A.

The purpose of this Chapter is to:

1.

Establish procedures for implementing State Density Bonus requirements, as set forth in California Government Code Sections 65915 through 65918, and

2.

Facilitate the development of affordable housing consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the Housing Element of the City's General Plan.

B.

This Chapter establishes incentives available to developers to produce housing affordable to very-low, low and moderate-income households, transitional foster youth, disabled veterans, homeless persons, lower-income students, and senior citizens, consistent with State Density Bonus law.

(Ord. 7609 § 4(Exh. B), 2022)

A.

The provisions of this Chapter shall apply to any residential development project, as defined in Article X - Definitions.

B.

A residential development project that complies with the provisions of Chapter 19.535 (Inclusionary Housing), or any other applicable statute, regulation or law that requires development of affordable housing shall be eligible to receive incentives as set forth in this Chapter.

C.

Any request for a density bonus for a residential development project located within a Compatibility Zone of the Riverside County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan shall comply with the applicable compatibility criteria of the Compatibility Zone in which is it located.

(Ord. 7609 § 4(Exh. B), 2022)

A.

Maximum allowable density.

1.

The maximum number of units allowed by the applicable zone for the site shall be multiplied by the density bonus allowance as defined in this Chapter.

2.

A residential development project shall not exceed the cumulative total number of units allowed by the underlying zone and the density bonus units.

B.

Fractional units. Each component of any density calculation resulting in fractional units, including base density and bonus density, shall be separately rounded up to the next whole number.

C.

Discretionary approval.

1.

A request for a density bonus may be incorporated with a regular application to the Planning Division for ministerial or discretionary development approval required by this Title for the proposed residential development project.

2.

The granting of a density bonus, in and of itself, shall not require a General Plan Amendment, Zoning Change, or other discretionary approval.

D.

Mixed category development.

1.

If a residential development project qualifies for a density bonus under more than one category, the applicant shall select the category under which the density bonus is granted.

2.

Unless otherwise stated in this Chapter, density bonuses from more than one category may not be combined.

E.

Any project for which a density bonus is granted under this Chapter is not eligible for an additional density bonus under Chapter 19.780 (Planned Residential Development Permit).

(Ord. 7609 § 4(Exh. B), 2022)

A.

Eligible. The City shall grant a density bonus when a residential development project meets at least one of the following criteria:

1.

Five percent of the total units are designated for very low-income households.

2.

Ten percent of the total units are designated for low-income households.

3.

One hundred percent of the units, exclusive of a manager's unit, are designated for very low-, low-, and moderate-income households, with no more than 20 percent of the total units designated for moderate-income households.

4.

Ten percent of the total units are designated for transitional foster youth, disabled veterans, or homeless persons with rents provided at the same affordability level as very low-income units.

5.

Twenty percent of the total units are designated for lower income students as defined by Section 65915 of the California Government Code.

6.

Any senior citizen residential development project as defined in Civil Code Sections 51.3 and 51.12, including residential care facilities for the elderly (RCFEs) that has at least 35 dwelling units or a mobile home park that limits residency based on age requirements for housing older persons in compliance with Civil Code Sections 798.76 or 799.5.

7.

Any for-sale project with ten percent of the total units designated for moderate-income households, provided that all units in the development are offered to the public for purchase.

8.

A condominium conversion project where:

a.

Thirty-three percent of the units converted are for low- or moderate-income households; or

b.

Fifteen percent of the units converted are for very low- or extremely low-income households.

9.

The applicant donates at least one acre of land to the City for very low-income units, and the land has the appropriate General Plan designation, Zoning, permits and approvals, and access to public facilities needed for such housing.

B.

Ineligible. Unless units are replaced in conformance with Subsection 19.545.040.C below, an applicant is ineligible for a density bonus or any other incentives, concessions, or waivers under this Chapter if the proposed residential development project involves the removal of rental units that:

1.

Are currently subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts rents to levels affordable to persons and families of low- or very low-income; or

2.

Were:

a.

Vacated or demolished In the five-year period preceding the application; and

b.

Subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts rents to levels affordable to persons and families of low- or very low-income; or

3.

Are currently subject to any form of rent or price control; or

4.

Are currently occupied by low- or very low-income households; or

5.

For conversion to condominiums, were previously granted a density bonus, concession, or incentive.

C.

Replacement units. A proposed residential development project that involves the removal of affordable units as set forth in Subsection 19.545.040.B above may request a density bonus, concession, incentive, or waiver if the affordable units are replaced subject to the following:

1.

Occupied units. For dwelling units that are occupied on the date of application:

a.

The proposed residential development project shall provide at least the same number of units containing the same number of bedrooms; and

b.

The units must be made available at affordable rent or affordable sales price to, and occupied by, persons and households in the same or lower income category as current household in occupancy.

2.

Vacant or demolished units. For dwelling units that have been vacated or demolished within the five-year period preceding the application:

a.

The proposed residential development project shall provide at least the same number of units containing the same number of bedrooms as existed at the highpoint of those units in the five-year period preceding the application; and

b.

The units must be made available at affordable rent or affordable sales price to, and occupied by, persons and families in the same or lower income category as the last household in occupancy.

3.

Unknown household income. If the income category of the last household in occupancy is not known, the units shall be replaced in the same proportion of lower-income renter households to all renter households within the City, as determined by the most recently available data from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development's Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy database.

4.

Residential development projects that would result in the removal of affordable units pursuant to this section shall also comply with replacement requirements set forth in California Government Code §66300(d)(2) (also known as SB 330 The Housing Crisis Act) as long as that statute remains in effect.

(Ord. No. 7701, § 27, 2025; Ord. 7609 § 4(Exh. B), 2022)

A residential development project that complies with the eligibility requirements of Section 19.545.040 shall be granted a density bonus as follows:

A.

Bonus for very low-, low-, and moderate-income housing.

1.

The amount of density bonus granted shall be based on the following table, up to a maximum of 50 percent:

2.

The applicant may propose a lesser percentage of density increase, including, but not limited to, no increase in density with no effect on eligibility for concessions, incentives, and waivers or reduction of development standards to be considered as part of the development application.

B.

Bonus for 100 percent affordable residential development projects.

1.

If no more than 20 percent of the units are designated for moderate-income households and the remaining 80 percent are designated for very low- and low-income households, exclusive of manager's unit(s), the project shall be eligible for an 80 percent density bonus.

2.

A residential development project located within one-half mile of a major transit stop shall have no maximum density.

C.

Bonus for other housing categories. A residential development project that complies with the eligibility requirements of Section 19.545.040 shall be entitled to density bonus as follows:

1.

Units for transitional foster youth, disabled veterans, homeless persons, or seniors: 20 percent density bonus

2.

Units for lower-income students: density bonus varies based on percentage of low-income units in the development, up to 50 percent pursuant to California Government Code Section 65915(f)(3)(C).

a.

Units for lower-income students shall be defined as one rental bed and its pro rata share of associated common area facilities.

b.

Units for lower-income students shall meet all of the following requirements:

i.

All units will be used exclusively for undergraduate, graduate, or professional students enrolled currently or in the past six months in at least six units at an institution of higher learning accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges or the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.

ii.

As a condition of receiving a certificate of occupancy, the developer/applicant shall enter into an operating agreement or master lease with one or more institutions of higher education for students from that institution(s) to occupy all units of the student residential development project.

iii.

The development shall provide priority for the applicable affordable units for lower-income students experiencing homelessness that may be verified by an institution of higher education that has knowledge of a person's homeless status or a homeless service provider, as defined in paragraph (3) of subdivision (e) of Section 103577 of the Health and Safety Code.

iv.

Rent for the affordable units for lower income students shall be calculated at 30 percent of 65 percent of the area median income for a single-room occupancy unit type.

v.

Rental beds reserved for lower-income students shall not be tied to any specific bedrooms.

3.

Twenty-five percent density bonus for condominium conversion, subject to the requirements of California Government Code Section 65915.5.

D.

Bonus for donating land for very low-income units.

1.

An applicant is eligible for a density bonus if all of the following conditions are met:

a.

The donated land is:

i.

At least one acre in size or of sufficient size to permit development of at least 40 units, which is greater.

ii.

Has the appropriate general plan designation.

iii.

Zoned with development standards for development of at least 30 dwellings per acre.

iv.

Is or will be served by adequate public facilities and infrastructure.

v.

Located within the boundary of the proposed development.

vi.

Subject to the approval of the City, within one-fourth mile of the boundary of the proposed development.

vii.

The donated land shall be fully entitled for the development of very low-income housing.

viii.

The applicant shall donate and transfer the land to the City or to a housing developer approved by the City no later than the date of approval of the final subdivision map, parcel map, or residential development application.

ix.

A proposed source of funding for the very low-income units shall be identified not later than the date of approval of the final subdivision map, parcel map, or residential development application.

2.

An applicant for a residential development project that donates land to the City in compliance with the eligibility requirements of Section 19.545.040 shall be entitled to:

a.

Fifteen percent density bonus if ten percent of the total units in the development are set aside for very low-income households.

b.

For each one percent increase in the percentage of units affordable to very low-income households, the density bonus shall be increased by one percent, up to a maximum of 35 percent density bonus.

c.

Density bonus for land donation can be combined with the regular density bonus provided for the development of affordable units, up to a maximum 35 percent density bonus.

E.

Bonus for childcare facilities.

1.

When an applicant proposes to construct a residential development project that includes a childcare facility that will be located on the premises of, as part of, or adjacent to the project, the City shall grant either of the following:

a.

An additional density bonus that is an amount of square feet of residential space that is equal to the amount of square feet in the childcare facility; or

b.

An additional concession or incentive that contributes significantly to the economic feasibility of the construction of the childcare facility.

2.

The City shall require as a condition of approving the childcare facility that the following occur:

a.

The childcare facility shall remain in operation for a period of time that is as long as or longer than the period of time during which the density bonus units are required to remain affordable; and

b.

Of the children who attend the childcare facility, the children of very low-income households, lower-income households, or families of moderate income shall equal a percentage that is equal to or greater than the percentage of dwelling units that are required for very low-income households, lower-income households, or families of moderate income.

(Ord. 7743, § 12, 2025; Ord. No. 7701, § 28, 2025; Ord. 7609 § 4(Exh. B), 2022)

A.

General. The applicant for a density bonus project may request specific concessions or incentives and the City shall grant the request unless the City makes a written finding, based on substantial evidence, of one or more of following:

1.

The concession or incentive does not result in identifiable and actual cost reductions to provide for affordable housing costs or for rents for the targeted units to be set as specified in Section 19.545.040.

2.

The concession or incentive would have a specific, adverse impact upon public health and safety or on any real property listed in the California Register of Historical Resources and for which there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific adverse impact without rendering the development unaffordable to low- and moderate-income households.

3.

The concession or incentive would be contrary to State or Federal law.

B.

Number of concessions or incentives. The applicant shall receive the following number of concessions or incentives:

C.

Types of concessions or incentives. Concession or incentive means any of the following:

1.

A reduction in site development standards or a modification of Zoning Code requirements or architectural design requirements that results in identifiable and actual cost reductions including, but not limited to:

a.

Height limitation;

b.

Setback requirement; or

c.

Parking ratio.

2.

Approval of mixed-use zoning in conjunction with the residential development project if commercial, office, industrial, or other land uses will reduce the cost of the residential development project, provided that such uses are compatible with:

a.

The proposed residential development project; and

b.

The existing or planned development in the area where the proposed residential development project will be located.

3.

Other regulatory incentives or concessions proposed by the applicant or the City that result in identifiable and actual cost reductions.

D.

Parking incentives.

1.

A request for reduced parking pursuant to this section shall not count as concession or incentive.

2.

The applicant may request further parking reductions as a concession or incentive.

3.

Notwithstanding the requirements below, the applicant may provide additional parking in excess of the minimum required parking identified in this section.

4.

Parking ratios. Upon the request of the applicant of a residential development project that satisfies the requirements of Section 19.545.040, the following onsite parking ratios shall apply:

a.

Zero to one bedroom: one parking space per unit;

b.

Two to three bedrooms: one and one-half parking spaces per unit; and

c.

Four or more bedrooms: two and one-half parking spaces per unit.

5.

Within one-half-mile of a major transit stop. If a development is within one-half-mile of a major transit stop and the residents of the development have unobstructed access to the major transit stop from the development, then upon request of the applicant, parking ratios shall be further reduced as follows:

a.

Development includes at least 11 percent very low-income units or at least 20 percent low-income units: 0.5 spaces per unit.

b.

Development includes at least 40 percent moderate-income for-sale units: 0.5 spaces per bedroom.

6.

No required parking. If a development is 100 percent affordable, then upon the request of the applicant, the City shall not impose a vehicular parking ratio if the development meets any of the following criteria:

a.

The development is within one-half mile of a major transit stop and the residents of the development have unobstructed access to the major transit stop from the development; or

b.

The development is for individuals who are 62 years of age or older and the development has either paratransit service or unobstructed access within one-half mile to fixed bus route service that operates at least eight times per day; or

c.

The development is either special needs housing or supportive housing and the development has either paratransit service or unobstructed access within one-half mile to fixed bus route service that operates at least eight times per day.

d.

For a student housing development with at least 20 percent of beds affordable to low-income students, no parking shall be required.

7.

If the total number of parking spaces required for a development is other than a whole number, the number shall be rounded up to the next whole number.

8.

A residential development project may provide onsite parking through tandem parking or uncovered parking, but not through on-street parking.

9.

Notwithstanding the above, the City may impose higher minimum parking requirements pursuant to California Government Code §65915(p)(8).

(Ord. No. 7701, § 29, 2025; Ord. 7609 § 4(Exh. B), 2022)

If a development standard would physically preclude the construction of a residential development project at the density and with the concessions or incentives permitted in this Chapter, the applicant may propose to have those standards waived or reduced.

A.

When an applicant makes a request for a waiver or reduction of development standards, the City shall grant the request unless any of the following findings are made:

1.

The waiver or reduction of development standards would have a specific adverse impact upon public health or safety for which there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific adverse impact.

2.

The waiver or reduction of development standards would have an adverse impact on any real property listed in the California Register of Historical Resources.

3.

The waiver or reduction of development standards would be contrary to State or Federal law.

B.

A proposal for the waiver or reduction of development standards pursuant to this section shall neither reduce nor increase the number of incentives or concessions to which the applicant is entitled.

(Ord. 7609 § 4(Exh. B), 2022)

The units made available to lower-income households, very low-income households and moderate-income households pursuant to this Chapter shall be designed and constructed pursuant to the requirements of Chapter 19.535.050 (Inclusionary Housing - Development Standards).

(Ord. 7609 § 4(Exh. B), 2022)

A.

Residential development projects receiving a density bonus, concession, incentive, or waiver pursuant to this Chapter shall enter into an Affordable Housing Agreement with the City.

B.

The terms of the Affordable Housing Agreement shall be subject to the requirements established by the City of Riverside Housing Authority at the time of project approval.

C.

The Affordable Housing Agreement shall be entered into prior to issuance of the final certificate of occupancy for the residential development project.

D.

The Affordable Housing Agreement shall remain in effect for the entire term of affordability of the affordable units created pursuant to this Chapter, or as required by applicable State law, whichever is greater.

(Ord. 7609 § 4(Exh. B), 2022)

This chapter sets forth standards for the construction and maintenance of fences, walls, and landscape materials to ensure that such features are aesthetically pleasing and can provide for privacy and safety without obstructing views and without creating a public safety hazard or nuisance.

(Ord. 7331 §88, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

Fences or walls containing razor wire (visible to a public right-of-way, alley or parking lot), or barbed wire shall be prohibited.

(Ord. No. 7701, § 30, 2025; Ord. 7652 § 9, 2023; Ord. 7331 §88, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

The construction and use of a monitored electrified security fence Systems shall be allowed as provided in this section, subject to the following requirements:

A.

Unless otherwise specified herein, monitored electrified security fence systems shall be constructed and operated in conformance with the specifications set forth in International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard No. 60335-2-76 current edition.

B.

The energizer for monitored electrified security fence systems must be driven by a commercial storage battery, not to exceed 12 volts DC, that is charged primarily by a solar panel.

C.

Monitored electrified security fence systems shall be installed four to eight inches behind a minimum five-foot-high non-electrified perimeter fence/wall.

D.

Monitored electrified security fence systems shall have a maximum height of ten feet.

E.

Monitored electrified security fence systems adjacent to a residential zone or use shall be located behind a minimum six-foot tall block wall.

F.

Monitored electrified security fence systems shall be clearly identified with warning signs that read: "Warning-Electric Fence" at intervals of not more than 30 linear feet.

G.

Permitted Locations.

1.

Monitored electrified security fence systems are prohibited in all residential, mixed-use, and public facilities zoning districts.

2.

Monitored electrified security fence systems shall be permitted in industrial zones as identified in Table 19.150.020.B Incidental Use Table.

3.

Monitored electrified security fence systems shall be permitted in commercial and other zones (except in PF - Public Facilities zone) as identified in Table 19.150.020.B Incidental Use Table for specific uses in 19.150.020.A Permitted Uses Table, including the following:

• Ambulance company - with vehicle storage

• Cemeteries, mortuaries and ancillary uses

• Crematoriums

• Commercial storage facilities (mini-warehouse)

• Equipment sales and rental

• Heliport or helistop

• Laundry commercial

• Outdoor storage yard

• Parking lot or parking structure

• Golf courses and driving ranges

• Vehicle parts and accessories

• Outdoor storage

• Vehicle rental

• Wireless telecommunication facilities

4.

Uses not permitted by the current zoning designation are ineligible for a monitored electric security fence unless the Community & Economic Development Department Director, or his/her designee, pursuant to Chapter 19.060 (Interpretation of Code), determines that the use is similar and no more detrimental than a listed use.

5.

Installation of electrified security fence systems are prohibited in properties adjacent to a park.

H.

Required permitting.

1.

All monitored electrified security fence systems shall require an alarm user's permit pursuant to Chapter 5.58.

2.

All monitored electrified security fence systems that abut a residential property or are located within 300 feet of an existing public park, childcare facility, recreation center, community center, or school facility shall require a building permit and minor conditional use permit.

I.

Compliance with Development Standards. The associated outdoor storage area shall comply with all applicable site location, development and operational standards required by this Title, including, but not limited to, screening, fences and walls, landscaping, lighting, paving, and any discretionary permit requirement.

J.

It shall be unlawful for any person to install, maintain or operate a monitored electrified security fence system in violation of this section.

(Ord. No. 7701, § 31, 2025; Ord. 7660, § 13, 2024; Ord. 7617 § 2(Exh. B), 2022)

Fences, walls, and hedges shall be allowed in conformance with the following provisions:

A.

Front yards.

1.

In the RA-5, RC, RR and RE Zones, any fence or wall in the required front yard setback may be up to six feet in height, provided that the openwork portion of the fence or wall above a height of three feet shall be no more than one part solid to three parts open with no portion of the solid wall, excluding pilasters, extending above three feet.

2.

In all other zones, front yard fences or walls shall not exceed four feet in height provided that the openwork portion of the fence or wall above a height of three feet shall be no more than one part solid to three parts open with no portion of the solid wall, excluding pilasters, extending above three feet.

3.

The height of fences or walls in front yard areas shall be measured inclusive of retaining wall portion. Retaining walls exposed to public view shall not exceed three feet in height.

B.

Side and rear yards.

1.

Height.

a.

Fences and walls separating side and rear yards in the Single-Family Residential Zones may extend up to seven feet in height provided the fence or wall is not visible from the public right-of-way.

b.

Where a property in a Single-Family Residential Zone abuts a property in any other Zone, fences and walls separating side and rear yards may extend up to eight feet in height provided the fence or wall is not visible from the public right-of-way.

c.

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, fences and walls separating side and rear yards in all other Zones shall not exceed six feet in height.

d.

Higher fences or walls in commercial or industrial zones may be required by other provisions of the Zoning Code.

2.

In side and rear yard areas, combined freestanding and retaining walls and fences shall not exceed ten feet in height provided the retaining portion does not exceed three feet if exposed to public view or six feet if not exposed to public view.

3.

The fencing around tennis courts along rear and interior side yards shall not exceed 12 feet in height and must be partially open above six feet in height subject to approval of the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee.

C.

All yards.

1.

Free standing walls outside of any required setback area shall not exceed six feet in height, except as provided in subsection D below.

2.

All height restrictions applying to fences and walls shall apply equally to hedges planted within required yards forming a barrier serving the same visual purpose as a fence or wall.

3.

Notwithstanding A and B above, any minimum required height of walls established by the Zoning Code for screening or safety purposes shall be measured from the highest grade, not including retaining wall portion.

D.

Exceptions.

1.

Alternative decorative screening constructed of a material other than solid decorative masonry may be permitted where not visible from the public right-of-way subject to the approval of the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee.

2.

Required walls for sound attenuation.

a.

Walls shall be permitted as a height sufficient to adequately attenuate sound in compliance with Title 7 (Noise) as specified by an acoustical analysis prepared by a qualified acoustical engineer or equivalent professional.

b.

No variance or other discretionary approvals shall be required.

3.

Walls adjacent to railroads, freeways, and flood control channels may extend up to eight feet in height.

4.

Fences or walls around a public utility building or structure may exceed the provisions of this section as needed for security or public safety, subject to approval of the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee.

5.

Outdoor storage yards and incidental outdoor storage shall be subject to the location and design regulations of Chapter 19.285 (Outdoor Storage Yard) and Chapter 10.510 (Outdoor Storage - Incidental).

(Ord. No. 7701, § 32(Exh. C), 2025; Ord. 7652 § 10, 2023; Ord. 7541, § 11, 2020; Ord. 7331 §88, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

Any fence, wall or hedge that does not comply with this chapter is not permitted.

(Ord. No. 7701, § 33, 2025; Ord. 7331 §88, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

To safeguard against vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian collisions caused by visual obstructions at street and/or alley intersections, a clear cross-visibility area shall be maintained at the intersection of the public rights-of-way, unobstructed by any fence or wall taller than three feet above the street grade. At any corner formed by the intersection of two streets and/or alleys, the required clear cross-visibility area shall be a triangle with two street sides 15 feet long extending along the curb line of each street and/or alley.

19.550.050
Clear Visibility Triangle

(Ord. 7331 §88, 2016; Ord. 7235 §10, 2013; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

For any new construction of a single-family residence, any wall along a street rear yard, street side yard or front yard between the house and the side yard shall be constructed of decorative masonry or a similar material subject to the approval of the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee. This provision does not apply to interior rear or interior side yard fences and walls.

(Ord. 7541, § 12, 2020; Ord. 7331 §88, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

Fences, walls, and landscape materials for cultural resources shall be designed to comply with Title 20 (Cultural Resources) of the Riverside Municipal Code, the Cultural Heritage Board's Design Guidelines, and district-specific guidelines.

(Ord. 7331 §88, 2016; Ord. 7109 §10, 2010)

This chapter sets forth standards for the construction of trash/recyclable materials collection area enclosures to ensure that such features are aesthetically pleasing and screen the trash and recycle containers without obstructing views or causing a public safety hazard or nuisance.

(Ord. 7331 §89, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

Centralized trash/recyclable materials collection areas shall be provided for all development projects, with the exception of detached and attached single-family subdivisions and planned communities and any multi-family development containing three or fewer units. All such required areas shall be enclosed and screened pursuant to the requirements of this section.

B.

The required number of enclosures shall be determined by the Public Works Department, Solid Waste Division.

C.

All trash/recyclable materials collection enclosure areas shall be easily accessible to residents and tenants, including easy pedestrian access for the disposal of materials and collection by refuse vehicles. Where a bin or bins serves a residential development with five or more units, the enclosure shall be designed to allow for gateless pedestrian access, unless through review of the site plan by the Development Review Committee, it is determined that such access cannot physically be provided.

D.

Two general types of trash/recyclable materials collection enclosure areas shall be permitted: a basic enclosure and a full-feature enclosure. These enclosures shall be as defined and described in the City of Riverside Trash Enclosure Policies maintained by the Planning Division and Public Works Department, Solid Waste Division. Basic enclosures shall only be permitted for developments containing four of fewer residential units or nonresidential lease spaces.

E.

All trash/recyclable materials collection enclosure areas shall comply with the development standards set forth in the City of Riverside Trash Enclosure Policies. At a minimum, the following standards shall apply.

1.

The collection area shall be enclosed on three sides by a minimum six-foot-tall decorative masonry wall. The wall materials used shall be complementary in color and style to architectural components of the development they serve. The fourth side of the enclosure shall be enclosed with an opaque and latchable gate designed to the standards set forth in the City of Riverside Trash Enclosure Policies.

2.

The enclosure shall be screened with plant materials as defined through the design review process.

F.

Plans shall be submitted for all proposed enclosure areas. Plans shall be drawn to scale and shall include complete elevations, plot plans, and construction details.

G.

Design modifications to accommodate special circumstances are allowed. However, all deviations from standard requirements and policies must be approved through the design review process prior to the issuance of building permits.

