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Paramount City Zoning Code

CHAPTER 17

08 R-1, SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL CLASSIFICATION

§ 17.08.010 Purposes.

The principal objective and purpose to be served by the classification R-1 and its application is to create a living environment of the highest standards for single-family dwellings by means of the standards and requirements set forth in this chapter with regard to minimum lot area, yards and open spaces required to be maintained. A related consideration is to make it possible for the City to more efficiently and economically design, install and maintain all physical public service facilities in terms of size and capacity to adequately and permanently meet needs resulting from a defined intensity of land use.
(Prior code § 44-18)

§ 17.08.020 Permitted uses.

In the R-1 zone the following uses only are permitted, and as hereinafter specifically provided and allowed by this chapter, subject to the general provisions and exceptions set forth in Chapter 17.44:
A. 
A one-family dwelling.
B. 
Accessory buildings and structures, subject to the following conditions:
1. 
Accessory buildings and structures shall not exceed 40% of the required rear yard area; and
2. 
Accessory buildings and detached garages are only permitted with a permissible main building; and
3. 
No eave, projection, or overhang shall extend over the property line, and precautionary measures shall be taken to ensure the deflection of runoff away from such property line; and
4. 
Placement of accessory buildings and structures shall be subject to the requirement as set forth in Section 17.08.070(C); and
5. 
Accessory dwelling units shall comply with all requirements of Chapter 17.104 of the Paramount Municipal Code.
C. 
Greenhouse and/or hoophouse (private and noncommercial) as an accessory use for propagation and culture only, subject to the following conditions:
1. 
Location. A greenhouse and/or hoophouse shall be located to the rear of the dwelling and five feet from property lines and any structure.
2. 
Height. The maximum greenhouse/hoophouse height is nine feet.
3. 
Sales. No sales associated with a greenhouse/hoophouse are permitted.
4. 
Construction and maintenance. A greenhouse/hoophouse shall be of sturdy construction and maintained in quality condition. The criteria utilized in evaluating the condition of a greenhouse/hoophouse shall include, but not be limited to, torn, stained, dirty, and/or faded material.
D. 
Home garden, subject to the following conditions and restrictions:
1. 
On-Site Sales Prohibited. The retail sales of edible landscaping shall not be conducted on the premises.
2. 
Edible Landscaping—Front Yard. With the exception of fruit trees, edible landscaping in the front yard shall be restricted to raised garden beds limited to a maximum area of 50 square feet with an administrative permit as described below.
3. 
Edible Landscaping—Front Yard Administrative Permit.
a. 
With the exception of growing and maintaining fruit trees, a resident shall obtain an administrative permit from the Planning Department following a determination that the rear and side yards of the subject property provide insufficient garden space.
b. 
Denial of the application by the Planning Director or designee for an administrative permit to grow edible landscaping in a front yard shall be subject to appeal by the applicant to the Planning Commission. The Planning Department is required to notify the applicant in writing of the reasons for such denial, giving reference to pertinent paragraphs of this subsection. Appeals shall be submitted in writing by the applicant and must clearly state the reasons why such appeal should be granted. Appeal procedure shall be governed by Sections 17.44.050 and 17.48.050 of this title.
c. 
Revocation. Should the resident fail at any time to comply with criteria established in this subsection, such administrative permit may be revoked by the Planning Commission.
4. 
Raised Garden Beds. Raised garden beds shall not exceed a height of three feet measured from the surface of the natural ground to the top of the frame of the raised garden beds. In a front yard or corner side yard, raised garden beds shall not be closer than five feet to a front or corner side property line. Raised garden beds shall be constructed of wood, brick, masonry, landscape timbers, metal, ceramic, or synthetic lumber. Raised garden beds constructed of wood shall be structurally sound and free of rot. Prefabricated raised garden beds shall be permitted. Raised garden beds shall not be constructed of wire, chicken wire, rope, cable, utility poles, tires, plumbing fixtures, or any other similar materials.
5. 
Front Yard Plant Height. With the exception of fruit trees, edible landscaping in the front yard shall not exceed a maximum height of three feet measured from the highest point of the frame of a raised garden bed to the highest point of an edible plant.
6. 
Edible Landscaping Harvest. Edible plant materials shall be promptly harvested and removed when mature or ripe. Plants not harvested for consumption shall be promptly removed or tilled into the soil.
7. 
Maintenance. Planting areas fallowed between growing seasons shall be covered with mulch or similar material or otherwise maintained in clean condition until the next planting period. Weeds shall be promptly removed. Actions shall be taken to prevent and eliminate pests.
8. 
Composting.
a. 
Purpose. The purpose and intent of residential composting is to promote the recycling of landscape waste through composting and with minimum standards for composting.
b. 
Location. Compost areas shall be located a minimum of five feet from property lines, a minimum of 15 feet from a residential structure (including accessory dwelling unit and junior accessory dwelling unit), and to the rear of the front dwelling on a property. Compost areas shall not be located within any drainage or utility easement.
c. 
Compost Bins. All compostable material shall be enclosed in one or more compost bins. Compost bins shall be properly maintained to prevent attracting and harboring rodents and pests and to prevent unpleasant odors.
d. 
Compostable Material. Compostable material includes leaves, grass clippings, garden debris, brush, tree clippings and other plant material generated solely within the residential lot where the material will be composted.
e. 
