access shall be from a driveway shared with a property abutting the development site; (c) in the absence of an alley or shared driveway, access shall be from the side/lesser street abutting the development site; (d) in the absence of a side street, from a curb cut/driveway along the primary street frontage.
(2)
Distance from Intersection. Driveways for parking facilities shall be located a minimum of 50 feet from the intersection of any two streets, or the maximum feasible distance from the intersection.
(3)
Shared Vehicle Access. Nonresidential projects are encouraged to provide shared vehicle and pedestrian access to adjacent nonresidential properties for convenience, safety, and efficient circulation. A joint access agreement guaranteeing the continued availability of shared access between the properties shall be reviewed by the City Attorney and approved by the Director, Review Authority and/or City Engineer, as appropriate, prior to recordation of the document in the County Recorder's Office.
(4)
Forward Entry. Except for single-family dwelling units, parking areas of four or more spaces shall be provided with suitable maneuvering room so that all vehicles therein may enter an abutting street in a forward direction.
(5)
Driveways and Curb Cuts. Each development project site shall be limited to one curb cut, including driveways and private/service streets, for every 400 feet of public street frontage, or two curb cuts for each street frontage, whichever is less (unless otherwise required for emergency vehicle access).
(6)
Driveway Length. Driveway length shall be regulated per the following to properly facilitate lot layout and on-site parking:
(a)
Driveways for nonresidential uses shall be designed to prevent queuing and backing up onto public rights-of-way. Adequate clear throat distance shall be provided at all parking entrance and/or exit driveways. Parking stalls within the first 40 feet are strongly discouraged.
(b)
For attached and detached single-family dwelling units and duplexes, resident parking is allowed in a driveway with a minimum depth of 20 feet.
(c)
Driveways providing direct access from a public street to a garage or carport shall be at least 20 feet in depth, with the following exceptions. No portion of the public sidewalk shall be counted toward meeting this requirement.
(i)
For single-family dwelling units and duplexes, side-on garages may be located a minimum of 15 feet from the public right-of-way; provided, that driveway parking shall accommodate a full car length of 20 feet measured from the edge of the public right-of-way. In hillside areas, the maximum driveway slope shall be 15 percent, with at least 18 feet in front of the garage at a slope not exceeding five percent.
(ii)
For multifamily residential and residential mixed-use developments, a minimum five-foot driveway apron shall be provided between the garage and any private street or drive aisle. Garages with parking aprons of less than 20 feet in length shall have automatic garage door openers and sectional roll-up doors.
(7)
Driveway Width.
(a)
Single-Family Residences and Duplexes. Minimum width of 12 feet for any driveway serving one residence. There shall be no more than two driveways per parcel. Driveways for three- or four-car garages shall be tapered down to a standard two-car width at the street.
(b)
Minimum width of 12 feet for a one-way driveway.
(c)
Minimum width of 26 feet for a two-way driveway serving any use other than single-family residential and duplexes.
(d)
The width of driveways shall be limited to the width necessary to access the allowed parking spaces or garage/carport.
(E)
Circulation and Safety.
(1)
Visibility shall be assured for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists entering individual parking spaces, circulating within a parking facility, and entering or leaving a parking facility. Parking shall not be allowed within the traffic safety visibility area per PMC § 17.82.070 (Safety visibility area restrictions).
(2)
Parking lots shall be designed so that sanitation, emergency, and other public service vehicles can provide service without backing up unreasonable distances or making other dangerous or hazardous turning movements.
(3)
Parking Aisles.
(a)
Parking aisle length shall not exceed 350 feet without a cross aisle for vehicle circulation.
(b)
Tangent or long radius sections of aisles along the perimeter of buildings should be less than 400 feet.
(c)
Four-way aisle intersections should be avoided, and where use of such intersection is necessary, it should be properly signed.
(d)
Dead end aisles should be avoided.
(4)
Separate vehicular and pedestrian circulation systems shall be provided where possible. Multi-unit residential developments of five or more units must provide pedestrian access that is separate and distinct from driveways. Parking areas for commercial/office and mixed-use developments with 25 or more parking spaces must have distinct and dedicated pedestrian access from the use to parking areas, building entries, and public sidewalks, according to the following standards:
(a)
Connection to Public Sidewalk. An on-site walkway shall connect parking areas to building entries and to the public sidewalk. Access for people with disabilities shall be provided pursuant to State and Federal statutes and shall provide a convenient and efficient circulation system for these individuals. For commercial/office uses, parking spaces should be located within 150 feet of a building entrance, or a sidewalk leading to a building entrance.
(b)
Separation From On-Site Buildings. Parking areas designed to accommodate five or more vehicles must be separated from the front and side exterior walls of on-site buildings by walkways or landscaping a minimum of four feet in width.
(c)
Routes Through Parking Areas. Walkways running parallel to the parking rows shall be provided for every four rows. Parking lot layout should minimize the need for pedestrians to cross parking aisles and landscape areas to reach destination points.
(d)
Materials and Width. All walkways located perpendicular to parking stalls shall be a minimum of seven feet in width to accommodate vehicle overhang and to meet accessibility requirements.
(e)
Identification. Pedestrian walkways shall be clearly differentiated from driveways, parking aisles, and parking and loading spaces through the use of elevation changes, different paving material, or similar method.
(f)
Separation and Distinction. Pedestrian pathways shall be clearly delineated by using landscaping, raised walkways, special pavers, decorative bollards, arches, trellises, and/or other design elements to alert drivers to potential conflicts with pedestrians. Where a pedestrian walkway is parallel and adjacent to an auto travel lane, it must be raised and separated from the auto travel lane by a raised curb at least four inches high, bollards, or other physical barrier. Where the path crosses the auto lane, the path shall be clearly delineated by a contrasting color, pavement material or pattern, and/or be raised slightly to form a speed table.
(F)
Parking Lot Striping. All parking stalls shall be clearly outlined with striping, and all aisles, approach lanes, and turning areas shall be clearly marked with directional arrows and lines as necessary to provide for safe traffic movement. Parking lots shall be completely striped, indicating individual parking spaces and traffic lanes as provided in a striping/parking plan submitted to and approved by the City. Except for parallel parking, the striping of all other parking spaces shall be either single line or double line. All parallel parking spaces shall be striped with single lines. Handicapped spaces shall be striped, marked and signed pursuant to Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations.
(G)
Surfacing. All parking lots shall be paved and improved, and all sites shall be properly graded and drained, consistent with applicable stormwater runoff regulations and subject to the approval of the City Engineer. Drainage shall not be allowed across the surface of sidewalks or driveways. All areas used for the movement, parking, loading, repair, or storage of vehicles shall be paved according to the requirements in this Title. All areas within the parking area not used for parking stalls or maneuvering areas shall be landscaped pursuant to Subsection (N) of this Section (Landscaping).
(1)
Pavement Standards. Parking areas shall be paved consistent with the following materials or comparable material recommended by a geotechnical engineer, approved by the City Engineer:
(a)
Residential Areas. Two inches of asphalt on four inches of aggregate, on four inches of compacted base material recommended by a geotechnical engineer, or four inches of concrete.
(b)
Nonresidential Areas. A minimum of three inches asphalt on four inches of aggregate, on four inches of compacted base material recommended by a geotechnical engineer, or four inches of concrete.
(2)
Landscaping Alternative. Up to two feet of the front of a parking space as measured from a line parallel to the direction of the bumper of a vehicle using the space may be landscaped with ground cover plants instead of paving. In addition, a ribbon driveway with a three-foot landscape strip in the middle shall be allowed in single-family residential zones.
(H)
Slopes.
(1)
Parking Spaces and Turnarounds. All parking lot areas used exclusively for parking and turnarounds shall be designed and improved with a grade not exceeding five percent slope. Parking spaces for the handicapped shall conform to the slope requirements of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
(2)
Driveways. All driveways within a parking lot used exclusively for ingress and egress or interior parking lot circulation shall be designed and improved with grades not to exceed a 10 percent slope. Driveways providing a means of ingress and egress to a lot upon which is proposed to be located a single-family detached dwelling shall not be subject to this requirement, except that in hillside areas, the maximum driveway slope shall be 15 percent, with at least 18 feet in front of the garage at a slope not exceeding five percent.
(I)
Drainage. Parking areas, aisles and access drives shall be graded and drained to dispose of surface water without damage to private or public properties, streets, or alleys. All parking and circulation areas shall be designed with an adequate drainage system and improvements shall consist of appropriate devices as specified by the City Engineer.
(J)
Perimeter Curbing. Parking areas within 15 feet of a building, structure, fence/wall, public right-of-way or lot line, except spaces within a garage or carport, shall provide six-inch-wide and six-inch-high concrete curbing along the outer edge of the parking facility pavement. Curbs separating landscaped areas from parking areas shall be designed to allow stormwater runoff to pass through.
(K)
Wheel Stops. Use of individual wheel blocks should be avoided.
(L)
Heat Island Reduction. In order to reduce ambient surface temperatures in parking areas, at least 50 percent of the areas not landscaped shall be shaded, of light-colored materials with a solar reflectance index of at least 29, or a combination of shading and light-colored materials. Shade may be provided by canopies, shade structures, trees, or other equivalent mechanism. If shade is provided by trees, the amount of required shading shall be achieved within 15 years.
(M)
Lighting. Parking area lighting shall comply with the regulations in PMC § 17.86.030 (Outdoor lighting).
(N)
Landscaping.
(1)
Applicability. The following landscaping requirements shall apply to all off-street parking areas for residential and commercial/office zones and uses, and for public/institutional uses consistent with these zones. For industrial zones and for public/civic uses consistent with these zones, the following landscaping requirements shall apply to off-street parking areas which are visible from freeways, regional and crosstown streets, and less-intensive zones. For parking lots in industrial areas which are not visible to the general public from freeways, regional and crosstown streets, or less-intensive zones, the requirement for parking lot landscaping may be reduced or waived by the Review Authority.
(2)
Minimum Parking Lot Landscaping.
(a)
Minimum Landscaping. A minimum of 15 percent of the total off-street open parking area shall be landscaped with a mixture of trees, shrubs, ground cover, and other plant material. A minimum of one-third of the required landscaping shall be distributed within the interior of the parking facility and the remaining two-thirds of the required landscaping shall be provided as peripheral planting on the exterior edges of the parking area. The parking area shall be computed by adding the areas used for access drive aisles, stalls, maneuvering, and landscaping within that portion of the premises that is devoted to vehicular parking and circulation.
(b)
Minimum Trees. A minimum of one canopy tree shall be required for every four parking spaces (or eight parking stalls when two rows of four share a common frontage). A minimum 50 percent of the parking lot trees shall be a minimum two-inch caliper in a 24-inch box size or larger container. A minimum 20 percent of the parking lot trees shall be a minimum two- and one-half-inch caliper in a 36-inch box size or larger container. Parking lot trees may be coordinated with required street trees, but in no event shall the number of trees be less than one for every 30 lineal feet of street frontage. The following exceptions shall apply:
(i)
Where this ratio cannot be achieved due to the installation of solar facilities, trees shall be provided along the perimeter of the parking lot.
(ii)
An existing shade tree may fulfill this requirement, so long as the existing shade tree is a minimum of four inches diameter at breast height. Existing mature trees on the site in good health shall be preserved whenever possible.
(c)
Nonplant Material. Crushed rock, pebbles, stones, and similar nonplant materials shall be allowed up to 60 percent of the total required landscaping. Landscaped areas shall be top dressed to avoid exposed bare soil.
(3)
Perimeter Landscape Strip. Each unenclosed parking lot shall provide a perimeter landscaped strip where the facility adjoins a property line pursuant to the following standards. The perimeter landscaped strip shall be planted with trees, shrubs, and groundcover, and may include any landscaped yard or landscaped area otherwise required. The landscape strip shall be continuous, except for required access to the site or parking facility. See also PMC Chapter 17.83 (Transition Between Land Uses and Zones).
(4)
Landscape Islands.
(a)
Landscape planters shall be a minimum of six feet in width (inside dimension), except that tree wells located between parking rows and spaces may be a minimum of four feet in width (inside dimension). All landscaping and planting within paved areas shall be contained within raised planters surrounded by six-inch concrete curbs. Tree areas shall be planted a minimum of five feet from walls, walkways, or buildings. To protect the hardscape and encourage deep root development, root barriers shall be installed during planting operations.
(b)
Wheel stops or curbs shall be placed a minimum of 30 inches away from the trunk of any tree.
(c)
Landscape islands a minimum of 10 feet in width with minimum aisle turning radii of 10 feet shall be provided at the end of all parking rows, except where parking rows directly abut buildings, sidewalks, walls, or similar features.
(d)
For parking rows containing 15 or more spaces, one landscape island within the interior of the parking row shall be provided for every 15 parking spaces in addition to the required row end landscape islands.
(e)
Landscape islands shall not extend closer than three feet from the aisle end of the adjacent parking space(s).
(f)
All landscape islands shall be designed with a six-inch curb and an additional paved strip to provide a minimum one-foot-wide paved landing area where abutting the side of parking stalls. Paved areas shall not be counted toward fulfilling landscape requirements or meeting minimum width requirements of this Title.
(g)
All landscape islands shall be designed with a minimum two-and-a-half-foot area free from vegetation where the front of a vehicle may overhang the island. Overhang area shall be surfaced with nonliving landscape material such as gravel or rock.