(Ord. 7331 §89, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

This chapter sets forth standards for the outdoor equipment (mechanical and utilities) screening to ensure that such features are aesthetically pleasing and adequately screen the equipment without obstructing views or causing a public safety hazard or nuisance.

(Ord. 7331 §90, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

General. All outdoor equipment, whether on a roof, side of a structure, or on the ground, shall be appropriately screened from public view. The method of screening shall be architecturally integrated with the adjacent structure in terms of materials, color, shape and size. Where individual equipment is provided, a continuous screen is desirable.

B.

Exterior mechanical equipment.

1.

Exterior mechanical equipment, except solar collectors, shall be screened from view on all sides by architectural features that are compatible in color and design with the primary structure. For rooftop equipment, the screening materials shall be at least as high as the equipment being screened. Equipment requiring screening includes, but is not limited to, heating, air conditioning, refrigeration equipment, plumbing lines, ductwork, and transformers.

2.

Where design review is required for the primary structure or use pursuant to Chapter 19.710 (Design Review) of this title, such review shall include review of required mechanical equipment screening for conformance with the provisions of this paragraph.

3.

Mechanical equipment shall not be permitted on any exposed portion of a pitched roof, except as may be approved through the design review process (Chapter 19.710).

C.

Ground-mounted utility equipment.

1.

Ground-mounted utility equipment such as, but not limited to, cable television boxes, electric power transformers and distribution facilities, water pumps, and telecommunications facilities (not including pole-mounted equipment) shall be located at the rear of the primary structure and away from public view if feasible.

2.

If not feasible, equipment shall be screened from view on all sides with solid masonry walls or similar permanent structures and/or mature landscaping, color blending to match surroundings, or artwork.

a.

Any such masonry walls or structures shall be of a neutral color.

b.

Screening with chain-link, or similar fencing materials shall not be permitted.

3.

Electric and other metering equipment and panels shall be painted to match adjacent building and wall surfaces.

4.

Where design review is required for the primary structure or use pursuant to Chapter 19.710 (Design Review) of this title, such review shall include review of required mechanical equipment screening for conformance with the provisions of this paragraph.

(Ord. No. 7701, § 34, 2025; Ord. 7331 §90, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

This chapter sets forth standards to ensure that outdoor lighting is adequate for safety, security and commerce while preserving the naturally dark night sky by mitigating artificial sky glow and preventing glare and light trespass.

(Ord. 7447 § 1(Exh. A), 2018)

For the purposes of this chapter only, the following words and phrases are defined as follows:

Architectural floodlighting and outlining means the use of lighting to illuminate building facades, statuary, and similar edifices for appearance or other needs not involving visual tasks such as walking or driving.

Artificial sky glow means anthropogenic light scattered in the atmosphere that on clear nights reduces the ability to see stars and the Milky Way. It also has negative environmental impacts.

Community & Economic Development Director means the director of the Community & Economic Development Department of the City of Riverside or the person designated by the Community & Economic Development Director.

Curfew means the time each night that lighting shall be dimmed or turned off in accordance with Title 24, Part 6, Section 130.2 for nonresidential lighting and Section 150.0 for residential lighting.

Downlight means that the luminaire emits no light above 90 degrees relative to nadir.

Fully shielded means a light fixture constructed and installed in such a manner that all light emitted by the fixture, either directly from the light source or a diffusing element, or indirectly by reflection or refraction from any part of the luminaire, is projected below the horizontal plane through the fixture's lowest light-emitting part.

Glare means lighting entering the eye directly from a light fixture or indirectly from reflective surfaces that causes visual discomfort or reduced visibility.

Light source means, in generic terms, a source of optical radiation (i.e., "light"), often called a "lamp", "bulb", or "tube". Examples include incandescent, fluorescent, high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, and low-pressure sodium (LPS) lamps, as well as light-emitting diode (LED) modules and arrays.

Light Trespass means light that falls beyond the property on which it originates. The amount of trespass is expressed in footcandles (fc) and is measured in the vertical plane at five feet above grade at the property line of the site on which the light(s) is located. If the adjacent property is a street, alley or sidewalk, then the point at which trespassing light is measured shall be the center of the street, alley, sidewalk, or right-of-way. Field measurements to determine light trespass compliance shall not include the effect of light produced by street lights.

Lumen means the unit of measure used to quantify the amount of visible light produced by a light source or emitted from a luminaire (as distinct from "watt," a measure of power consumption).

Luminaire means outdoor electrically powered illuminating devices, including a light source, outdoor reflective or refractive surfaces, lenses, electrical connectors and components, and all parts used to mount the assembly, distribute the light and/or protect the light source, whether permanently installed or portable.

Maximum Lumens means the allowed maximum rated lumens per a photometric report or manufacturer's product literature for a dedicated fluorescent, LED or HID luminaire or the rated lumens of the light source installed for a line voltage socket luminaire or a low voltage socket luminaire.

Shielded up-light means a luminaire aimed upward within 30 degrees of straight up that employs a baffle or louver to prevent glare.

Temporary lighting means lighting that (a) employs a cord and plug that is not permanently wired and (b) is installed and removed when the temporary need is over, not to exceed 45 days, including but not limited to seasonal lighting.

Outlining means exposed light sources attached to structures for the primary purpose of attraction, branding or decoration.

(Ord. 7447 § 1(Exh. A), 2018)

Except as described below, all outdoor lighting installed or modified after the effective date of this ordinance shall comply with these requirements. This includes, but is not limited to, new lighting, replacement lighting, additions and alterations to existing lighting whether attached to structures, poles, the earth, or any other location. Applications for land use entitlements after the effective date of this ordinance shall comply with this chapter.

(Ord. 7447 § 1(Exh. A), 2018)

A.

The following are not regulated by this chapter:

1.

Lighting within public right-of-way, or quasi-public easement for common access, such as a private street serving a community of homes.

2.

Lighting solely for signs (see 19.620).

3.

Repairs to existing luminaires, not including replacements or modifications.

4.

Temporary lighting.

5.

Underwater lighting in swimming pools and other water features.

6.

Short-term lighting associated with activities authorized by a special event permit or film permit.

7.

Construction or emergency lighting which is shielded, temporary and is discontinued immediately upon completion of the construction work or abatement of the emergency for which the light serves.

8.

Lighting approved by temporary, variance, minor conditional or conditional use permit.

9.

Lighting under the jurisdiction of Title 20 of the Riverside Municipal Code and for which a Certificate of Appropriateness has been granted.

(Ord. 7447 § 1(Exh. A), 2018)

A.

The following types of lighting are prohibited unless in conjunction with the exemptions provided in Section 19.556.040:

1.

Dynamic lighting, such as moving lights, color changing lighting, or digital LED panels that flash, chase, change color, or changes intensity for any purpose other than serving as a traffic signal, safety light, or aviation or marine marker.

2.

Luminaires exceeding 500,000 peak candelas or 50,000 lumens

3.

Aerial laser lighting.

4.

Lighting within Lighting Zone 0 except as permitted by Title 24, Part 6, Section 140.7.

5.

Sport facility lighting.

(Ord. 7447 § 1(Exh. A), 2018)

A.

Lighting zones are defined as follows:

1.

Lighting Zone 0 (Zero) shall include undeveloped areas of parks, recreation areas, and wildlife preserves. These areas are undeveloped or intended to be preserved in a natural state that require little or no exterior light at night.

2.

Lighting Zone 1 (One), shall include developed portions of parks, recreation areas, wildlife preserves, and the area within the Mt. Palomar Observatory boundary as shown in the General Plan which are suitable for low levels of exterior lighting at night.

3.

Lighting Zone 2 (Two) shall include all areas of the City that are zoned RA-5, RC and RR which are suitable for modest levels of exterior lighting at night.

4.

Lighting Zone 3 (Three) shall include all other areas of the City not in Lighting Zones 0, 1 or 2 which are suitable for medium to high levels of exterior lighting at night.

B.

All proposed changes and appeals to lighting zone designations shall be approved by the City Council upon recommendation of the Planning Commission. The Community & Economic Development Director shall notify the California Energy Commission according to California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-144(d).

(Ord. 7447 § 1(Exh. A), 2018)

A.

All proposed outdoor lighting installations involving new lighting or the modification, alteration, or replacement of outdoor lighting shall submit plans and related information as listed below:

1.

Plans depicting the proposed luminaires with certification from engineer, applicant and/or designee that the plans comply with this chapter.

2.

Product specification data such as manufacturer's data sheets for each luminaire and control device(s) or systems being used.

3.

For nonresidential properties, signed pages of required documents for Title 24 - Part 6 Section 140.7 and Title 24 - Part 11 Section 5.106.8 demonstrating compliance.

4.

Details, elevations, summaries or calculations as required to demonstrate compliance with this ordinance.

5.

Such other data and information as may be required by the Community & Economic Development Director.

(Ord. 7447 § 1(Exh. A), 2018)

A.

All outdoor lighting shall be designed and implemented to mitigate light trespass onto adjacent properties and comply with the following:

1.

The correlated color temperature of all outdoor lighting shall be 3,000 Kelvin or less, with tolerance within the ANSI standard C78.377 of LED sources.

2.

Shall comply with the California Title 24 California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Parts 1, 2, 6 and 11.

3.

Shall comply with Table 19.556.080 A - Lighting Limits for Residential Including Multifamily Properties with Fewer than eight Units or Table 19.556.080 B - Lighting Limits for Nonresidential and Multifamily Residential Properties with eight Units or more.

a.

Except that, the maximum mounting height of luminaires (above finished grade) shall not apply to fully recessed luminaires.

b.

Except that, the maximum mounting height for buildings with exterior entrance doors shall be 12 feet above adjacent floor unless recessed into an adjacent ceiling, soffit or overhang.

c.

Average illumination of a façade or edifice shall not exceed five footcandles (50 lux).

4.

Lighting shall be hooded or shielded so as to prevent either the spillage of lumens or reflection into the sky. Outdoor lighting shall be downward facing, except as may be specifically allowed herein.

Table 19.556.080 A - Limits for Residential Including Multifamily with Less than eight Units.

1. Lumens represent maximum lumens per site development. Architectural floodlighting must comply with unshielded and decorative lighting restrictions, including maximum number of luminaires and lumens per residence.

2. Allowable light trespass shall be determined based upon the light zone in which the trespass occurs, not from which the light originates.

Table 19.556.080 B - Limits for Nonresidential and Multifamily Properties more than eight Units.

1. Lumens represent maximum lumens per site development. Architectural floodlighting must comply with unshielded and decorative lighting restrictions, including maximum number of luminaires and lumens per residence.

2. Allowable light trespass shall be determined based upon the light zone in which the trespass occurs, not from which the light originates.

(Ord. No. 7701, §§ 35, 36(Exh. D.), 37(Exh. E), 2025; Ord. 7447 § 1(Exh. A), 2018)

This chapter establishes the method for measuring the height of structures in compliance with the height limits set forth in the Zoning Code, and specifies exceptions to height limits.

(Ord. 7331 §92, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

Except as noted in Figure 19.560.020 B (Structure Height on Split Pad), structure height shall be measured as the vertical distance between the building pad elevation or finished grade and the highest point of the subject building or structure. The highest point shall be the coping of a flat roof, deck line of a mansard roof, or peak of the highest gable of a pitch or hip roof, exclusive of vents, air conditioners, chimneys, and similar objects.

19.560.020.A
Structure Height

B.

For sloped lots having a building with a stepped foundation or split levels, the height shall be measured as the vertical distance from the mid point of a line between the highest and lowest points of the building pads or foundation and the top-most point of the roof.

19.560.020.B
Structure Height on Slope

19.560.020.B
Structure Height on Split Road

(Ord. 7331 §92, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

The following exceptions to height limits are allowed, provided compliance is achieved with all other applicable requirements and development standards of the Zoning Code.

A.

Uninhabited architectural design features such as towers, spires, steeples, domes, and cupolas may exceed the specified height limit by a maximum of ten feet, subject to approval by the appropriate Approving or Appeal Authority.

B.

Roof structures for the housing of elevators, stairways, tanks, ventilating fans or similar equipment required to operate and maintain the building and fire or parapet walls, chimneys, smokestacks, wireless masts or similar structures, but excluding wireless communications equipment, may be erected above the height limits prescribed in the Zoning Code; provided, that the same may be safely erected and maintained at such height in view of the surrounding conditions and circumstances, but no roof structure or any space above the height limit shall be allowed for the purpose of providing additional floor space, subject to approval by the appropriate Approving or Appeal Authority.

(Ord. 7331 §92, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

The City finds that:

A.

That the waters of the City and State are of limited supply and are subject to ever increasing demands;

1.

That the continuation of the City's and State's economic prosperity is dependent on the availability of adequate supplies of water for future uses;

2.

That it is the policy of the City and State to promote the conservation and efficient use of water and to prevent the waste of this valuable resource;

3.

That landscapes are essential to the quality of life in the City and State by providing areas for active and passive recreation and as an enhancement to the environment by cleaning air and water, preventing erosion, offering fire protection, and replacing ecosystems lost to development;

4.

That landscape design, installation, maintenance, and management can and should be water efficient; and

5.

The City recognizes that Section 2 of Article X of the California Constitution specifies that the right to use water is limited to the amount reasonably required for the beneficial use to be served and the right does not and shall not extend to waste or unreasonable method of use.

B.

Consistent with these legislative findings, the purpose of this chapter of the Zoning Code is to:

1.

Promote the values and benefits of landscaping practices that integrate and go beyond the conservation and efficient use of water;

2.

Establish a structure for planning, designing, installing, maintaining, and managing water efficient landscapes in new construction and rehabilitated projects by encouraging the use of a watershed approach that requires cross-sector collaboration of industry, government and property owners to achieve the many benefits possible;

3.

Reduce water demands from landscapes without a decline in landscape quality or quantity;

4.

Retain flexibility and encourage creativity through appropriate design;

5.

Establish provisions for water management practices and water waste prevention for existing landscapes;

6.

Use water efficiently without waste by setting a Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA) as an upper limit for water use and reduce water use to the lowest practical amount;

7.

Assure the attainment of water efficient landscape goals by requiring that landscapes not exceed a maximum water demand (evapotranspiration adjustment factor of .55 for residential and .45 nonresidential) of its reference evapotranspiration (ET _o ) or any lower percentage as may be required;

8.

Achieve water conservation by raising the public awareness of the need to conserve water through education and motivation to embrace an effective water demand management program; and

9.

Promote the use of recycled water for landscaping.

C.

Landscapes that are planned, designed, installed, managed and maintained with the watershed based approach can improve California's environmental conditions and provide benefits and realize sustainability goals. Such landscapes will make the urban environment resilient in the face of climatic extremes. Consistent with the legislative findings and purpose of this chapter, conditions in the urban setting will be improved by:

1.

Creating the conditions to support life in the soil by reducing compaction, incorporating organic matter that increases water retention, and promoting productive plant growth that leads to more carbon storage, oxygen production, shade, habitat and esthetic benefits.

2.

Minimizing energy use by reducing irrigation water requirements, reducing reliance on petroleum based fertilizers and pesticides, and planting climate appropriate shade trees in urban areas.

3.

Conserving water by capturing and reusing rainwater and graywater wherever possible and selecting climate appropriate plants that need minimal supplemental water after establishment.

4.

Protecting air and water quality by reduction power equipment use and landfill disposal trips, selecting recycled and locally sourced materials, and using compost, mulch and efficient irrigation equipment to prevent erosion.

5.

Protecting existing habitat and creating new habitat by choosing local native plants, climate adapted non-natives and avoiding invasive plants. Utilizing integrated pest management with least toxic methods as the first course of action.

(Ord. 7454, § 1(Exh. A), 2019)

A.

Consistent with the Governor's Executive Order No. B-29-15, and the State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, this chapter shall apply to all of the following landscape projects:

1.

New development projects with an aggregate landscape area equal to or greater than 500 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review.

2.

Rehabilitated landscape projects with an aggregate landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review.

3.

Existing landscapes are limited to Section 19.570.080 - Existing Landscapes.

4.

Recognizing the special landscape management needs of cemeteries, new and rehabilitated cemeteries are limited to Section 19.570.090 - Cemeteries (A). Existing cemeteries are limited to Section 19.570.090 - Cemeteries (B).

5.

Notwithstanding Section 19.040.110 - Public Projects, all public projects shall comply with the provisions of this chapter.

B.

Any project with an aggregate landscape area of 2,500 square feet or less may comply with the performance requirements of this ordinance or conform to the prescriptive measures contained in Section 19.570.130 (State Model WELO Appendix D - Sample Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet).

C.

For projects using treated or untreated graywater or rainwater captured on site, any lot or parcel within the project that has less than 2,500 square feet of landscape and meets the lot or parcel's landscape water requirement (Estimated Total Water Use) entirely with treated or untreated graywater or through stored rainwater captured on site is subject only to Section 19.570.130.B.5 (Sample Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet - State Model WELO Appendix D).

D.

This chapter does not apply to:

1.

Registered local, state or federal historical sites;

2.

Ecological restoration projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system and have an establishment period of less than five years;

3.

Mined-land reclamation projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system; and

4.

Existing plant collections, as part of botanical gardens and arboretums open to the public.

(Ord. 7454, § 1(Exh. A), 2019)

An applicant proposing any new or rehabilitated landscape subject to this chapter shall prepare and submit an application to the Planning Division for review and approval by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee. The planting plan, irrigation plan, and soils management plan shall be reviewed to ensure that all components of the plans adhere to the requirements of this chapter. No certificate of occupancy or other final City approval shall be issued until the City reviews and approves the landscape and irrigation plans, and the landscape and irrigation are installed in accordance with the approved plans. A copy of the approved landscape and irrigation plans and conditions of approval shall be provided to the property owner or site manager along with any other information normally forwarded to the property owner or site manager.

Applications submitted to the Planning Division shall include the following information:

A.

Elements of a landscape document package. The landscape documentation package shall include the following six elements:

1.

Project information:

a.

Date

b.

Project applicant

c.

Project address (if available, parcel and/or lot number(s))

d.

Total landscape area (square feet)

e.

Project type (e.g., new, rehabilitated, public, private, cemetery, homeowner-installed)

f.

Water supply type (e.g., potable, recycled, well) and identify the local retail water purveyor if the applicant is not served by a private well

g.

Checklist of all documents in landscape documentation package

h

Project contacts to include contact information for the project applicant and property owner

i.

Applicant signature and date with statement, "I agree to comply with the requirements of the water efficient landscape ordinance and submit a complete landscape documentation package."

2.

Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet with water budget calculations including:

a.

Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA)

b.

Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU)

3.

Soil management report;

4.

Landscape design plan;

5.

Irrigation design plan; and

6.

Grading design plan.

B.

Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet.

1.

A project applicant shall complete the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet (Figure 19.570.030.B.2) which contains information on the plant factor, irrigation method, irrigation efficiency, and area associated with each hydrozone. Calculations are then made to show that the evapotranspiration adjustment factor (ETAF) for the landscape project does not exceed a factor of 0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas, exclusive of special landscape areas. The ETAF for a landscape project is based on the plant factors and irrigation methods selected. The Maximum Applied Water Allowance is calculated based on the maximum ETAF allowed (0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas) and expressed as annual gallons required. The Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU) is calculated based on the plants used and irrigation method selected for the landscape design. ETWU must be below the MAWA.

a.

In calculating the maximum applied water allowance and Estimated Total Water Use, a project applicant shall use the following ET _O values from the Reference Evapotranspiration Table in Appendix A of the State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. Values for Riverside are:

Source: Appendix A - Reference Evapotranspiration (ET _O ) Table of the State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance - ET _O values for Riverside

2.

Water budget calculations shall adhere to the following requirements:

a.

The plant factor used shall be from WUCOLS or from horticultural researchers with academic institutions or professional associations as approved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR). The plant factor ranges from 0 to 0.1 for very low water using plants, 0.1 to 0.3 for low water use plants, from 0.4 to 0.6 for moderate water use plants, and from 0.7 to 1.0 for high water use plants.

b.

All water features shall be included in the high water use hydrozone and temporarily irrigated areas shall be included in the low water use hydrozone.

c.

All special landscape areas shall be identified and their water use calculated as shown in Appendix B.

d.

ETAF for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0.

Figure 19.570.030.B - Sample Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet

C.

Soil Management Report. In order to reduce runoff and encourage healthy plant growth, a soil management report shall be completed by the project applicant, or his/her designee, as follows:

1.

Submit soil samples to a laboratory for analysis and recommendations. Soil sampling shall be conducted in accordance with laboratory protocol, including protocols regarding adequate sampling depth for the intended plants.

2.

The soil analysis shall include:

a.

Soil texture;

b.

Infiltration rate determined by laboratory test or soil texture infiltration rate table;

c.

pH;

d.

Total soluble salts;

e.

Sodium;

f.

Percent organic matter; and

g.

Recommendations.

3.

In projects with multiple landscape installations (i.e., production home developments) a soil sampling rate of one in seven lots or approximately 15 percent will satisfy this requirement. Large landscape projects shall sample at a rate equivalent to one in seven lots.

The project applicant, or his/her designee, shall comply with one of the following:

1.

If significant mass grading is not planned, the soil analysis report shall be submitted to the local agency as part of the landscape documentation package; or

2.

If significant mass grading is planned, the soil analysis report shall be submitted to the local agency as part of the Certificate of Completion.

The soil analysis report shall be made available, in a timely manner, to the professionals preparing the landscape design plans and irrigation design plans to make any necessary adjustments to the design plans.

The project applicant, or his/her designee, shall submit documentation verifying implementation of soil analysis report recommendations to the local agency with Certificate of Completion.

D.

Landscape Design Plan. For the efficient use of water, a landscape shall be carefully designed and planned for the intended function of the project. A landscape design plan meeting the following design criteria shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package.

1.

Plant material.

a.

Any plant may be selected for the landscape providing the Estimated Total Water Use in the landscape area does not exceed the Maximum Applied Water Allowance. Methods to achieve water efficiency shall include one or more of the following:

i.

Protection and preservation of native species and natural vegetation;

ii.

Selection of water-conserving plant, tree and turf species, especially local native plants;

iii.

Selection of plants based on local climate suitability, disease and pest resistance;

iv.

Selection of trees based on applicable local tree ordinances or tree shading guidelines, and size at maturity as appropriate for the planting area;

v.

Selection of plants from local and regional landscape program plant lists; and

vi.

Selection of plants from local Fuel Modification Plan Guidelines.

b.

Each hydrozone shall have plant materials with similar water use, with the exception of hydrozones with plants of mixed water use, as specified in Section 19.570.030.E.2.d.

c.

Plants shall be selected and planted appropriately based upon their adaptability to the climatic, geologic, and topographical conditions of the project site. Methods to achieve water efficiency shall include one or more of the following:

i.

Use the Sunset Western Climate Zone System which takes into account temperature, humidity, elevation, terrain, latitude, and varying degrees of continental and marine influence on local climate;

ii.

Recognize the horticultural attributes of plants (i.e., mature plant size, invasive surface roots) to minimize damage to property or infrastructure (e.g., buildings, sidewalks, power lines); allow for adequate soil volume for healthy root growth; and

iii.

Consider the solar orientation for plant placement to maximize summer shade and winter solar gain.

d.

Turf is not allowed on slopes greater than 25 percent where the toe of the slope is adjacent to an impermeable hardscape and where 25 percent means one foot of vertical elevation change for every four feet of horizontal length (rise divided by run × 100 = slope percent).

e.

High water use plants, characterized by a plant factor of 0.7 to 1.0, are prohibited in street medians.

f.

A landscape design plan for projects in fire-prone areas shall address fire safety and prevention. A defensible space or zone around a building or structure is required per Public Resources Code Section 4291(a) and (b). Avoid fire-prone plant materials and highly flammable mulches. Refer to the local Fuel Modification Plan guidelines.

g.

The use of invasive plant species, such as those listed by the California Invasive Plant Council, is strongly discouraged. When a project is located in the Sycamore Canyon, Canyon Springs, Mission Grove, and Canyon Crest Neighborhoods, consult Table 6-2 (Plants That Should be Avoided Adjacent to the MSHCP Conservation Area) of the Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan to avoid the use of invasive plant species.

h.

The architectural guidelines of a common interest development, which include community apartment projects, condominiums, planned developments, and stock cooperatives, shall not prohibit or include conditions that have the effect of prohibiting the use of low-water use plants as a group.

2.

Water features.

a.

Recirculating water systems shall be used for water features.

b.

Where available, recycled water shall be used as a source for decorative water features.

c.

Surface area of a water feature shall be included in the high water use hydrozone area of the water budget calculation.

d.

Pool and spa covers are highly recommended.

3.

Soil preparation, mulch and amendments.

a.

Prior to the planting of any materials, compacted soils shall be transformed to a friable condition. On engineered slopes, only amended planting holes need meet this requirement.

b.

Soil amendments shall be incorporated according to recommendations of the soil report and what is appropriate for the plants selected (see Section 19.570.030.C).

c.