Compost Contents. Compost shall only contain compostable material, soil, and commercial compost additives. Prohibited compost contents include processed food products, including, without limitation, salad dressings and cooking or other vegetable oils; animal or dairy products, including, without limitation, fats, bones, meat, fish, fowl and cheese; and manure of any kind or other pet or human waste.
f. 
Nuisance. Any compost which gives off foul or putrid odors, attracts vermin, or encroaches on neighboring property is hereby declared to be a nuisance that will result in penalties in accordance with the relevant enforcement provisions of the Paramount Municipal Code.
E. 
Home Occupation. "Home occupation" is defined as any use customarily conducted within a dwelling and carried on by the inhabitants thereof, which use is clearly incidental and secondary to the use of the structure for dwelling purposes and which does not change the character thereof or does not adversely affect the uses permitted in the zone of which it is a part.
1. 
Application. Any person proposing to manage, conduct or carry on any business within the home at any location shall file a written application for a home occupation permit and business license with the City Clerk, on forms prepared and provided to the applicant.
2. 
Conditions and Reservations. Any license granted hereunder shall be subject to the following conditions and reservations:
a. 
The carrying on of any business within the home shall be as a secondary use.
b. 
The business shall not occupy more than one room or 25% of the total floor area, or a maximum of 100 square feet, whichever is less nor shall it occupy any part of the garage.
c. 
No employees or assistants shall be engaged for services on the premises other than members of the resident family.
d. 
No stock in trade shall be kept for public display purposes on the premises.
e. 
The use shall not generate pedestrian or vehicular traffic in excess of that customarily associated with the zone or district in which the use is located.
f. 
The home occupation shall not involve the use of commercial vehicles for transportation of materials to or from the premises, except when such vehicle is a commercially licensed van, pick-up truck or vacation vehicle registered to and used by a resident family member of the household exclusively for transportation.
g. 
No use will be permitted which by reason of color, design, materials, construction, lighting, signs, sounds, noises, or vibrations alters the residential character of the premises, or which unreasonably disturbs the peace and quiet of the surrounding residents.
h. 
The use shall not be such as to create excessive demand for municipal or utility services or community facilities beyond those actually and customarily provided for residential uses.
i. 
Stored materials used in connection with the home occupation shall not exceed 100 cubic feet. Total business usage will not increase the fire load of the dwelling by more than five percent.
j. 
There shall be no storage of materials or supplies in the garage or outdoors.
k. 
The building and fire prevention inspectors shall have the right of reasonable inspection as with any other business within the City for the purpose of protecting the general health and welfare.
l. 
There shall be no use on the premises of material or mechanical equipment not recognized as being part of normal household or hobby use.
m. 
The home occupation shall not involve the use of signs or structures other than those permitted in the district of which it is a part.
n. 
No building or space outside of the main building shall be used for home occupation purposes.
o. 
A home occupation permittee must possess a valid City business license at all times.
p. 
The permission of the property owner or authorized representative must be obtained prior to issuance of a home occupation permit if the home occupation is located in other than an owner-occupied dwelling unit.
3. 
City Clerk to Issue. Upon applicant's compliance with subsections (E)(1) and (E)(2) of this section, the City Clerk shall, upon payment of the business license fee, issue to the applicant a home occupation permit and business license.
4. 
Appeal of Denial by City Clerk of the Issuance of Home Occupation Permit.
a. 
Denial of the application by the City Clerk for a home occupation permit shall be subject to appeal by the applicant to the Planning Commission without fee. The City Clerk is required to notify the applicant in writing of the reasons for such denial, giving reference to pertinent paragraphs of this section.
b. 
Appeals shall be submitted in writing by the applicant and must clearly state the reasons why such appeal should be granted. Appeal procedure shall be governed by Sections 17.44.050 and 17.48.050 of this title.
5. 
Revocation. Should the home occupation fail at any time to comply with criteria established in subsection (E)(2) of this section, such home occupation permit may be revoked by the Planning Commission.
F. 
Household pets of a type readily classifiable as being customarily incidental and accessory to a permitted principal residential use when no commercial activity is involved, subject to the following conditions and restrictions:
1. 
No more than three adult animals of any species shall be permitted per dwelling unit except birds as specified in Section 6.44.020 of this Code and fish contained within an aquarium. An animal shall be considered an adult when it is either over four months of age or capable of reproducing.
2. 
Livestock including cattle, sheep and goats, horses, rabbits, rodents, poultry, and fowl are prohibited.
3. 
Those animals commonly classified as a wild species and potentially dangerous animals are prohibited.
4. 
Adherence to all applicable conditions and regulations of Title 6 of this Code is required.
5. 
In the event a question arises as to whether a species of animal is readily classifiable as being a household pet, the Planning Director may require that a permit be obtained for said animal in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 6.40 of this Code.
G. 
Unclassified Uses. See unclassified uses, as provided in Chapter 17.40.
H. 
The major repair of any vehicle must be screened from public view.
I. 
Licensed residential care facilities small.
J. 
Two-unit residential developments and urban lot splits, per Section 17.08.130.
K. 
Family daycare homes.
(Prior code § 44-19; Ord. 1150 § 4, 2021; Ord. 1178, 11/14/2023; Ord. 1198, 4/22/2025)