(h)
For projects requiring 20 or fewer parking spaces on site, the width of required landscape islands may be reduced to four feet, and the requirement for landscape islands within the interior of the parking row may be waived, subject to a determination by the Review Authority that an equivalent amount of overall site and parking lot landscaping is provided and that the parking lot is provided with a reasonable amount of shade.
(5)
Adjacent to Vacant Property. Landscaping along a property line adjacent to an abutting property that has no entitlement application on file for development is required to be defined by use of a six-inch concrete curb or a block wall or six-inch concrete mowing strip or a combination thereof.
(6)
Irrigation. All portions of a parking lot devoted to landscaping shall be provided with a permanent automatic irrigation system designed for water conservation.
(O)
Fire Lanes. All fire lanes shall be identified through signs or pavement markings for "NO PARKING" pursuant to Fire Department specifications.
(P)
Maintenance. All parking facilities, including landscaped areas, driveways, and loading areas, shall be maintained free of refuse, debris, or other accumulated matter, and shall be kept in good condition at all times. The maintenance thereof may include but shall not be limited to the repaving, oiling, and striping of a parking area and the repair, restoration, and/or replacement of any parking area design features when deemed necessary by the Director to insure the health, safety, and welfare of the general public.
 |
(Q)
Surface Parking Screening. All surface parking areas designed to accommodate five or more vehicles shall be screened from view from public streets, publicly accessible open spaces, and adjacent lots in a more restrictive zone, according to the following standards:
(1)
Height. The maximum height of a fence or wall along street frontages and walkways/sidewalks shall be no taller than three feet when used to screen the parking lot. Alley frontages are exempt from this standard. Screening of parking lots along interior lot lines that abut residential zones shall be six feet in height, except within the required front setback of the applicable zone, where screening shall be three feet in height.
(2)
Fences and Walls. Screening shall consist of one of the following:
(a)
Walls. Low-profile walls consisting of brick, stone, stucco, or other quality durable material approved by the Director. Plain concrete blocks are not allowed as a screening wall material unless capped and finished with stucco or other material approved by the Director.
(b)
Fences. An open fence of manufactured wood, wrought iron, or similar material combined with plant materials to form an opaque screen.
(3)
Planting. In addition to a fence or wall, screening shall be landscaped with plant materials consisting of compact plants that form an opaque screen. Such plant materials must achieve a minimum height of two feet within 18 months after initial installation and must be permanently maintained.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.87.100 through § 17.87.190. Reserved.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.87.200 Loading standards.
Every use, building, or structure shall have permanently maintained off-street loading and unloading spaces as follows:
(A)
Number of Loading Spaces Required. All off-street loading facilities shall have the number of spaces required per building based on proposed or projected use or uses as specified in Table 17.87.200-1 (Required Loading Spaces).
(1)
Multi-Tenant Buildings. The gross floor area of the entire building shall be used in determining spaces for multi-tenant buildings. A common loading area may be required if each tenant space is not provided with a loading area. Drive-in roll-up doors for multi-tenant industrial projects may be substituted for required loading areas.
(2)
Reduction to Number of Loading Spaces Required. The Review Authority may waive or reduce the loading space requirement, or allow joint use of loading zones through the site plan or minor site plan review process upon finding that the applicant has satisfactorily demonstrated that, due to the specific nature of the use and building, such loading space will not be necessary. When considering a request for joint use of loading zones, the Review Authority shall consider the proximity of the loading zone to the uses being served, the nature of the uses being served, their demand for frequent or continuous loading and the nature of the goods being loaded.
(3)
Additional Loading Spaces Required. Additional loading spaces may be required to ensure that trucks will not be loaded, unloaded, or stored on public streets. Such requirement shall be based on the anticipated frequency of truck deliveries.
Table 17.87.200-1. Required Loading Spaces | ||
|---|---|---|
Use | Floor Area (sf) | Loading Spaces Required |
Restaurants and Other Eating and Drinking Establishments | less than 4,000 | 0 |
4,000 to 20,000 | 1 | |
20,001 to 50,000 | 2 | |
(each additional 50,000) | 1 | |
Medical Offices, Personal and Financial Services, Lodging, Hospitals and Similar Treatment Facilities, Commercial Recreation and Entertainment Uses | Less than 10,000 | 0 |
10,000 to 100,000 | 1 | |
100,001 to 200,000 | 2 | |
(each additional 100,000) | 1 | |
Warehouses, Storage Facilities, Manufacturing and Other Industrial Uses, General Retail | Less than 5,000 | 0 |
5,000 to 30,000 | 1 | |
30,001 to 80,000 | 2 | |
80,001 to 150,000 | 3 | |
(each additional 100,000) | 1 | |
(B)
Calculation. The number of loading spaces shall be computed as follows:
(1)
If the calculation for loading needs results in the requirement for a fraction of a loading space, the value shall be rounded to the nearest whole number.
(2)
In the case of mixed uses, the total number of required loading spaces shall be the sum of the requirements for the various uses proposed for each building.
(3)
Requirements for uses not specifically listed herein shall be based upon the requirements for comparable uses listed and upon the particular characteristics of the use as determined by the Director.
(4)
No area may be utilized and counted both as a required parking space and a required loading space.
(5)
No part of an alley or street shall be used for loading except areas designated by the City for loading.
(C)
Location and Orientation.
(1)
Off-street loading facilities shall be located on the same site with the use for which the spaces are required.
 |
(2)
Off-street loading facilities shall be designed and located so that loading vehicles are not parked in required setbacks, driveways, or required parking spaces during loading activities.
(3)
No loading spaces shall be closer than 30 feet to any property in a residential zone unless completely enclosed within a building, or a uniformly solid fence or wall, or any combination thereof, not less than eight feet in height.
(4)
No allowed or required loading space shall be located within 25 feet of the nearest point of any street intersection.
(5)
Loading areas shall not face a public right-of-way. Loading spaces shall be located inside of buildings or on nonprimary street frontages, alleys, parking areas, and/or at the rear or side of building as specified within PMC Chapter 17.85 (Utilities and Services).
(6)
Passenger loading spaces shall be located so that passengers do not need to cross drive aisles to walk from the loading space to the building entryway.
(7)
Exceptions. The location requirement may be modified or waived where the Review Authority finds that:
(a)
The intended use of the property or the location of or shape of the site and/or existing development warrant a variance or minor exception;
(b)
That street-facing loading areas will exhibit architectural treatment, or will be enhanced with landscaping, in such a way as to minimize visual and noise impacts; and
(c)
There are specific features of the site and design of the building such that strict application of the location requirement is impractical.
(D)
Size.
(1)
All off-street loading facilities shall comply with the following minimum dimensions, except that passenger loading spaces shall be at least 10 feet in width and 20 feet in length:
Table 17.87.200-2. Loading Space Dimensions | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Use | Width | Length | Clearance | Turning Radius* |
Warehouses and Industrial Uses | 12 ft | 50 ft | 15 ft | 45 ft |
Office Commercial, Retail Commercial, Restaurants | 11 ft | 30 ft | 15 ft | 32 ft |
Notes: | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
*Outside turning radius of the vehicles. |
(E)
Loading Design Standards.
(1)
Screening. All loading zones and truck parking areas shall be screened from view by a minimum of an eight-foot-high wall or fence and may be installed in combination with a hedge, vine-covered fence, and landscaping pursuant to PMC Chapter 17.85 (Utilities and Services).
(2)
Forward Entry. Loading spaces shall be located and designed so that trucks shall not back into a public street or alley, nor shall a loading area be designed to require the use of a public right-of-way for access to a loading dock.
(3)
Maneuvering Space. Sufficient space for turning and maneuvering loading vehicles shall be provided on the site.
(4)
Loading Doors. Loading doors should not open toward public streets; when these features must face a street due to prevailing winds or site constraints, they shall be adequately screened.
(5)
Vertical clearance of all access aisles or drives to loading areas shall not be less than 14 feet above finished surface.
(6)
Bumpers. Bumper rails shall be provided in loading areas where needed for safety or to protect property.
(7)
Paving. Loading areas, aisles, and access driveways shall be paved in order to provide a durable, dustless surface and shall be graded and drained to dispose of surface water. Loading areas shall be paved with a minimum of four inches of asphalt over six inches of base material, or as otherwise approved by the City Engineer.
(8)
Rolling Doors. Hardware for rolling doors shall be placed on the inside of the building.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.87.210 Bicycle parking facilities.
(A)
Short-Term Bicycle Parking. Short-term bicycle parking shall be provided in order to serve shoppers, customers, messengers, guests, and other visitors to a site who generally stay for a short time. Short-term bicycle parking shall be designed in a manner that is architecturally compatible with the primary building.
 |
(1)
Short-Term Bicycle Parking Spaces Required. Each land use is subject to the short-term bicycle parking requirements as specified in Table 17.87.210-1 (Short-Term Bicycle Parking Requirements). Fractional requirements of half a space or greater shall be considered as a full bicycle rack space.
Table 17.87.210-1. Short-Term Bicycle Parking Requirements | |
|---|---|
Use | Required Short-Term Bicycle Parking Spaces |
Residential Uses | |
Multifamily residential with 5 or more units | At least 10 percent of the number of required automobile parking spaces; minimum two spaces per development. |
Educational Uses | |
Nursery/Preschools, Day Care Centers | One short-term bicycle parking space for every 20 students at planned capacity. |
Elementary and Middle Schools | One short-term bicycle parking space for every 20 students at planned capacity. |
High Schools | One short-term bicycle parking space for every 10 students at planned capacity. |
Colleges and Universities | One short-term bicycle parking space for every 10 students at planned capacity. |
Nonresidential Uses | |
All other nonresidential uses anticipated to generate visitor or customer traffic (e.g., public/civic, retail and commercial, entertainment, etc.) | At least 10 percent of the number of required automobile parking spaces; minimum two spaces per development. |
(2)
Location. Short-term bicycle parking shall be located outside of the public right-of-way, pedestrian pathways and located within 50 feet of the main entrance to the building it serves. Where the bicycle parking area is not visible from the main entrance of the building, signs located at the main entrance of the building shall identify the location of bicycle parking.
(3)
Access. Safe and convenient access shall be provided from the public right-of-way and internal circulation system to the bicycle parking facilities.
(4)
Rack Style and Spacing.
(a)
Rack Style. For each short-term bicycle parking space required, a stationary, securely anchored bike rack/structure shall be provided to which a bicycle frame and one wheel (two points of contact) can be secured with a high-security U-shaped shackle lock if both wheels are left on the bicycle. One such rack may serve multiple bicycle parking spaces. Decorative bicycle racks, such as circular, ring, or bicycle shaped racks are recommended. Wave style racks are prohibited.
(b)
Rack Spacing. Racks shall be spaced a minimum of three feet between each other when placed side by side, and a minimum of five feet when placed end to end.
(5)
Security. Short-term bicycle parking areas shall be lit during hours of darkness for security purposes. The location of bicycle racks should provide for surveillance of the area from the primary building parking and pedestrian access areas, to provide security of the bicycle parking area.
(6)
Size and Clearance. Each short-term bicycle parking space shall be a minimum of two feet in width and six feet in length and shall be accessible without moving another bicycle. Two feet of clearance shall be provided between bicycle parking spaces and adjacent walls, poles, landscaping, street furniture, drive aisles, and pedestrian pathways and at least five feet from vehicle parking spaces.
(B)
Long-Term Bicycle Parking. Long-term bicycle parking shall be provided in order to serve employees, students, residents, commuters, and others who generally stay at a site for four hours or longer.
 |
(1)
Long-Term Bicycle Parking Spaces Required. Each land use is subject to the long-term bicycle parking requirements as specified in Table 17.87.210-2 (Long-Term Bicycle Parking Requirements). Fractional requirements of half a space or greater shall be considered as a full bicycle rack space.
Table 17.87.210-2. Long-Term Bicycle Parking Requirements | |
|---|---|
Use | Required Long-Term Bicycle Parking Spaces |
Residential Uses | |
Multifamily Residential | A minimum of one long-term bicycle parking space shall be provided for every four units for multi-unit residential unit. |
Educational Uses | |
Nursery/Preschools, Day Care Centers | One long-term bicycle parking space for every 15 employees. |
Elementary, Middle, and High Schools | One long-term bicycle parking space per 15 employees; minimum one space. |
Colleges and Universities | One long-term bicycle parking space per 15 employees; minimum one space. |
Other Uses | |
Other Uses (commercial, office, etc.) | Any establishment with 15 or more full-time equivalent employees shall provide long-term bicycle parking for five percent of required automobile spaces; minimum one space. |
Parking Structures | Long-term bicycle parking shall be provided at a minimum ratio of one space per 20 vehicle spaces. |
(2)
Location. Long-term bicycle parking shall be located on the same lot as the use it serves, outside of the public right-of-way and pedestrian paths, and located within 50 feet of the entrance for which the rack is intended to serve. In parking garages, long-term bicycle parking shall be located within 50 feet of an entrance to the facility. Where the bicycle parking area is not visible from the entrance of the building, signs located at the entrance or in an entry lobby of the building shall identify the location of bicycle parking.
(3)
Security. Long-term bicycle parking must be:
(a)
Within an enclosed bicycle locker;
(b)
Within a fenced, covered, and locked or guarded bicycle storage area;
(c)
A rack or stand inside a building that is within view of an attendant or security guard or visible from employee work areas or within secure/restricted bicycle storage room; or
(d)
Other secure area approved by the Director.
(4)
Rack Style and Spacing. Racks, if used, shall be designed and spaced as follows:
(5)
Size, Clearance, and Accessibility.