For landscape installations, compost at a rate of a minimum of four cubic yards per 1,000 square feet of permeable area shall be incorporated to a depth of six inches into the soil. Soils with greater than six percent organic matter in the top six inches of soil are exempt from adding compost and tilling.

d.

A minimum three inch layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except in turf areas, creeping or rooting groundcovers, or direct seeding applications where mulch is contraindicated. To provide habitat for beneficial insects and other wildlife, up to five percent of the landscape area may be left without mulch. Designated insect habitat must be included in the landscape design plan as such.

e.

Stabilizing mulching products shall be used on slopes that meet current engineering standards.

f.

The mulching portion of the seed/mulch slurry in hydro-seeded applications shall meet the mulching requirement.

g.

Organic mulch made from recycled or post-consumer materials shall take precedence over inorganic materials or virgin forest products unless the recycled post-consumer organic products are not locally available. Organic mulches are not required where prohibited by local Fuel Modification Plan Guidelines or other applicable local ordinances.

4.

The landscape design plan, at a minimum, shall:

a.

Identify new and existing trees, shrubs, ground covers, and turf areas within the proposed landscape area;

b.

Planting legend indicating all plant species by botanical name and common name, spacing, Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS) plant factor, and quantities of each type of plant by container size;

c.

Delineate and label each hydrozone by number, letter or other methods;

d.

Identify each hydrozone as low, moderate, high water, or mixed water use. Temporarily irrigated areas of the landscape shall be included in the low water use hydrozone for the water budget calculation;

e.

Include area, in square feet, devoted to landscaping and a breakdown of the total area by landscape hydrozones;

f.

Identify property lines, streets, and street names;

g.

Identify building locations, driveways, sidewalks, retaining walls, and other hardscape features;

h.

Include scale and north arrow;

i.

Identify recreational areas;

j.

Identify areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants;

k.

Identify areas irrigated with recycled water;

l.

Identify type of mulch and application depth;

m.

Identify soil amendments, type and quantity;

n.

Identify type and surface area of any water features;

o.

Identify hardscapes (pervious and non-pervious);

p.

Include type and installation details of any applicable stormwater best management practices;

q.

Identify location, installation details, and 24-hour retention or infiltration capacity of any applicable stormwater best management practices that encourage on-site retention and infiltration of stormwater. Project applicants shall refer to the local agency or regional Water Quality Control Board for information on any applicable stormwater technical requirements. Stormwater best management practices are encouraged in the landscape design plan and examples are provided in Section 19.570.100.

r.

Identify any applicable rain harvesting or catchment technologies as discussed in Section 19.570.100 and their 24-hour retention or infiltration capacity;

s.

Identify any applicable graywater discharge piping, system components and area(s) of distribution;

t.

Contain the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the ordinance and applied them for the efficient use of water in the landscape design plan"; and

u.

Bear the signature of a licensed landscape architect, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized to design a landscape. The Planting Plan shall be prepared, wet stamped, and signed by a landscape architect as defined in Section 19.570.120 - Definitions (HH). Any plans submitted without the signature of a licensed landscape architect shall not be accepted for review.

E.

Irrigation Design Plan Requirements. This section applies to landscaped areas requiring permanent irrigation, not areas that require temporary irrigation solely for the plant establishment period. For the efficient use of water, an irrigation system shall meet all the requirements listed in this section and the manufacturers' recommendations. The irrigation system and its related components shall be planned and designed to allow for proper installation, management, and maintenance. An irrigation design plan meeting the following design criteria shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package.

1.

System.

a.

Landscape water meters, defined as either a dedicated water service meter or private submeter, shall be installed for all nonresidential irrigated landscapes of 1,000 square feet but not more than 5,000 square feet (the level at which Water Code 535 applies), and residential irrigated landscapes of 5,000 square feet or greater. A landscape water meter may be either:

i.

A customer service meter dedicated to landscape use provided by the local water purveyor; or

ii.

A privately owned meter or submeter for single-family residential uses only.

b.

Automatic irrigation controllers utilizing either evapotranspiration or soil moisture sensor data utilizing non-volatile memory shall be required for irrigation scheduling in all irrigation systems.

c.

If the water pressure is below or exceeds the recommended pressure of the specified irrigation devices, the installation of a pressure regulating device is required to ensure that the dynamic pressure at each emission device is within the manufacturer's recommended pressure range for optimal performance.

i.

If the static pressure is above or below the required dynamic pressure of the irrigation system, pressure-regulating devices such as inline pressure regulators, booster pumps, or other devices shall be installed to meet the required dynamic pressure of the irrigation system.

ii.

Static water pressure, dynamic or operating pressure and flow reading of the water supply shall be measured at the point of connection. These pressure and flow measurements shall be conducted at the design stage. If the measurements are not available at the design stage, the measurements shall be conducted at installation.

d.

Sensors (rain, freeze, wind, etc.), either integral or auxiliary, that suspend or alter irrigation operation during unfavorable weather conditions shall be required on all irrigation systems, as appropriate for local climatic conditions. Irrigation should be avoided during windy or freezing weather or during rain.

e.

Manual shut-off valves (such as a gate valve, ball valve, or butterfly valve) shall be required, as close as possible to the point of connection of the water supply, to minimize water loss in case of an emergency (such as a main line break) or routine repair.

f.

Backflow prevention devices shall be required to protect the water supply from contamination by the irrigation system. A project applicant shall refer to the applicable local agency code (i.e., public health) for additional backflow prevention requirements.

g.

Flow sensors that detect high flow conditions created by system damage or malfunction are required for all nonresidential landscapes and residential landscapes of 5,000 square feet or larger.

h.

Master shut-off valves are required on all projects except landscapes that make use of technologies that allow for the individual control of sprinklers that are individually pressurized in a system equipped with low pressure shut down features.

i.

The irrigation system shall be designed to prevent runoff, low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where irrigation water flows onto non-targeted areas, such as adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, hardscapes, roadways, or structures.

j.

Relevant information from the soil management plan, such as soil type and infiltration rate, shall be utilized when designing irrigation systems.

k.

The design of the irrigation system shall conform to the hydrozones of the landscape design plan.

l.

The irrigation system must be designed and installed to meet, at a minimum, the irrigation efficiency criteria as described in Section 492.4 regarding the Maximum Applied Water Allowance.

m.

All irrigation emission devices must meet the requirements set in the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard, American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers'/International Code Council's (ASABE/ICC) 802-2014 "Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard." All sprinkler heads installed in the landscape must document a distribution uniformity low quarter of 0.65 or higher using the protocol defined in ASABE/ICC 802-2014.

n.

It is highly recommended that the project applicant or local agency inquire with the local water purveyor about peak water operating demands (on the water supply system) or water restrictions that may impact the effectiveness of the irrigation system.

o.

In mulched planting areas, the use of low volume irrigation is required to maximize water infiltration into the root zone.

p.

Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall have matched precipitation rates, unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer's recommendations.

q.

Head to head coverage is recommended. However, sprinkler spacing shall be designed to achieve the highest possible distribution uniformity using the manufacturer's recommendations.

r.

Swing joints or other riser-protection components are required on all risers subject to damage that are adjacent to hardscapes or in high traffic areas of turfgrass.

s.

Check valves or anti-drain valves are required on all sprinkler heads where low point drainage could occur.

t.

Areas less than ten feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or other means that produce no runoff or overspray.

u.

Overhead irrigation shall not be permitted within 24 inches of any non-permeable surface. Allowable irrigation within the setback from non-permeable surfaces may include drip, drip line, or other low flow non-spray technology. The setback area may be planted or unplanted. The surfacing of the setback may be mulch, gravel, or other porous material. These restrictions may be modified if:

i.

The landscape area is adjacent to permeable surfacing and no runoff occurs; or

ii.

The adjacent non-permeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain entirely to landscaping; or

iii.

The irrigation designer specifies an alternative design or technology, as part of the landscape documentation package and clearly demonstrates strict adherence to irrigation system design criteria in Section 19.570.030.E.1.i. Prevention of overspray and runoff must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.

v.

Slopes greater than 25 percent shall not be irrigated with an irrigation system with an application rate exceeding 0.75 inches per hour. This restriction may be modified if the landscape designer specifies an alternative design or technology, as part of the landscape documentation package, and clearly demonstrates no runoff or erosion will occur. Prevention of runoff and erosion must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.

2.

Hydrozone.

a.

Each valve shall irrigate a hydrozone with similar site, slope, sun exposure, soil conditions, and plant materials with similar water use.

b.

Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall be selected based on what is appropriate for the plant type within that hydrozone.

c.

Where feasible, trees shall be placed on separate valves from shrubs, groundcovers, and turf to facilitate the appropriate irrigation of trees. The mature size and extent of the root zone shall be considered when designing irrigation for the tree.

d.

Individual hydrozones that mix plants of moderate and low water use, or moderate and high water use, may be allowed if:

i.

Plant factor calculation is based on the proportions of the respective plant water uses and their plant factor; or

ii.

The plant factor of the higher water using plant is used for calculations.

e.

Individual hydrozones that mix high and low water use plants shall not be permitted.

f.

On the landscape design plan and irrigation design plan, hydrozone areas shall be designated by number, letter, or other designation. On the irrigation design plan, designate the areas irrigated by each valve, and assign a number to each valve. Use this valve number in the Hydrozone Information Table (see Figure 19.570.030.B Section A). This table can also assist with the irrigation audit and programming the controller.

3.

The irrigation design plan, at a minimum, shall contain:

a.

Location and size of separate water meters for landscape;

b.

Location, type and size of all components of the irrigation system, including controllers, main and lateral lines, valves, sprinkler heads, moisture sensing devices, rain switches, quick couplers, pressure regulators, and backflow prevention devices;

c.

Static water pressure at the point of connection to the public water supply;

d.

Flow rate (gallons per minute), application rate (inches per hour), and design operating pressure (pressure per square inch) for each station;

e.

Recycled water irrigation systems as specified in Section 19.570.070;

f.

The following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the ordinance and applied them accordingly for the efficient use of water in the irrigation design plan"; and

g.

The signature of a licensed landscape architect, certified irrigation designer, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized to design an irrigation system.

F.

Grading design plan requirements (if applicable).

1.

The project submittal shall include rough/precise grade elevations in accordance with Title 17 (Grading) of the Riverside Municipal Code and be prepared by a licensed civil engineer.

2.

For the efficient use of water, grading of a project site shall be designed to minimize soil erosion, runoff, and water waste. A grading plan shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package. A comprehensive grading plan prepared by a civil engineer for other local agency permits satisfies this requirement.

a.

The project applicant shall submit a landscape grading plan that indicates finished configurations and elevations of the landscape area including:

i.

Height of graded slopes;

ii.

Drainage patterns;

iii.

Pad elevations;

iv.

Finish grade; and

v.

Stormwater retention improvements, if applicable.

b.

To prevent excessive erosion and runoff, it is highly recommended that project applicants:

i.

Grade so that all irrigation and normal rainfall remains within property lines and does not drain on to non-permeable hardscapes;

ii.

Avoid disruption of natural drainage patterns and undisturbed soil; and

iii.

Avoid soil compaction in landscape areas.

c.

The grading design plan shall contain the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the ordinance and applied them accordingly for the efficient use of water in the grading design plan" and shall bear the signature of a licensed professional as authorized by law.

(Ord. 7454, § 1(Exh. A), 2019)

A.

Irrigation scheduling. For the efficient use of water, all irrigation schedules shall be developed, managed, and evaluated to utilize the minimum amount of water required to maintain plant health. Irrigation schedules shall meet the following criteria:

1.

Irrigation scheduling shall be regulated by automatic irrigation controllers.

2.

Overhead irrigation shall be scheduled between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. unless weather conditions prevent it. If allowable hours of irrigation differ from the local water purveyor, the stricter of the two shall apply. Operation of the irrigation system outside the normal watering window is allowed for auditing and system maintenance.

3.

For implementation of the irrigation schedule, particular attention must be paid to irrigation run times, emission device, flow rate, and current reference evapotranspiration, so that applied water meets the Estimated Total Water Use. Total annual applied water shall be less than or equal to Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA). Actual irrigation schedules shall be regulated by automatic irrigation controllers using current reference evapotranspiration data (e.g., CIMIS) or soil moisture sensor data.

4.

Parameters used to set the automatic controller shall be developed and submitted for each of the following:

a.

The plant establishment period;

b.

The established landscape; and

c.

Temporarily irrigated areas.

5.

Each irrigation schedule shall consider for each station all of the following that apply:

a.

Irrigation interval (days between irrigation);

b.

Irrigation run times (hours or minutes per irrigation event to avoid runoff);

c.

Number of cycle starts required for each irrigation event to avoid runoff;

d.

Amount of applied water scheduled to be applied on a monthly basis;

e.

Application rate setting;

f.

Root depth setting;

g.

Plant type setting;

h.

Soil type;

i.

Slope factor setting;

j.

Shade factor setting; and

k.

Irrigation uniformity or efficiency setting.

B.

Landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule. Landscapes shall be maintained to ensure water use efficiency. A regular maintenance schedule shall be submitted with the Certificate of Completion to the Planning Division, property owner, and water purveyor (if applicable). A regular maintenance schedule shall include, but not be limited to:

1.

Routine inspection, auditing, adjustments, and repair of the irrigation system and its components;

2.

Aerating and dethatching of turf areas;

3.

Topdressing with compost;

4.

Replenishing mulch;

5.

Fertilizing;

6.

Pruning, weeding in all landscape areas, and removing any obstruction to irrigation devices.

C.

Repair of all irrigation equipment shall be done with the originally installed components or their equivalents or with components with greater efficiency.

D.

A project applicant is encouraged to implement established landscape industry sustainable best practices or environmentally-friendly practices for all landscape maintenance activities.

(Ord. 7454, § 1(Exh. A), 2019)

A.

All landscape irrigation audits shall be conducted by a local agency landscape irrigation auditor or a third party certified landscape irrigation auditor. Landscape audits shall not be conducted by the person who designed the landscape or installed the landscape.

B.

In large projects or projects with multiple landscape installations (i.e., production home developments) an auditing rate of one in seven lots or approximately 15 percent will satisfy this requirement.

C.

For new construction and rehabilitated landscape projects installed after December 1, 2015, as described in Section 19.570.020:

1.

The project applicant shall submit an irrigation audit report with the Certificate of Completion to the local agency that may include, but is not limited to: inspection, system tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity, reporting overspray or run off that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule, including configuring irrigation controllers with application rate, soil types, plant factors, slope, exposure and any other factors necessary for accurate programming;

2.

The City shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation water use analysis, irrigation audits, and irrigation surveys for compliance with the maximum applied water allowance.

(Ord. 7454, § 1(Exh. A), 2019)

A.

Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy or final inspection for a project subject to this chapter, a regular maintenance schedule and a Certificate of Completion shall be submitted to the Planning Division certifying that the landscaping has been completed in accordance with the approved planting, irrigation, soil management, and grading design plans for the project. The Certificate of Completion shall be signed by a licensed landscape architect and Certified Irrigation Auditor and shall include the following:

1.

Project information sheet that contains:

a.

Date

b.

Project name

c.

Project applicant name, telephone, and mailing address

d.

Project address and location; and

e.

Property owner name, telephone, and mailing address

2.

Certification by either the signer of the landscape design plan, the signer of the irrigation design plan, or the licensed landscape contractor that the landscape project has been installed per the approved landscape documentation package;

a.

Where there have been significant changes made in the field during construction, these "as-built" or record drawings shall be included with the certification;

b.

A diagram of the irrigation plan showing hydrozones shall be kept with the irrigation controller for subsequent management purposes.

3.

Irrigation scheduling parameters used to set the controller (see Section 19.570.040.A);

4.

Landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule (see Section 19.570.040.B);

5.

Irrigation audit report (see Section 19.570.050); and

6.

Soil analysis report, if not submitted with landscape documentation package, and documentation verifying implementation of soil report recommendations (see Section 19.570.030.C).

B.

The project applicant shall:

1.

Submit the signed Certificate of Completion to the local agency for review;

2.

Ensure that copies of the approved Certificate of Completion are submitted to the local water purveyor and property owner or his or her designee.

C.

The City shall:

1.

Receive the signed Certificate of Completion from the project applicant;

2.

Approve or deny the Certificate of Completion. If the Certificate of Completion is denied, the City shall provide information to the project applicant regarding reapplication, appeal, or other assistance.

Figure 19.570.060.C - Sample Certificate of Completion

Source: Appendix C - Sample Certificate of Completion of the State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance

Source: Appendix C - Sample Certificate of Completion of the State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance

(Ord. 7454, § 1(Exh. A), 2019)

A.

The installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall allow for the current and future use of recycled water.

B.

All recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and operated in accordance with local and State laws.

C.

Chapter 14.28 - The Mandatory Use of Recycled Water is hereby incorporated by reference.

D.

Landscapes using recycled water are considered special landscape areas. The ET Adjustment Factor for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0.

E.

Graywater systems. Graywater systems promote the efficient use of water and are encouraged to assist in on-site landscape irrigation. All graywater systems shall conform to the California Plumbing Code (Title 24, Part 5, Chapter 16) and any applicable local ordinance standards. Refer to Section 19.570.020.C for the applicability of this ordinance to landscape areas less than 2,500 square feet with the Estimated Total Water Use met entirely by graywater.

(Ord. 7454, § 1(Exh. A), 2019)

A.

This section shall apply to all existing landscapes that were installed before December 1, 2015 and are over one acre in size.

1.

For all landscapes that have a dedicated water meter, the water purveyor shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation water use analyses, irrigation surveys, irrigation audits, and irrigation equipment rebates to evaluate water use and provide recommendations as necessary to reduce landscape water use to a level that does not exceed the Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA) for existing landscapes. The MAWA for existing landscapes shall be calculated as: MAWA = (0.8)(ET _o )(LA)(0.62).

2.

For all landscapes that do not have a dedicated water meter, the water purveyor shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation water use analyses, irrigation surveys, irrigation audits, and irrigation equipment rebates to evaluate water use and provide recommendations as necessary in order to prevent water waste.

B.

Water waste resulting from inefficient landscape irrigation shall be prevented by proper irrigation scheduling, prohibiting runoff from leaving the target landscape due to low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where water flows onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, walks, roadways, parking lots, or structures.

(Ord. 7454, § 1(Exh. A), 2019)

A.

New cemeteries shall comply with the provisions of Section 19.570.030 - Provisions for the Review and Certification of Landscaping and Irrigation (A) and (B), 19.570.040 - Landscape Maintenance and Irrigation Scheduling (A) and (B), 19.570.050 - Irrigation Audit, Irrigation Survey, and Irrigation Water Use Analysis, and 19.570.060 Certificate of Completion.

B.

Existing cemeteries shall comply with the provisions of Section 19.570.070 - Existing Landscapes.

(Ord. 7454, § 1(Exh. A), 2019)

A.

Stormwater management practices minimize runoff and increase infiltration which recharges groundwater and improves water quality. Implementing stormwater best management practices into the landscape and grading design plans to minimize runoff and to increase on-site rainwater retention and infiltration are encouraged.

B.

Project applicants shall refer to the local agency or Regional Water Quality Control Board for information on any applicable stormwater technical requirements.

C.

All planted landscape areas are required to have friable soil to maximize water retention and infiltration. Refer to Section 19.570.030.D.3.

D.

It is strongly recommended that landscape areas be designed for capture and infiltration capacity that is sufficient to prevent runoff from impervious surfaces (i.e., roof and paved areas) from either: the one inch, 24-hour rain event or (2) the 85th percentile, 24-hour rain event, and/or additional capacity as required by any applicable local, regional, state or federal regulation.

E.

It is recommended that storm water projects incorporate any of the following elements to improve on-site storm water and dry weather runoff capture and use:

•

Grade impervious surfaces, such as driveways, during construction to drain to vegetated areas.

•

Minimize the area of impervious surfaces such as paved areas, roof and concrete driveways.

•

Incorporate pervious or porous surfaces (e.g., gravel, permeable pavers or blocks, pervious or porous concrete) that minimize runoff.

•

Direct runoff from paved surfaces and roof areas into planting beds or landscaped areas to maximize site water capture and reuse.

•

Incorporate rain gardens, cisterns, and other rain harvesting or catchment systems.

•

Incorporate infiltration beds, swales, basins and drywells to capture storm water and dry weather runoff and increase percolation into the soil.

•

Consider constructed wetlands and ponds that retain water, equalize excess flow, and filter pollutants.

(Ord. 7454, § 1(Exh. A), 2019)

A.

Publications. Education is a critical component to promote the efficient use of water in landscapes. The use of appropriate principles of design, installation, management and maintenance that save water is encouraged in the community. The State requires that, a local agency or water supplier/purveyor shall provide information to owners of permitted renovations and new single-family residential homes regarding the design, installation, management, and maintenance of water efficient landscapes based on a water budget. The City is committed to providing information and resources to the public in conformance with the above State requirement.

B.

Model homes. All model homes shall be landscaped and use signs and written information to demonstrate the principles of water efficient landscapes described in this ordinance.

1.

Signs shall be used to identify the model as an example of a water efficient landscape featuring elements such as hydrozones, irrigation equipment, and others that contribute to the overall water efficient theme. Signage shall include information about the site water use as designed per the local ordinance; specify who designed and installed the water efficient landscape; and demonstrate low water use approaches to landscaping such as using native plants, graywater systems, and rainwater catchment systems.

2.

Information shall be provided about designing, installing, managing, and maintaining water efficient landscapes.

(Ord. 7454, § 1(Exh. A), 2019)

The terms used in this chapter have the meaning set forth below:

A.

"Applied water" means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape.

B.

"Automatic irrigation controller" means a timing device used to remotely control valves that operate an irrigation system. A smart irrigation controller is a weather-based irrigation controller or a self-adjusting irrigation controller. A weather-based controller is a controller that uses evapotranspiration or weather data to determine when to irrigate. A self-adjusting irrigation controller is a controller that uses sensor data (i.e., soil moisture sensor).

C.

"Backflow prevention device" means a safety device used to prevent pollution or contamination of the water supply due to the reverse flow of water from the irrigation system.

D.

"Certificate of Compliance" means the document required under Section 19.570.050.

E.

"Certified irrigation designer" means a person certified to design irrigation systems by an accredited academic institution, a professional trade organization, or other program such as the US Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense irrigation designer certification program and Irrigation Association's Certified Landscape Irrigation Designer program.

F.

"Certified landscape irrigation auditor" means a person certified to perform landscape irrigation audits by an accredited academic institution, a professional trade organization, or other program such as the US Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense irrigation auditor certification program and Irrigation Association's Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor program.

G.

"Check valve" or "anti-drain valve" means a valve located under a sprinkler head, or other location in the irrigation system, to hold water in the system to prevent drainage from sprinkler heads when the sprinkler is off.

H.

"Common interest developments" mean community apartment projects, condominium projects, planned developments, and stock cooperatives per Civil Code Section 1351.

I.

"Compost" means the safe and stable product of controlled biologic decomposition of organic materials that is beneficial to plant growth.

J.

"Controller" means an automatic timing device used to remotely control valves to operate an irrigation system. A smart irrigation controller is a weather-based irrigation controller or a self-adjusting irrigation controller. A weather-based controller is a controller that uses evapotranspiration or weather data to determine when to irrigate. A self-adjusting irrigation controller is a controller that uses sensor data (i.e., soil moisture sensor).

K.

"Conversion factor (0.62)" means the number that converts acre-inches per acre per year to gallons per square foot per year.

L.

"Distribution uniformity" means the measure of the uniformity of irrigation water over a defined area.

M.

"Drip irrigation" means any non-spray low volume irrigation system utilizing emission devices with a flow rate measured in gallons per hour. Low volume irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.

N.

"Ecological restoration project" means a project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.

O.

"Effective precipitation" or "usable rainfall" (Eppt) means the portion of total precipitation which becomes available for plant growth.

P.

"Emitter" means a drip irrigation emission device that delivers water slowly from the system to the soil.

Q.

"Established landscape" means the point at which plants in the landscape have developed significant root growth into the soil. Typically, most plants are established after one or two years of growth.

R.

"Establishment period of the plants" means the first year after installing the plant in the landscape or the first two years if irrigation will be terminated after establishment. Typically, most plants are established after one or two years of growth. Native habitat mitigation areas and trees may need three to five years for establishment.

S.

"Estimated Total Water Use" (ETWU) means the total water used for the landscape as described in Section 19.570.030 - Provisions for the Review and Certification of Landscaping and Irrigation (A)(12)(n).

T.

"ET adjustment factor" (ETAF) means a factor of 0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas, that, when applied to reference evapotranspiration, adjusts for plant factors and irrigation efficiency, two major influences upon the amount of water that needs to be applied to the landscape.

The ETAF for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0. The ETAF for existing, non-rehabilitated landscapes is 0.8.

U.

"Evapotranspiration rate" means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil and other surfaces and transpired by plants during a specified time.

V.

"Flow rate" means the rate at which water flows through pipes, valves, and emission devices, measured in gallons per minute, gallons per hour, or cubic feet per second.