§ 17.08.030 Uses permitted subject to conditional use permit.

The following uses may be permitted; provided, that in each instance a conditional use permit is first obtained and continued in full force and effect as provided in Section 17.48.020:
A. 
Private schools.
(Prior code § 44-20; Ord. 1198, 4/22/2025)

§ 17.08.040 Design review.

All proposed development within the R-1 zone shall be subject to the provisions of Chapter 17.68 of this title.
(Prior code § 44-21)

§ 17.08.050 Lot standards.

A. 
Minimum Lot Size.
1. 
The minimum required area of a lot in the R-1 zone shall be 5,000 square feet.
2. 
Where a lot of record on the effective date of the ordinance from which this title derives has less than 5,000 square feet of area the lot area per dwelling unit for such lot shall be the area of the lot.
B. 
Minimum Lot Width. In the R-1 zone, every lot created after the effective date of the ordinance from which this title derives shall maintain a width of not less than 50 feet, unless otherwise provided by a variance.
C. 
Density. One single-family dwelling unit per parcel.
(Prior code § 44-22)

§ 17.08.060 Yard standards.

A. 
Front Yards. In the R-1 zone, every lot shall have a front yard depth of not less than 20 feet. Front yard requirements shall be measured from the lot front line. Front yards shall be fully landscaped utilizing water-efficient materials with drought resistant plants, excluding driveways and walkways. Landscaping shall include materials selected for drought tolerance and energy efficiency.
1. 
Landscape Materials. All required landscaping shall be covered with materials such as drought tolerant plants, compost, mulch, artificial turf and permeable hardscape.
2. 
Plant Density. Plant density shall cover at least 65% of the front yard area. Acceptable materials are drought tolerant plants, artificial turf, and permeable materials or a combination thereof.
3. 
Non-Plant Density. A maximum of 35% of the required front yard area shall include accent plant alternatives, including pavers and brick set on a bed of sand where no mortar or grout has been used, a three-inch layer of mulch, decomposed granite, or artificial turf.
4. 
Turf Replacement. Turf is not a required landscape material. Drought tolerant landscape materials that retain water onsite are preferred when replacing existing turf.
5. 
Artificial Turf. Artificial turf as a possible landscape alternative is subject to the following conditions:
a. 
Site Preparation. Artificial turf must be properly prepared by a licensed contractor, including site preparation and installation of base materials. Site preparation must consist of:
i. 
Removal of all existing plant material and top three inches of soil in the installation area.
ii. 
Recommended use of weed spray to assist in site preparation.
iii. 
Placement of a weed barrier over the compacted and porous crushed rock or other comparable material below the turf surface to provide adequate drainage.
iv. 
Area must be sloped and graded to prevent excessive pooling, runoff, or flooding onto adjacent property.
b. 
Installation.
i. 
Artificial turf must be permanently anchored with nails and glue, and all seams must be nailed, or sewn, and glued, with the grain pointing in a single direction.
ii. 
Artificial turf cannot encroach upon living plants/trees and must end at least three inches from the base of any newly planted plant/tree.
iii. 
Artificial turf must be separated from live planting areas by a barrier such as a mow strip or bender board to prevent mixing of natural plant materials and artificial turf.
c. 
Materials. Artificial turf product must:
i. 
Have an eight-year, "no-fade" manufacturer's warranty.
ii. 
Be permeable to water and air and non-flammable.
iii. 
Be cut-pile infill and made from polyethylene or a blend of polyethylene and polypropylene.
iv. 
Have a hole punched permeable backing with spacing not to exceed four inches by six inches on center.
v. 
Have a minimum blade length (pile height) of one and one-quarter inches.
vi. 
Have a minimum face weight of 65 ounces.
vii. 
Infill materials can consist of ground rubber or silicon sand.
viii. 
Nylon based or plastic grass blades (i.e., patio carpet or astro-turf) are not permitted.
d. 
Maintenance.
i. 
Artificial turf must be maintained in a green, fadeless condition free of weeds, stains, tears, or looseness at edges and seams.
ii. 