(a)
Size. Each bicycle parking space shall be a minimum of two feet in width and six feet in length and shall be accessible without moving another bicycle.
(b)
Clearance. Two feet of clearance shall be provided between bicycle parking spaces and adjacent walls, poles, landscaping, street furniture, drive aisles, and pedestrian pathways and at least five feet from vehicle parking spaces.
(c)
Accessibility. Bicycle parking areas shall be accessible from the public right-of-way or from within the building or parking structure. The access path shall be clear at all times, provide a five-foot minimum width, a three-foot minimum door width, five percent maximum slope, elevator minimum interior dimensions of 80 inches by 54 inches, require no lifting of bicycle over any steps, and provide lighting for the access route and bicycle parking spaces. At least one main access path shall meet all the above listed criteria if multiple access paths are provided.
(6)
Covered Spaces. One hundred percent of required bicycle parking for multi-unit developments shall be inside buildings, garages, or in bike lockers. At least 60 percent of other required long-term bicycle parking must be covered either inside a building, under roof overhangs or awnings, in bicycle lockers, or within or under other structures.
(7)
Electric Bicycle Charging. Bike rooms shall provide outlets for charging electric bicycles.
(C)
Bicycle Repair Stands. Bicycle repair stands have tools to help fix minor maintenance issues, such as adding air to a tire, tightening a loose chain, or adjusting handlebars. To support people bicycling, bicycle repair stands shall be provided as follows:
 |
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.87.220 Modification of parking and loading requirements.
(A)
Minor reductions in the number of required parking spaces or configuration to meet requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act may be granted through approval of a minor exception, pursuant to PMC Chapter 17.23 (Variances and Minor Exceptions).
(B)
Other Exceptions/Reductions Through Parking Analysis. The applicant may propose a parking standard that is different than the standards in Table 17.87.060-1 (Required Number of Vehicle Parking Spaces) for review and approval through the minor exception process pursuant to PMC Chapter 17.23 (Variances and Minor Exceptions). The applicant's proposal shall consist of a written request and a parking analysis prepared by a qualified transportation professional. The parking analysis, at a minimum, shall assess the average parking demand and available supply for existing and proposed uses on the subject site; opportunities for shared parking with other uses in the vicinity; existing public parking in the vicinity; transportation options existing or planned near the site, such as frequent bus service, carpools, or private shuttles; and other relevant factors.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.010 Applicability.
This Chapter shall apply to all signs and/or sign structures that are visible from public rights-of-way and private streets, within parking lots and loading areas and from adjacent properties, unless such signs are regulated pursuant to the provisions of an adopted Specific Plan.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.020 Intent and purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to implement the Palmdale General Plan by promoting the growth of the City in an orderly and attractive manner and to provide standards to safeguard life, health, property, and public welfare by regulating and controlling the type, number, area, height, quality of materials, construction, illumination, location, and maintenance of all signs and sign structures. The sign standards of this Chapter are intended to accomplish the following results:
(A)
Make the City attractive while enhancing economic development through an effective and high-quality signing program. Protect and enhance the character of neighborhoods by preventing visual clutter caused by excessive and obtrusive signage. Promote and maintain healthy commercial, mixed-use, and industrial areas and property values for effective identification and communication of the nature of goods and services and avoidance of wasteful and unsightly signs.
(B)
Establish uniform Citywide signage standards and requirements that provide for public convenience by directing persons to various activities and uses.
(C)
Provide a reasonable system of sign control throughout the City consisting of sign type, size, location, illumination, and spacing to contribute toward development of a high-quality visual environment.
(D)
Encourage signs that are well designed and pleasing in appearance and to provide incentive and latitude for variety, good design, relationship and spacing.
(E)
Encourage a desirable community character, which has a minimum of visual clutter.
(F)
Enhance aesthetic appeal through the reasonable regulation of such things as type, number, area, height, location, and illumination of signs.
(G)
Encourage signs that are properly located, harmonious with adjacent land uses and architecturally compatible.
(H)
Reduce and, to the extent permissible and practicable, eliminate traffic and safety hazards posed to motorists and pedestrians by outdoor advertising structures and other signs that may distract motorists and pedestrians.
(I)
Implement the goals, policies, and objectives of the General Plan.
(J)
Encourage pedestrian-oriented commerce by promoting pedestrian-scale signs.
(K)
Direct persons at entrances of multi-tenant buildings through placement of directory signs or information kiosks where such signage is supported by a compelling governmental interest and/or is government signage.
(L)
Enhance the community environment by limiting the visual influence of wall signs on structures containing three stories or more.
(M)
Ensure and protect the constitutional right of free speech by not imposing greater restrictions on noncommercial speech than on commercial speech or advertising.
(N)
Provide sign criteria that is objective, does not vest City officials with unfettered discretion, and that is aimed at regulating the time, place, and manner of signs as distinguished from the content of the sign. Where content is regulated, the City intends its standards to be narrowly tailored to serve the City's compelling interest in preserving and enhancing its appearance and in protecting motorists and pedestrians from traffic and safety hazards.
(O)
Bring existing approved sign programs into conformance with current development standards while maintaining the unique characteristics intended for such programs.
(P)
Provide a reasonable amortization period for the removal of nonconforming signs.
(Q)
Inventory, identify and abate all illegal, abandoned and improperly maintained signs.
(R)
Identify precisely those areas and/or zones where the installation of additional outdoor advertising structures should be prohibited due to the importance of such areas to the environmental, economic, or other development goals and objectives of the City.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.030 Definitions.
shall mean an agreement entered into between the City and a billboard owner resulting in removal of an existing outdoor advertising sign structure, reconstruction of the outdoor advertising sign structure on its existing parcel or relocation of the outdoor advertising structure to another parcel of property within the City, subject to the approval of a conditional use permit.
shall mean the use of a sign or signs soliciting public support or directing public attention to the sale, lease, hire or use of any objects, products, services or functions which are not produced, sold or otherwise available on the premises where such sign is erected or maintained.
shall mean any object conveying a message and having a visual appearance primarily used for attracting public attention or patronage from the street, sidewalk, or other outside public area. Signs located completely within an enclosed building, and not exposed to view from a street, are not considered a sign for purposes of this Title.
shall mean any sign associated with a business remaining in place for a period of 90 days or more where the establishment to which the sign is attached has ceased operation or where there is no sign copy appearing on the sign.
shall mean signs that are secondary in purpose and provide information concerning the business and are typically placed on the outer edge of a permanent canopy island structure or that are displayed on or below a canopy projecting from a main building.
shall mean any message, the prevailing thrust of which is to propose a commercial transaction.
shall mean a structure of any kind erected, used, or maintained for outdoor advertising purposes, upon which any poster, bill, printing, painting or other advertisement or commercial speech of any kind whatsoever may be placed, including statuary, for advertising or commercial purposes.
shall mean any change of size, shape, illumination, position, location, construction or supporting structure of an existing sign.
shall mean a sign having moving parts or lighting, an image projection which creates the illusion of moving parts, or has flashing, chasing, or twinkling lights.
shall mean the entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles which encloses the extreme limits of the writing, representation, emblem, or any figure, together with any frame, background area, structural trim, or other material, including any light or color that forms an integral part of the display which is used to differentiate the sign from the background upon which it is placed. In the case of a sign designed with more than one exterior surface, the area shall be computed as including only the maximum single display surface, which is visible from any ground position at one time. The supports or uprights on which any such sign is supported shall not be included in determining the sign area unless such supports or uprights are designed in such a manner as to form an integral background of the display.
Figure 17.88.030-2. Sign Area |
|---|
 |
shall mean a flexible, nonporous bag inflated with a gaseous substance, including but not limited to helium, that is lighter than the surrounding air, which causes the bag to rise and float in the air.
shall mean a temporary sign composed of flexible, lightweight material not enclosed in a rigid frame.
shall mean the same as outdoor advertising sign structure.
shall mean a sign consisting of one or more flat translucent panels containing sign copy affixed to an internally illuminated box or cabinet mounted on a building or monument structure. Such signs are typically illuminated with fluorescent lights. Sign panels may or may not be interchangeable.
shall mean any sign printed or painted on the visible surface of a canopy or awning.
shall mean the changing of a message on a lawfully erected sign. A change of copy does not include the following (all of which acts shall be considered as the placing of a new sign): any alteration or reconfiguration of the outside dimensions of a sign, any structural modifications of a sign and/or relocation of all or any portion of a sign.
shall mean a sign on which message copy can be changed manually through use of attachable letters and numerals.
shall mean a uniform off-site directional sign program, administered by the BIA or an agency as determined by resolution of the City Council for the purpose of providing travel directions.
when used with reference to a sign, shall mean to install, erect, or place on the ground or on a building structure, or to affix, paint or post on or to a building or structure.
shall mean either commercial speech or noncommercial speech messages.
shall mean an electronic advertising display where the message is changed more than once every two minutes, but no more than once every six seconds and the transition between messages is no more than one second. A digital advertising display shall not be considered an electronic reader board or animated sign as those terms are otherwise defined herein.
shall mean any sign that serves solely to designate the direction or the location of any place or area and is placed on the property to which the public is directed. Distinctions for directional signs within this Chapter are limited to those situations where there is a compelling government interest and/or where the directional sign qualifies as a government sign.
shall mean a sign or a set of similarly designed individual signs placed or displayed in sequence, to list the location of various units within a development. Distinctions for directory signs within this Chapter are limited to those situations where there is a compelling government interest and/or where the directory sign qualifies as a government sign.
shall mean a sign with copy on two faces, legible from opposite directions.
shall mean a sign that contains a video screen, rows of light bulbs or other type of electronic display, which when activated forms messages, symbols, or graphics. Electronic reader boards do not include outdoor advertising sign structures utilizing digital advertising display pursuant to PMC § 17.88.150(E).
shall mean any sign constructed to have artificial light shone on the sign face from a lighting source that is external to the sign structure.
shall mean the surface or that portion of a sign upon which the sign copy or message is located that is visible from a single point as generally a flat surface or a single plane.
shall mean the same as "Animated sign."
shall mean any sign supported by structures or supports that are placed on, or anchored in, the ground, which are independent from any building or other structure. This definition may include pole signs, ground signs and monument signs.
shall mean a sign erected and maintained by the Federal, State, or local government, or any other public agency. "Government sign" shall also mean a sign that is required to be constructed, placed, or maintained by the Federal, State, County, or local government or any other public agency either directly or to enforce a property owner's rights. "Government sign" shall also include a sign erected and maintained by any person authorized by the City pursuant to resolution, license, or agreement, as part of the City kiosk sign program or the government sign section, which may include a digital advertising display or an electronic reader board.
shall mean a sign that directs light toward the wall behind the sign or lettering rather than outward, creating a halo or negative effect.
shall mean the greatest vertical distance measured from ground surface to the top of the freestanding sign and any accompanying architectural feature of the sign. Intentional changes in the elevation of the ground surface by mounding within landscape areas utilizing more than a 3:1 slope in order to achieve an increased overall height shall be counted in the calculation of sign height.
Figure 17.88.030-1. Freestanding Sign Height |
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shall mean the greatest vertical distance measured from the bottom to the top of the sign area.
shall mean any person having a visual appearance primarily used for, or having the effect of, attracting attention from the streets, sidewalks, or other outside public areas for identification purposes to convey a commercial message. Noncommercial messages shall not be considered within the definition of human signs.
shall mean any sign structure which did not conform to applicable laws and/or was not granted a sign permit when constructed and has not been brought into full conformity by a specific remedy provided in this Title.
shall mean a freestanding or wall-mounted sign structure, other than an outdoor advertising structure, billboard, or monument sign, that is designed to display a collection of two or more on-site signs or noncommercial signs.
shall mean any sign constructed to have artificial light shone on the sign face from a lighting source that is inside the sign structure.
shall mean any sign that was lawfully erected, with all necessary permits, but due to a change in the law, fails to conform to all applicable standards and limitations of this Title.
shall mean the repair, restoration or preservation of an existing sign or sign structure to a condition or state similar to, but not larger than, that which was originally installed, erected, or approved by the City.
shall mean a freestanding structure, wall sign or a structure that overhangs the entrance of a building or projects beyond a building facade, on which a changeable copy sign is affixed, including but not limited to those typically displayed outside theaters, hotels, schools, or churches. Individual letters are changed manually on such signs as opposed to electronically.
shall mean a low-profile, ground-mounted freestanding sign that is supported by a solid base as an essential element of the design of the sign.
shall mean a sign constructed of tubing that is illuminated by means of a gas or vapors. Decorative or other architectural elements on buildings consisting of neon tubing are not included in this definition.
shall mean a sign displaying a permanent commercial message that is not located on the site of the business, accommodations, services, or commercial activity served by the sign.
shall mean signs that help direct pedestrians and motorists away from roadway hazards, toward public services, and informs those persons of the applicability of certain traffic regulations which are required to be erected by the City, the State Department of Transportation, or any other public agency.
shall mean a sign that is located on the site of the business, accommodations, services, or commercial activity served by the sign.
shall mean a panel or billboard affixed to the ground, enclosed in a rigid frame used to display paid commercial and noncommercial messages or advertisements in outdoor public places, such as alongside highways.
shall mean a wall sign painted directly onto the surface of a building or onto a separate flat surface that is attached to the side of a building.
shall mean a permanent freestanding sign supported by one or more posts, columns or poles that are not enclosed in a solid structure equal in width to at least one-quarter the sign face and where the portion of the unenclosed posts, columns or poles exceeds 18 inches in height. This definition shall not include in whole or in part electronic reader boards or digital advertising displays.