W.

"Flow sensor" means an inline device installed at the supply point of the irrigation system that produces a repeatable signal proportional to flow rate. Flow sensors must be connected to an automatic irrigation controller, or flow monitor capable of receiving flow signals and operating master valves. This combination flow sensor/controller may also function as a landscape water meter or submeter.

X.

"Friable" means a soil condition that is easily crumbled or loosely compacted down to a minimum depth per planting material requirements, whereby the root structure of newly planted material will be allowed to spread unimpeded.

Y.

"Fuel Modification Plan Guideline" means guidelines from a local fire authority to assist residents and businesses that are developing land or building structures in a fire hazard severity zone.

Z.

"Graywater" means untreated wastewater that has not been contaminated by any toilet discharge, has not been affected by infectious, contaminated, or unhealthy bodily wastes, and does not present a threat from contamination by unhealthful processing, manufacturing, or operating wastes. "Graywater" includes, but is not limited to, wastewater from bathtubs, showers, bathroom washbasins, clothes washing machines, and laundry tubs, but does not include wastewater from kitchen sinks or dishwashers. Health and Safety Code Section 17922.12.

AA.

"Hardscapes" means any durable material (pervious and non-pervious).

BB.

"Hydrozone" (HA) means a portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs and rooting depth. A hydrozone may be irrigated or non-irrigated.

CC.

"Infiltration rate" means the rate of water entry into the soil expressed as a depth of water per unit of time (e.g., inches per hour).

DD.

"Invasive plant species" means species of plants not historically found in California that spread outside cultivated areas and can damage environmental or economic resources. Invasive species may be regulated by County agricultural agencies as noxious species. Lists of invasive plants are maintained at the California Invasive Plant Inventory and USDA invasive and noxious weeds database.

EE.

"Irrigation audit" means an in-depth evaluation of the performance of an irrigation system conducted by a Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor. An irrigation audit includes, but is not limited to: inspection, system tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity or emission uniformity, reporting overspray or runoff that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule. The audit must be conducted in a manner consistent with the Irrigation Association's Landscape Irrigation Auditor Certification program or other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency "WaterSense" labeled auditor program.

FF.

"Irrigation efficiency" (IE) means the measurement of the amount of water beneficially used divided by the amount of water applied. Irrigation efficiency is derived from measurements and estimates of irrigation system characteristics and management practices. The irrigation efficiency for purposes of this chapter is 0.75 for overhead spray devices and 0.81 for drip systems.

GG.

"Irrigation survey" means an evaluation of an irrigation system that is less detailed than an irrigation audit. An irrigation survey includes, but is not limited to: inspection, system test, and written recommendations to improve performance of the irrigation system.

HH.

"Irrigation water use analysis" means an analysis of water use data based on meter readings and billing data.

II.

"Landscape architect" means a person who holds a license to practice landscape architecture in the State of California Business and Professions Code, Section 5615.

JJ.

"Landscape area" means all the planting areas, turf areas, and water features in a landscape design plan subject to the maximum applied water allowance calculation. The landscape area does not includes footprints of buildings or structures, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, decks, patios, gravel, or stone walks, other pervious or non-pervious hardscapes, and other non-irrigated areas designated for non-development (e.g., open spaces and existing native vegetation).

KK.

"Landscape contractor" means a person licensed by the State of California to construct, maintain, repair, install, or subcontract the development of landscape systems.

LL.

"Landscape project" means the total area of landscape in a project as defined in "landscape area" for the purposes of this chapter.

MM.

"Landscape water meter" means an inline device installed at the irrigation supply point that measures the flow of water into the irrigation system and is connected to a totalizer to record water use.

NN.

"Lateral line" means the water delivery pipeline that supplies water to the emitters or sprinklers from the valve.

OO.

"Local agency" means a city or county, including charter city or charter county, that is responsible for adopting and implementing this chapter. The local agency is also responsible for the enforcement of this ordinance, including but not limited to, approval of a permit and plan check or design review of a project.

PP.

"Local water purveyor" means any entity, including a public agency, city, county, or private water company that provides retail water service.

QQ.

"Low volume irrigation" means the application of irrigation water at low pressure through a system of tubing or lateral lines and low-volume emitters such as drip, drip lines, and bubblers. Low volume irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply small volumes or water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.

RR.

"Main line" means the pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water sources to the valve or outlet.

SS.

"Master shut-off valve" is an automatic valve installed at the irrigation supply point which controls water flow into the irrigation system. When this valve is closed water will not be supplied to the irrigation system. A master valve will greatly reduce any water loss due to a leaky station valve.

TT.

"Maximum Applied Water Allowance" (MAWA) means the upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area. It is based upon the area's reference evapotranspiration, the ET Adjustment Factor, and the size of the landscape area. The Estimated Total Water Use shall not exceed the Maximum Applied Water Allowance. Special landscape areas, including recreation areas, areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants such as orchards and vegetable gardens, and areas irrigated with recycled water are subject to the MAWA with an ETAF not to exceed 1.0. MAWA = (ET _o ) (0.62) [(ETAF × LA) + ((1-ETAF) × SLA)].

UU.

"Median" is an area between opposing lanes of traffic that may be unplanted or planted with trees, shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses.

VV.

"Microclimate" means the climate of a small, specific area that may contrast with the climate of the overall landscape area due to factors such as wind, sun exposure, plant density, or proximity to reflective surfaces.

WW.

"Mined-land reclamation projects" means any surface mining operation with a reclamation plan approved in accordance with the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975.

XX.

"Mulch" means any organic material such as leaves, bark, straw, compost, or inorganic mineral materials such as rocks, gravel, and decomposed granite left loose and applied to the soil surface for the beneficial purposes of reducing evaporation, suppressing weeds, moderating soil temperature, and preventing soil erosion.

YY.

"New construction" means, for the purposes of this chapter, a new building with a landscape or other new landscape, such as a park, playground, or greenbelt without an associated building.

ZZ.

"Nonresidential landscape" means landscapes in commercial, institutional, industrial and public settings that may have areas designated for recreation or public assembly. It also includes portions of common areas of common interest developments with designated recreational areas.

AAA.

"Operating pressure" means the pressure at which the parts of an irrigation system are designed by the manufacturer to operate.

BBB.

"Overhead sprinkler irrigation systems" means systems that deliver water through the air (e.g., spray heads and rotors).

CCC.

"Overspray" means the irrigation water which is delivered beyond the target area.

DDD.

"Parkway" means the area between a sidewalk and the curb or traffic lane. It may be planted or unplanted, and with or without pedestrian egress.

EEE.

"Permit" means an authorizing document issued by local agencies for new construction or rehabilitated landscapes.

FFF.

"Pervious" means any surface or material that allows the passage of water through the material and into the underlying soil.

GGG.

"Plant factor" or "plant water use factor" (PF) is a factor, when multiplied by ET _o , estimates the amount of water needed by plants. For purposes of this chapter, the plant factor range for very low water use plants is 0 to 0.1, the plant factor range for low water use plants is 0.1 to 0.3, the plant factor range for moderate water use plants is 0.4 to 0.6, and the plant factor range for high water use plants is 0.7 to 1.0. Plant factors cited in this chapter are derived from the publication, "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species." Plant factors may also be obtained from horticultural researchers from academic institutions or professional associations as approved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR).

HHH.

"Project applicant" means the individual or entity submitting a landscape documentation package to request a permit, plan check, or design review from the local agency. A project applicant may be the property owner or his or her designee.

III.

"Rain sensor" or "rain sensing shutoff device" means a component which automatically suspends an irrigation event when it rains.

JJJ.

"Record drawing" or "as-builts" means a set of reproducible drawings which show significant changes in the work made during construction and which are usually based on drawings marked up in the field and other data furnished by the contractor.

KKK.

"Recreational area" means areas, excluding private single family residential areas, designated for active play, recreation or public assembly in parks, sports fields, picnic grounds, amphitheaters, or golf course tees, fairways, roughs, surrounds and greens.

LLL.

"Recycled water," "reclaimed water," or "treated sewage effluent water" means treated or recycled waste water of a quality suitable for non-potable uses such as landscape irrigation and water features. This water is not intended for human consumption.

MMM.

"Reference evapotranspiration" or "ET _o " means a standard measurement of environmental parameters which affect the water use of plants. ET _o is expressed in inches per day, month, or year, and is an estimate of the evapotranspiration of a large field of four- to seven-inch tall, cool-season grass that is well watered. Reference evapotranspiration is used as the basis of determining the maximum applied water allowances so that regional differences in climate can be accommodated.

NNN.

"Regional Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance" means a local Ordinance adopted by two or more local agencies, water suppliers and other stakeholders for implementing a consistent set of landscape provisions throughout a geographical region. Regional ordinances are strongly encouraged to provide a consistent framework for the landscape industry and applicants to adhere to.

OOO.

"Rehabilitated landscape" means a re-landscaping project that requires a permit, plan check, or design review, and where the modified landscape area is equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet.

PPP.

"Residential landscape" means landscapes surrounding single or multifamily homes.

QQQ.

"Runoff" means water which is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to which it is applied and flows from the landscape area. For example, runoff may result from water that is applied at too great a rate (application rate exceeds infiltration rate) or when there is a slope.

RRR.

"Soil moisture sensing device" or "soil moisture sensor" means a device that measures the amount of water in the soil. The device may also suspend or initiate an irrigation event.

SSS.

"Soil texture" means the classification of soil based on its percentage of sand, silt, and clay.

TTT.

"Special Landscaped Area" (SLA) means an area of the landscape dedicated solely to edible plants, recreational areas, areas irrigated with recycled water, or water features using recycled water.

UUU.

"Sprinkler head" means a device which delivers water through a nozzle.

VVV.

"Static water pressure" means the pipeline or municipal water supply pressure when water is not flowing.

WWW.

"Station" means an area served by one valve or by a set of valves that operate simultaneously.

XXX.

"Swing joint" means an irrigation component that provides a flexible, leak-free connection between the emission device and lateral pipeline to allow movement in any direction and to prevent equipment damage.

YYY.

"Submeter" means a metering device to measure water applied to the landscape that is installed after the primary utility water meter.

ZZZ.

"Turf" means a ground cover surface of mowed grass. Annual blue grass, Kentucky blue grass, Perennial rye grass, Red fescue, and Tall fescue are cool-season grasses. Bermuda grass, Kikuyu grass, Seashore Paspalum, St. Augustine grass, Zoysia grass, and Buffalo grass are warm-season grasses.

AAAA.

"Valve" means a device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation system.

BBBB.

"Water conserving plant species" means a plant species identified as having a very low, or low plant factor.

CCCC.

"Water feature" means a design element where open water performs an aesthetic or recreational function. Water features include ponds, lakes, waterfalls, fountains, artificial streams, spas, and swimming pools (where water is artificially supplied). The surface area of water features is included in the high water use hydrozone of the landscape area. Constructed wetlands used for on-site wastewater treatment or stormwater best management practices that are not irrigated and used solely for water treatment or stormwater retention are not water features and, therefore, are not subject to the water budget calculation.

DDDD.

"Watering window" means the time of day irrigation is allowed.

EEEE.

"WUCOLS" means the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species published by the University of California Cooperative Extension, and the Department of Water Resources 2014.

(Ord. 7454, § 1(Exh. A), 2019)

Prescriptive compliance option.

A.

This appendix contains prescriptive requirements which may be used as a compliance option to the City's Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.

B.

Compliance with the following items is mandatory and must be documented on a landscape plan in order to use the prescriptive compliance option:

1.

Submit a landscape documentation package which includes the following elements:

a.

Date

b.

Project applicant

c.

Project address (if available, parcel and/or lot number(s))

d.

Total landscape area (square feet), including a breakdown of turf and plant material

e.

Project type (e.g., new, rehabilitated, public, private, cemetery, homeowner-installed)

f.

Water supply type (e.g., potable, recycled, well) and identify the local retail water purveyor if the applicant is not served by a private well

g.

Contact information for the project applicant and property owner

h.

Applicant signature and date with statement, "I agree to comply with the requirements of the prescriptive compliance option to the MWELO."

2.

Incorporate compost at a rate of at least four cubic yards per 1,000 square feet to a depth of six inches into landscape area (unless contra-indicated by a soil test);

3.

Plant material shall comply with all of the following;

a.

For residential areas, install climate adapted plants that require occasional, little or no summer water (average WUCOLS plant factor 0.3) for 75 percent of the plant area excluding edibles and areas using recycled water; For nonresidential areas, install climate adapted plants that require occasional, little or no summer water (average WUCOLS plant factor 0.3) for 100 percent of the plant area excluding edibles and areas using recycled water;

b.

A minimum three inch layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except in turf areas, creeping or rooting groundcovers, or direct seeding applications where mulch is contraindicated.

4.

Turf shall comply with all of the following:

a.

Turf shall not exceed 25 percent of the landscape area in residential areas, and there shall be no turf in nonresidential areas;

b.

Turf shall not be planted on sloped areas which exceed a slope of one foot vertical elevation change for every four feet of horizontal length;

c.

Turf is prohibited in parkways less than ten feet wide, unless the parkway is adjacent to a parking strip and used to enter and exit vehicles. Any turf in parkways must be irrigated by sub-surface irrigation or by other technology that creates no overspray or runoff.

5.

Irrigation systems shall comply with the following:

a.

Automatic irrigation controllers are required and must use evapotranspiration or soil moisture sensor data.

b.

Irrigation controllers shall be of a type which does not lose programming date in the event the primary power source is interrupted.

c.

Pressure regulators shall be installed on the irrigation system to ensure the dynamic pressure of the system is within the manufacturers recommended pressure range.

d.

Manual shut-off valves (such as a gate valve, ball valve, or butterfly valve) shall be installed as close as possible to the point of connection of the water supply.

e.

All irrigation emission devices must meet the requirements set in the ANSI standard, ASABE/ICC 802-2014, "Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard." All sprinkler heads installed in the landscape must document a distribution uniformity low quarter of 0.65 or higher using the protocol defined in ASABE/ICC 802-2014.

f.

Areas less than ten feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or other means that produce no runoff or overspray.

6.

For nonresidential projects with landscape of 1,000 square feet or more, a dedicated landscape meter(s) provided by the local water purveyor to measure landscape water use shall be installed.

C.

At the time of final inspection, the permit applicant must provide the owner of the property with a certificate of completion, certificate of installation, irrigation schedule and a schedule of landscape and irrigation maintenance.

(Ord. 7454, § 1(Exh. A), 2019)

This chapter establishes regulations to:

A.

Regulate off-street parking and loading to minimize traffic congestion and hazards to motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians.

B.

Allow flexibility in addressing vehicle parking, loading and access issues.

C.

Provide for off-street parking in proportion to the needs generated by different land uses.

D.

Ensure access to projects by emergency response vehicles.

E.

Ensure that parking areas are designed and operate in a compatible manner with surrounding land uses.

F.

Ensure that off-street parking, loading, and access demands associated with new development will be met without adversely affecting other nearby land uses and surrounding neighborhoods.

(Ord. 7331 § 94, 2016; Ord. 6966 § 1, 2007)

A.

These off-street parking provisions shall apply to existing and new developments. Specifically for all buildings or structures erected and all uses of land established within the City of Riverside, parking facilities shall be provided as required by this section.

B.

The off-street parking development standards shall also apply to all off-street parking facilities provided in the City but not required by this title.

(Ord. 7331 § 94, 2016; Ord. 6966 § 1, 2007)

A.

The following parking lot improvements shall be considered minor in nature in that the number or configuration of parking stalls is not altered, and shall be exempt from permit requirements:

1.

Repair of any defects in the surface of the parking area, including holes and cracks;

2.

Resurfacing, slurry coating, and restriping of a parking area with identical delineation of parking spaces; and

3.

Repair or replacement of damaged planters and curbs in the same location and replacement of damaged landscaping as originally approved by the City.

(Ord. 7408 § 1, 2018; Ord. 7331 § 94, 2016; Ord. 6966 § 1, 2007)

A.

No building permit shall be issued for any building or structure or use requiring off-street parking until plans and specifications clearly indicating the proposed development, including location, size, shape, design, curb cuts, lighting, landscaping and other features and appurtenances of the proposed parking area are approved by the Planning Division and the Public Works Department. A plot plan is required to be submitted with any permit application that involves the provision of new parking spaces or the redesign of existing parking facilities. The plot plan shall contain sufficient information and be at a scale as required by the Planning Division.

B.

No building shall be occupied and no final inspection shall be given by the Planning Division until off-street parking is provided in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.

(Ord. 7331 § 94, 2016; Ord. 6966 § 1, 2007)

A.

Except as otherwise permitted herein, all required off-street parking spaces shall be independently accessible from a street at all times.

B.

On-street-parking within public streets shall not be used to satisfy the off-street parking requirements.

C.

Parking a vehicle on any portion of a lot, other than areas permitted by Section 19.580.070 (Off Street Parking Location and type Requirements), is prohibited.

D.

Parking spaces shall not preclude direct and free access to stairways, walkways, elevators, any pedestrian route or fire safety equipment. Such access shall be a clear minimum width required by State law, no part of which shall be within a parking space.

E.

Except as otherwise permitted herein, parking facilities shall be used for vehicle parking only. No sales, storage, repair work, dismantling, or servicing of any kind shall be permitted without necessary permits for such use.

F.

Living or sleeping in any vehicle, trailer, or vessel is prohibited when parked or stored on private property.

G.

Any vehicle, trailer, or vessel, including a recreational vehicle, that is inoperable and/or without current registration shall be stored entirely within an enclosed structure and shall not be parked or stored in any yard on residential property, except as may be provided by State law. Boats and other non-motorized vehicles, such as trailers, shall be movable by a towing vehicle customarily used for the type of vehicle being towed.

H.

Except as may be otherwise provided by this title, landscape front and street side yard setbacks shall not be used for off-street parking spaces, turning or maneuvering aisles. However, entrance and exit drives to access off-street spaces are permitted.

I.

Temporary outdoor flex spaces.

1.

The number of required parking spaces for all existing uses on the same parcel shall be reduced by the amount necessary to accommodate an outdoor expansion of a business to mitigate COVID-19 pandemic restrictions on indoor dining.

2.

The provisions of this subsection shall only apply to approved and permitted temporary outdoor flex spaces pursuant to the City's Temporary Outdoor Flex-Space Permit Program.

3.

This subsection implements California Government Code § 65907.

4.

Unless extended by the State legislature, the provisions of this subsection shall remain in effect until January 1, 2024, after which it shall be considered repealed and parking spaces shall be restored for vehicular access and use.

(Ord. 7592 § 8(Exh. I), 2022; Ord. 7573 § 1(Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 7331 § 94, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

Minimum parking requirements.

1.

The number of off-street parking spaces required by Table 19.580.060 (Required Spaces) shall be considered the minimum necessary for each use, unless off-street parking reductions are permitted pursuant to provisions herein.

2.

Pursuant to Government Code Section 65863.2, qualifying projects may be exempt from minimum parking requirements.

3.

In conjunction with a conditional use, site plan review or planned residential development permit, the designated approving or appeal authority may increase these parking requirements if it is determined that they are inadequate for a specific project.

B.

Uses not listed. The number of parking spaces required for uses not specifically listed in Table 19.580.060 (Required Spaces) shall be determined by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee based on common functional, product or compatibility characteristics and activities.

C.

Mixed-use development and parking credits.

1.

In the case of shared parking facilities serving a mixed-use development, the development shall provide the sum of parking spaces required for each separate use.

2.

The Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee may grant a mixed-use parking credit to reduce the total number of required spaces by up to 15 percent, provided the following:

a.

The development is located within a Transit Priority Area as defined by Senate Bill 743 (Public Resources Code § 21099); or

b.

A shared parking analysis specifying the proposed mix of uses and the operating characteristics of each use type, including hours of operation, typical capacity and parking demand generation rates, is provided demonstrating adequate justification for granting the credit.

D.

Incentives for additional measures to reduce Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT).

1.

Developments that satisfy the project-level VMT assessment requirements established by the Public Works Department are encouraged to implement additional VMT reduction measures including, but not limited to:

a.

Permanent on-site private or public shared mobility facilities;

b.

Unbundled residential parking (on-site parking spaces are leased or sold separately from dwelling units);

c.

Bicycle parking facilities and amenities (lockers, showers, repair facilities or similar) in excess of the minimum requirements of the California Building Standards Code;

d.

Off-site pedestrian, bicycle or transit improvements; or

e.

Alternative VMT reduction measures, subject to the approval of the Public Works Director or his/her designee.

2.

Developments that voluntarily provide one or more of the VMT reduction measures listed above shall be eligible for a reduction in the total number of required on-site parking spaces of up to ten percent.

3.

For mixed-use development receiving a mixed-use parking credit pursuant to 19.580.060 C. above, the VMT reduction measure incentive and mixed-use parking credit may be combined for a maximum reduction of required on-site parking spaces not to exceed 20 percent.

E.

Required spaces. Table 19.580.060 (Required Spaces) below sets forth minimum off-street parking requirements for number of spaces. Except as otherwise specifically stated, the following rules apply to this table.

1.

"Square feet" (sq. ft.) means "gross square feet" and refers to total building gross floor area unless otherwise specified, not including areas used for off-street parking or loading spaces.

2.

Where parking spaces are required based on a per-employee ratio, this shall mean the total number of employees on the largest working shift.

3.

Where the number of seats is listed to determine required parking, seats shall be construed to be fixed seats. Where fixed seats provided are either benches or bleachers, each 24 linear inches of the bench or bleacher shall be considered a seat.

4.

When the calculation of the required number of off-street parking spaces results in a fraction of a space, the total number of spaces shall be rounded to the nearest whole number.

5.

In addition to the requirements in Table 19.580.060 (Required Spaces), spaces shall be provided for trucks and other vehicles used in the business, of a number and size adequate to accommodate the maximum number of types of trucks and/or vehicles to be parked on the site at any one time.

6.

Where maximum distance is specified from the lot, the distance shall be the walking distance measured from the nearest point of the parking facility to the nearest point of the building or area that such facility is required to serve.

7.

Unless otherwise stated, the required parking shall be located on the same lot or within the same complex as the use.

8.

Unless specifically listed in Table 19.580.060 (Required Spaces) below or required by other provisions of this Title, no additional parking spaces shall be required for a use listed as an incidental type of use in Table 19.150.020 A. (Permitted Uses Table) or in Table 19.150.020 B. (Incidental Uses Table).

F.

Cultural resources parking exemption. Any new uses within the confines of an existing structure in a nonresidential zone, designated as a historic resource or a contributor to a historic district, as defined in Title 20 of the Riverside Municipal Code, are exempt from providing any additional parking. If an existing structure is expanded, additional parking will be required to accommodate the expansion, as set forth in Table 19.580.060.

Table 19.580.060
Required Spaces

Table 19.580.060
Notes:

1. See Section 19.580.070 B (Multiple Family Dwellings) for additional requirements. For the purpose of calculating parking requirements for multiple family dwellings, dens, studies, or other similar rooms that may be used as bedrooms shall be considered bedrooms.

2. For senior housing projects, 50 percent of the required spaces shall be covered either in a garage or carport.

3. For the purposes of parking requirements, this category includes corporation yards, machine shops, tin shops, welding shops, manufacturing, processing, packaging, treatment, fabrication, woodworking shops, cabinet shops, and carpenter shops and uses with similar circulation and parking characteristics.

4. Required parking spaces may be in tandem.

5. Parking ratio to be determined by the designated Approving or Appeal Authority in conjunction with required land use or development permits, based on the impacts of the particular proposal and similar uses in this table.

6. Excluding lath and green houses.

7. Includes barber shops, beauty salons/spas, massage, tanning, tailors, dry cleaning, self-service laundry, travel agencies, electrolysis, acupuncture/acupressure, and tattoo parlors.

8. For the purposes of parking requirements, this category includes antique shops, gun shops, pawn shops, pet stores, and second-hand stores.

9. Additional parking for assembly rooms or stadiums is not required.

10. Parking may be provided on the same lot or within 300 feet of the subject site.

11. The pump islands are not counted as parking stalls.

12. A reduction in the number of required parking spaces may be permitted subject to a parking study and a shared parking arrangement.

13. Where strict adherence to any parking standards would significantly compromise the historic integrity of a property, the Community & Economic Development Director, or his/her designee, may consider variances that would help mitigate such negative impacts, including consideration of tandem parking, allowances for on-street parking, alternatives to planter curbing, wheel stops, painted striping, and asphalt or concrete surfacing materials.

14. Parking shall be provided in accordance with Section 19.545.060 (Parking Standards Incentive). A parking analysis may be provided to justify modifications from those standards. The parking analysis shall identify the parking needs to address the operating hours and characteristics of the operations to provide for adequate parking at all times.

15. Refer to Section 19.580.060 E for new uses within a designated cultural resource as defined in Chapter 20 of the Riverside Municipal Code.

16. As defined in Article X - Definitions.

17. Campus shall have the same meaning as "School, professional institution of higher education" as defined in Article X - Definitions.