Proper weed control must be maintained at all times.
iii. 
Damaged areas must be repaired or replaced.
6. 
Hardscape. Hardscape (non-permeable) is limited to existing driveways, walkways, patios and courtyards.
7. 
Applicability. These provisions shall be applicable for all new development and for existing development where turf is to be replaced within the existing landscape.
8. 
Water-Efficient Landscape Provisions. Landscaping shall comply with the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) of the State of California and Chapter 17.92 of this title.
9. 
All proposed landscape revisions within the City parkway shall be subject to provisions as specified in Chapter 12.32.
All front yard landscape changes are subject to review and approval by the Planning Department prior to planting.
B. 
Side Yards. In the R-1 zone, every lot shall have a side yard of not less than five feet in width on each side.
C. 
Rear Yards. In the R-1 zone, every lot shall have a rear yard of not less than 15 feet.
D. 
Yards and Open Spaces Generally. Except as provided in this chapter, every required yard and open space shall be open and unobstructed from the ground to the sky. No yard or open space provided around any building for the purpose of complying with the provisions of title shall be considered as providing a yard or open space for any other building, and no yard or open space on any adjoining property shall be considered as providing a yard or open space on a building site whereon a building is to be erected.
E. 
Vision Clearance Requirement for Corner Lots and Reverse Corner Lots.
1. 
All corner lots and reverse corner lots subject to yard requirements shall maintain for safety vision purposes a triangular area one angle of which shall be formed by the assumed intersection of the lot front line and the side lot line separating the lot from the street, and the sides of such triangle forming the corner angle shall each be 15 feet in length measured from the aforementioned angle. The third side of such triangle shall be a straight line connecting the last two mentioned points which are distant 50 feet from the intersection of the lot front and side lines, and within the area comprising such triangle, no tree shall be allowed nor any fence, shrub or other physical obstruction higher than 42 inches above the established grade shall be permitted.
2. 
On corner lots and reverse corner lots, if a vehicular entrance is provided from the side street side, an area for safety vision clearance shall be maintained on each side of the driveway. Such area for vision clearance shall be defined by a diagonal line beginning at the intersection of the edges of the driveway and the inside line of the required side yard and extending away from the driveway at an angle of 30° to the edge of the driveway toward the side street property line of the lot. Within this area, no tree shall be allowed nor any fence, shrub or other physical obstruction higher than 42 inches above the established grade shall be permitted.
F. 
Permitted Intrusions into Required Yards. The following intrusions may project in any required yards:
1. 
Fireplace structures, not wider than eight feet measured in the general direction of the wall of which it is a part, may project one foot.
2. 
Uncovered porches and platforms which do not extend above the floor level of the first floor, provided, that they may extend six feet into the front yard. Covered porches which do not extend above the floor level of the first floor may extend three feet into the front yard. Covered porches are limited to the entry area only, and in no case shall extend the entire width of the structure.
3. 
Planting boxes or masonry planters not exceeding 36 inches in height measured from the ground level may extend into any required front yard. Such height limitation does not apply to ornamental plants contained in planter boxes. Edible landscaping height shall comply with Section 17.08.020(D)(5) of the Paramount Municipal Code.
4. 
Eaves may intrude 18 inches into required yards.
5. 
Hedges not more than 42 inches in height, and shrubs, flowers, plants, trees, mailboxes and ornamental lighting standards are permitted in any required yard except as set forth in subsection D of this section.
(Prior code § 44-23; Ord. 1150 § 5, 2021; Ord. 1191, 1/14/2025; Ord. 1198, 4/22/2025)

§ 17.08.070 Building standards.