shall mean an approved plan by the Director setting forth all signage for an approved commercial, business, or industrial center.
shall mean a sign that is attached to and projects away from the side of a building. Such signs are typically oriented for pedestrian visibility and are viewed perpendicular to the face of the building.
shall have the same definition as the term "Electronic reader board."
shall mean to move a sign from one location to another or to remove a sign from one location and construct a similar sign at another location.
shall mean any sign erected upon, against, or directly above a roof, or projecting above the parapet of a building. Signs erected completely below the uppermost roof line on a mansard roof shall not constitute a roof sign.
shall mean a wall sign that is placed below the second floor of a building consisting of three stories or more.
shall mean a wall sign that is placed above the windows of the highest floor of a building consisting of three stories or more.
shall mean any structure, which supports, has supported, or is capable of supporting a sign, including decorative cover.
shall mean a sign that is displayed for the specific period of time of an event and which is removed immediately after the completion of the event or time period.
shall mean signs suspended no lower than eight feet above the public right-of-way or a walkway under a canopy or awning of a building.
shall mean a sign which was constructed illegally and which violates this Chapter, or which the Director declares to be unlawful because it has become dangerous to public safety.
shall mean any activity intended to improve the design quality and aesthetic appeal of an existing sign, display, or device by modifying structural elements of, or providing substantial cosmetic enhancements to, such sign, display or device.
shall mean any sign painted directly upon, magnetically affixed to or permanently affixed to the body or other integral part of an operative vehicle or trailer; provided, that the maximum number of such signs is two and the maximum size of each sign is four square feet.
shall mean a sign attached to, painted, or erected on the exterior wall of a building or structure with the exposed face of the sign in a plane approximately parallel to the plane of the exterior wall.
shall mean a sign constructed of paper, canvas, cardboard or painted with water soluble pigment which is to be displayed on the inside of a glass window surface or painted on the outside of a window. This term does not include merchandise located in a window.
shall mean any message, the prevailing thrust of which is to propose a commercial transaction.
shall mean any message that is not determined to be commercial speech as defined herein. Speech that is determined to be obscene shall not be included.
shall mean a structure existing, erected or maintained to serve exclusively as a stand, frame or background for the support or display of signs.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.040 Sign permit requirements and procedures.
Except as otherwise provided in this Chapter, no person shall cause or permit the construction, enlargement, remodeling, or upgrade of any sign without first obtaining a sign permit pursuant to the provisions of this Section, and any other permits required by law. Legally established signs becoming nonconforming as a result of this Chapter shall be subject to amortization pursuant to PMC § 17.88.150 (Outdoor advertising sign structures (billboards)). Any person or entity engaged in the business of constructing signs in the City shall have a valid State contractor's license and a City business license.
In each instance, and pursuant to the same conditions to which this Chapter permits any sign with a commercial message, a sign containing a noncommercial message and constructed to the same physical dimensions, character, and standards shall be allowed.
(A)
Application Requirements. An application for a sign permit shall be made on the appropriate form(s) provided by the Director. A processing fee established by resolution of the City Council for new sign permits shall accompany applications. Applications for new sign permits shall contain all of the following information and materials:
(2)
Name of business (if applicable);
(3)
Name, address, and phone number of person and firm preparing application;
(4)
Applicant or applicant's authorized leasing agent name, signature, and telephone number;
(5)
Description and number of signs requested, including all accessory signs;
(6)
Drawing depicting dimensions, design, colors and materials of the sign or sign structure(s);
(7)
Construction specifications for method of attachment of the sign to the ground or structure and illumination;
(8)
Building elevation (for wall signs) depicting the dimensions, color and materials of the building or leaseholder unit where sign is to be attached. A photograph may be used to show the color and material of the building;
(9)
Site plan (for freestanding signs) showing the intended location and position of the proposed sign, distance to existing or future structures, parking facilities, any outdoor seating areas, other freestanding signs, property lines, roadways, and driveways on or adjacent to the parcel where the sign is to be located; and
(10)
Grading plans (for freestanding signs) demonstrating grade elevation within landscaped areas in relationship to the public right-of-way in immediate proximity of proposed sign structure(s).
(B)
Review Process. An application for a sign permit to construct a new sign or to enlarge or upgrade an existing sign for an existing building shall be submitted on the appropriate form(s) provided by the Director and accompanied by a processing fee established by resolution of the City Council. The Director shall approve the sign permit if the Director finds that such application satisfies the standards set forth in Subsection (C) of this Section (Criteria for Approval) of this Section and the provisions of this Chapter. Otherwise, the Director shall deny the sign permit, in which case the applicant shall be notified in writing the reason(s) why the application was denied. All decisions of the Director may be appealed pursuant to PMC § 17.20.110 (Appeal procedures).
(C)
Criteria for Approval. The following findings shall be made for approval of any sign permit for a sign or sign structure regulated by this Chapter:
(1)
The sign complies with the applicable provisions of PMC § 17.88.090 (General development standards) for permanent sign structures regulating the allowable sign area, location, setbacks, orientation, design, construction, materials, colors, and illumination; and
(2)
The sign complies with the adopted sign program for the site, which regulates the size, color, lettering, location, and other design elements specified in the sign program (if applicable).
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.050 Change of copy requirements and procedures.
The application for a change of copy on an existing legally established and legally existing sign shall be made on the appropriate form(s) provided by the Director. Any person or entity engaged in the business of constructing signs in the City shall have a valid State contractor's license and a City business license. In each instance, and pursuant to the same conditions to which this Chapter permits any change of copy, a sign containing an ideological, political, religious, or other noncommercial message and constructed to the same physical dimensions, character, and standards shall be allowed.
(A)
Applications for a change of copy shall contain all of the following information and materials:
(1)
Project location including address or nearest cross streets, assessor's parcel number (for vacant land), and name of business (if applicable);
(2)
Name, address, and phone number of person and firm preparing the application;
(3)
Applicant or applicant's authorized leasing agent name, signature, and telephone number;
(4)
Description and number of signs for which change of copy is requested; and
(5)
Previously approved sign plans depicting sign area, dimensions, colors, design and materials, and method of illumination of the original sign or sign structure.
(B)
Review Process. An application for a change of copy to upgrade an existing sign shall be reviewed by the Director following submittal of a complete change of copy application. The Director shall either approve the requested change of copy if the Director finds that such application satisfies the standards set forth in Subsection (C) of this Section (Criteria for Approval) and the provisions of this Chapter or the Director shall deny the sign permit, in which case the applicant shall be notified in writing the reason(s) why the application was denied. All decisions of the Director may be appealed pursuant to PMC § 17.20.110 (Appeal procedures).
(C)
Criteria for Approval. The following findings shall be made for approval of any change of copy regulated by this Chapter:
(1)
The requested change of copy is to change the face of a legally established sign structure that was issued all required permits at the time the sign was originally constructed;
(2)
The sign structure to which the change of copy is requested is of sufficient integrity and strength to adequately support the sign copy; and
(3)
The requested change of copy does not alter or reconfigure the outside dimensions of the sign, structurally modify the sign, or relocate the sign from its original construction.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.060 Sign program requirements and procedures.
Anyone wishing to establish a new sign program for the purpose of establishing a coordinated project theme consisting of uniform design elements for multiple tenants and/or for modifying the spacing, location, size, or height requirements for signs may apply for a sign program pursuant to this Section. Elements not specified as a component of the sign program shall comply with all applicable City sign standards as required pursuant to this Chapter. A processing fee established by resolution of the City Council shall accompany applications for new sign programs along with the following:
(A)
Application Requirements. New applications for sign programs shall contain the following information and materials.
(B)
Sign Program Specifications. The following shall be submitted in support of an application for a sign program at a minimum. Where appropriate, illustrations shall be included.
(1)
Size and material specifications;
(2)
Method of attachment;
(3)
Method of illumination;
(4)
Architectural design enhancements;
(5)
Location(s) of signs;
(6)
Major or other tenant sign specifications, provided total center sign area is not exceeded;
(7)
Letter style, font, color, and/or height specifications;
(8)
Spacing standards for signs; and
(9)
Additional sign restrictions, which may include prohibited signs.
(C)
Review Process. Applications for new sign programs shall be submitted on the appropriate form(s) provided by the Director and accompanied by a processing fee established by resolution of the City Council. The Director shall approve the application if the Director finds that such application satisfies the standards set forth in Subsection (D) of this Section (Criteria for Approval) and conforms to the provisions of this Chapter. Otherwise, the sign program shall be denied and the applicant shall be provided with the reason(s) for the denial in writing from the Director. All decisions of the Director may be appealed pursuant to PMC § 17.20.110 (Appeal procedures).
(D)
Criteria for Approval. An application shall be approved so long as it complies with the following criteria:
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.070 Exemptions to sign permit requirements.
The following signs shall be allowed without the requirement of a sign permit in all zones, except as specified herein, in which case such signs shall comply with PMC § 17.88.040 (Sign permit requirements and procedures). All exempt signs shall be subject to PMC § 17.88.090 (General development standards), and PMC § 17.88.180 (Administration):
(A)
Bus Shelter Signs. Signs located on bus shelters as specifically allowed by resolution of the City Council.
(B)
Flags. One flagpole per developed parcel with a maximum of two flags, not to exceed 35 feet in height and 25 square feet in area. One additional flagpole with up to two additional flags may be allowed subject to approval of a sign permit.
(C)
Information Kiosks. Information kiosks that are allowed by the zone as an accessory use and shall not exceed six feet in height or 16 square feet in area per face (maximum 32 square feet for a multi-sided kiosk). Information kiosks may be located within public property or right-of-way, subject to approval by the Director of Public Works or his/her designee. Wall-mounted signs are not exempt and are subject to the sign standards for the zone.
(D)
Interior Signs. Signs located inside a building, structure, or mall provided the sign copy is not visible to the public right-of-way or a parking lot or is not located so as to be conspicuously visible and readable without intentional and deliberate effort from outside the building, structure, or mall.
(E)
Home-Based Business Signs. Mandatory signs required by Federal, State, County, or other agencies for home-based businesses.
(F)
Light Pole Banners. Light pole banners as specifically allowed pursuant to PMC § 17.88.130 (Government signs).
(H)
On-Site Directional Signs. The City has a compelling interest in ensuring traffic safety, and to directly advance that interest, the City will allow on-site directional signage so as to assist and direct traffic circulation into, out of, and through parking lots on private property. On-site directional signs shall be limited in number to five signs. Developed sites that have more than one frontage shall be allowed four signs per frontage up to eight total signs. The maximum area for such signs shall not exceed six square feet in area per sign and eight feet in height. Up to three times the allowable sign area and an additional four feet in height may be allowed with approval of a sign permit when it can be reasonably justified that due to the subject property or use, visibility constraints exist which justify larger signage.
Figure 17.88.070-1. On-Site Directional Signs |
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(I)
Official Signs. The City has a compelling interest in facilitating traffic safety for pedestrians and motorists. This interest is directly advanced by having official signs that help direct pedestrians and motorists away from roadway hazards, toward public services, and inform those persons of the applicability of certain traffic regulations. To accomplish this compelling purpose, the City finds that it shall allow for such signs to be erected, moved, and changed by governmental officials with minimal regulation from the Economic and Community Development Department. For these reasons, the City hereby exempts the following signs from its sign permit requirements and development standards. Official traffic, fire and police related signs, temporary traffic-control signs used during construction, utility facilities and substructure location and identification signs and markers required to protect said facilities, and other signs and markers required by the City, the State Department of Transportation, or any other public agency.
(J)
Signs Accompanying the Sale of Personal Property. One sign not exceeding four square feet in area may be placed on residential property where personal property is displayed for sale pursuant to the provisions of this Title.
(K)
Signs on Vehicles. Vehicle signs, as defined in PMC § 17.88.030 (Definitions); provided, that the vehicle is not parked in a required parking space adjacent to a public right-of-way for the primary purpose of advertising. Any signage required by State law or local ordinance to be affixed to a vehicle, or vehicle signage required to protect public health, safety, and welfare, is also exempt.
(L)
Temporary Signs. The City has a compelling interest in making the City attractive to residents, visitors, and business owners. To accomplish this interest, the City finds it necessary to establish standards for temporary signs and to regulate their duration. All temporary signs in the City shall be subject to the following:
(1)
Number. No more than one temporary sign shall be allowed per authorized use as specified in this Section.
(2)
Permission. Temporary signs may be placed on private property with the owner's permission. Nothing in this Subsection shall prohibit the owner of a piece of property, or his or her authorized representative, from removing a temporary sign from his or her property when the sign has been erected without his or her consent; and provided, further, nothing in this Subsection shall prevent the Director, code enforcement staff, or other authorized representative of the City from taking action to abate sign violations.
(3)
Illumination. Temporary signs shall be nonilluminated.
Figure 17.88.070-2. Temporary Sign |
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(4)
Removal. When displayed for a specific event or activity, temporary signs shall be removed within 10 calendar days of the advertised event or activity.
(5)
Temporary Noncommercial Signs. No person shall remove, destroy, relocate, or otherwise disturb any temporary noncommercial sign, or direct, permit or allow such removal, destruction, relocation, or disturbance, without the permission of the party who erected the sign. It shall be presumed, as to signs for political candidates, that the political candidate or his or her representative is the party who erected the sign. It shall further be presumed that the committee who has registered with the Secretary of State to support a position on a ballot proposition is the party who erected the sign taking the position on the ballot measure.