(Ord. 7683, § 10(Exh. G), 2024; Ord. 7652 § 11, 2023; Ord. 7609 §§ 5, 6(Exh. C), 2022; Ord. 7592 § 8(Exh. I), 2022; Ord. 7573 § 1(Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 7528 § 1(Exh. A), 2020; Ord. 7520 § 1(Exh. A), 2020; Ord. 7519 §§ 1, 2(Exh. A), 2020; Ord. 7505 § 1(Exh. A), 2020; Ord. 7487 § 15(Exh. E), 11-5-2019; Ord. 7457 § 1(Exh. A), 2019; Ord. 7408 § 1, 2018; Ord. 7331 § 94, 2016; Ord. 7235 § 11, 2013; Ord. 7109 § 11, 2010; Ord. 6966 § 1, 2007)

A.

Single family dwellings.

1.

Required number and type of spaces. See Table 19.580.060 (Required Spaces) Dwelling-Single Family.

a.

Tandem parking: May be provided to satisfy the minimum parking requirement on lots less than 3,499 square feet in area.

2.

Parking location in the front and side yard areas.

a.

Parking and maneuvering in front yard areas of single-family residential zones for all vehicles, except recreational vehicles exceeding 10,000 pounds gross vehicular weight, shall be limited to the space within a carport or garage plus a paved driveway between such garage or carport and the street from which it is served, not exceeding the width of the garage.

b.

In addition, front and side yard areas may also be paved for the parking and maneuvering of vehicles as set forth in Section 19.580.070.A.3 below.

3.

Permitted driveway locations.

a.

House with attached or detached garage or carport: The space between the driveway serving the garage or carport and the nearest side property line, with such paving permitted to extend as far as the rear of the residential structure, such space not to exceed 20 feet in width beyond the driveway serving the garage or carport. (See Figure 19.580.070 A.3.a - House with Attached Garage)

19.580.070 A.3.a.
House with Attached Garage

19.580.070 A.3.a.
House with Attached Garage

b.

House with detached garage or carport, served by adjacent street: The space between the driveway and the nearest side property line, extending as far as the rear of the garage or carport, such space not to exceed 20 feet in width beyond the driveway serving the garage or carport. (See Figure 19.580.070 A.3.b - House with Detached Garage)

19.580.070 A.3.b.
House with Detached Garage

c.

House with detached garage or carport served from an alley: A space, not exceeding 20 feet in width, adjacent to a side property line. Such paved space may extend no further than the space between the street and the rear of the house. Installation of such a driveway is subject to approval of a driveway curb cut by the Public Works Department. (See Figure 19.580.070 A.3.c - House with Detached Garage Served by Alley)

19.580.070 A.3.c.
House with Detached Garage Served by Alley

d.

Circular drives: A house with one street frontage and at least 80 feet of width, or any house with two street frontages may be served by a circular drive. In addition, the space between the circular drive and the nearest interior side property line may be paved, provided this additional paving does not exceed 20 feet in width beyond the point from the nearest point of the circular driveway and the interior side property line, nor extend further than the distance between the street and the rear of the residence. No circular drive will be approved without the approval of the Public Works Director for two driveway openings. (See Figure 19.580.070 A.3.d - House with Circular Drive)

19.580.070 A.3.d.
House with Circular Drive

e.

Special requirements for driveway extensions in street side yard areas: Where the area proposed for driveway expansion is a street side yard, the portion of the driveway behind the front setback must be screened from the adjoining street by a six-foot-high solid fence or wall.

f.

Arterial streets: No residential drives shall be permitted on arterial streets as shown on the General Plan Circulation and Transportation Element except where no other access to the property exists.

g.

Second driveways:

(1)

Are allowed in the RA-5 and RC Zones.

(2)

In other Single-Family Residential Zones, a second driveway may be added if the property has 80 feet or more of street frontage or has frontage on two streets, subject to approval by the Planning Division and Public Works Department.

(3)

A circular driveway is not considered a second driveway.

4.

Recreational vehicle parking in residential zones.

a.

Recreational vehicles 10,000 pounds gross vehicular weight or less. Permitted parking and maneuvering areas shall be the same as those specified in 19.580.070.A.3.

b.

Recreational vehicles over 10,000 pounds gross vehicular weight. Permitted parking and maneuvering areas shall be the same as those specified in Section 19.580.070.A.3 provided that:

(1)

The vehicle at no time creates a sight obstruction that poses a safety hazard pursuant to Chapter 19.550.050 - Sight clearance requirements.

(2)

At no time shall a recreational vehicle be permitted to encroach into the public right-of-way.

(3)

A minimum of ten feet of space is maintained between the recreational vehicle and the back of the sidewalk.

(a)

If there is no sidewalk between the property and the curb, a minimum of 15 feet shall be maintained between the recreational vehicle and the end of the paved driveway or property line, whichever is nearest.

c.

Access. A side yard area used for recreational vehicle parking shall be accessible from the property's existing driveway.

(1)

Only one driveway opening is permitted, except in the case of an existing circular driveway.

(2)

Driveway openings may require widening to accommodate side-yard recreational vehicle parking, subject to the approval of the Public Works Department.

(3)

A second driveway may be added if the property has 100 feet or more of street frontage or has frontage on two streets, subject to approval by the Planning Division and Public Works Department.

d.

A recreational vehicle may not have utility hookups or be used as living quarters except as permitted by Section 19.465 (Caretaker Living Quarters - Temporary).

e.

Registration and vehicle condition. All recreational vehicles parked outside of a completely enclosed garage shall be currently and legally registered except as provided for by State law and shall be in an operable and movable condition within one hour. Motorized recreational vehicles, shall be movable under their own power. Boats and other nonmotorized vehicles, such as trailers, shall be movable by a towing vehicle customarily used for the type of vehicle being towed.

5.

Nonconforming rights. A non-paved driveway legally established prior to the adoption of this Code section, including any expansion of the driveway to provide additional off-street parking subsequent to the adoption of this Code section, is not subject to the paving requirements of this section unless the use and maintenance of such driveway and parking area lapses for a period of one year or more or unless the use served by the driveway is expanded. However, both the existing driveway and the additional parking area shall be surfaced with a weed- and dust-resistant material to the specifications of the Fire and Planning and Building Departments.

B.

Multiple family dwellings.

1.

Required number and type of spaces.

a.

Number of spaces: See Table 19.580.060 (Required Spaces) - Dwelling-Multiple Family.

b.

Covered parking required: At least 75 percent of the total required spaces shall be in a carport or fully enclosed.

c.

Distribution of covered parking: Garages and carports shall be distributed evenly throughout the project. Landscaped planters shall be required between garage structures as determined by the Development Review Committee. Required covered parking (garages and/or carports) shall not be used for household storage.

d.

Tandem parking: May be provided to satisfy the minimum parking requirement, when assigned to residential dwelling units with two or more bedrooms.

C.

Nonresidential uses.

1.

Except as provided in this section, landscaped front and street side yard setbacks shall not be used for the off-street parking of vehicles or for off-street parking spaces, turning or maneuvering aisles. However, entrance and exit drives, as a means of ingress and egress to off-street parking spaces, shall be permitted to cross landscaped front and street side yard setbacks.

(Ord. 7683, § 11, 2024; Ord. 7652 § 12, 2023; Ord. 7592 § 8(Exh. I), 2022; Ord. 7573 § 1(Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 7408 § 1, 2018; Ord. 7331 § 94, 2016; Ord. 7109 §§ 12, 13, 2010; Ord. 6966 § 1, 2007)

A.

Parking space dimensions.

1.

Table 19.580.080 A. (Off Street Vehicle Parking Space Dimensions) sets forth minimum size requirements for individual parking spaces. Design standards for handicapped parking stalls shall be provided in compliance with current requirements of the Uniform Building Code.

2.

Compact spaces.

a.

Up to 15 percent of the onsite parking spaces may have compact dimensions as set forth in Table 19.580.080A.

b.

Calculations that result in fraction of a space shall be rounded to the nearest whole number.

c.

Compact spaces shall not be permitted for single-family dwellings.

3.

Parking spaces that are parallel and adjacent to a building, fence/wall, or other door swing or pedestrian access obstruction shall be nine and one-half feet wide.

4.

All off-street parking spaces shall be indicted by white or yellow painted stripes not less than four inches wide or by other means acceptable to the Planning Division. Handicapped accessible spaces shall be indicated by blue painted stripes, signs and markings, in accordance with State of California requirements.

5.

Except in the case of individual tree well planters, the minimum paved depth of a parking space shall not be reduced by an overhang into a planter.

6.

Tandem parking shall not be permitted to satisfy the minimum parking requirement, except as provided in Section 19.580.070 B.1.d (Multiple Family Dwellings) and Section 19.580.070.A.1.a. (Single-family dwellings).

7.

Angled Parking Spaces. Any parking layout incorporating angled parking spaces shall illustrate that minimum space dimensions are met by overlaying a rectangle (having the minimum required dimensions - Standard or Compact) onto each angled space so that no overhang occurs on the adjoining spaces, planters or drive aisles.

8.

One-car garages shall have a minimum interior dimension of 12 feet wide and 20 feet deep.

9.

Two-car garages shall have a minimum interior dimension of 20 feet wide and 20 feet deep.

B.

Drive aisle and driveway width dimensions.

1.

Each parking space shall have adequate drives, aisles and turning and maneuvering areas for access in accordance with Table 19.580.080 B. (Overall Parking Aisle Width).

2.

The minimum driveway widths for different use categories are established in Table 19.580.080 C (Minimum Driveway Widths). On-drive parking is prohibited at the minimum widths, except for single-family residential uses.

C.

Vehicular access and circulation.

1.

Accessibility and usability: Driveways shall not be used for any purpose that would prevent vehicle access to parking spaces, or inhibit circulation or emergency service response.

2.

Access to adjacent roadways: Parking spaces within a designated parking lot shall be designed to provide the minimum required turning and maneuvering areas, so vehicles can enter an abutting street in a forward direction (alleys may be used for maneuvering space).

3.

Circulation: Within a parking lot, circulation shall be such that a vehicle entering the parking lot need not enter the street to reach another aisle and that a vehicle shall not enter a public street backwards. Internal circulation, including safe entrances and exits shall be provided meeting the established standards and specifications of the Planning Division and Public Works Department.

4.

Visibility at driveways: Driveways shall be designed and located in such a manner so as to ensure proper visibility to on-street traffic. Driveway design shall take into consideration slopes, curvature, speed, and conflicting turning movements in the area. Clear visibility shall be maintained from the driveway by keeping the designated clear vision triangle free of obstacles such as signs, landscaping, and structures. See Article X (Definitions) for a description of the clear vision triangle.

D.

Parking structures.

1.

Parking spaces located within a parking structure shall be provided with safe entrances and exits, turning and maneuvering areas and driveways meeting the established standards and specifications of the Planning Division and Public Works Department.

2.

Driveways and turning and maneuvering areas in parking structure shall be paved with not less than two and one-half inches of asphaltic concrete or an equivalent surfacing meeting the specifications of the Public Works Department and shall be maintained in good repair.

3.

Parking structures shall have a minimum landscaped setback of 15 feet along all street frontages, except in the area bounded by First Street, Fourteenth Street, State Route 91, and Locust Street, where a ten-foot landscaped setback shall be provided along all street frontages. When a greater setback is required by the zone in which the parking structure is located, such greater setback shall prevail.

4.

Parking structures shall have, along all street frontages, a three-foot high buffer to such parking structure consisting of a decorative masonry wall, solid hedge or landscaped mound or any combination thereof. Masonry walls and hedges shall be situated at the rear of the landscaped setback required by subsection 3 of this section.

5.

Piers and pillars shall not encroach into parking stalls.

E.

Garage/carport-architectural design. Garages and carports required for residential development shall be consistent with the architectural design of the primary buildings by using similar materials and roof pitches.

F.

Paving.

1.

Required parking, loading areas and circulation areas shall be paved with not less than three inches of asphalt concrete or an equivalent impervious surface meeting the established standards and specifications of the Public Works Department. They shall be graded and drained so as to dispose of all surface water, and shall be maintained in good repair; provided that those portions of single-family residential driveways extending beyond a point 100 feet back from the street property line in the RE, RA and R-1 Zones may be surfaced with an alternate material as determined by the Public Works Department; and further provided that in the RE Zone, the driveways within the bridle paths of equestrian trails shall not be paved.

2.

A non-paved driveway legally established prior to the adoption of this Code Section, including any expansion of the driveway to provide additional off-street parking subsequent to the adoption of this Code Section, is not subject to the paving requirements of this section unless the use and maintenance of such driveway and parking area lapses for a period of one year or more or unless the use served by the driveway is expanded. However, both the existing driveway and the additional parking area shall be surfaced with a weed- and dust-resistant material to the specifications of the Fire and Planning Division.

3.

The Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee shall have the authority to administratively grant exceptions to the paving material and location restrictions, consistent with the purposes of this section, where special circumstances relating to property context, configuration, terrain, landscaping or structure locations make adherence to the paving location restrictions of this section impractical. Any such decision by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee may be appealed to the City Council.

G.

Pedestrian access and circulation. All multi-family and nonresidential developments shall be designed with a minimum of one designated pedestrian path from each abutting street to the primary entrance(s) to such use. Access shall be distinct from the vehicle access, visibly delineated, and designed to be safe and convenient. Specifically, internal pedestrian walkways shall be distinguished from driving surfaces through the use of raised sidewalks, special pavers, bricks, or scored/stamped concrete.

H.

Drainage. Drainage facilities shall be provided in all public parking areas capable of handling and maintaining the drainage requirements of the subject property and surrounding properties. Drainage facilities shall be designed to dispose of all surface water consistent with Regional Water Quality Control Board standards, and to alleviate the creation of flooding and drainage problems.

I.

Curbing and bumper or wheel stops. Bumper stops not less than two feet in height or wheel stops not less than six inches in height shall be erected adjacent to any building or structure, wall, fence, property line, or walkway to protect other property. Areas containing plant materials shall be bordered by a concrete curb at least six inches high and six inches wide. Alternative barrier design to protect landscaped areas from damage by vehicles may be approved by the Development Review Committee.

J.

Lighting. Parking areas shall have lighting capable of providing adequate illumination for security and safety. Also see Section 19.590.070 (Light and Glare) and Chapter 19.556 (Outdoor Lighting).

K.

Walls. When adjoining or across an alley from any residentially zoned or residentially used lot, a masonry wall six feet in height shall be erected and maintained so as to physically separate the parking, loading or sales area from the residential property; provided that such wall shall be three feet high within the required front or street side yard area, or, where no front or street side yard area is required, such wall shall be three feet high within ten feet of the street line. Also, see Chapter 19.550 (Fences, Walls and Landscape Materials).

(Ord. 7683, § 12, 2024; Ord. 7609 § 7, 2022; Ord. 7592 § 8(Exh. I), 2022; Ord. 7573 § 1(Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 7487 § 16, 11-5-2019; Ord. 7331 § 94, 2016; Ord. 7109 §§ 14, 15, 2010; Ord. 6966 § 1, 2007)

Within parking lots, landscaping shall be used for shade and climate control, to enhance project design, and to screen the visual impact of vehicles and large expanses of pavement as set forth in the following paragraphs.

A.

Shade. Trees shall be planted and maintained in all parking lots at a ratio of one tree for every four parking spaces (that may be clustered or grouped). The trees shall be placed throughout the parking lot in a manner that will ensure that all portions of the lot receive tree shade. Trees shall be of a variety that provide a broad canopy.

B.

Screening.

1.

Between parking lot and street right-of way: Landscaping shall be designed and maintained for partial screening of vehicles to a minimum height of three feet, measured from the finished grade of the parking lot. Screening materials may include any combination of plant materials, earthen berms, solid masonry walls, raised planters, or other screening device deemed by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee to comply with the intent of this requirement. This provision shall not apply in those instances where a masonry wall is required and when such property is used for a single-family residence.

2.

Between drive-through lane and street right-of way: An immediate three-foot-high landscape screen shall be established along the outer edge of drive-through aisles. Screening materials may include a combination of plant materials, wall, raised planters, and berm as approved by the Approving Authority.

C.

Percent coverage. Except in any industrial, airport and railway base zone, parking lots having more than 20 spaces shall have a minimum of five percent of the parking lot area landscaped. Parking lot landscaping shall not count toward required landscape coverage otherwise required for the zoning district in which a project is located and is in addition to required landscaped setbacks.

D.

Landscaped setbacks.

1.

For 20 or fewer parking spaces: A minimum ten-foot-wide landscaped setback is required along all street frontages for parking, loading and outdoor vehicle sales areas.

2.

For 21 or greater parking spaces: A minimum 15-foot-wide landscaped setback is required along all street frontages for parking, loading, and outdoor vehicle sales areas.

3.

When a greater setback is required by the zone: The greater setback shall prevail along all street frontages for parking, loading, and outdoor vehicle sales areas.

4.

When adjacent to a residentially zoned or residentially used lot: A minimum five-foot-wide landscaped setback is required along all property lines shared with a residentially zoned or residentially used lot for parking, loading and outdoor vehicle sales areas in conjunction with the required six-foot high masonry wall.

E.

Irrigation. All landscaped areas shall be equipped with an underground automated irrigation system.

(Ord. 7573 § 1(Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 7331 §94, 2016; Ord. 7235 §12, 2013; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

It is unlawful for the driver, owner or operator of any motor truck of a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 10,000 pounds or truck tractor, or trailer of a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 10,000 pounds of more than 10,000 pounds, or any combination thereof, to park, or cause to be parked, any such vehicle upon any public street, or alley, or on any residentially zoned property, within the residential districts of the City of Riverside as defined by Section 515 of the State of California Vehicle Code.

B.

It is unlawful for the driver, owner or operator of any motor truck, truck tractor, or trailer or any combination thereof, of a size larger than eight feet in height and/or 24 feet in length, to park, or cause to be parked, any such vehicle upon any public street, or alley, or on any residentially zoned property, within the residential districts of the City of Riverside as defined by Section 515 of the State of California Vehicle Code.

C.

For the purpose of this section, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) means the manufacturer's rated capacity for the motor truck, truck tractor and/or trailer.

D.

It is unlawful to park, except for immediate loading and unloading of goods or to provide immediate services, any motor truck of a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 10,000 pounds, truck tractor, or trailer of a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 10,000 pounds, or any combination thereof, or any motor truck, truck tractor, or trailer or any combination thereof, of a size larger than eight feet in height and/or 24 feet in length, on residentially zoned property within the City limits.

E.

Recreational vehicles such as motor homes and travel trailers are exempted from the provisions of this section; however, they remain subject to Section 19.580.070 A.4(Off-street parking location and type requirements).

(Ord. 7573 § 1(Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 7331 §94, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

At the time of erection, establishment or enlargement of any land use involving the receipt and distribution by vehicles of materials and merchandise, there shall be provided and maintained for such new use or construction at least one loading space of not less than ten feet in width, 22 feet in length and 14 feet in height, with adequate ingress and egress from a public street or alley for each 4,000 square feet of gross floor area or fraction thereof; provided that not more than two of such spaces shall be required unless the floor area exceeds 20,000 square feet, in which case the site plan shall be submitted to the Approving Authority for the establishment of the required loading spaces. Such loading space, together with necessary driveways and turning and maneuvering areas, shall be developed and maintained in conformity with the requirements for off-street parking areas, and shall meet the established standards and specifications of the Planning Division.

(Ord. 7573 § 1(Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 7331 §94, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

It shall be the responsibility of the property owner to ensure that all off-street parking spaces and areas required by this chapter are maintained for the duration of the improvement or use requiring the parking area. Surfacing required for temporary lots shall be as determined by designated Approving or Appeal Authority.

B.

All parking facilities, including curbs, directional markings, handicapped symbols, landscaping, pavement, signs, striping, and wheel stops, shall be permanently maintained by the property owner/tenant in good repair, free of litter and debris, potholes, obstructions, and stored material.

C.

Drive aisles, approach lanes, and maneuvering areas shall be marked and maintained with directional arrows and striping to expedite traffic movement. Any area not intended for parking shall be signed as such, or in areas where curb exists, the curb may be painted red in lieu of signs. All signing and striping installations shall be in conformance with the current standards or as otherwise deemed necessary by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow in or about any parking facility.

(Ord. 7573 § 1(Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 7331 §94, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

All vehicles, including recreational vehicles, parked outside of a completely enclosed garage shall be currently and legally registered except as provided for by State law and shall be in an operable and movable condition within one hour. Motorized vehicles, including recreational vehicles, shall be movable under their own power. Boats and other non-motorized vehicles, such as trailers, shall be movable by a towing vehicle customarily used for the type of vehicle being towed.

B.

Those persons authorized to issue citations pursuant to the Riverside Municipal Code and any police officer, any parking control checker and the Director of Public Works, or designee, is authorized and empowered to enforce this parking regulation and to issue parking control notices related thereto as provided by the State of California Vehicle Code Section 40202.

(Ord. 7573 § 1(Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 7331 §94, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

Editor's note— Ord. No. 7701, § 38, adopted 2025, repealed § 19.580.140. Former § 19.580.140 pertained to variances and derived from Ord. 6966 §1, adopted in 2007; Ord. 7331 §94, adopted in 2016; Ord. 7487 § 17, adopted in 2019; and Ord. 7573 § 1(Exh. A), adopted in 2021.

A.

This chapter describes certain characteristics associated with the design and operation of development that have the potential to create negative impacts on surrounding uses. Provisions herein identify the potential nuisance, establish thresholds for compliance, and explain the intent of development and operational standards to reduce potential impacts.

B.

Performance standards are provided to:

1.

Establish standards by which potential development related nuisances can be assessed, measured, and otherwise dealt with factually and objectively.

2.

Ensure that all such nuisances are controlled in the design and engineering phases of new development projects.

3.

Provide a framework by which potential impacts can be assessed and appropriate conditions applied in granting special use and conditional use permits.

(Ord. 7331 §95, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

These performance standards shall apply to all uses in all zones, except for legal nonconforming uses, as determined by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee.

B.

Compliance may be waived by the City Council if a building condition created under prior ordinances physically precludes the reasonable application of the standards. Additional categorical exceptions from compliance with the performance standards are as follows:

1.

Temporary activities, such as festivals and other special events with approved temporary use permits or other required permits, where such activities otherwise comply with other applicable provisions of the Zoning Code.

2.

Emergency activities subject to approval of an appropriate City Authority.

3.

Construction activities, where such activity is temporary in nature and explicitly regulated by other sections of the Municipal Code.

(Ord. 7331 §95, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

The intent of this section is to protect local health, safety and general welfare by ensuring that the design and operational characteristics of a property or use does not adversely impact neighboring property owners, neighboring property users or the general public through the accidental or intentional release or use of hazardous materials.

B.

The use, handling, storage and transportation of hazardous and extremely hazardous materials shall comply with the provisions of the California Hazardous Materials Regulations (California Administrative Code, Title 22, Division (4). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Department of Health Services (DHS) identify hazardous materials and prescribe handling, use and disposal practices. The use, storage, manufacture and disposal of hazardous materials shall be regulated and monitored according to the standards established by these agencies and any delegated government agencies.

C.

The use, handling, storage, and transportation of combustibles and explosives shall comply with the provisions of the Uniform Fire Code. No gasoline or other inflammables or explosives shall be stored unless the location, plans, and construction conform to the laws and regulations of the State of California and have the approval of the City of Riverside.

D.

Toxic gases or matter shall not be emitted that can cause any damage to health, to animals or vegetation, or other forms of property, or that can cause any excessive soiling beyond the lot lines of the use.

(Ord. 7331 §95, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

No use shall be permitted that emits radioactivity in dangerous amounts. The use, handling, storage, and transportation of radioactive materials shall comply with the provisions of the California Radiation Control Regulations (California Administrative Code, Title 17).

(Ord. 7331 §95, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

No use shall be permitted where electric or electromagnetic interference results and adversely affects the operation of any equipment other than that belonging to the creator of such interference, or that does not conform to the regulations of the Federal Communications Commission.

(Ord. 7331 §95, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

Lighting for safety purposes shall be provided at entryways, along walkways, between buildings, and within parking areas.

B.

Except for stadium and playing field lighting, lighting support structures shall not exceed the maximum permitted building height of the zone where such lights are located. Furthermore, the height of any lighting shall be the minimum required to accomplish the purpose of the light. Freestanding pole lights shall not exceed a maximum height of 14 feet within 50 feet of a residentially zoned property or residential use.

C.

The candle-power of all lights shall be the minimum required to accomplish the purpose of the light.

D.

Flickering, flashing or strobe lights shall not be permitted. All lights shall be constant and shall not change intensity or color more often than once every 30 minutes.

E.

Aircraft search lights normally used to draw attention to a business from off-site are prohibited.

F.

Lighting where required for parking lots shall be provided at a level no less than one foot candle throughout the lot and access areas, and such lighting shall be certified as to its coverage, intensity and adherence to Section 19.590.070 (Light and Glare) and Chapter 19.556 (Lighting) by a qualified lighting engineer.