A. 
Maximum Height. In the R-1 zone, no building shall exceed a height of 25 feet. Penthouses or roof structures for the housing of ventilating fans or similar equipment required to operate and maintain the building, fire or parapet walls, skylights, chimneys, and similar structures may be erected above the height limits prescribed by this chapter, but no penthouse or roof structure or any other space above the height limit prescribed for the zone in which the building is located shall be allowed for the purpose of providing additional floor space.
B. 
Minimum Dwelling Unit Size. In the R-1 zone, all newly constructed dwelling units shall be of the following minimum size:
1. 
Units with one bedroom shall have a minimum floor area of 800 square feet.
2. 
Units with two bedrooms shall have a minimum floor area of 1,000 square feet.
3. 
Units with three bedrooms shall have a minimum floor area of 1,250 square feet, which area shall include two bathrooms.
4. 
Units with four bedrooms shall have a minimum floor area of 1,500 square feet, which area shall include two bathrooms.
C. 
Placement of Buildings. Placement of accessory buildings on any lot in the R-1 zone shall conform to the following:
1. 
Interior Lots. Any building, any portion of which is used as an accessory building, shall observe a distance from any lot side line and the lot rear line the equivalent of the required side yard on each lot. On the rear third of a lot accessory buildings not containing accessory living quarters may be built to the lot side lines and the lot rear line; provided, that not less than 10 feet of the lot rear line shall be free and clear of buildings; and provided, further, that if the lot rears upon an alley, a garage with a vehicular entrance from the alley shall maintain a distance of not less than 15 feet from the center line of the alley.
2. 
Corner Lots. Any building, any portion of which is used for human habitation or as an accessory building, shall observe a side yard setback on the street side of not less than 10 feet.
D. 
Required Exits. In the R-1 zone, each dwelling unit shall have minimum of two exits.
E. 
Window Security Bars. The installation of window security bars is prohibited.
(Prior code § 44-24)

§ 17.08.080 Site standards.