(6)
Temporary On-Site Commercial Signs. Temporary on-site commercial signs may be displayed as follows:
(a)
During the period that a valid grading or building permit exists.
(b)
For a maximum of 60 calendar days after the issuance of a business license for a new business. A new business may include an existing business under new ownership but does not include an existing business under new management. The size of a new business banner utilized pursuant to this Section shall be as allowed under PMC § 17.88.100 (Temporary banner permit for commercial and industrial properties).
(c)
During the seasonal sale of agricultural products lawfully produced on the property.
(d)
During the period when property is for sale, lease or rent.
(e)
As a part of an approved temporary use permit or special event permit as specified in PMC § 17.26.100 (Temporary use and special event permits) for:
(i)
Parking lot and sidewalk sales;
(ii)
Grand openings and anniversary events;
(iii)
Outdoor art and craft shows and exhibits;
(iv)
Bazaars, pony rides and festivals;
(v)
Mobile health services;
(vi)
Christmas tree lots, pumpkin lots, haunted houses, and firework stands; and
(vii)
Circuses, carnivals, rodeos, concerts, shows, or similar enterprises.
(f)
Inflatable Displays. Inflatable displays may be approved by the Director for a period of time not to exceed an aggregate total of 45 days per calendar year and 14 consecutive days, and shall only be approved as part of a special event or temporary use permit, as provided for in PMC § 17.26.100 (Temporary use and special event permits). Inflatable displays shall be securely fastened, ground-mounted and maintained in a good condition. Inflatable displays do not include balloons typically found in retail stores.
(g)
Temporary on-site commercial signs allowed pursuant to this Section may also display noncommercial messages.
(7)
A-Frame Signs. One temporary A-frame or similar impermanent freestanding sign is allowed for any use located within the mixed-use zones and civic center where pedestrian-oriented use is encouraged. Such signs shall be nonilluminated and not exceed five square feet per side (maximum two sides) and a height of five feet. Signs shall be constructed using a minimum of industrial grade particleboard (or equivalent) and designed with radius edges, unexposed hinges, and feet. Only oil-based paints shall be used for painted signs, which shall be professionally painted. Placement of A-frame signs shall not impede pedestrian or handicap access.
Figure 17.88.070-3. A-Frame Sign |
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(8)
Temporary Off-Site Commercial Signs. Temporary off-site commercial signs are allowed in the single-family residential zones as follows:
(a)
Temporary off-site commercial signs shall be freestanding only and shall not be affixed to posts or utility poles or pushed or hammered into the ground. Such signs shall be formed from aluminum or a hard plastic material (or equivalent) pursuant to current industry standards. Cardboard or paper signs are not allowed. Signs shall not exceed six square feet in area and three feet in height. Signs shall be of sufficient weight in order to keep upright and in place. No reflective paint or day-glo colors are allowed. Signs shall not include balloons, ribbons, pennants, streamers, or other attachments.
Figure 17.88.070-4. Temporary Off-Site Commercial Sign |
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(b)
Signs shall not be placed within subdivision landscape easements.
(c)
Up to one such sign may be located at any one corner of an intersection provided handicap access is maintained.
(d)
No sign shall be placed upon any private property without first obtaining permission from the owner of such property.
(e)
No sign shall be placed within the public right-of-way without approval of an encroachment permit issued by the City Engineer. A minimum clearance of four feet shall be maintained at all times for safe pedestrian access on public sidewalks. Signs may not be located on center medians or within the public street where vehicles travel. Where the public right-of-way extends into a parkway strip, signs shall be placed so as not to cause damage to landscaping and/or irrigation systems. One or more signs may be approved with an encroachment permit. Signs that do not comply are subject to removal pursuant to PMC § 17.88.160 (Amortization and abatement of on- and off-premises signs, sign programs and outdoor advertising sign structures).
(f)
Signs may be displayed only during daylight hours on weekends, holidays, and one day during the week.
(g)
Temporary off-site commercial signs allowed pursuant to this Section may also display noncommercial messages.
(M)
Window Sign, Permanent. One permanent nonilluminated window sign not exceeding four square feet in area.
(N)
Window Signs, Temporary. Temporary window signs not exceeding 25 percent of the window area provided visibility into the building is maintained.
(O)
Strand Lights. Strand lights or similar outdoor lighting within areas where people dine or otherwise publicly congregate that is intended as festive ornamentation to be used on a year-round basis.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.080 Prohibited signs.
The following signs are prohibited, except as otherwise expressly allowed pursuant to this Chapter:
(A)
Animated signs.
(B)
Balloons or other inflatable, wind activated, or spinning devices that are typically available in retail stores, except as exempted pursuant to PMC § 17.88.070 (Exemptions to sign permit requirements).
(C)
Banner signs as permanent signage; however, temporary banners may be exempt as specified pursuant to PMC § 17.88.070(L)(6) (Temporary On-Site Commercial Signs) or allowed pursuant to PMC § 17.88.100 (Temporary banner permit for commercial and industrial properties).
(D)
Cabinet signs with little or no decorative elements.
Figure 17.88.080-1. Plain Cabinet Sign |
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(E)
Cardboard signs exposed to the outdoor elements.
(F)
Electronic reader board signs, excluding government signs.
(G)
Flags, except as expressly allowed pursuant to this Chapter.
(H)
Flashing signs.
(I)
Human signs.
(J)
Off-site signs, except as exempted pursuant to PMC § 17.88.070 (Exemptions to sign permit requirements).
(K)
Paper signs exposed to the outdoor elements.
(L)
Pennants, strings of pennants, or streamers.
(M)
Portable or A-frame signs, except as allowed pursuant to PMC § 17.88.070 (Exemptions to sign permit requirements).
(N)
Revolving signs, excluding barber shop poles.
(O)
Roof signs.
(P)
Signs that create a safety hazard by obstructing the clear view of pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
(Q)
Signs that display a message, graphic representation, or other image that is obscene as that term is defined in Section 311 of the Penal Code.
(R)
Signs, which by their color, design, location, or illustration resemble, distract attention from, or conflict with any traffic control device.
(S)
Signs within the public right-of-way or upon public property (except where approved or required by a government agency and exempted pursuant to PMC § 17.88.070 (Exemptions to sign permit requirements)), including, but not limited to, any notice, placard, bill, card, poster, sticker, banner, sign, advertising, or other device affixed or attached to or upon any public street, walkway, crosswalk, or other right-of-way, curb, lamp post, hydrant, tree, telephone booth or pole, lighting system, or any fixture of the police or fire alarm system.
(T)
Signs Mounted on Vehicles. No person shall park any vehicle on a public right-of-way or in a location on a private property that is visible from a public right-of-way, which has attached thereto or suspended therefrom any sign, except as exempted pursuant to PMC § 17.88.070 (Exemptions to sign permit requirements). This Section shall not preclude the display of bumper stickers.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.090 General development standards.
The following general provisions are applicable to all signs and sign structures regulated by this Chapter, excluding signs within sign programs or Specific Plans. These general provisions apply in addition to any specific standards in this Chapter.
(A)
Sign Area. Unless otherwise specified in this Chapter, the maximum allowed sign area for signs shall be calculated based on the acreage and frontage of a property and/or the length of the building elevation upon which the sign is to be attached. Wall signs for multiple tenant buildings shall be based upon the lineal building frontage occupied by each tenant as specified by the zone.
(B)
Locational Criteria. All signs shall be subject to all applicable standards for the zone in which the proposed sign is to be located, pursuant to PMC § 17.88.100 (Temporary banner permit for commercial and industrial properties) through PMC § 17.88.120 (Signs in nonresidential and mixed-use zones). Unless otherwise expressly provided in this Chapter, no sign shall be erected or used for business purposes of any kind, except such sign(s) as shall be located on the site of the place of business, enterprise, or calling which is reasonably related to the products or services available on or within those premises. Sign location shall not obstruct motorists' visibility by considering driveway placement, long-term growth of landscaping, and adjacent and/or future development. No signs may be located in or adjacent to the public right-of-way, or private drive aisle or driveway in such a manner that it obstructs the clear view of pedestrians and/or vehicular traffic or constructed so as to obstruct any window, door, fire escape, or other emergency exit of any building. In addition, the following additional location criteria shall be maintained:
(1)
Wall-mounted signs shall not project above the parapet, canopy, fascia, wall, or roofline to which they are attached.
(2)
Freestanding signs shall not block visibility of motorists in order to maintain traffic safety, or from outdoor seating areas to preserve views. Freestanding signs shall not be placed in such a manner that obstructs any portion of a traffic control device as regulated by the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, as viewed by a driver, pedestrian, or bicyclist, as is appropriate for the type of device. Freestanding signs shall be set back and spaced along street frontages as specified in this Chapter.
(3)
Except where approved or required by a government agency or as otherwise expressly allowed pursuant to this Chapter, no sign may be stuck, glued, painted, pasted, posted, nailed, stapled or otherwise affixed or attached to or upon any public street, walkway, cross walk or other right-of-way, curb, lamp post, transit bench or shelter, trash receptacle, fire hydrant, tree, telephone booth or pole, lighting system or any fixture of the police or fire alarm system, any existing sign, or upon any other public property.
(C)
Setbacks. All freestanding signs shall be set back a minimum of one foot from the public right-of-way.
(D)
Orientation. On-site signs shall be oriented so as not to create confusion and shall be visible to pedestrians, motorists and/or other passersby from the front, side, or rear of the building to which it is intended; however, wall signs located within commercial or industrial zones shall not face directly onto residentially designated property.
(E)
Methods of Attachment. Wall signs shall be attached to the sides of structures with fasteners that are either concealed from clear view or treated to match the building. Projecting signs shall utilize decorative methods of attachment in instances where their visibility cannot reasonably be concealed. Freestanding signs shall be secured to the ground utilizing a solid support base consisting of solid materials such as concrete, block, stone, or brick rather than poles with veneer covers.
(F)
Design. Signs and sign structures shall be professionally designed, pursuant to industry standards, and clearly understood for their intended purpose. Signs shall incorporate a classic style that will not quickly become outdated. On-site freestanding signs adjacent to the roadway shall be designed to include break-away features that are forgiving and crash-worthy. Signs shall not be designed to mimic traffic control devices, traffic warning devices, traffic regulating or directional way-finding signs. In addition, the following additional criteria of design shall be incorporated into new signs:
(1)
Wall Signs.
(a)
Wall signs shall consist of one of the following types of signs:
Figure 17.88.090-1. Channel Letter Sign |
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Figure 17.88.090-2. Contour Sign |
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Figure 17.88.090-3. Cabinet Sign |
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Figure 17.88.090-4. Painted Sign |
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(b)
Signs attached to buildings shall project no less than one inch and no more than 18 inches from the structure.
(2)
On-Site Freestanding Sign Structures.
(a)
Signs shall be architecturally integrated into the overall development of the site with respect to color, material, and design, except that pole signs may utilize metal for the sign structure regardless of building materials on site.
(b)
Minor architectural features such as cornices, roof pitches and archways, which are similar to those of the building(s), shall be incorporated into the design of the sign structure. Such features may increase the allowable size of structures by 25 percent, exclusive of sign face and base. Freestanding can signs with no architectural features are not allowed.
Figure 17.88.090-5. Architecturally Treated Freestanding Sign |
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(c)
The shape or appearance of freestanding signs shall not depict inanimate objects, animals or human beings.
(d)
The depth of sign structures shall be a minimum of six inches and a maximum of 24 inches, exclusive of the base. Sign structures exceeding 24 inches in depth may be considered, provided the total sign area allowed for a double-faced sign is not exceeded and the sign structure meets all other criteria for approval.
(e)
Panel inserts for multi-tenant freestanding sign structures shall be uniform in color and typeface.
(G)
Substitutions.
(1)
Marquee signs may be substituted for wall or freestanding sign structures pursuant to the definition of a marquee sign pursuant to PMC § 17.88.030 (Definitions).
(2)
Projecting signs may be used in place of wall signs, provided they do not exceed one-half of the allowable wall sign area and the sign meets all other provisions in this Section.
(H)
Construction. All signs and sign structures shall be professionally constructed pursuant to industry standards. All parts, portions, units, and materials, comprising all signs, together with the frame, background, supports, or anchorage for all sign structures, shall be manufactured, fabricated, assembled, constructed, and erected pursuant to all applicable Federal, State, County, and City laws and standards.
(I)
Materials. Construction materials for all components of signs shall consist of durable, long-lasting materials that hold up to the extremes inherent in Palmdale's desert environment, including heat, cold and wind for long-term durability, as well as damage caused by nesting birds and other environmental constraints of the region. Individual foam letters shall be covered with a solid material to prevent damage by birds, sun, and harsh weather.
(J)
Colors. Earth tones and subdued colors such as maroon, brown, tan, gray, peach, cream, or white shall be used for the sign face or sign structure. Primary colors such as red, green, blue, yellow, orange, purple, pink, and black may be used for letters, symbols, graphics, or minor accents; however, except in the case of temporary signs, such colors shall not be used for the sign face or sign structure. Day-glo colors may only be used as minor accents to the overall sign. Reflective paint is not allowed.
(K)
Illumination. The City has a compelling interest in promoting traffic safety for pedestrians and motorists. To achieve this interest, it is necessary to minimize excessive lighting of signs that may distract pedestrians and motorists or produce hazardous light and glare into the eyes of motorists, and to do so by conditioning the type and intensity of the lighting and its appropriateness for the planned location and orientation of the sign. In addition, no sign shall be illuminated in such a way that mimics a traffic signal or traffic control device.