G.

All lights shall be directed, oriented, and shielded to prevent light from shining onto adjacent properties, onto public rights-of-way, and into driveway areas in a manner that would obstruct drivers' vision.

H.

Lighting for advertising signs shall not cause light or glare on surrounding properties.

I.

Lighting shall not be directed skyward or in a manner that interferes with the safe operation of aircraft.

(Ord. 7331 §95, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

This section establishes regulations intended to prevent the exposure of persons to offensive odors. Odors from gases or other odorous matter shall not be of such intensity beyond the lot line of the use so as to be offensive to a reasonable person of normal sensitivity.

B.

Any process that creates or emits any odors, dust, smoke, gases, or other odorous matter shall comply with applicable standards set by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD).

(Ord. 7331 §95, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

These regulations aim to prohibit unnecessary, excessive and annoying noises from all sources, as certain noise levels are detrimental to the health and welfare of individuals. The standards apply to all land uses in all zones unless otherwise specified in the Zoning Code or other applicable law. In addition to the requirements of this chapter, any use or activity within the City shall comply with the noise regulations of Title 7 (Noise Control) of the Riverside Municipal Code.

B.

No person shall create nor allow the creation of noise that causes the noise level when measured on any property to exceed the noise standards set forth in Title 7 (Noise Control) of the Riverside Municipal Code.

C.

Utilization of compressors or other equipment, including but not limited to vents, ducts, and conduits, but excluding window or wall-mounted air-conditioners, that are located outside of the exterior walls of any building, shall be enclosed within a permanent, noncombustible, view-obscuring enclosure to ensure that the equipment will not emit noise in excess of the American National Standards Institute specifications for sound level meter ANSI S1.4-1971 or the latest approved revision thereof.

(Ord. 7331 §95, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

Heat from any source shall not be produced beyond the lot lines of the use so as to be offensive to a reasonable person of normal sensitivity.

(Ord. 7331 §95, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

Intent. These regulations aim to enhance retail storefront design and encourage safe, attractive and dynamic commercial areas.

B.

At least 75 percent of the window surface area shall be transparent.

1.

Fully opaque treatments or coverings including any allowable window signs, exceeding 25 percent of the window surface area are prohibited.

C.

Window signs shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 19.620.

D.

Exceptions.

1.

Exterior windows in areas for storage or mechanical and/or utility equipment shall not be subject to the provisions of this section.

2.

Window frosting may exceed 25 percent of the window area.

3.

Vacant storefronts with no business occupying the tenant space may temporarily apply opaque coverings to the complete window area until the tenant space is occupied.

(Ord. 7717, § 1, 2025)

This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority vested in the City of Riverside and the State of California, including but not limited to: the State Constitution Article XI, Section 5, California Government Code Sections 65000 et seq., 38774, 38775, 65850(b), California Business and Professions Code Section 5230, and Penal Code 556.

(Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

The City Council finds that unregulated and uncontrolled construction, erection, and lack of maintenance of signage in the City will result in excessive and inappropriate signage that has an adverse impact on the overall visual appearance of the City, which will adversely affect economic values. Unregulated and inappropriate signage can also increase risks to traffic and pedestrians by creating hazards and unreasonable distractions. It is, therefore, necessary to enact sign regulations to safeguard and preserve the health, property and public welfare of Riverside residents through control of the design, construction, location and maintenance of signs as an information system, which preserves and enhances the aesthetic character and environmental values of the City of Riverside, its residential neighborhoods and commercial/industrial districts consistent with the goals, policies, and strategies of the General Plan while providing an effective means for members of the public to express themselves through the display of signs. Regulations within this chapter will minimize visual clutter, enhance safety through design and placement of signs, and preserve the aesthetics and character of the community. By adopting this chapter, the City Council intends to balance the needs of the City's residents, businesses, institutions, and visitors for adequate identification, communication, and advertising with the objectives of protecting public safety and welfare and preserving and enhancing the aesthetic character and environmental values of the community, by:

A.

Encouraging communications that aid orientation and promote economic vitality while preventing visual clutter that will detract from the aesthetic character of the City;

B.

Applying basic principles of good design and sensitivity to community appearance to signage to avoid the creation of nuisances and privacy violations that will degrade the value of surrounding properties;

C.

Enhancing safety by ensuring that signs are designed, constructed, installed, and maintained in compliance with minimum standards necessary to provide adequate visibility and to avoid the creation of hazards or unreasonable distractions for pedestrians or drivers; and

D.

Ensuring that the constitutionally-guaranteed right of free speech is protected.

(Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

This chapter regulates signs, as defined herein, that are located or mounted on private property within the corporate limits of the City of Riverside, as well as signs located or mounted on public property that is owned or controlled by public entities other than the City of Riverside, and over which the City has land use or zoning authority. However, property owned by public entities other than the City, in which the City holds the present right of possession, or for which management rights have been delegated to the City, are not within the scope of this chapter. Policies for private party signs on City-owned property, on the public right-of-way, and publicly owned properties in which the City holds the present right of possession or for which management rights have been delegated to the City, are stated in Chapter 19.625 (Private Party Signs on City-Owned Property and the Public Right-of-Way). The provisions set forth in this chapter shall apply in all zoning districts of the City, except where expressly stated otherwise. No sign within the regulatory scope of this chapter shall be erected or maintained anywhere in the City except in conformity with this chapter. This chapter applies prospectively only.

For the regulatory purposes of this title, the following are not within the definition of "sign":

A.

Architectural features: Decorative or architectural features of buildings (not including lettering, trademarks or moving parts);

B.

Symbols embedded in architecture: Symbols of non-commercial organizations or concepts including, but not limited to, religious or political symbols, when such are permanently integrated into the structure of a permanent building that is otherwise legal; also includes foundation stones, corner stones and similar devices;

C.

Personal appearance: Items or devices of personal apparel, decoration or appearance, including tattoos, makeup, wigs, costumes (but not including commercial mascots);

D.

Manufacturers' marks: Marks on tangible products, that identify the marker, seller, provider or product, and that customarily remain attached to the product even after sale;

E.

Fireworks and lighting displays: The legal use of fireworks, candles and artificial lighting not otherwise regulated by the title;

F.

Certain insignia on vehicles and vessels: on street legal vehicles and properly licensed watercraft: license plates, license plate frames, registration insignia, non-commercial messages, messages relating to the business of which the vehicle or vessel is an instrument or tool (not including general advertising) and messages relating to the proposed sale, lease or exchange of the vehicle or vessel;

G.

Grave stones, grave markers and similar devices, when used with a cemetery to indicate deceased persons buried within proximity to the marker;

H.

Newsracks and newsstands;

I.

Door mats, floor mats, welcoming mats and similar devices;

J.

Legally placed vending machines displaying only onsite commercial or non-commercial graphics, and drive-up or walk up service facilities such as gas pumps and automated teller machines.

K.

Shopping carts identifying the establishment to which they belong; and

L.

Murals as defined by Section 19.620.160 of this chapter subject to compliance with Chapter 19.710, Design Review, of the Zoning Ordinance.

(Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

Signs exempt from permitting and standards. In addition to specific provisions elsewhere in this chapter that exempt certain signs from a permit requirement, the following signs do not require a permit and are not subject to standards:

1.

Signs of public service and utility companies indicating danger and aides to service and public safety;

2.

Signs or other visual communicative devices that are located entirely within a legally established building or other enclosed structure and are not visible from the exterior thereof;

3.

Railroad crossing signs;

4.

Traffic or municipal signs posted by government agencies;

5.

Legal notices posted pursuant to law or court order; and

6.

Address signs that are required by and conform with the Building Code; and

7.

Public service and civic identification signs promoting City-sponsored activities or community events as authorized by the City Council.

B.

Signs exempt from permit requirements. The following signs do not require permits pursuant to Section 19.620.110, Procedures for Sign Approval, of this chapter when they comply with the applicable standards of this chapter:

1.

Directional signs. On properties containing public parking areas in any zone, monument directional signs, not exceeding six square feet in area per display face and four feet in overall height, located at each public entrance to or exit from the public parking area. Building mounted directional signs shall also be allowed as necessary to direct persons to specific functions of a business with separate exterior entrances. Such signs shall not exceed six square feet in area and shall be situated directly above or to the side of the entrance being identified.

2.

Information signs not displaying general advertising for hire.

a.

Building or window signs less than four square feet in area indicating the hours of operation of an establishment and whether such establishment is presently open to the public;

b.

Freestanding signs not exceeding one square foot in area and four feet in height providing information for the safety and convenience of the public, such as identifying rest rooms or telephones or areas where parking is not permitted;

3.

Hazard signs. Signs warning persons of hazards pertaining to the property provided that individual signs do not exceed one square foot in size and six feet in height and are erected at least 75 feet apart from each other.

4.

Flags. Flags not used as general advertising for hire if they comply with the following standards:

a.

Complexes of commercial, office and industrial uses. Each complex of commercial, office or industrial uses, consisting of three or more uses on a single parcel or contiguous parcels with common off-street parking and access, may display not more than three flags, subject to: maximum area of 60 square feet (area includes one side only) on not more than three maximum 35 foot high poles. If separate poles are used, the distance from one pole to another may not exceed 20 feet. Any illumination shall be oriented and shielded not to glare into adjacent properties. Bunting shall be securely attached to at least two ends of a rigid frame attached to a pole or projecting from a building in compliance with standards for projecting signs.

b.

All other nonresidential uses. Each occupied parcel containing a nonresidential use, other than described in sub-section a. may display not more than three flags, subject to: maximum area of 60 square feet (area includes one side only) on not more than three maximum 35 foot high poles. If separate poles are used, the distance from one pole to another may not exceed ten feet.

c.

Residential subdivisions and condominiums. Each residential subdivision or condominium with new, previously unoccupied dwelling units for sale may display one flag, maximum 25 square foot on a pole not higher than 20 feet, per model home in a model home complex. Such poles must be situated not closer than ten feet from the public right-of-way and within 20 feet of the model complex or sales office. If separate poles are used, the distance from one pole to another may not exceed ten feet. A residential subdivision or condominium is considered to be all lots under a parent tract number including all phases.

d.

Apartments and mobile homes. Complexes of four or more apartments or mobile homes sharing common private access and/or parking may display not more than three flags, subject to: maximum area of 25 square feet (area includes one side only) on not more than three maximum 20 foot high poles. If separate poles are used, the distance from one to another may not exceed ten feet.

e.

All other residential uses. Each occupied parcel containing a residential use other than described in sub-sections c. and d. may display one flag, subject to a maximum area of 25 square feet (area includes one side only) on one maximum 20-foot high pole.

5.

Non-illuminated identification signs up to four square feet in area on residential multi-unit buildings and complexes;

6.

Construction site signs. In all zones, unlighted freestanding or wall signs may be displayed on the lot or parcel on which the construction is occurring. Such signs and support structures and fasteners shall be totally removed prior to release for occupancy. Such signs shall not exceed 32 square feet in area (area includes one side only).

C.

Nonconforming signs. Signs that were legal when first installed, and which have not been modified so as to become illegal, may be continued even though they do not comply with the standards and requirements of this chapter as provided for in Section 19.620.130. No such sign shall be moved, altered, or enlarged unless required by law or unless the moving, alteration or enlargement conforms to the applicable requirements of this chapter and will result in the elimination or substantial reduction of the sign's nonconforming features.

(Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

Unless otherwise permitted by a specific provision of this chapter, the following sign types are prohibited in all zones:

A.

Advertising statuary. Unless approved subject to a conditional use permit and Design Review pursuant to Chapters 19.760 and 19.710 of the Zoning Ordinance, all forms of advertising statuary are prohibited in all zones. A three-dimensional sign that is affixed to a building and complies with all the applicable requirements of this chapter shall not be considered advertising statuary.

B.

Animated and moving signs. Signs that blink, flash, shimmer, glitter, rotate, oscillate, are projected, or move, or which give the appearance of blinking, flashing, shimmering, glittering, rotating, oscillating or moving except for signs with changeable digital displays (e.g. light emitting diodes) that are expressly allowed by another provision of this chapter or a specific plan or other policy approved by the City Council.

C.

Banners, balloons, streamers, and pennants. Banners, balloons, streamers, and pennants that direct, promote, attract, service or that are otherwise designed to attract attention are prohibited in all zones except as temporary signs that comply with the requirements of Section 19.620.090, Temporary Signs, flags that comply with Section 19.620.040.B.4, Exempt Signs, or a specific plan or other policy approved by the City Council. Feather banners as defined in Section 19.620.150 are prohibited in all zones as either temporary or permanent signs.

D.

Bench signs. All forms of bench signs or bus stop commercial advertising are prohibited in all zones except where State law expressly grants to a public transportation agency rights to such signage.

E.

Commercial mascots. All commercial signs held, posted or attended by commercial mascots as defined in Section 19.620.150 are prohibited in all zones.

F.

Mobile signs. Any sign carried or conveyed by a vehicle that is used as a device for general advertising for hire, excluding signs on taxis and public buses.

G.

Permanent signs displaying off-premises general advertising for hire (billboards). This chapter does not allow or authorize a permanent structure signs displaying general advertising for hire for a business, commodity, service, facility or other such matter not located, conducted, sold or offered upon the premises where the sign is located. Such signs are prohibited in all zones unless authorized by separate Chapter of the Municipal Code.

H.

Pole signs. Unless expressly allowed by another provision of this chapter or a specific plan or policy approved by the City Council, pole signs are prohibited in all zones.

I.

Portable signs. Unless expressly allowed by another provision of this chapter or by separate Chapter of the Municipal Code, portable signs are prohibited in all zones.

J.

Paper signs and placards. Paper signs and placards that direct, promote, attract, service or that are otherwise designed to attract attention are prohibited in all zones except for temporary signs that comply with the applicable requirements of Section 19.620.090, Temporary Signs.

K.

Roof signs. Unless expressly allowed by another provision of this chapter, roof signs as defined in Section 19.620.150 of this chapter are prohibited in all zones. A mansard sign that does not extend above the deck-line or principal roofline of a mansard roof and complies with all other applicable provisions of this chapter shall not be considered to be a roof sign.

Figure 19.620.050.K: Roof Signs

L.

Signs creating traffic hazards.

1.

Signs located in such a manner as to constitute a traffic hazard or obstruct the view of traffic, or any authorized traffic sign or signal device, as determined by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee;

2.

Signs that may create confusion with any authorized traffic sign, signal, or device because their color, location or wording, or use of any phrase, symbol, or character interferes with, misleads, or confuses vehicular drivers in their use of roads or conflicts with any traffic control sign or device;

3.

Signs within five feet of a fire hydrant, street sign, or traffic signal.

M.

Signs that produce emissions or noise. Signs that produce visible smoke, vapor, particles, bubbles or free-floating particles of matter, odor, noise or sounds that can be heard at the property line, excluding voice units at menu boards and devices for servicing customers from their vehicles, such as drive-up windows at banks, when such units are used only for the purpose of two-way communication and sufficiently shielded to prevent impacts to adjacent residential properties.

N.

Signs for prohibited or unpermitted uses. A sign displaying a commercial message promoting a business that is a prohibited use as established in Chapter 19.150 (Base Zones Permitted land uses) and which has not been established as a legal non-conforming use or a business that is permitted but has not obtained required approvals pursuant to the requirements of this Code.

O.

Signs on public property. Except as otherwise provided for in Chapter 19.625, Private Party Signs on City-Owned Property and the Public Right-of-Way, no inanimate sign, or supporting sign structure, may be erected in the public right-of-way, including portable A-frame signs. This provision does not prohibit signs that are mounted on private property but project into or over public property or the public right-of-way, when such sign is authorized by an encroachment permit.

P.

Cabinet or panel signs.

1.

New cabinet or panel signage as defined in section 19.620.150, including blade or projecting signs, are prohibited except in the case of unusually shaped or elaborate logos that would be onerous to render in channel letter form.

2.

Existing cabinet signs may continue to be used and maintained, subject to Section 19.620.130 Nonconforming Signs.

(Ord. 7717, § 2, 2025; Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 7184 §1, 2012; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

Architectural compatibility. A sign (including its supporting structure, if any) shall be designed as an integral design element of a building's architecture and shall be architecturally compatible, including color and scale, with any building to which the sign is to be attached and with surrounding structures. A sign that covers a window or that spills over "natural" boundaries or architectural features and obliterates parts of upper floors of buildings is detrimental to visual order and shall not be permitted.

B.

Consistency with area character. A sign shall be consistent with distinct area or district characteristics and incorporate common design elements, such as sign materials or themes. Where a sign is located in close proximity to a residential area, the sign shall be designed and located so it has little or no impact on adjacent residential neighborhoods.

C.

Legibility. The size and proportion of the elements of the sign's message, including logos, letters, icons and other graphic images, shall be selected based on the average distance and average travel speed of the viewer. Sign messages oriented towards pedestrians may be smaller than those oriented towards automobile drivers. Colors chosen for the sign text and/or graphics shall have sufficient contrast with the sign background in order to be easily read during both day and night.

D.

Readability. A sign message shall be easily recognized and designed in a clear, unambiguous and concise manner, so that a viewer can understand or make sense of what appears on the sign.

E.

Visibility. A sign shall be conspicuous and readily distinguishable from its surroundings so a viewer can easily see the information it communicates.

(Ord. 7717, § 3, 2025; Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

Editor's note— Ord. 7717, § 3, adopted July 15, 2025, renamed § 19.620.060 from "design principles" to "Minimum criteria for sign design."

The following regulations apply to all signs in any zone:

A.

Signs must comply with this Code. In all zones, only such signs as are specifically permitted in this chapter may be placed, erected, maintained, displayed or used, and the placement, erection, maintenance, display or use of signs shall be subject to all restrictions, limitations and regulations contained in this chapter. The placement, erection, maintenance, display or use of all other signs is prohibited.

B.

Enforcement authority. The Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee is authorized and directed to enforce and administer the provisions of this chapter.

C.

Permit requirement. Unless expressly exempted by a provision of this chapter, or by other applicable law, signs within the regulatory scope of this chapter may be displayed only pursuant to a permit issued by the City pursuant to Section 19.620.100 of this chapter and any applicable permit required by the Building Code.

D.

Design review required for nonresidential uses. Unless exempt from the requirements of this chapter, the design and placement of any permanent sign erected for a nonresidential use is subject to review under the Citywide Sign and Design Guidelines.

E.

Message neutrality. It is the City's policy to regulate signs in a constitutional manner that does not favor commercial speech over noncommercial speech and is content neutral as to noncommercial messages which are within the protections of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and the corollary provisions of the California Constitution.

F.

Regulatory interpretations. All regulatory interpretations of this chapter are to be exercised in light of the City's message neutrality policy. Where a particular type of sign is proposed in a permit application, and the type is neither expressly allowed nor prohibited by this chapter, or whenever a sign does not qualify as a "structure" as defined in the Building Code, then the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee shall approve, conditionally approve or disapprove the application based on the most similar sign type that is expressly regulated by this chapter.

G.

Changes to copy of approved signs. Changes to the copy of approved signs that were legally established and have not been modified so as to become illegal are exempt from permitting pursuant to this chapter. Changes to copy do not include changes to the type or level of illumination of an approved sign.

H.

Substitution of messages. Subject to the property owner's consent, a protected noncommercial message of any type may be substituted for any duly permitted or allowed commercial message or any duly permitted or allowed noncommercial message, provided that the sign structure or mounting device is legal without consideration of message content. Such substitution of message may be made without any additional approval or permitting. This provision prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary within this chapter. The purpose of this provision is to prevent any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over protected noncommercial speech, or favoring of any particular noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message. This provision does not create a right to increase the total amount of signage on a parcel, lot or land use; does not affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted; does not allow a change in the physical structure of a sign or its mounting device; does not allow the substitution of an off-site commercial message in place of an on-site commercial message.

I.

Rules for non-communicative aspects of signs. All rules and regulations concerning the non-communicative aspects of signs, such as location, size, height, illumination, spacing, orientation, etc., stand enforceable independently of any permit or approval process.

J.

Situs of non-commercial message signs. The onsite/offsite distinction applies only to commercial messages on signs.

K.

Mixed Use Zones. In any zone where both residential and nonresidential uses are allowed, the sign-related rights and responsibilities applicable to any particular use shall be determined as follows: residential uses shall be treated as if they were located where that type of use would be allowed as a matter of right, and nonresidential uses shall be treated as if they were located in a zone where that particular use would be allowed, either as a matter of right or subject to a conditional use permit or similar discretionary process.

L.

Property owner's consent. No sign may be displayed without the consent of the legal owner(s) of the property on which the sign is mounted or displayed. For purposes of this policy, "owner" means the holder of the legal title to the property and all parties and persons holding a present right to possession, control or use of the property.

M.

Legal nature of signage rights and duties. As to all signs attached to property, real or personal, the signage rights, duties and obligations arising from this chapter attach to and travel with the land or other property on which a sign is mounted or displayed. This provision does not modify or affect the law of fixtures, sign-related provisions in private leases regarding signs (so long as they are not in conflict with this chapter), or the ownership of sign structures.

N.

Variances.

1.

When a variance from the rules stated in this chapter is sought, such variance may be permitted only upon the approval of the Approving Authority as designated in Table 19.650.020 and pursuant to the procedures set forth in Chapter 19.720 (Variance).

2.

In considering requests for such variances, the Approving Authority shall not consider the message of the sign display face.

3.

No variance that would allow a permanent structure sign to be used for the display of off-site commercial messages or general advertising for hire may be approved.

O.

Severance. If any section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion or provision of this chapter is held invalid or, unconstitutional, or unenforceable, by any court of competent jurisdiction, such holding shall not affect, impair, or invalidate any other section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion, or provision of this chapter which can be given effect without the invalid portion. In adopting this chapter, the City Council affirmatively declares that it would have approved and adopted the Chapter even without any portion, which may be held invalid or unenforceable.

P.

Riverside Municipal Airport. Except for signs oriented so as to be primarily viewed from any public street other than Airport Drive, signs within Riverside Municipal Airport and which serve lessees of the Riverside Municipal Airport shall be governed by the Riverside Municipal Airport Sign Criteria adopted by resolution of the City Council and shall not be restricted by this chapter except for those provisions regarding maintenance and safety. Signs at the Municipal Airport are also subject to permits under the City Building Code.

Q.

Calculation of sign area. The area of an individual sign, as defined in Section 19.620.150 of this chapter, shall be calculated according to the following provisions. Sign area does not include supporting structures such as sign bases and columns provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags. The calculation of sign area for various types of signs is illustrated in Figures 19.620.070.Q-1, 2, and 3.

1.

Single-faced signs. Where only one face of the sign includes written copy, logos, emblems, symbols, ornaments, illustrations, or other sign media, the sign area shall include the entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of one or two rectangles that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements on the face of the sign.

Figure 19.620.070.Q-1: Measuring Area of Single-Faced Signs

2.

Double-faced signs. Where two faces of a double-faced sign have an interior angle of 45 degrees or less from one another, the sign area must be computed as the area of one face. Where the two faces are not equal in size, the larger sign face will be used. Where two faces of a double-faced sign have an interior angle of more than 45 degrees from one another, both sign faces will be counted toward sign area.

Figure 19.620.070.Q-2: Measuring Area of Double-Faced Signs

3.

Multi-faced signs. Signs with three or more faces, where at least one interior angle is 45 degrees or more the calculation shall include the total area of each face that includes written copy, emblems, symbols, ornament, illustrations, or other sign media regardless of the dimension of each face.

4.

Three dimensional signs. Signs that consist of one or more three-dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks), shall have a sign area that is the sum of the areas of the three visible vertical faces of the smallest cube or rectangular volume that will encompass the sign.

Figure 19.620.070.Q-3: Measuring Area of Three-Dimensional Signs

R.

Materials. Permanent signs may not be made of plywood, pressed board, non-exterior grade wood products or any material, such as paper or cardboard, that is subject to rapid deterioration and not weather-resistant. Materials used for temporary signs shall comply with applicable requirements of Section 19.620.090, Temporary Signs. Fabric signs shall be restricted to Public Service and Civic Identity Banners, Awning Signs, and Temporary Signs permitted pursuant to Section 19.620.090.

S.

Illumination. Unless specifically restricted by this chapter, signs may be illuminated or non-illuminated. The illumination of signs, from either an internal or external source, shall be designed to avoid negative impacts on surrounding rights-of-way and properties. The following standards shall apply to all illuminated signs:

1.

Sign lighting shall not be of an intensity or brightness, or generate glare, that will create a nuisance for residential buildings in a direct line of sight to the sign;

2.

External light sources shall be directed, shielded, and filtered to limit direct illumination of any object other than the sign;

3.

Exposed incandescent lamps that exceed 40 watts or contain either internal or external metal reflectors are not permitted.

4.

Refer to Section 19.620.080.C.5 for additional illumination requirements for electronic message center signs.

T.

Maintenance and safety.

1.