A. 
Swimming Pools. In any zone, a swimming pool may not be located in any front yard, nor closer than five feet to any exterior property line or to any building on the same premises. Swimming pool or spa filtration equipment and pumps shall not be located in the front setback. All equipment shall be mounted and enclosed so that its sound is not audible from any other parcel.
B. 
Parking.
1. 
Number of Off-Street Parking Spaces Required. For new construction, a minimum of two off-street parking spaces shall be provided for each single-family dwelling within a completely enclosed garage with a minimum interior dimension of 20 feet by 20 feet clear. For existing dwellings which do not contain garages, carports may be permitted subject to approval by the Development Review Board. The roofline and exterior building treatment of all carports shall tie into the existing dwelling unit.
2. 
Size. Driveway widths in the R-1 zone shall not be less than nine feet in width.
3. 
Location. Parking facilities shall be located on the same lot or building site as the building they are required to serve. No motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, boat or trailer of any kind may be parked or stored in any required yard or open space other than on a driveway on one side of the lot, provided that the motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, boat or trailer does not encroach into the public right-of-way. A motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, boat, or trailer may be parked or stored in a rear yard, provided that the motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, boat, or trailer is located on a paved surface not closer than five feet from the side and rear property lines. A six-foot tall solid screen fence or wall on the side and rear property lines is also required.
4. 
Required Improvement and Maintenance of Parking Areas. Off-street parking areas shall be surfaced and maintained with Portland cement, concrete or bituminous pavement, so as to eliminate dust or mud, and shall be so graded and drained as to dispose of all surface water. Drainage shall be taken to the curb or gutter and away from adjoining property. In no case shall such drainage be allowed across sidewalks.
C. 
Satellite Dish Receivers. The installation of satellite dish receivers shall be subject to Development Review Board approval. Development Review submittal must include a complete scaled, dimensioned site plan, elevation of the antenna and supporting structures, manufacturer's specifications, and photographs of the site and location of installation. Such receivers shall be regulated in the manner set forth below:
1. 
General Requirements.
a. 
Receivers shall not be located between the street and the main structure on the lot.
b. 
Receivers shall not be located in any required front or side setback.
c. 
Receivers shall be a color offering minimum contrast with its surroundings, and no form of advertising or identification shall be permitted on the dish or supporting structure other than a manufacturer's identification tag.
d. 
Receivers and architectural screening shall, to the maximum extent possible, be compatible with the building on which the antenna is mounted.
e. 
Receivers shall be screened from view from the public right-of-way, and from surrounding properties to the satisfaction and discretion of the Development Review Board by decorative fencing, walls, landscaping or other suitable material in a manner aesthetically harmonious with the architecture and landscaping of the area, without impairing the reception of the receiver.
f. 
Receivers require a building permit issued by the Division of Building and Safety.
2. 
Residential Zones.
a. 
Ground-mounted satellite dish receivers are permitted in residential zones provided they can be screened from view from the public right-of-way.
b. 
Roof-mounted satellite dish receivers are permitted in residential zones provided that roof-mounted dishes are on the rear of the structure and shall not project above the peak of the roof unless screened by architecture or landscape so as not to be visible from the public right-of-way.
c. 
Each parcel shall contain only one satellite dish receiver.
D. 
Permitted Signs.
1. 
Name plates not exceeding 16 by 14 inches in size.
2. 
Two unlighted signs not exceeding six square feet in area pertaining only to the sale, lease or hire of only the particular building, property or premises upon which displayed.
E. 
Receptacles (including, but not limited to, barrels, bins, carts, containers, or dumpsters), facilities, and storage for garbage, waste, refuse, trash, organic waste, and nonorganic recyclables shall comply with Chapter 17.118.
F. 
Walls, Fences, and Hedges. In any "R" zone, a wall, fence or hedge is permitted under the following conditions:
1. 
A wall, fence or hedge not exceeding 42 inches in height may be located or maintained in any required front yard.
2. 
A wall, fence or hedge not exceeding six feet in height, may be located anywhere on any lot to the rear or the rear line of the required front yard except as provided in Section 17.08.060(D). Said placement of wall, fence, or hedge is subject to approval by the Director of Planning.
3. 
Where a retaining wall protecting a cut below the natural grade is located on the line separating lots or parcels, such retaining wall may be topped by a wall, fence or hedge of the same height that would otherwise be permitted at the location if no retaining wall existed as measured from the ground on the high side of the property line.
4. 
Where a retaining wall contains a fill, the height of the retaining wall built to retain the fill shall be considered as contributing to the permissible height of a fence, solid wall or hedge; provided, that in any event a protective fence or wall not more than 42 inches in height may be erected at the top of the retaining wall, and any portion of such fence above the six feet maximum height shall be an open work fence. An "open work fence" means a fence in which the component solid portions are evenly distributed and constitute more than 50% of the total surface area of the face of the fence.
5. 
No barbed wire, concertina wire, razor wire or cut glass shall be used as a fence or part of a fence, wall or hedge along any property line or within any required side, rear or front yard.
G. 
Storage. All storage areas shall be screened or maintained in a manner that prevents the creation of any nuisance or otherwise detracts from the property value or residential character of the neighborhood. No storage shall take place within the front yard area.
H. 
Patio Furniture. Only patio furniture shall be permitted on uncovered front porches and covered front porches. For purposes of this section, patio furniture shall mean furniture that is manufactured for outdoor usage.
I. 
Exterior Winter Holiday Lights.
1. 
Exterior winter holiday lights shall be permitted for display beginning on Thanksgiving Day until January 15th of the following year. Exterior winter holiday lights shall be removed within 48 hours after January 15th of each year. For purposes of this section, exterior winter holiday lights are defined as string lights, commonly and customarily associated with the holiday season during those times stated herein, that contain multiple or single colored light bulbs or clear light bulbs and that are attached to a building, structure or dwelling permitted under this chapter.
2. 
In interpreting and applying the provisions of this subsection, the Planning Director shall use reasonable judgment to determine if a specific string of lights is considered winter holiday lights.
3. 
The decision of the Planning Director may be appealed to the Development Review Board within 10 days after the decision of the Planning Director, which said appeal shall be heard at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Development Review Board. Any decision of the Development Review Board may be appealed to the City Council within 10 days after the decision of the Development Review Board. The decision of the City Council shall be final.
J. 
Exterior Holiday Decorations, Excluding Winter Holiday Lights.
1. 
Holiday and seasonal decorations, including, but not limited to, yard ornaments or decorations, and the like, shall not be installed or placed more than 45 days before the date of the holiday for which said decorations are intended and shall be removed within 25 days, following the date of the holiday for which said decorations were intended.
2. 
In interpreting and applying the provisions of this subsection, the Planning Director and/or designee shall use reasonable judgment to determine the applicability.
3. 
The decision of the Planning Director may be appealed to the Development Review Board within 10 days after the decision of the Planning Director, which said appeal shall be heard at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Development Review Board. Any decision of the Development Review Board may be appealed to the City Council within 10 days after the decision of the Development Review Board. The decision of the City Council shall be final.
(Prior code § 44-25; Ord. 1198, 4/22/2025; Ord. 1207, 10/28/2025)

§ 17.08.090 Design standards.