The method of illumination for all types of signs is an important design element. However, the intensity or glare of the illumination may cause a visual distraction, safety hazard or public nuisance. The Director shall determine any required measures necessary to reduce possible negative impacts on adjacent structures, roadways, or surrounding land uses. New light fixtures added to the exterior of an existing building for the purpose of sign illumination shall be subject to the specifications of PMC § 17.86.030 (Outdoor lighting). Any sign that requires approval of an electrical building permit shall utilize only approved electrical components that are properly listed and tested by an acceptable testing agency and approved by the City's Building Official. No illuminated sign or lighting device shall be placed or directed so as to permit or cause glare or reflection which may constitute a traffic or safety hazard or interfere with the use and enjoyment of a public street, walkway, or adjacent properties by having a blinding effect on residents, motorists, or pedestrians, preventing safe illumination of sidewalks, streets, or drive aisles, or by negatively impacting illumination levels on adjacent properties.
(L)
Flags. Flags shall consist of fabric or similar flexible material that is designed to hang from a pole and blow in the wind. Plastic or other materials that produce more noise than fabric are prohibited for use as flags. Such flags shall be replaced when ripped, tattered, and/or faded or other wear is evident as determined by the Director.
(M)
Neon Signs. Neon signs as defined by this Chapter are allowed only in the commercial/office zones, subject to PMC § 17.88.040(C) (Criteria for Approval) and Subsection (K) of this Section (Illumination).
(N)
Painted Signs. Painted signs may be allowed as permanent wall signs and shall be professionally painted only. Such signs may be externally illuminated with decorative light fixtures within commercial zones subject to Subsection (K) of this Section (Illumination). As allowed by the zone, signs may be painted directly on structures or on industrial grade particleboard (minimum, or equivalent) with radius edges. Only oil-based paints (or equivalent) shall be utilized for painted signs.
Figure 17.88.090-6. Painted Signs |
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(O)
Canopy/Awning Signs. Canopy and awning signs are intended to be visible to pedestrians and/or from nearby parking areas and on-site circulation drives. Canopy signs are allowed within a shopping center where canopies are uniformly used within the shopping center or for a single tenant if the tenant is occupying an entire parcel and does not share space in a shopping center, as follows:
Figure 17.88.090-7. Awning Sign |
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 |
(1)
The total combined area for wall and awning signs shall not exceed the allowable wall sign area allowed for the face of the building;
(2)
Awning signs may be located on the front or side panels of angled, curved or box awnings or on the bottom flap (valance) of the awning;
(3)
Awning signs shall not consist of more than a single line of copy or symbols; and
(4)
The size of the sign shall not exceed 75 percent of any one dimension of the canopy or awning.
(P)
Maintenance. The following maintenance standards shall apply to all signs:
(1)
Every sign and all parts, portions, units, and materials comprising the same, together with the frame, background, supports, or anchorage thereof, shall be continuously maintained in a safe, structurally sound, neatly painted, and well-repaired condition; and
(2)
Signs illuminated either internally or externally shall be capable of being fully illuminated and legible and the face(s) shall be intact without holes or other exterior facial damage. Illuminated signs that are damaged or have defective lighting elements shall remain unlighted until repaired.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.100 Temporary banner permit for commercial and industrial properties.
The following provisions are applicable to all banners regulated pursuant to this Section. The provisions are intended to permit the greatest flexibility possible in terms of business signage, while maintaining an orderly and attractive business environment within the City's commercial and industrial areas.
(A)
Permit Process and Fees for Temporary Banners.
(1)
The applicant shall be responsible for obtaining all required building permits from the Building and Safety Division associated with the installation of the banner.
(2)
A temporary banner permit shall be obtained for the use of banners at a business location. In evaluating permit applications, staff will review zoning, location, size, method of attachment, and conformance with this Section and any other applicable standards.
(3)
The temporary banner permit application shall include the applicant's authorized leasing agent name, signature, and telephone number.
(4)
Applicants shall pay an annual temporary banner permit fee and annual inspection fees as established by the fee resolution approved by the City.
(B)
Zones. Banners will be allowed in all commercial/office and industrial zones and commercial/office and industrial designated properties within Specific Plan areas.
(C)
Use. Banners may be used for all general business purposes; provided, that banners may not be utilized as the sole source of business identification. In order to ensure that banners are not used for primary business identification, any business applying for a banner permit shall have permanent signage on the building that has been legally established.
(D)
Noncommercial banners shall be allowed pursuant to this Section to the same extent commercial banners are allowed.
(E)
Design Standards. The banner shall be constructed of high quality, durable material capable of withstanding the severe local weather conditions. The banner shall be professionally designed and manufactured. No handwriting on blank banners or erasable banner material and design shall be allowed.
(G)
Any banner legally established pursuant to this Section shall be maintained by the applicant. When wear and tear is observed by any employee of the City and upon notification to the applicant, required work to restore or replace the worn banner shall be performed to the satisfaction of the Director within 14 days. Failure to comply with this provision may result in revocation of the permit for the temporary banner.
The Director shall give written notice to the applicant regarding any violations of the provisions of this Section. Within 14 days of receipt of the notice, the violation shall be corrected or remedied to the satisfaction of the Director. Failure to pay fees, or noncompliance with the standards, procedures, and conditions set forth in this Section shall be cause for revocation of the temporary banner permit and removal of the banner. Materially inaccurate or erroneous information submitted as a part of a temporary banner permit application may be cause for revocation of the permit.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.110 Signs in residential zones.
In addition to temporary signs identified in PMC § 17.88.070 (Exemptions to sign permit requirements), the following signs are allowed in residential zones subject to approval of a sign permit:
Table 17.88.110-1. Allowed Signs in Residential Zones | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Sign Type | Maximum Number | Maximum Sign Area | Maximum Height Including Base | Remarks |
Wall | No limit: combined area of signs shall not exceed the maximum allowed sign area | 1-1/2 sf of sign area per lineal foot of building frontage | N/A | Signs may be internally illuminated only, subject to PMC § 17.88.090(K) (Illumination). |
Monument | 1 per public entrance, up to 2 signs total | 30 sf | 5 ft | Signs may be internally illuminated only, subject to PMC § 17.88.090(K) (Illumination). |
Directional | 1 per public entrance, up to 4 signs total | 16 sf | 5 ft | Signs shall not be illuminated. |
Temporary freestanding banner (teardrop, feather, bowhead, etc.) | 1 freestanding sign per frontage; 2 per model home | 60 sf per single face for freestanding signs and 15 sf for flags | 10 ft for freestanding signs and 15 ft for flags | Signs shall not be illuminated. Flags shall not be within 50 ft of an occupied residence. |
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.120 Signs in nonresidential and mixed-use zones.
In addition to temporary signs identified in PMC § 17.88.070 (Exemptions to sign permit requirements), the following signs may be allowed in commercial, industrial, mixed-use or public facility zones, subject to approval of a sign permit:
Table 17.88.120-1. Allowed Signs in Nonresidential and Mixed-Use Zones | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Sign Type | Maximum Number | Maximum Sign Area | Max. Height1 | Remarks |
Wall signs, secondary skyline signs or canopy signs | No limit: combined area of signs shall not exceed the maximum allowed sign area | 1-1/2 sf of sign area per lineal foot of building frontage | N/A | Secondary skyline signs are subject to PMC § 17.88.140 (Skyline signs); externally lighted signs are subject to PMC § 17.88.090(K) (Illumination); canopy signs are subject to PMC § 17.88.090(O) (Canopy/Awning Signs). |
Skyline signs2 | 1 per allowable elevation; up to 2 signs total on opposite sides of the building | 1 sf of sign area per lineal foot of building frontage | N/A | Skyline signs subject to PMC § 17.88.140 (Skyline signs) are in addition to secondary skyline signs. Shall be compatible with the building surface and shall complement the aesthetics of the development. Shall consist of a single line of copy/symbol unless approved by the Director due to building architecture prohibiting placement of a single line of copy. May be halo sign or internally illuminated. |
Monument signs | 1 sign for every 250 feet of street frontage | For industrial zones: | ||
< 10 acres: 30 sf | 5 ft | |||
> 10 acres: 50 sf | 8 ft | |||
For nonindustrial zones | ||||
< 10 acres: 50 sf | 8 ft | |||
> 10 acres: 100 sf | 12 ft | |||
Under-canopy signs | 1 per tenant | 5 sf | N/A | Minimum 8-foot clearance above walkways. |
Wall-mounted banner3 | 1 per frontage except facing residential uses | 1 sf of area per lineal foot of frontage | N/A | Shall be mounted flat against the wall using permanent anchors. Banners shall not be mounted using wire, rope, cables, bungee cords or similar devices. |
Freestanding banner (teardrop, feather, bowhead, etc.) | 1 per business | 42 sf | 12 ft | Minimum clearance of 5 ft from edge of right-of-way, except when located within the mixed-use zones subject to PMC § 17.88.070(L) (Temporary Signs). Shall not impede pedestrian or handicap access. Shall not obstruct clear view of pedestrians and/or vehicular traffic. No off-site banners are allowed. Signs shall not be illuminated. |
Pole signs4 | 1 per development | 100 sf | 10-ft minimum clearance height and 30-ft maximum | Signs may be internally illuminated only, subject to PMC § 17.88.090(K) (Illumination). Shall maintain a minimum distance separation of 50 feet from residentially designated property or existing residential development. |
Notes: |
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1. Grade changes by mounding within landscape areas less than 3:1 slope shall be counted in calculation of sign height; maximum height includes the base. |
2. This applies to buildings with three or more stories, pursuant to PMC § 17.88.140 (Skyline signs). |
3. Not allowed within 50 feet of an occupied residence. |
4. Only allowed within the Regional Commercial zone. |
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.130 Government signs.
The City has a compelling interest in making the City attractive to residents, visitors, and business owners and in protecting and improving economic vitality, protecting and enhancing aesthetic character, and promoting traffic safety in, through, and around areas that have a concentration of public facilities and structures. To accomplish these interests, the City finds it necessary to establish certain classes of government signs, to limit their content and to provide a public convenience by directing motorists and pedestrians to various locations throughout the City.
This government sign Section consists of signs that are uniform in design, which provide the community with a sense of place and a distinct identity. Signs constructed as a part of this Section shall be allowed without the requirement of a sign permit in all zones, except that electronic reader boards and digital advertising displays are not allowed in residential zones. Government signs shall be erected by the City, a public agency, or by any person authorized by City resolution to erect such signage. This Section shall be applicable to the following types of signs:
(A)
Civic Center Plaza. Roadway signs may be installed on streets leading to the Civic Center and surrounding public parking areas.
(B)
City Entry Signs. Freeway and roadway monument signs may be installed on major thoroughfares near City limits in varying size. Such signs shall be constructed of integral concrete monolith and stone base with lettering to be cast into the concrete with color infill.
Figure 17.88.130-1. City Entry Sign |
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(C)
City Roadway/Street Signage. Street name signs may be installed on streets throughout the City.
(D)
Light Pole Banners. Banners may be placed on light poles along major thoroughfares and/or surrounding the Civic Center during various seasons of the year or for City-sponsored events.
(E)
City Kiosk Signs. City kiosk signs are permissible in all zones except those that are residential. City kiosk signs are subject to the development standards for monument and on-site freestanding sign structures contained in PMC § 17.88.120 (Signs in nonresidential and mixed-use zones).
(F)
Digital Advertising Display (DAD). Government signs that are considered DADs are not required to be installed pursuant to a billboard relocation agreement and are permissible in all zones except residential. Government signage DADs are subject to the following standards:
(1)
Sign Area. The maximum sign area of a single-face DAD is 675 square feet and 1,350 square feet for a double-face DAD.
(2)
Sign Height. The maximum sign height is 40 feet; however, a DAD located immediately adjacent to State Route 14 may be modified if it can be demonstrated that compliance with the 40-foot height limit would impair visibility for a portion of the sign face. Increased height shall only be allowed to the extent necessary to allow reasonable view of the sign face.
(3)
A DAD may only display a series of still images, each of which is displayed for a minimum of six seconds and transitions between images shall not exceed one second. No DAD shall depict or simulate any motion or video, or have flashing, chasing, or twinkling lights.
(4)
Each DAD shall include a photometric sensor that will adjust the intensity of the sign for daytime and nighttime viewing. The intensity from sunset to sunrise shall be limited to 150 nits. The City may modify or further restrict the intensity of any DAD should the lighting create a distraction to drivers or an adverse effect on nearby residential properties.
(5)
In addition to complying with the other standards set forth in this Section, any DAD located within 660 feet of a State highway shall also comply with the standards of the California Outdoor Advertising Act (Chapter 2 of Division 3 of the California Business and Professions Code beginning at Section 5400), including, but not limited to, the restrictions on size, height, proximity to interstate and primary highways and landscaped freeways. To the extent any conflict arises between this Section and the Outdoor Advertising Act, the Outdoor Advertising Act shall prevail.
(G)
Electronic Reader Boards. Government signs that are considered electronic reader boards are permissible in all zones except residential and are subject to the development standards for monument and on-site freestanding sign structures contained in PMC § 17.88.120 (Signs in nonresidential and mixed-use zones).
(1)
General Standards for Government Signs.
(a)
For purposes of this Section, "street intersection" shall mean where two or more streets or roads cross at the same grade. This shall include all streets and roads with a right-of-way of 100 feet or larger.