Maintenance. All signs, together with all their supports, braces, guys and anchors, shall be kept in repair and in a proper state of preservation. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted. The Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee may order the removal of any sign that is not maintained in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and all other applicable laws.

2.

Interference with safety passages. No sign or sign structure shall be erected in such a manner that any portion of its surface or supports will interfere in any way with the free use of any fire escape, exit or standpipe. No sign shall obstruct any window to such an extent that any light, ventilation or access is reduced to a point below that required by any law or ordinance.

3.

Proximity to electrical facilities. No sign or structure shall be erected in such a manner that any portion of its surface or supports shall be within six feet of overhead electric conductors, which are energized in excess of 750 volts, nor within three feet of conductors energized at 0 to 750 volts.

4.

Electrical signs. Electrical signs shall bear the label of an approved testing laboratory. Said label shall not exceed four square inches. Said label shall be placed as directed by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee. Electrical signs and appurtenant equipment shall be installed in accordance with the Electrical Code.

5.

Engineering design and materials. Signs designed and constructed as building elements or structures shall be in accordance with the provisions of the Building Code.

6.

Inspections. It shall be the duty of every person who may erect any sign designated under this chapter to afford ample means and accommodation for the purpose of inspection whenever, in the judgment of the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee or the Building Official, such inspection is necessary. The inspectors for the Public Utilities Department and the Fire Department of the City shall also have the right and authority to inspect any such signs during reasonable hours.

7.

Liability of owners. This chapter shall not be construed to relieve from or lessen the responsibility of any person owning, maintaining, operating, constructing or installing any sign or other device mentioned in this chapter for damages to life or property caused by any defect therein.

8.

City responsibility for sign compliance. Neither the City nor any agent thereof may be held as assuming any liability by reason of the inspection required by this chapter. Nothing in this chapter waives or diminishes any defenses the City may have in any action alleging that the City is responsible, in whole or in part, for damage, loss or injury caused by any sign. By enacting this chapter the City does not waive its immunities under California statutory law, including but not limited to the governmental immunities.

(Ord. 7717, § 4(Exh. A), 2025; Ord. No. 7701, § 39, 2025; Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

Permitted sign locations.

1.

Building signs. All building signs, with the exception of blade signs as set forth herein must be located on and directly parallel to a building wall, canopy fascia or mansard roof directly abutting the use or occupancy being identified and directly facing a parking lot, mall, street, driveway, alley or freeway.

2.

Window signs. Except for signs painted directly on the exterior surface of the window, all window signs must be located on or within 24 inches of the inner surface of a window directly used by the use or occupancy being identified and be directly facing a parking lot, mall, street, driveway, alley or freeway.

3.

Under canopy and shingle signs. All under canopy and shingle signs shall be suspended from the underside of a pedestrian canopy or awning directly adjacent to the business identified on the sign or a support attached to and projecting from the building wall. Such signs shall be oriented perpendicular to the adjacent wall of the business being identified and shall be attached with rigid supports of a type and in a manner acceptable to the Building and Safety Division. A minimum clearance of seven feet shall be maintained between the grade level below the sign and the lowermost portion of the sign except when the sign is projecting over a public right-of-way, in that case the minimum clearance shall be eight feet.

Figure 19.620.075.A-3: Measuring Area of Single-Faced Signs

4.

Pylon and monument signs. All pylon and monument signs shall be oriented toward a parking lot, mall, street, driveway or alley. Such signs shall be situated on the lot or parcel on which the use or occupancy identified is located, except in a commercial, office or industrial complex where such a sign may be located on any lot or parcel in the complex where the use or occupancy identified is located.

5.

Other projecting signs. Building signs shall not project more than 12 inches from the face of the building on which they are placed with the following exceptions:

a.

Signs placed on a mansard roof may project such a distance from the face of the roof as necessary for the sign face to be perpendicular to the floor of the building.

Figure 19.620.075.A-5: Measuring Area of Single-Faced Signs

b.

In any Neighborhood Commercial Overlay Zone, a maximum four square foot, double-faced sign, oriented perpendicular to the building wall is permitted in lieu of an under canopy sign. Such perpendicular sign shall not project more than 30 inches from the face of the building wall on which it is placed, shall be attached with rigid supports in a manner acceptable to the Building and Safety Division and shall maintain a minimum clearance of eight feet between the grade level below the sign and the lowermost portion of the sign.

c.

A three-dimensional sign that complies with the applicable requirements of this chapter.

6.

Projection of permanent signs over public rights-of-way. All signs that project over or into the public right-of-way require approval of an encroachment permit by the Public Works Department under Sections 10.16.040 and Section 13.08.015 of the Riverside Municipal Code.

7.

Historic area blade signs. For buildings registered in the National Historic Register; designated a State Historical landmark, a City of Riverside landmark or structure of merit; or located in a City of Riverside historic preservation district or neighborhood conservation area, and that contain a nonresidential use, double-faced signs, oriented perpendicular to the building wall are permitted subject to standards in Section 19.620.120.C.

B.

Materials.

1.

Permanent signs may not be made of plywood, pressed board, non-exterior grade wood products or any material, such as paper or cardboard, that is subject to rapid deterioration and not weather-resistant.

2.

Fabric signs shall be restricted to Public Service and Civic Identity Banners, Awning Signs, and Temporary Signs permitted pursuant to Section 19.620.090.

C.

Illumination. Unless specifically restricted by this chapter, signs may be illuminated or non-illuminated. The illumination of signs, from either an internal or external source, shall be designed to avoid negative impacts on surrounding rights-of-way and properties. The following standards shall apply to all illuminated signs:

1.

Sign lighting shall not be of an intensity or brightness, or generate glare, that will create a nuisance for residential buildings in a direct line of sight to the sign;

2.

External light sources shall be directed, shielded, and filtered to limit direct illumination of any object other than the sign;

3.

Exposed incandescent lamps that exceed 40 watts or contain either internal or external metal reflectors are not permitted.

4.

Refer to Section 19.620.080.D.4 for additional illumination requirements for electronic message center signs.

5.

Electrical raceways, conduits, and similar devices shall be placed so that they are not within public view.

a.

Where this is physically impractical or potentially damaging to significant architectural features or materials of the structure upon which the sign is mounted, raceways, conduits, and similar devices shall be as minimal as possible and painted to match surrounding material.

6.

Neon signs and architectural lighting. The use of neon tubes for signs or architectural elements shall be allowed in commercial and mixed-use zoning districts subject to the requirements of Section 19.620.050.B.

D.

Maintenance and safety.

1.

Maintenance. All signs, together with all their supports, braces, guys and anchors, shall be kept in repair and in a proper state of preservation. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted. The Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee may order the removal of any sign that is not maintained in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and all other applicable laws.

2.

Interference with safety passages. No sign or sign structure shall be erected in such a manner that any portion of its surface or supports will interfere in any way with the free use of any fire escape, exit or standpipe. No sign shall obstruct any window to such an extent that any light, ventilation or access is reduced to a point below that required by any law or ordinance.

3.

Proximity to electrical facilities. No sign or structure shall be erected in such a manner that any portion of its surface or supports shall be within six feet of overhead electric conductors, which are energized in excess of 750 volts, nor within three feet of conductors energized at zero to 750 volts.

4.

Electrical signs. Electrical signs shall bear the label of an approved testing laboratory. Said label shall not exceed four square inches. Said label shall be placed as directed by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee. Electrical signs and appurtenant equipment shall be installed in accordance with the Electrical Code.

5.

Engineering design and materials. Signs designed and constructed as building elements or structures shall be in accordance with the provisions of the Building Code.

6.

Inspections. It shall be the duty of every person who may erect any sign designated under this chapter to afford ample means and accommodation for the purpose of inspection whenever, in the judgment of the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee or the Building Official, such inspection is necessary. The inspectors for the Public Utilities Department and the Fire Department of the City shall also have the right and authority to inspect any such signs during reasonable hours.

7.

Liability of owners. This chapter shall not be construed to relieve from or lessen the responsibility of any person owning, maintaining, operating, constructing or installing any sign or other device mentioned in this chapter for damages to life or property caused by any defect therein.

8.

City responsibility for sign compliance. Neither the City nor any agent thereof may be held as assuming any liability by reason of the inspection required by this chapter. Nothing in this chapter waives or diminishes any defenses the City may have in any action alleging that the City is responsible, in whole or in part, for damage, loss or injury caused by any sign. By enacting this chapter the City does not waive its immunities under California statutory law, including, but not limited to, the governmental immunities.

(Ord. 7717, § 5(Exh. B), 2025)

A.

Permanent signs shall comply with the standards in Tables 19.620.080.A, B and C and the additional requirements that follow the tables.

Table 19.620.080.A: Building Signs in Nonresidential and Mixed-Use Districts

Figure 19.620.080.A-1: Wall signs on Multi-Occupant Building Frontage

Figure 19.620.080.A-2: Allowed Wall Sign Locations on Multiple-Story Buildings greater than three stories

Table 19.620.080.B: Freestanding Signs in Nonresidential and Mixed-Use Zones

¹ See Section 19.620.080.B.7 for additional Freeway Oriented Sign Standards
² Height measured from adjacent freeway elevation. See Figure 19.620.080.B.7 - Standards for Freeway Oriented Signs

B.

Signs in nonresidential and mixed use districts. Signs erected on a site may be any combination of permitted sign types, subject to the limitations for individual sign types listed in Tables 19.620.080 A, B, and C, the following requirements, and any other applicable provisions of this chapter.

1.

Design review required. Unless exempt from the requirements of this chapter, the design and placement of any permanent sign erected in a nonresidential or mixed-use district is subject to review under the Citywide Sign and Design Guidelines.

2.

Only on-premises signs permitted. Only on-premises signs are permitted pursuant to the requirements of this chapter.

3.

Sign program required. All new office and commercial complexes shall require approval of a sign program in compliance with the requirements of Section 19.620.110 prior to issuance of any sign permits.

4.

Determining street frontage. Each commercial complex or shopping center shall be allowed to designate only one major street frontage. Where no single street frontage can be identified as the major street frontage or in cases of dispute as to which street frontage is the major street frontage, the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee shall designate the major street frontage in conjunction with the review of proposed signs.

5.

Mixed use zones. In any zone where both residential and nonresidential uses are allowed, residential uses shall be treated as if they were located in any district where that development type and use would allowed by right and nonresidential uses shall be treated as if they were located in any district where that development type and use would be allowed either by right or subject to a conditional use permit or comparable discretionary zoning approval.

6.

Signage allowed for each establishment. Each establishment in a nonresidential or mixed-use zone may have at least one wall sign for each frontage, window or door signs up to 25 percent of the window area, one shingle or under canopy sign, and one monument sign subject to compliance with the requirements of this chapter.

7.

Freeway-oriented signs. Unless exempt from the requirements of this chapter, all freeway-oriented signs, except for freestanding Special Use Signs that comply with the applicable standards in Table 19.620.080.C, shall require approval of a Minor Conditional Use Permit by the Planning Commission provided that the Commission can make the following findings in addition to those specified in Section 19.730.040 of this chapter and if the sign complies with the additional requirements of this section.

a.

Findings:

i.

A freeway-oriented sign is necessary because signage that conforms to the area and height standards otherwise applicable to the site would not be visible to the travelling public for a distance on the freeway of one-third mile (1,760 feet) preceding the freeway exit providing access to said premises; or for a line-of-sight distance of two-thirds' mile (3,520 feet), whichever is less.

ii.

The freeway-oriented sign will not interfere with the driving public's view of a significant feature of the natural or built environment.

b.

The freeway-oriented sign shall not be located within 500 feet of a municipal boundary;

c.

A freeway-oriented sign must be located no farther than 150 feet from a freeway right-of-way, and only on a property that is immediately adjacent to and abutting a freeway right-of-way or separated from a freeway right-of-way by only a public frontage road, a railroad right-of-way, a public flood control channel, or public utility easements.

d.

Such sign shall be setback at least 150 feet from any lot line adjoining a street or roadway other than a freeway, public frontage road, or similar feature per sub-section c. Such sign shall be setback from a residential zone a distance that is equal to or exceeds the height of the sign, whichever is greater, and setback at least five feet from any other interior lot line;

e.

The sign shall be no closer than 1,000 feet to another freeway-oriented sign on the same or a different lot or parcel;

f.

All other freestanding and/or roof business signs must be oriented toward the street or highway frontages from which their permitted areas are calculated;

g.

Freeway oriented signs may not be used for general advertising for hire.

Figure 19.620.080.B-7: Standards for Freeway Oriented Signs

8.

Blade Signs. Blade signs are permitted for businesses in Commercial and Mixed-Use Zones with a minimum of 50 lineal feet of building frontage subject to the following requirements:

a.

Number. A business may display one blade sign per street frontage or parking lot frontage on an adjacent property.

b.

Area. The maximum area of a blade sign shall not exceed one square foot per linear foot of building frontage from which the sign projects.

i.

For double-sided signs, sign area shall be taken from one side of the sign only.

c.

Height.

i.

No projecting sign shall extend above the adjacent eaves of a sloped roof or above the parapet line of a flat roof.

ii.

All blade signs shall be a minimum of eight feet above the grade of the adjoining pedestrian right-of-way.

d.

Placement. All blade signs shall be attached to a building, not a pole or other structure.

e.

Projection.

i.

On the first or second story, no blade sign shall project more than four feet.

ii.

Above the third story, no blade sign shall project more than six feet from the face of the building wall upon which the sign is mounted.

iii.

If any blade sign projects into or over the public right-of-way, an encroachment permit must be obtained from the Department of Public Works.

iv.

No sign may project over a public alley.

f.

Design and Development. All blade signs shall comply with section 19.620.060 Minimum criteria for sign design and 19.620.075 Development Standards for all sign types.

C.

Signs in residential districts. Signs erected on properties in residential districts may be any combination of permitted sign types, subject to the limitations for individual sign types listed in this section and any other provisions of this chapter

1.

Design review required for nonresidential uses. Unless exempt from the requirements of this chapter, the design and placement of any permanent sign erected for a nonresidential use is subject to review under the Citywide Sign and Design Guidelines.

2.

Residential uses. The following regulations shall apply to residential uses in all residential zones, where applicable:

a.

One- and two-family dwellings. One building mounted or freestanding on-premises sign not exceeding three square feet in area or three feet in height is allowed for each separate dwelling unit. On parcels with more than one such dwelling, on-premises signs shall not be combined. Such sign may not be used for the display of commercial messages other than real estate signs subject to compliance with the requirements of Section 19.620.090, Temporary Signs.

b.

Planned residential developments, multiple-family dwellings and mobile home parks. For planned residential developments, multiple-family dwellings and mobile home parks, one on-premises building or monument sign, not exceeding 25 square feet in area per display face, is allowed for each public street frontage. Monument signs may not exceed six feet in overall height. In lieu of a freestanding sign, two single-sided, wall mounted-signs not exceeding 25 square feet per display face is allowed for each public street frontage when located at a project entry point.

c.

Individual units in multiple unit developments. In all multiple unit developments, individual residential units may display window signs not exceeding 15 percent of the total surface area of each window or 15 percent of the surface area of all windows visible from a public or private right-of-way.

3.

Residential Agricultural (RA-5) Zone. Notwithstanding the previous sub-sections, one unlighted on-premises monument sign not exceeding 12 square feet in area and six feet in overall height is allowed subject to applicable permits.

Table 19.620.080.C: Special Use Signs

¹  For on-site price signs, a major street frontage is considered to be an arterial street as designated by the Circulation Element of the General Plan.
²  No permit for such a secondary price sign shall be issued until the City receives a written communication from the State Department of Agriculture Division of Weights and Measures stating that a secondary price sign is necessary in order to meet the fuel identification requirements.
³  For secondary price signs, a secondary street frontage is considered to be any street not an Arterial Street as designated by the Circulation Element of the General Plan.

Figure 19.620.080.C-1: Drive-Thru Restaurant Sign Standards

Figure 19.620.080.C-2: Vehicle Fuel Station Sign Standards

D.

Other sign types. In addition to the requirements in Table 19.620.080.C, the following regulations apply in all zones where the associated use has been established subject to the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance.

1.

Way-finding signs in commercial complexes six or more acres in size. In addition to directional signs allowed by Section 19.620.040.B.1, commercial complexes six or more acres in size that provide public parking are permitted additional directional/way-finding signs to aid traffic circulation within the complex and direct persons to parking areas and specific business functions subject to the following requirements:

a.

Signs shall be subject to the approval of a sign program pursuant to Section 19.620.110;

b.

Signs shall be set back at least 75 feet from any public right-of-way;

c.

Signs shall not exceed 15 square feet in area or seven feet in height;

d.

The maximum number and location of directional signs shall be as determined by the approved sign program.

2.

Portable signs on private property. Retail sales establishments on private property in pedestrian-oriented areas as identified and established through an approved sign program, may have one portable "A-frame" or similar type of pedestrian-oriented sign for ongoing display subject to the approval of a sign program that identifies and establishes a designated pedestrian oriented display area for portable signs (refer to Chapter 19.625 for portable sign requirements in the Pedestrian Mall, as defined by Article 10, Definitions, of the Zoning Ordinance). Portable signs shall meet the following requirements:

a.

A portable sign may be up to 12 square feet in area and four feet in height and may not exceed a width of four feet.

b.

The sign shall be located on private property and within 15 feet of the front door of the place of business.

c.

The sign and shall only be displayed during hours when the establishment is open and must be removed and placed indoors each day at the close of business.

d.

Such signs must be made of durable materials designed to withstand exterior conditions such as smooth particle board, medium density fiberboard or plywood, which are sturdy and designed for paint. All visible surfaces of the sign shall be finished in a uniform or complimentary manner. Borders, artistic enhancements, and graphics reflecting the nature of the related business are encouraged.

e.

Portable signs shall be weighted to resist displacement by wind or other disturbances. Portable signs shall not be illuminated, animated, or electrically or mechanically powered in any manner.

f.

Portable signs may not be placed in the public right-of-way or in any location where they will impede or interfere with pedestrian or vehicular visibility or traffic or where they are likely to attract the attention of passing motorists.

g.

A portable sign shall be located in front of the business and shall not extend into the public right-of-way, or closer than 35 feet from the curb face of any cross-street open to vehicular traffic.

h.

A portable sign shall not be located in a landscape planter, permanent seating area, or any location where it may create an impediment to pedestrian, disabled, or emergency access.

i.

Balloons, banners, flags, lights, pinwheels, umbrellas, or other similar items, shall not be attached to, or made a part of a portable sign.

j.

The Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee may refer the design of a pedestrian mall sidewalk sign to either the Cultural Heritage Board or the City Planning Commission for resolution of design related issues.

k.

Maintenance of the sign and any damage or injury caused by the sign is the responsibility of the business owner who shall be required to maintain liability insurance subject to applicable City requirements.

l.

Portable signs may be installed as temporary signage subject to requirements of Section 19.620.090.

3.

Changeable copy signs. Signs using manually or electronically changeable copy are permitted subject to compliance with the following requirements.

a.

The copy of electronically displayed messages may change no more frequently than once every eight seconds except for signs located in a residential district or readily visible from a residential property, which shall not be changed more than twice during any 24 hour period and shall not be illuminated between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

b.

All electronic message displays shall be equipped with automatic controls to allow for adjustment of brightness based on ambient lighting conditions.

c.

Theaters. Theaters offering live performances or motion pictures and having permanent seating may display one on-premises building sign with maximum 1½ square feet of sign area for each front foot of building frontage and one changeable copy building-mounted sign using either manually or electronically changeable copy that comply with the following requirements:

i.

Live performance theaters less than 100 permanent seats. One changeable copy marquee up to 50 square feet in area.

ii.

Live performance theaters with 100 or more permanent seats. One changeable copy marquee up to 150 square feet in area.

iii.

All motion picture theaters. One changeable copy marquee up to 60 square feet in area.

d.

Elementary, middle and high schools. Elementary, middle and high schools shall be permitted one freestanding or building mounted combination on-premises sign per use as described below:

i.

Sites less than 15 acres. One maximum 40 square foot, six foot high static or changeable copy on-premises, monument sign or 40 square foot static or building sign. Changeable copy signs may have either manually or electronically changeable copy.

ii.

Sites 15 acres or more. One maximum 65 square foot, 15 foot high static or changeable copy on-premises pylon sign, or 65 square foot static or changeable copy building sign. Changeable copy signs may have either manually or electronically changeable copy.

e.

Colleges and universities on sites 15 acres or more. Subject to the approval of a sign program pursuant to Section 19.620.110, one maximum 65 square foot, 15 foot high static or changeable copy on-premises pylon sign or 65 square foot static or changeable copy building sign. Changeable copy signs may have either manually or electronically changeable copy.

f.

Other assemblies of people—non-entertainment. Other public assemblies that are not engaged in commercial entertainment shall be permitted one freestanding or building mounted changeable copy sign as described below:

i.

Sites one acre in size or less. The changeable copy monument sign shall be a maximum of 15 square feet in area and six feet in height. The changeable copy building sign shall be a maximum of 24 square feet in area.

ii.

Sites greater than one acre and less than 15 acres. The changeable copy monument sign shall be a maximum of 40 square feet in area and six feet in high. The changeable copy building sign shall be a maximum of 40 square feet in area.

iii.

Sites 15 acres or more. The changeable copy sign pylon sign shall be a maximum of 65 square foot in area and 15 feet in height. The changeable copy building sign shall be a maximum of 65 square feet in area.

iv.

Changeable copy signs may be manually or electronically changeable.

g.

Other assemblies of people—non-entertainment located in a nonresidential complex. Other public assemblies located within an existing office, commercial or industrial complex shall be allowed one changeable copy sign serving that particular use in lieu of the permitted monument sign for the existing multi-tenant office, commercial or industrial complex permitted under 19.620.080 A.

h.

Other assemblies of people—entertainment. Assemblies of people—entertainment uses shall be permitted one freestanding or building mounted changeable copy sign, selected from the following options:

i.

Sites less than 15 acres. One maximum 40 square foot, six foot high combination changeable copy on-premises monument sign using either manually or electronically changeable copy, or one building-mounted sign shall be permitted, located on the frontage occupied by the use, maximum 1½ square feet of sign area for each foot of the occupancy frontage, not to exceed 100 square feet. A changeable copy sign shall be in lieu of a permitted freestanding or building mounted on-premises sign. The message shall consist of static copy changed no more frequently than twice during any 24-hour period. A changeable copy sign shall be in lieu of a permitted freestanding or building mounted on-premises sign.

ii.

Sites 15 or more acres. One maximum 65 square foot, 15 foot high combination changeable copy on premises pylon sign using either manually or electronically changeable copy, or one building mounted sign shall be permitted, located on the frontage occupied by the use, maximum 1½ square feet of sign area for each front foot of the occupancy frontage, not to exceed 100 square feet. A changeable copy sign shall be in lieu of a permitted freestanding or building mounted on-premises sign. The message shall consist of static copy changed no more frequently than twice during any 24-hour period. A changeable copy sign shall be in lieu of a permitted freestanding or building mounted on-premises sign.

iii.

Amusement parks over 24 acres within 100 feet of a freeway. In lieu of the freestanding sign allowed above, one changeable copy pylon sign up to 750 square feet in area and 66 feet in height that is oriented toward the adjacent freeway shall be permitted. Copy may be either manually or electronically changeable with letters no more than 30 inches high. Static copy may be changed no more frequently than twice during any 24-hour period. The changeable copy portion of the sign shall not exceed the lesser of 218 square feet or 75 percent of the overall sign size. The sign shall comply with all applicable Caltrans standards for signs adjacent to freeways.

iv.

Entertainment venues as defined in Chapter 5.80 (Entertainment permit). Signs for establishments requiring an entertainment permit pursuant to Chapter 5.80 shall be governed by the allowable signage type(s) for the primary permitted use of the establishment.

i.

Drive-thru menu boards. Menu boards may contain electronically displayed messages that are static, change no more than three times during any 24-hour period, and are not readily visible from residential properties or the public right-of-way. Such signage shall only be illuminated when the establishment is open for business.

4.

Electronic message center sign. Electronic message center signs (EMC) are permitted in commercial complexes ten acres or larger and on parcels with assemblies of people—entertainment uses 15 acres or larger subject to the approval of a conditional use permit and compliance with the following requirements:

a.

EMC are only permitted on parcels with frontage on an Arterial Street designated in the circulation and community element of the General Plan and which do not abut or face a residential district.

b.

The copy of electronically displayed messages may change no more frequently than once every eight seconds. A minimum of 0.3 second of time with no message displayed shall be provided between each message displayed on the sign.

c.

Displays shall contain static messages only, and shall not have movement, or the appearance of optical illusion or movement, of any part of the sign structure, design, or pictorial segment of the sign, including the movement or appearance of movement of any illumination, or the flashing, scintillating or varying of light intensity.

d.

All electronic message displays shall be equipped with a sensor or other device that automatically determines ambient illumination and is programmed to automatically dim according to ambient light conditions or can be adjusted to comply with the following illumination requirements in sub-section b of this section.

e.