A. 
Architectural and Design Elements. All proposed developments shall incorporate the following architectural and design elements:
1. 
Multi-level roof lines.
2. 
Front doors shall be solid and shall include metal door jambs. The primary entrance shall include peepholes or vision glass for a clear view of the exterior entry area.
3. 
Exterior trim, including, but not limited to, wood siding, brick, stone, or slumpstone.
4. 
Varied exterior building materials and textures, including details such as doors, windows, palladium windows, balconies, porches, arches, columns, handrails, and other decorative treatments and architectural details.
5. 
For new construction, remodels, or additions, all garage doors shall be roll-up doors, subject to the approval of the Planning Director.
6. 
Tarps.
a. 
Tarps made from materials, including, but not limited to, canvas, fabric, plastic, rubber, nylon, or acetate are prohibited from use as carports, patio covers, and shade covers in required front, rear, and side setback areas, and over driveways. Tarps are prohibited from use as covers for outside storage in front setbacks and side setbacks that abut a street or alley, and over driveways. Tarps may be used to drape common household items (e.g., bicycles, lawn maintenance equipment, firewood) in a required rear yard area or side yard area that does not abut a street or alley, provided that the tarp does not exceed the height of the rear or side yard fence or exceed a height of six feet and not visible from the public right-of-way. Tarps shall be maintained in good condition. The criteria utilized in evaluating the condition of a tarp shall include, but not be limited to, torn, stained, dirty, and/or faded material.
b. 
The provisions of this section do not apply to freestanding fabric shade structures that are professionally manufactured, mechanically folding, "pop up" style shade structures located on residential uses. These structures may be placed within the required rear yard area, but are prohibited in front and side yards, and over driveways. Permitted fabric shade structures shall be maintained in good condition. The criteria utilized in evaluating the condition of a fabric shade structure shall include, but not be limited to, torn, stained, dirty, and/or faded material, and damaged support structures.
B. 
Roofing.
1. 
New Construction. In an R-1 zone, all new buildings shall have decorative roofing material. For purposes of this section, decorative roofing material shall include, but not be limited to, clay tile, concrete tile, synthetic shake or synthetic tile, or cement composition tile. Asphalt composition shingles only constitute decorative roofing material when the manufacturer warranty is a lifetime duration. Colors and materials shall be subject to the approval of the Planning Director.
2. 
Additions. Whenever an addition(s) to a residence is constructed that constitutes an increase in floor area of 40% or more over that which is existing, reroofing with decorative roofing material, as defined in this section, shall be required. Asphalt composition shingles only constitute decorative roofing material when the manufacturer warranty is a lifetime duration. If the existing structure already has decorative roofing material, as defined in subsection (B)(1) above, the area which is added on shall be roofed with the same material as the existing structure. Colors and materials shall be subject to the approval of the Planning Director.
3. 
Reroofing. A 30-year dimensional high profile thick butt asphalt composition shingle with built-up ridgeline is the minimum for reroofing. Colors and material shall be subject to approval of the Planning Director.
(Prior code § 44-26; Ord. 1191, 1/14/2025)

§ 17.08.100 Manufactured housing.

Manufactured housing shall be permitted, subject to the following provisions:
A. 
Manufactured housing shall be attached to a permanent foundation system in compliance with all applicable building regulations.
B. 
Manufactured housing shall be covered with an exterior material customarily used on conventional dwellings, and is subject to approval by the Director of Planning. The exterior covering material shall extend to the ground.
C. 
Manufactured housing shall have a sloped roof surfaced with a decorative roofing material, including, but not limited to, clay tile, concrete tile, synthetic shake or synthetic tile, cement composition tile, wood shake or wood shingle. Asphalt composition shingles do not constitute architectural quality roofing material. Colors and materials shall be subject to the approval of the Director of Planning.
(Prior code § 44-27; Ord. 1198, 4/22/2025)

§ 17.08.110 Parking.

Each dwelling unit shall be provided with two off-street parking spaces, both of which must be covered via carport or garage.
(Prior code § 44-28.1)

§ 17.08.120 Applicability of Chapter 17.68.

All proposed development within the R-1 zone shall be subject to provisions of Chapter 17.68 of this title.
(Prior code § 44-28.2)

§ 17.08.130 Two-unit residential developments and urban lot splits.