(b)
Signs may be constructed on improved or unimproved property along regional and crosstown streets, provided they are located on private property with the owner's written permission or within the public right-of-way with approval of an encroachment permit. Regional and crosstown streets shall consist of those designated on the General Plan Circulation Map.
(c)
Signs shall not obstruct the use of sidewalks, walkways, bike, and hiking trails and shall not obstruct the visibility to motorists and pedestrians of traffic control signs.
(d)
Signs shall be limited to no more than three structures on the same side of the street between major intersections and shall not be located within 100 feet of another freestanding sign structure.
(e)
Sign structure installations shall include "breakaway" design features.
(f)
No signs, pennants, flags or other devices for visual attention or other appurtenances shall be placed on government signs.
(g)
The design of all government signs shall be consistent throughout the City.
(h)
Sign lettering used for identification panels shall be uniform in style and size.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.140 Skyline signs.
Skyline signs shall consist of wall signs that are placed on structures of three stories or more. Signs on tall buildings can have a significant visual influence upon the community's environment; therefore, they should be consistent with the architectural style of the building. The approval of skyline signs shall be subject to PMC § 17.88.040 (Sign permit requirements and procedures) and to the following standards:
(A)
Skyline Signs.
(1)
Placement. Skyline signs shall be placed above the vision glass windows of the highest floor of the building and below the eave line pursuant to the provisions for signs within the zone. In conventional high-rise design, a sizeable area is generally available for signs above the vision glass of the highest floor. Skyline signs shall not be located on any building elevation in vertical (stacked) alignment and shall be separated by a horizontal dimension of not less than 40 percent of the linear dimension of the subject elevation. For buildings with articulated roofs, a more flexible definition is appropriate. In such cases, signs are to be integrated visually with architectural features such as windows, projections, and articulating elements.
Figure 17.88.140-1. Skyline Sign Placement and Proportion |
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(2)
Proportion of Sign Area. To avoid the appearance of crowding a sign into a sign area, sign copy shall occupy no more than 80 percent of the horizontal skyline sign area as defined by this Section. Additionally, no part of a sign can be located within the extreme left or right 10 percent of the building elevation.
(B)
Secondary Skyline Signs.
(1)
Placement. Secondary skyline signs shall be allowed below the second floor except that, if the building has a two-story lobby, secondary skyline tenant signs are allowed between the second and third floors above such lobby. An individual tenant may have no more than one sign per building elevation. Secondary skyline signs shall not be located on any building elevation in vertical (stacked) alignment and shall be separated by a horizontal dimension of not less than 15 percent of the linear dimension of the subject elevation.
(2)
Locational Criteria. Secondary skyline signs are intended to be viewed from on-site walkways and parking areas adjacent to the building.
(C)
Retail, Service Business, and Restaurant Uses Located Within Structures of Three or More Stories. In addition to secondary skyline signs described in Subsection (B) of this Section (Secondary Skyline Signs), retail uses, service business uses, or restaurants located within an office building containing three or more stories may be allowed signs as specified in this Chapter and may appear on the same building elevation as and be included in the same total sign area calculation and placement as secondary skyline signs. Such signs shall be located at or adjacent to the entrance of the building and individual tenants shall be allowed no more than one sign per elevation.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.150 Outdoor advertising sign structures (billboards).
(A)
Permits and Review Process.
(1)
Permits Required.
(a)
No outdoor advertising sign structure shall be constructed, relocated, or upgraded at any location in the City without obtaining a conditional use permit subject to the provisions of this Section, and any other permits required by law.
(b)
Other Permits. Nothing in this Chapter shall exempt the applicant from obtaining any other required approval including, but not limited to, any permits required by the State of California.
(2)
Review Process. A conditional use permit shall be required, pursuant to the provisions of this Chapter and PMC Chapter 17.22 (Conditional Use Permits) for any construction, upgrade, or relocation of outdoor advertising sign structures. The Planning Commission shall approve the conditional use permit if the Commission finds that such application satisfies the standards set forth in Subsection (A)(3) of this Section (Findings for Approval), or the Planning Commission shall deny the application, in which case the applicant shall be notified in writing of the reason(s) why the application was denied. All decisions of the Planning Commission may be appealed pursuant to PMC § 17.20.110 (Appeal procedures).
(3)
Findings for Approval. No conditional use permit for an outdoor advertising sign structure shall be issued unless the Planning Commission finds that the application satisfies, or with conditions can satisfy, all of the following standards:
(a)
The proposed sign meets all of the findings for approval of a conditional use permit as set forth in PMC § 17.22.050 (Approval requirements and conditions);
(b)
The proposed sign meets the locational criteria for outdoor advertising sign structures, pursuant to Subsection (B) of this Section (Locational Criteria);
(d)
The outdoor advertising sign structure is oriented to attract the attention/patronage of the general public, taking into consideration long-term growth of landscaping and future projects; and
(e)
The outdoor advertising sign structure is in compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and City laws and regulations pertaining to the construction of outdoor advertising sign structures.
(B)
Locational Criteria. Outdoor advertising sign structures shall be limited to placement on improved properties with habitable structures only, subject to the following restrictions:
(1)
No outdoor advertising sign structure shall be located within the area bounded by 20th Street West to the west, Avenue N to the north, Sierra Highway to the east and Palmdale Boulevard to the south.
(2)
There shall be no more than four outdoor advertising sign structures, including existing outdoor advertising sign structures, located within the area bounded by the extension of Avenue N-12 to the north, Rancho Vista Boulevard to the south, Sierra Highway to the west and an imaginary line 100 feet of the easterly Southern Pacific property line to the east.
(3)
No additional outdoor advertising sign structures shall be constructed, relocated, or upgraded except when located in the industrial zones.
(4)
No additional outdoor advertising sign structures shall be constructed on properties within 660 feet of Palmdale Boulevard.
(5)
The outdoor advertising sign structure shall be no closer than a radius of 500 feet to any premises designated or zoned for residential purposes, or to any premises containing a school, religious institution, or similar place of worship, historical site or building, cemetery or similar place of interment, public or private park or outdoor recreational facility.
(6)
The outdoor advertising sign structure shall be no closer than a radius of 1,500 feet to a previously constructed off-premises outdoor advertising sign structure.
(7)
An outdoor advertising structure may be approved in a location other than specifically identified or excluded in Subsections (B)(1) through (B)(5) of this Section, including within an adopted Specific Plan area, when a conditional use permit is approved in conjunction with a billboard relocation agreement pursuant to Subsection (D) of this Section (Billboard Relocation Agreement), but in no event shall be located within a residential zone.
(C)
Development Standards. All outdoor advertising sign structures shall comply with the following standards:
(1)
Sign Area. The total area of a single sign face shall not exceed 300 square feet. The total area of a double-faced sign shall not exceed 600 square feet. Not more than five percent of the area of a sign face shall be used for projections.
(2)
Height. The outdoor advertising sign structure shall not exceed 32 feet in height measured from the ground level.
(3)
Setbacks. The sign shall comply with all setback standards of the underlying zone. It shall be located no closer than 10 feet to any property line. No materials or structural feature, except poles or pilasters, shall extend into the cross-visibility area between ground level and seven feet above the grade of the nearest street curb. No portion of the sign shall block the view of any on-site advertising sign on the same or adjoining parcels.
(4)
Construction. The outdoor advertising sign structure shall be built to withstand a minimum wind pressure of 21 pounds per square foot of exposed surface.
(5)
Design. The outdoor advertising sign structure shall not be supported by more than one supporting post. It shall be architecturally treated so as to screen the frame, support structures and lighting from public view. The outdoor advertising sign structure shall not contain any flashing or blinking material, or mechanically activated or animated devices. The color and materials shall be subject to the provisions of this Chapter.
(6)
Sign Copy Area. The message or sign copy area of any relocated or upgraded outdoor advertising sign structure may be no larger than the message copy area of the original outdoor advertising sign structure.
(7)
Utility Lines. Utility lines providing electrical power to a new or relocated outdoor advertising sign structure shall be placed underground.
(8)
Maintenance. The sign and structure shall be continuously maintained in an attractive, clean, and safe condition pursuant to PMC § 17.88.090(P) (Maintenance).
(9)
Traffic Safety. The sign shall not constitute a traffic hazard because of sign shape or its location in relationship to an official public traffic sign or signal.
(D)
Billboard Relocation Agreement.
(1)
Purpose. The purpose of the billboard relocation agreement is to reduce the overall number of outdoor advertising sign structures within the City by allowing relocation of billboards in more suitable locations and provide more attractive, aesthetically pleasing billboard designs and to improve the aesthetic appearance of the City.
(2)
Authority. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Chapter, and consistent with the California Business and Professions Code outdoor advertising provisions, existing outdoor advertising sign structures may be relocated and/or upgraded as part of a billboard relocation agreement entered into between the City Council and a billboard owner and the approval of a conditional use permit for any relocated billboard.
(4)
Review Process and Findings. All billboard relocation agreements shall be reviewed and approved by the City Council. The following findings shall be made by the City Council in order to approve a billboard reduction and relocation agreement:
(a)
The proposed agreement is consistent with the goals, objectives, purposes and provisions of the Palmdale General Plan, this Title, and any applicable Specific Plan;
(b)
The proposed relocation site is compatible with the uses and structures on the site and in the surrounding area;
(c)
The proposed billboard relocation agreement provides for a net reduction in existing outdoor advertising sign structures within the City;
(d)
The proposed billboard relocation agreement contributes to the reduction of visual clutter in the City;
(e)
The proposed billboard would not create a traffic or safety problem with regard to on-site access, circulation or visibility;
(f)
The proposed billboard would not interfere with on-site parking or landscaping required by City ordinance or permit; and
(g)
The proposed billboard would not otherwise result in a threat to the general health, safety, and welfare of City residents.
(5)
Conditional Use Permit. Subsequent to the approval of a billboard relocation agreement by the City Council, the billboard owner shall file a conditional use permit application to relocate or upgrade the outdoor advertising sign structure as authorized by the billboard relocation agreement.
(E)
Outdoor Advertising Sign Structures Subject to a Billboard Relocation Agreement. An outdoor advertising sign structure may be upgraded or relocated through the approval of a conditional use permit and a corresponding relocation agreement. A relocated or upgraded billboard shall meet the development standards contained within Subsection (C) of this Section (Development Standards). A DAD is permissible in conjunction with the relocation/upgrade of an outdoor advertising sign structure approved pursuant to a billboard relocation agreement, subject to the following standards:
(1)
Sign Area. A DAD shall be subject to the sign area standards specified in Subsection (C)(1) of this Section (Sign Area); however, given the unique characteristics of DADs, an applicant may request a modification to the maximum sign area pursuant to the following conditions:
(2)
Sign Height. A DAD shall be subject to the sign area standards specified in Subsection (C)(2) of this Section (Height); however, a DAD relocated immediately adjacent to State Route 14 may be modified if the applicant can demonstrate that compliance with the 32-foot height limit would impair visibility for a portion of the sign face. Increased height shall only be allowed to the extent necessary to allow reasonable view of the sign face.
(3)
A DAD may only display a series of still images, each of which is displayed for a minimum of six seconds and transitions between images shall not exceed one second. No DAD shall depict or simulate any motion or video, have flashing, chasing, or twinkling lights.
(4)
Each DAD shall include a photometric sensor that will adjust the intensity of the sign for daytime and nighttime viewing. The intensity from sunset to sunrise shall be limited to 150 nits. The City may modify or further restrict the intensity of any DAD should the lighting create a distraction to drivers or an adverse effect on nearby residential properties.
(5)
In addition to complying with the other standards set forth in this Section and any other applicable provisions of this Section, any relocated billboard within 660 feet of a State highway shall also comply with the standards of the California Outdoor Advertising Act (Chapter 2 of Division 3 of the California Business and Professions Code beginning at Section 5400), including, but not limited to, the restrictions on size, height, proximity to interstate and primary highways and landscaped freeways. To the extent any conflict arises between this Section and the Outdoor Advertising Act, the Outdoor Advertising Act will prevail.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.160 Amortization and abatement of on- and off-premises signs, sign programs, and outdoor advertising sign structures.
(A)
On-Premises Signs.
(1)
Inventory of Signs. Within 120 days of the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in this Title the Director shall cause to be performed an inventory of all on-premises signs within the City to identify those that are illegal or abandoned. For the purposes of this Section, the term "illegal" denotes a sign which was erected without compliance with all ordinances and standards in effect at the time of its construction and erection or use, and the term "abandoned" denotes a sign which remains in place or is not maintained for a period of 90 days which no longer advertises or identifies an ongoing business, product, or service available on the business premises where the sign is located.
(2)
Public Hearing. Upon completion of the required identification and inventory of signs described in Subsection (A)(1) of this Section (Inventory of Signs), the City Council shall consider at a public hearing, with opportunity for public comment, whether there is a continuing need for the provisions of the ordinance that caused the signs to become illegal or abandoned.
(3)
Abatement. No later than 60 days after the public hearing described in Subsection (A)(2) of this Section (Public Hearing), the City shall commence abatement as provided in this Subsection of the illegal and abandoned on-premises signs identified by the inventory required by Subsection (A)(1) of this Section (Inventory of Signs).