A. 
Development Conditions. Unless otherwise stated herein, all two-unit residential developments and urban lot splits shall be subject to all objective zoning standards, objective subdivision standards, and objective design review standards set forth in the Paramount Municipal Code, including, but not limited to, the following:
1. 
Impact Fees. Any applicable development fees adopted by the City Council shall be paid before issuance of a building permit or by a process required by the State of California.
2. 
Design—Architectural and Design Standards.
a. 
The slope and type of the roof shall match the predominant roof slope of any existing dwelling unit. In the event that no dwelling unit exists, the roof slope and type of all units on the lot shall be the same, and those new buildings shall have no more than one roof type and slope. Roof types shall be limited to those illustrated in the figure below.
b. 
Front doors shall be solid and shall include metal door jambs. The primary entrance shall include peepholes or vision glass for a clear view of the exterior entry area.
c. 
Where a unit already exists on a lot, the design of the second unit shall meet the same standards and specifications as the existing unit, including exterior building materials, roofing material, exterior color and texture, windows, doors, light fixtures, hardware, railings, and type of exterior accent/trim. Exterior accent/trim material shall be wood siding, brick, stone, or slump stone. The type of window and window trim shall be the same as that of the existing unit as to the type of exterior building materials.
d. 
Tarps. Tarps made from materials, including, but not limited to, canvas, fabric, plastic, rubber, nylon, or acetate are prohibited from use as carports, patio covers, and shade covers in required front, rear, and side setback areas, and over driveways. Tarps are prohibited from use as covers for outside storage in front setbacks and side setbacks that abut a street or alley, and over driveways. Tarps may be used to drape common household items (e.g., bicycles, lawn maintenance equipment, firewood) in a required rear yard area or side yard area that does not abut a street or alley, provided that the tarp does not exceed the height of the rear or side yard fence or exceed a height of six feet and not visible from the public right-of-way. Tarps shall be maintained in good condition. The criteria utilized in evaluating the condition of a tarp shall include, but not be limited to, torn, stained, dirty, and/or faded material. The provisions of this section do not apply to freestanding fabric shade structures that are professionally manufactured, mechanically folding, "pop up" style shade structures located on residential uses. These structures may be placed within the required rear yard area, but are prohibited in front and side yards, and over driveways. Permitted fabric shade structures shall be maintained in good condition. The criteria utilized in evaluating the condition of a fabric shade structure shall include, but not be limited to, torn, stained, dirty, and/or faded material, and damaged support structures.
e. 
For properties with no existing unit, the provisions of Chapter 17.12 (R-2, Medium Density Residential Classification), Sections 17.12.080 (Objective design standards—Purpose, intent, and applicability) through 17.12.120 (Service and back of house), inclusive, shall apply.
f. 
All roof-mounted equipment, with the exception of solar panels, shall be hidden from public view from any adjacent public right-of-way.
g. 
With the exception of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) which may be permitted and constructed to the maximum height as allowed under ADU law or ordinance, the maximum height of a dwelling shall be limited to 16 feet.
h. 
Lighting. At least one wall-mounted light fixture shall be installed and maintained adjacent to each exterior door for the purpose of providing safe and efficient access to a dwelling unit. Pedestrian pathways more than 100 feet in length shall provide lighting at intervals of at least 50 feet.
i. 
Each new water heater shall be tankless.
j. 
No window security bars shall be installed on the exterior of any window.
k. 
Stairs to the second floor shall only be located inside a dwelling unit.
3. 
Configuration. Each unit must be placed on its lot in such a manner that there is a separate entrance to that unit. That entrance may face the side or the rear yard. Each unit must be placed on a lot in such a way that direct access to an adjacent street is provided for vehicles via a driveway.
4. 
Minimum Structure Separation. There shall be at least 10 linear feet between each primary dwelling unit to primary dwelling unit. There must be at least six linear feet between the primary dwelling unit and any accessory structure, including, but not limited to, a detached accessory dwelling unit where allowed.
5. 
Driveways. All driveways shall be concrete or solid pavers. Driveways shall be 12 feet wide at minimum. There must be a 24-foot turning radius for vehicles. A driveway may be shared by the units. Driveways adjacent to onsite buildings must be separated from building walls by a landscaped area with a minimum inside width of three feet. A fence, hedge, or minimum three-foot-wide landscaped strip shall be provided where parking areas, turnarounds, or driveways abut an adjacent residential property.
6. 
Pedestrian Access. Pedestrian access to a public street or alley shall be provided via an exterior pedestrian pathway from the primary entrance of each unit to the adjoining sidewalk, street, or alley. The pedestrian pathway shall be unobstructed, clear to the sky, and meet the following standards and shall comply with all Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements:
a. 
Minimum Width. Pedestrian pathways shall be a minimum width of three feet.
b. 
Maximum Length. Pedestrian pathways shall not be more than 200 feet in length.
c. 
Materials. Minimum four-inch-thick concrete, or concrete or brick pavers placed hand-tight or mortared, on compacted subgrade or aggregate base, or other techniques or materials providing equivalent service shall be provided. Gravel, mulch, dirt, steppingstones, or other similar loose materials that do not create a continuous passage are prohibited.
7. 
Fire Sprinklers. Units created through two-unit developments shall be fire-sprinklered to applicable residential standards.
8. 
Landscaping. Landscaping shall be drought tolerant, and at least one minimum-sized 24-inch box shade/canopy tree per housing unit shall be planted in compliance with Chapter 17.96 (Water-Efficient Landscape Provisions) of the Paramount Municipal Code.
9. 
Addressing. All addresses for residential lots using a shared driveway or pedestrian pathway must be displayed at their closest point of access to a public street for emergency responders.
10. 
Utility Connections. Each unit must have a separate connection for utilities. As used here, "utilities" means water, sewer, electricity, cable, internet/broadband services, gas, and solid waste removal provided pursuant to Title 13 of the Paramount Municipal Code and the requirements of any third-party provider.
(Ord. 1178, 11/14/2023; Ord. 1191, 1/14/2025)