(4)
Nonconforming Signs Which May Be Abated Without Payment of Compensation. Any sign which does not comply with the standards of this Chapter and which may be abated without the payment of compensation pursuant to Section 5497 or 5498 of the Business and Professions Code shall be brought into compliance with the standards and requirements of this Chapter as soon as may reasonably be accomplished and in no event later than six months after the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in this Title, unless such period is extended by the Planning Commission for good cause shown. Any sign that is not brought into conformance with the standards and requirements of this Chapter within that time shall be subject to abatement as a public nuisance.
(5)
Other Nonconforming Signs. Any sign which does not conform to the standards and requirements of this Chapter and which may be abated after the expiration of 15 years pursuant to Section 5495 of the Business and Professions Code shall be brought into compliance with the standards and requirements of this Chapter within 15 years of the date of adoption of this Chapter. Any sign that is not brought into conformance with the standards and requirements of this Chapter within that time shall be subject to abatement as a public nuisance.
(6)
Continuation of Existing Nonconforming Signs. Pursuant to PMC § 17.11.080 (Continuation of existing nonconforming uses), a sign that lawfully existed as a nonconforming sign prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this Chapter pursuant to Ordinance No. 684 and/or Ordinance No. U-1060 shall be deemed to be continued pursuant to this Title, and in determination of the termination date established by this Title, shall be computed from the original date it became nonconforming pursuant to said Ordinance No. 684 and/or Ordinance No. U-1060. Any sign that is not brought into conformance with the standards and requirements of this Chapter within that time shall be subject to abatement as a public nuisance.
(7)
Signs with Flashing and Rotating Features. Any sign which contains flashing or rotating features and which is not in compliance with the provisions of this Chapter shall be brought into compliance with the provisions of this Chapter as soon as may reasonably be accomplished and in no event later than six months after the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in this Title unless such period is extended by the Planning Commission for good cause shown. If such sign is not brought into conformance with the standards and requirements of this Chapter within that time, the flashing or rotating features of the sign shall be deactivated immediately. However, the owner or operator of such sign may be authorized to continue its operation notwithstanding this Section if the Planning Commission determines the sign to be of historical significance.
(B)
Off-Site Commercial Signs. All off-site commercial signs that do not comply with the standards and requirements of this Chapter shall be brought into compliance with the standards and requirements of this Chapter as soon as may reasonably be accomplished and in no event later than one year after the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in this Title, unless such period is extended by the Planning Commission for good cause shown. Any sign that is not brought into conformance with the standards and requirements of this Chapter within that time shall be subject to abatement as a public nuisance.
(C)
Sign Programs. Sign programs approved prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this Title shall be automatically subject to the general development standards contained in PMC § 17.88.090 (General development standards). New sign permits requested pursuant to these programs may not exceed the maximum sign area or maximum sign height specified under PMC § 17.88.100 (Temporary banner permit for commercial and industrial properties) through PMC § 17.88.120 (Signs in nonresidential and mixed-use zones).
(D)
Outdoor Advertising Sign Structures. Any outdoor advertising sign structure which lawfully existed in a residential zone at the time of the adoption of this Chapter or was lawfully constructed pursuant to a permit issued by Los Angeles County and was later annexed to the City, but which is not in conformance with the standards and requirements of this Chapter, and is located within residential zoned property, shall be deemed a legal nonconforming use which shall be maintained, and may be upgraded subject to the restrictions and limitations imposed on nonconforming signs by this Chapter. Such signs shall be removed pursuant to the following amortization schedule.
Table 17.88.160-1. Amortization Schedule | |
|---|---|
Fair Market Value of Off-Premises Commercial Advertising Signs* | Years Allowed Before Removal |
Under $1,999 | 2 |
$2,000 to $3,999 | 3 |
$4,000 to $5,999 | 4 |
$6,000 to $7,999 | 5 |
$8,000 to $9,999 | 6 |
$10,000 and over | 7 |
Notes: |
|---|
* Fair market value of outdoor advertising sign structures on the date of removal requirement. |
(E)
Continuation of Existing Nonconforming Signs. Pursuant to PMC § 17.11.080 (Continuation of existing nonconforming uses), nonconforming outdoor advertising sign structures that lawfully existed prior to the effective date of this Chapter pursuant to Ordinance No. 684 and/or Ordinance No. U-1060 shall be deemed to be continued pursuant to this Title, and in determination of the termination date established by this Title, shall be computed from the original date it became nonconforming pursuant to said Ordinance No. 684 and/or Ordinance No. U-1060. Any sign that is not brought into conformance with the standards and requirements of this Chapter within that time shall be subject to abatement as a public nuisance.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.170 Variance and minor exceptions.
Applicants may apply for a variance or minor exception to the provisions of this Chapter pursuant to PMC Chapter 17.23 (Variances and Minor Exceptions), and shall have the burden of proving that the requested variance or minor exception is in conformance with the required findings.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.88.180 Administration.
(A)
Duty to Enforce. The Director shall have the duty to enforce the provisions of this Title.
(B)
Violations. It shall be unlawful for any person to violate any provision of this Chapter. It shall also be unlawful for a property owner, tenant, and a proprietor of a sign company to use, occupy, or maintain property in violation of this Chapter. Illegal signs and persons using, occupying, or maintaining property with an illegal sign shall be subject to enforcement procedures as described in the PMC, including but not limited to issuance of a citation, imposition of a fine, and/or arrest. Signs in violation of this Chapter may be summarily removed by the Superintendent of Maintenance or his/her representative, or any Community Service or Code Enforcement Officer, or any other City employee authorized by the City Manager to remove such sign(s). The sign owner shall be responsible for payment of a fine in an amount specified in the City's fee resolution for each sign so removed. In cases where a duly authorized representative of the City has direct contact with the violator of these provisions, this person shall be responsible for the payment of the aforementioned fines. A written notice of the removal shall be given to the sign owner stating that the sign may be reclaimed within 10 days and will be returned to the owner upon payment of the fine specified herein, except that no such notice shall be required if the owner is not identified on the sign. In the event the sign is not reclaimed within the time allowed to do so, the sign may be destroyed or otherwise disposed of by the Superintendent of Maintenance. Unclaimed signs may be sold at a price determined by the Superintendent of Maintenance.
(C)
Ambiguity. Whenever ambiguity arises as to the interpretation of the provisions of this Title, the applicant for a sign permit may request that the Planning Commission make a determination as to the meaning and application of the ambiguous provisions.
(D)
Discontinuance of a Business. Within 91 days of vacancy in the unit or building for which a commercial sign was placed or before a new business occupies the premises, it shall be the responsibility of the applicant or the applicant's authorized leasing agent to remove the message or copy of an abandoned sign and to patch and conceal any and all damage to the structure resulting from removal of the sign in a neat and professional manner. Legally existing abandoned cabinet signs shall be replaced with a blank panel.
(E)
Removal of Illegal Signs on Public Property. The Director shall remove or cause to be removed any sign unlawfully placed or located on public property. The Director shall send notification in writing to the owner of such sign, if such owner is known, stating the location where his or her sign is being held and that it will be destroyed if not claimed by the owner within 10 days after the date of such notice. In the event that the owner does not claim such sign within the 10-day period, the Director may destroy or otherwise dispose of such sign. The owner of the sign shall reimburse the City for the actual costs of removing, storing, and destroying or otherwise disposing of the sign.
For purposes of this Section, there shall be a presumption that:
(1)
The real estate agent, broker, brokerage firm or other person whose name or telephone number appears on the handbill or sign is the person responsible for posting a handbill or sign advertising property for sale, lease or rent;
(2)
The candidate seeking office is the person responsible for posting a handbill or sign promoting the candidate for public office;
(3)
The owner, or lessee if the property is leased, of property used for a yard or garage sale is the person responsible for posting a handbill or sign advertising a yard or garage sale;
(4)
The owner, or lessee if the property is leased, of property used for a commercial activity or event is the person responsible for posting a handbill or sign advertising the subject commercial activity or event;
(5)
The person whose name, telephone number or address appears as the sponsor for a sporting event, concert, theatrical performance, or similar activity or event is the person responsible for posting a handbill or sign advertising the subject activity or event; and
(6)
The person whose name, telephone number, or address appears as the person to contact on any handbill or sign posted is the person responsible for posting the same. For purposes of this Section, the person presumed to be responsible for posting a handbill or sign on public or utility property may rebut such presumption by declaring under penalty of perjury or swearing under oath that the person did not cause, authorize, allow, or permit the posting of the handbill or sign on public or utility property.
(F)
Abatement of Danger. When the Director determines a sign constitutes an imminent danger to the public safety, the Director may take appropriate action to abate the danger. Any sign removed to abate such a threat to the public safety shall become the property of the City and may be disposed of in any appropriate manner. The cost of such emergency abatement shall be charged against the owner of the sign and may be recovered by the City by an appropriate legal action or by assessment against the property; provided, that the person assessed shall be granted a hearing before the Planning Commission to contest the amount or propriety of the charge if such person requests a hearing within 30 days of notice from the City. For the purposes of this Section, a sign shall be refutably presumed to be the property of the same person as described in Subsection (E) of this Section (Removal of Illegal Signs on Public Property).
(G)
Entitlements Strictly Construed. Because the standards provided by this Chapter are established to protect and promote the public health, safety, and general welfare, any sign entitlement authorized herein shall be strictly construed to further the purposes of this Chapter.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.89.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to establish regulations governing the keeping of animals where accessory to the residential use of a property.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.89.020 Applicability.
This Section shall apply to all agricultural and residentially designated properties.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
§ 17.89.030 General provisions.
(A)
Types of animals allowed:
(1)
Dogs.
(2)
Cats.
(3)
Large animals, including horses, mules, donkeys, cattle, goats, hogs, sheep, llamas, alpacas, and other similar hooved animals, may be kept on a lot or parcel of land having an area of not less than 20,000 square feet.
(4)
Other domestic creatures which are neither farm animals, exotic, nor wild animals, such as canaries, parakeets, cockatiels, and other similar birds; tropical fish excluding caribe; turtles; white mice, white rats, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, and similar small rodents; snakes and reptiles; and other similar animals commonly sold in pet stores and kept as household pets.
(5)
Poultry and fowl, excluding roosters and peafowl, on a lot or parcel of land, not having less than 20,000 square feet; provided, that said birds are kept or maintained for the private use of members of the family residing on the premises.
(6)
Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs maintained as pets.
(7)
Bees.
(B)
Limitations.
(1)
The allowable number of animals shall be limited as outlined within the following table:
Table 17.89.030-1. Allowed Number Animals | ||
|---|---|---|
Type of Animal | All Zones Where Allowed Pursuant to Divisions 3 – 7 of This Title | |
Equine and Large Animals | ||
Large animals, including horses, mules, donkeys, cattle, goats, hogs, sheep, llamas, alpacas, and other similar hooved animals | Max. 3 for every 20,000 square feet of lot area; provided, that said animals are primarily raised and kept for the private use of members of the family residing on the premises. Up to 25 percent of the total allowed number of animals on a parcel may be boarded for persons who do not reside on the property. | |
Small Animals and Poultry | ||
Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs | Max. 1 per dwelling unit | |
Poultry and fowl, excluding roosters and peafowl | Max. 3 such birds in any combination for every 10,000 square feet of lot area. | |
Domesticated Animals2 | ||
ER, LDR, SFR 1, SFR 2, and SFR 3 Zones1 | All Other Residential and Mixed‑Use Zones | |
Cats | 5 | 2 |
Dogs | 4 | 2 |
Bees | ||
Beehives | Max. 1 hive for every 4,000 square feet of lot area | |
Notes: |
|---|
1. Properties within the RN 1 zone with a lot size of 7,000 sf or greater may have an allowable number of dogs and cats consistent with the ER/LDR/SFR 1/SFR 2/SFR 3 standards. |
2. Refers to number of adult animals. |
(2)
Refer to Division 3 (Residential Zones) for zones where "kennels, private/hobby" are allowed. Allowed number of animals shall be in compliance with this Chapter.
(C)
Setbacks for Animal-Keeping Structures.
(1)
Tackrooms and feed storage facilities shall not be located in a front yard setback and shall be located no closer than 10 feet to any side or rear lot line.
(2)
Animal enclosures shall not be located in a required front yard setback and shall not be located closer than 50 feet from any residential structure. In addition, barns, doghouses, hutches, coops, aviaries and other similar buildings or structures shall not be located within 20 feet of any side or rear lot line.
(D)
Standards for Bee Keeping. The following standards provide for the safe and orderly keeping of bees:
(1)
Location. Beehives shall only be located in rear yards and shall be placed a minimum of 20 feet from any property line, except that in the ER and LDR zones beehives also may be placed in the interior side yards. In all zones, the entrance to the beehive shall face away from the property line closest to the hive.
(2)
Barriers. A flyway barrier shall be established and maintained so that all bees are forced to fly at an elevation of at least six feet above ground level in the vicinity of the beehive. Any fence, wall, or natural barrier proposed as a flyway barrier shall comply with the provisions of PMC § 17.86.040 (Walls and fences), as well as the following:
(3)
A convenient source of water shall be made available for the bees at all times of the year so that bees are less likely to congregate at swimming pools, pet watering bowls, bird baths, or other water sources.
(4)
In any instance in which a bee colony exhibits unusually defensive characteristics by stinging or attempting to sting without provocation or exhibits an unusual disposition toward swarming, beekeepers shall promptly re-queen the colony with another marked queen. Queens shall be selected with a gentle disposition from stock bred for gentleness and nonswarming characteristics. An owner/keeper of a beehive must be able to produce proof of a receipt from a queen breeder.
(Ord. 1603 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)