EMC illumination requirements. Between dusk and dawn the illumination of an EMC shall conform to the following requirements:

i.

The luminance of an EMC shall not exceed 0.3 foot-candles more than ambient lighting conditions when measured at the recommended distance in Table TBD based on the area of the EMC.

ii.

The luminance of an EMC shall be measured with a luminance meter set to measure foot-candles accurate to at least two decimals. Luminance shall be measured with the EMC off, and again with the EMC displaying a white image for a full color capable EMC, or a solid message for a single-color EMC. All measurements shall be taken perpendicular to the face of the EMC at the distance specified in Table 19.620.080.D based on the total square footage of the area of the EMC.

Table 19.620.080.D: Sign Area and Measurement
Distance for Electronic Message Center Signs

*For signs with an area in square feet other than those specifically listed in the table (i.e. 12 sq. ft., 400 sq. ft. etc.), the measurement distance may be calculated with the following formula: Measurement Distance = √Area of Sign in sq. ft. × 100

(Ord. 7717, §§ 6(Exh. C), 7, 2025; Ord. 7660, § 14(Exh. B), 2024; Ord. 7505 § 1(Exh. A), 2020; Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

Temporary signs may be displayed subject to the requirements of this section.

A.

General requirements in Nonresidential and Mixed Use Districts.

1.

Temporary sign permit required. Unless specifically exempted from permit requirements pursuant to this chapter, temporary signs in nonresidential and mixed-use districts require the issuance of a ministerial permit based on the applicant's statement of compliance with the applicable requirements of this chapter.

a.

Sign owners or their representatives must apply for a temporary sign permit by completing a form approved by the Community & Economic Development Director that specifies the standards and requirements for temporary signs.

b.

The application shall include a site plan and building elevations showing the locations, number, and size of signs, a description of the sign materials and the dates that the sign or signs will be placed and removed;

c.

Upon acceptance of a complete application with the required fee, the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee shall issue an identification label with a number that shall be affixed to the temporary sign or signs being erected.

2.

Number. The maximum number of temporary signs that may be displayed by any establishment at the same time is subject to compliance with the applicable requirements of this section. The number and area of temporary signs shall not be included in the calculation of aggregate permanent sign area.

3.

Sign area and dimensions. The following types of temporary signage are permitted if they comply with the following standards and requirements:

a.

Banners. One banner not exceeding 25 percent of the area of a building wall or window of the establishment that is stretched and secured flat against the building wall, window, and does not extend higher than the building eave or parapet wall. No more than one banner is permitted per street frontage for each individual establishment. All such signs shall be securely fastened at each corner to resist displacement by wind or similar disturbances and shall have wind cuts as necessary to reduce sign billowing or sailing.

b.

Portable signs. Establishments may have one portable "A-frame" or similar type up to six square feet in area and 36 inches in height. Portable signs shall be weighted to resist displacement by wind or similar disturbances and shall only be displayed during hours when the establishment is open. Portable signs may not be placed in the public right-of-way or in any location where they will impede or interfere with pedestrian or vehicular visibility or traffic.

c.

Balloons and balloon arches. Individual balloons and balloon arches shall be allowed if they are securely fastened to permanent structures and set back from all driveways and from the public right-of-way a distance equal to the tether of the balloon. Individual balloons shall not exceed 24 inches in diameter. Balloons and balloon arches or clusters shall be tethered at a height that does not exceed the height of the building containing the subject establishment. Any balloon that exceeds 24 inches in diameter shall be considered an inflatable structure and is prohibited.

d.

Window signs. Storefront windows shall be subject to the transparency standards under Chapter 19.590.110.

4.

Material. Temporary exterior signs shall be made of a durable weather-resistant material.

5.

Duration. Unless otherwise specified by these regulations temporary signs may be displayed for a maximum of 30 consecutive days except for that period beginning one week before Thanksgiving and ending one week after New Year's Day. Signs for promotional events and sales shall be removed within seven days of the conclusion of the event and shall be limited to a maximum of 60 total days per year per individual establishment. The total number of days during which all temporary signage including holiday promotions may be displayed shall not exceed 60 days per year.

6.

Illumination. Temporary signs shall not be illuminated.

B.

Standards for specific temporary sign types.

1.

Real estate signs. For real estate offered for sale, rent or lease (not including transient occupancy). On-premises signs conveying information about the sale, rental, or lease of the appurtenant lot, premises, dwelling, or structure, may be displayed without permits in any district if they comply with the regulations and conditions of this subsection. Signs allowed under this section shall be removed within seven days following the closing of the proposed transaction or the withdrawal of the offer or solicitation. The provisions of this subsection do not apply to signs for transient occupancy.

a.

Residential properties. Signs may be displayed on a property with a residential principal use subject to the following regulations and conditions:

i.

One freestanding real estate sign may be displayed on each frontage;

ii.

Signs shall not exceed four square feet in area or six feet in overall height.

b.

All nonresidential properties. On nonresidential properties, and properties containing both legal residential and nonresidential uses, real estate signs may be displayed, using either of the following options:

i.

Freestanding signs. One maximum 24 square foot, eight foot high, double-faced, freestanding for sale, rental or lease sign per street frontage is permitted.

a.

On sites with more than one frontage or on interior lots at least two and one-half acres in size, an option of placing the sign faces at a 45-degree angle to each other is permitted.

b.

Signs shall be located at least two feet from public sidewalks and 12 feet from the curbline or from the pavement where curbs are lacking. In no case shall signs be placed in the public right-of-way.

c.

If a building sign is installed as permitted in sub-section ii below, the freestanding sign herein described shall not be permitted.

ii.

Building signs. In lieu of a permitted freestanding sign, one real estate sign per frontage, a maximum 24 square feet in area shall be permitted for buildings or occupancies within 63 feet from the back of the curb or from the edge of the paved portion of the public right-of-way where curbs are lacking. In the event a freestanding sign or signs are installed as permitted in subsection b, such a building sign shall not be permitted.

2.

Directional signs for open houses. Notwithstanding any other provision in this chapter, up to three off-site signs directing the public to "open house" events for the viewing of lots, premises, dwellings or structures that are for sale, lease, or rent, are permitted subject to the approval of the property owner provided they comply with the following standards:

a.

No sign or signs shall exceed four square feet in area, or three feet in height from finished grade.

b.

The sign or signs may not be placed more than 12 hours before the start or remain more than 12 hours after the conclusion of the open house event.

3.

Subdivision signs. In all zones, a maximum of three unlighted double-faced temporary subdivision signs, not exceeding 40 square feet in area per display face and 15 feet in overall height, may be erected and maintained with a subdivision during sale of the lots. Such signs shall be located within the subdivision and shall be a minimum distance of 300 feet apart from each other. All signs shall be removed at the close of escrow of the model complex houses.

4.

Construction site signs. Unlighted freestanding or wall signs not exceeding 32 square feet in area and ten feet in height are allowed in all zones. All such signs shall be displayed only on the lot or parcel on which the construction is occurring and only during the construction period. Such signs and support structures and fasteners shall be totally removed prior to release for occupancy.

5.

Protected non-commercial political and free speech signs on residential uses. Non-illuminated temporary signs displaying protected non-commercial messages, maximum four feet in height, totaling no more than six square feet in area; may be displayed at any time. However, during the period of time beginning 60 days before a general, special, primary or runoff election, and ending 15 days after such election, the amount of display area may be doubled. Flags do not count toward the signage allowed under this provision. This display area allowance is in addition to that allowed under the message substitution policy.

6.

Protected non-commercial political and free speech signs on commercial, business, industrial and manufacturing uses. On commercial, business, industrial, and manufacturing uses, non-illuminated temporary signs displaying protected non-commercial messages, maximum six feet in height, totaling no more than 25 square feet in area; may be displayed at any time. However, during the period of time beginning 60 days before a general, special, primary, or runoff election, and ending 15 days after such election, the amount of display area may be doubled. Flags do not count toward the signage allowed under this provision. This display area allowance is in addition to that allowed under the message substitution policy.

(Ord. 7717, § 8, 2025; Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 7184 §2, 2012; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

Permits generally required. Unless a particular type of sign is specifically exempted from the permit requirement, by a provision of this chapter or other applicable law, no person shall erect, change or replace any sign allowed by the provisions of this chapter without first having obtained the necessary permits.

1.

A permit is required whenever there is a proposed change to the lighting, supports, structure or mounting device of a sign that requires approval of a permit under the California Building Code.

2.

When a sign requires design review pursuant to Section 19.710.020 of the Zoning Ordinance or a Certificate of Appropriateness under Chapter 20.25 of the Municipal Code, those approvals must be obtained before a sign permit application will be issued.

B.

Sign permit process. The application for a sign permit shall be made in writing on a form provided by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee and shall be accompanied by any fee established by City Council resolution. The Director of Community & Economic Development or his/her designee shall create a standard form to be used as an application for a sign permit; when approved, the application shall constitute the permit. A single application may be used for multiple signs proposed for the same lot, parcel or use; however, decisions and conditions may pertain to individual signs. Sign application requirements shall be established by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee as necessary to review sign proposals for compliance with the provisions of this chapter. Sign permit applications shall include plans, drawings, and other documentation as specified on a form approved by the Director of Community & Economic Development or his/her designee.

C.

Community & Economic Development Director, Planning Commission or Cultural Heritage Board Approval. When approval of a sign permit or a Certificate of Appropriateness is required, the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee, Planning Commission and the Cultural Heritage Board shall base their decisions upon the standards and requirements of this chapter and Title 20 respectively as applied to the structural and locational aspects of the signs. The decision-making authority shall also review signs for consistency with the Citywide Sign Design Guidelines.

1.

The Guidelines are intended to provide examples of techniques and approaches that applicants can use to meet the City's expectations for signs for nonresidential uses but are not intended to illustrate all approaches that may be appropriate on a specific site. Where any inconsistency between the requirements of this chapter or the Zoning Ordinance is perceived, the requirements of this chapter and the Zoning Ordinance shall prevail.

2.

The Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee, Planning Commission, or Cultural Heritage Board may approve a deviation from the sign area and height standards of this chapter so long as the total sign area or total height for any individual type of sign does not exceed the sign area and height standards by more than ten percent.

a.

The request for modification shall be reviewed and decided in the same manner and at the same time as the approval of the associated sign permit, sign program or Certificate of Appropriateness.

b.

In order to approve a modification as provided for in this section, the Approval Authority must make the following finding in addition to any other findings that this chapter requires for the association application:

i.

The proposed modification is consistent with the purposes of this chapter;

ii.

There are unique physical circumstances related to the shape, dimensions, or topography of the property on which the sign is located that make the modification necessary in order to ensure that the sign is visible from the adjacent right-of-way;

iii.

The proposed modification will not be detrimental to the health, safety, and general welfare of the public or injurious to the environment or to the property or improvements in the surrounding area;

iv.

The proposed modification is consistent with the design principles in Section 19.620.060.

D.

Conditions of approval. A sign permit application may be approved subject to any of the following conditions, as applicable:

1.

Compliance with other legal requirements, including encroachment, building, electrical, plumbing, demolition, mechanical, etc. When such other approvals are necessary, they must be obtained before the sign permit application will be granted.

2.

Remedy for outstanding zoning violations: if the sign is proposed to be located on a property on which there is a zoning violation, then the sign permit may be issued upon condition that the violation is remedied before the sign is constructed, or simultaneously therewith.

E.

Processing of permit applications. All sign permits applications shall be initially reviewed by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee. When a permit application complies with this chapter and all other applicable standards and requirements, the application shall be granted. An application may be approved subject to such conditions as are necessary for full compliance with this chapter and all other applicable laws, rules and regulations.

1.

Reference to Cultural Heritage Board. When a sign is proposed to be located in a historic district or on a property designated for historic preservation, the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee shall refer the permit application to the Cultural Heritage Board for review and action pursuant to Section TBD of this chapter.

2.

Notice of incompleteness. The Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee shall initially review a sign permit application for completeness. If the application is not complete, the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee shall give written notice of the deficiencies within 15 business days following submission of the application; if no notice of incompleteness is given within such time, then the application shall be deemed complete as of the last day on which notice of completeness could have been given. If a notice of incompleteness is given, the applicant shall have 15 business days thereafter to file a corrected and complete application, without payment of additional fee.

F.

Time for decision. Unless the applicant submits a written request for a time waiver, or consents to a time waiver, the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee shall issue a written decision on a sign permit application within 45 business days of when the application is deemed complete. Failure to issue such a decision in a timely manner shall be deemed a denial of the application, and create an immediate right of appeal to the Planning Commission. In cases where the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee refers the permit application to the Cultural Heritage Board, then the time for decision shall be according to the time limits prescribed for hearings and approvals in Title 20 of the RMC.

G.

Permits issued in error. In the event that a sign permit is issued, and the issuance is found to be in error at any time before substantial physical work on actual construction has been accomplished, then the permit may be summarily revoked by the City simply by giving notice to the permittee; such notice shall specify the grounds for revocation. In such event, the applicant may reapply within 30 calendar days for a new permit, without paying a new application fee.

H.

Fees for signs constructed without a permit. Where work for which a permit is required by this chapter is performed prior to obtaining such permit, the following late permit fees shall apply. The permit fees shall be computed based upon the date on which application is made for a sign permit, design review approval or Certificate of Appropriateness, or a variance, whichever process is first necessary to obtain a sign permit:

1.

When application is made within 30 days after first notice has been given of the violation, the permit fee shall be two times the established permit fee.

2.

When application is made between 31 and 45 days after first notice has been given of the violation, the permit fee shall be four times the established permit fee.

3.

When application is made over 45 days after first notice has been given of the violation, the permit fee shall be ten times the established permit fee.

4.

After an application submittal for a sign permit, design review approval or Certificate of Appropriateness, or variance, additional time limits may be established for the securing of permits and completion of any additional sign work that may be required. If such time limits are not adhered to, the amount of time by which the deadline(s) is (are) missed shall be added to the time periods noted above for the purpose of establishing the final permit fee.

5.

In no case shall a late permit fee be assessed in excess of $1,000.00.

I.

Site approval cards. A site approval card will be issued for each sign for which a sign permit is issued. Each sticker is applicable to only one sign and for only the location specified in the permit. The sticker is not transferable from one sign to another; however, the sticker is transferable to a new owner or lessee. Stickers must be maintained in a legible state.

J.

Sign contractors.

1.

Responsibility for securing permits. It shall be the duty of the contractor or person, who erects, installs, paints, constructs or alters a sign to secure all necessary permits for such work. It shall be the responsibility of the property owner and/or lessee to assure that the contractor is properly licensed and bonded, and that the contractor secures all necessary permits. No sign contractor shall install a sign for which a permit is required unless such permit has been duly issued before construction work begins. A sign permit shall not be issued unless the sign contractor's name and contact information appears on the permit application.

2.

Identification label. All signs installed by sign contractors have attached to them an identification label, not exceeding four square inches in size, listing the following information: name of sign contractor, City permit number, electrical current, month and year erected.

3.

Violations by sign contractors. Wherever a sign violation has occurred, it shall be the duty of the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee to determine which sign contractor, if any, performed the sign work. The following procedure shall be followed in pursuing sign contractors installing signs for which a valid permit has not first been secured, or in violation of permit terms and conditions:

a.

First violation. A letter shall be sent by certified mail to the sign contractor setting forth the City's requirements for sign permits and indicating that future violations will result in a complaint being filed with the Contractors' State License Board and/or legal action being taken against said contractor.

b.

Second violation. A complaint shall be filed with the Contractors' State License Board and a copy of such complaint shall be sent to the sign contractor with a letter indicating that legal action may be taken if further violations occur. All correspondence shall be by certified mail.

c.

Third and subsequent violations. Legal action may be taken against the contractor, using any method authorized by law.

K.

Creative Sign Permit.

1.

Purpose. This section establishes standards and procedures for the review and approval of Creative Sign Permits. The purposes of a Creative Sign Permit are to:

a.

Encourage signs of unique design that exhibit a high degree of imagination, inventiveness, creativity and thoughtfulness; and

b.

Provide a process for the flexible application of sign regulations in ways that will allow creatively designed signs.

2.

Applicability. An applicant may request approval of a Creative Sign Permit for signs in Commercial, Mixed-Use, and Industrial Zones in order to allow a design approach that differs from the provisions of this Chapter but comply with the purpose and findings of this Section.

3.

Application Requirements. A Creative Sign Permit application and fee shall be submitted in accordance with Chapter 19.660 General Application Processing Procedures.

4.

Approval Authority. An application for a Creative Sign Permit shall be subject to review and approval by the Community & Economic Development Department Director or designee pursuant Chapter 19.650 - Approving and Appeal Authority.

5.

Findings. In approving an application for a Creative Sign Permit, the Community and Economic Development Director or designee shall ensure that the proposed sign meets the following design criteria:

a.

Design Quality. The sign shall:

i.

Constitute a substantial aesthetic improvement to the site and shall have a positive visual impact on the surrounding area;

ii.

Be of unique design, and exhibit a high degree of imagination, inventiveness, spirit, and thoughtfulness;

iii.

Provide strong graphic character through the imaginative use of color, graphics, proportion, quality materials, scale, and texture; and.

iv.

Utilize creative illumination and dimensional lettering techniques. Examples include but are not limited to combinations of lighting and lettering techniques such as exposed neon, halo lighting, external decorative lighting, reverse pan channel letters, pin mounted letters, built up letters, and routed out letters.

b.

Contextual Criteria. The sign shall contain at least one of the following elements:

i.

Classic historic design style compatible with the historic character of the building or site;

ii.

Creative design reflecting current or historic character of the sign's surroundings; or

iii.

Inventive representation of the logo, name, or use of the building or site.

c.

Architectural Criteria. The sign shall:

i.

Utilize or enhance the architectural elements of the building or site; and

ii.

Be placed in a logical location in relation to the overall composition of the building's façade or site design.

d.

Impacts on surrounding uses. The sign shall be located and designed not to cause light and glare impacts on surrounding uses, especially residential uses.

(Ord. 7717, § 8, 2025; Ord. No. 7701, § 40, 2025; Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

Purpose. The purpose of a sign program is to provide a unified record of signs and to promote coordinated signage for all development subject to discretionary review. The sign program shall demonstrate how it:

1.

Improves the safety and welfare of the general public by minimizing distractions, hazards, and obstructions from sign design or placement;

2.

Provides for sign design or placement appropriate for the area;

3.

Incorporates sign design and placement related to architectural and landscape features on site;

4.

Incorporates sign design, scale, and placement oriented to pedestrian traffic; and,

5.

Incorporates sign design, scale, and placement oriented to vehicular traffic.

6.

Contributes to and maintains a consistent visual theme for the development.

B.

Applicability.

Sign program required. A sign program is required for multi-occupancy nonresidential or mixed-use developments with three or more separate lease spaces or establishments for which an application for a sign program was not deemed complete on the effective date of the adoption of this section. A sign program may be required for any existing nonresidential or mixed-use development with three or more separate lease spaces or establishments for which an application for renovation has been submitted after the effective date of this chapter. The Community & Economic Development Department Director, or his/her designee, may require that a renovation project be subject to sign program to ensure that signage is designed to maintain a consistent visual theme coordinated with the design of the development.

C.

General requirements.

1.

The lot or lots involved must be contiguous and constitute a single cohesive development, and all signs to which the program applies shall be contained within the development.

2.

All signs must be designed to conform to the Design Principles in Section 19.620.060 of this chapter and the Citywide Design Guidelines for Signs.

3.

All signs shall comply with the requirements of this chapter regarding the maximum number of signs based on road frontage, maximum sign area, illumination, and materials. Deviations from sign design standards shall only be permitted pursuant to Section 19.620.110.H of this chapter.

D.

Required submittals. Applications for a sign program shall include all plans, drawings and other documentation specified in requirements issued by the Director of Community & Economic Development or his/her designee. Sign programs shall be processed pursuant to Section 19.620.100.

E.

Findings. The Community & Economic Development Department Director, or his/her designee, or the Planning Commission as required by this chapter will only approve a sign program if the following findings are made:

1.

That the proposed signs are in harmony and visually related to:

a.

Other signs included in the sign program. This shall be accomplished by incorporating several common design elements such as materials, letter style, colors, illumination, sign type or sign shape.

b.

The buildings they identify. This may be accomplished by utilizing materials, colors or design motifs included in the building being identified.

c.

The surrounding development. Approval of a planned sign program shall not adversely affect surrounding land uses or obscure adjacent conforming signs.

2.

That the sign program provides adequate guidance to business owners and sign contractors to ensure conformance with the Design Principles in Section 19.620.060 of this chapter and the Citywide Design Guidelines for Signs

3.

That the sign program ensures that future signs will comply with all provision of this chapter, including development standards, such as but not limited to, number of signs, location of signs and sign size, as well as any approvals granting deviating from the sign standards.

F.

Phased developments. Application for a sign program for a phased development must be submitted prior to issuance of any building permits for a first phase of development and approved prior to building occupancy for the first phase of development. Where the initial sign program for a first phase of development does not address future phases of development, an application for amendments to the initial sign program must be submitted prior to issuance of any building permits for subsequent phases and approved prior to building occupancy of each phase for which the sign program is amended.

G.

Addition, removal, replacement or modification of signs within a previously approved sign program. On a development site subject to Section 19.620.100 B, the following shall apply:

1.

Whenever the total number of signs to be added, removed, modified or replaced totals less than 25 percent of the number of permitted signs presently on the site, the signs shall be reviewed pursuant to the existing sign program. If the site does not have an approved sign program, then each individual sign shall be reviewed pursuant to the standards of this chapter.

2.

When the total number of signs to be added, removed, modified or replaced totals 25 percent or more of the number of permitted signs presently on the site, a standard sign program application shall be required and all signs shall comply with the development standards of this chapter.

3.

Sign designs may be approved without a Planning Division sign application or further Planning Division design review if the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee determines that the design complies in all respects with an approved sign program. This authorization shall not relieve applicants from obtaining other necessary permits or approvals, including but not limited to temporary sign permits, building permits and encroachment permits.

H.

Sign program standards. Sign programs provide a comprehensive approach to design that considers a site's unique shape, topography, surrounding conditions and building architecture. As a comprehensive document, adjustments in sign standards may be appropriate to facilitate coherent messaging while not impacting the community. In recognition of the benefits of a cohesive, well thought out sign program, the following modifications of this chapter's development standards may be granted as part of a new sign program:

1.

Signage on building facades by establishments that do not have frontage on that building façade.

2.

Increase in allowable sign area for an individual sign(s) by up to 15 percent. Where there are circumstances for a sign modification, and where findings to support a sign modification can be made pursuant to the Section 19.620.100. Procedures for sign review and approval an additional ten percent increase (25 percent total) may be granted by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee.

3.

Allows the transfer of sign area limits from underutilized sign areas to areas that are more practical, through the use of a "sign budget". The sign budget would equal the total allowable sign area of all signs in the development that are of a similar type (building, monument, pilaster, directional, freeway, etc.), as defined by Chapter 19.910.

(Ord. 7717, § 9, 2025; Ord. 7552 §22, 2021; Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 7184 §3, 2012; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

Purpose and intent. These regulations are intended to further the City's historic preservation efforts by providing for the preservation and restoration of historic and iconic signs and establishment of new signs that reflect the architectural and historic character and identity of designated historic buildings and historic districts in a manner that is consistent with the purposes of this chapter.

1.

In adopting the provisions in this section, the City Council intends to allow the construction and installation of signs that, while not in compliance with sign regulations elsewhere in this chapter, would be in character with the building on which or district within which it is proposed to be located.

2.

While encouraging the maintenance and restoration of historic signage, it is not the intent of these regulations to require all signs on a designated historic building to be exact replicas of the signs that would have been on the building when it was new.

B.

Responsibilities. All decisions regarding appropriate sign types and applications shall be made in accordance with Title 20 of the Municipal Code. Any appeal of the decision shall be in accordance with Title 20 of the Municipal Code.

C.

Signs for designated historic resources (structures of merit or landmarks) and contributors to designated historic districts.

1.

Projecting signs, vehicle oriented. In lieu of a permitted building sign, a double faced projecting sign may be installed, provided such sign does not exceed the size allowance for the building sign it replaces, such sign does not project more than 48 inches from the building face, is attached with rigid supports in a manner acceptable to the Building and Safety Division, and the lowermost portion of the sign is located no less than eight feet or more than ten feet above grade level below the sign.

2.

Projecting signs, pedestrian oriented. In lieu of a permitted under canopy sign, a maximum four square foot projecting sign may be installed. Such sign shall project no more than 30 inches from the building face, be attached with rigid supports in a manner acceptable to the Building and Safety Division, and the lowermost portion of the sign shall be no less than eight feet or more than ten feet above grade level below the sign.

3.

Roof signs. In lieu of permitted freestanding signs pursuant to Section 19.620.080 or vehicle oriented projecting signs allowed by sub-section 1, the Board may approve a roof sign where documented evidence can be established for the presence of a roof sign within the period of significance of a building that is a designated structure of merit or landmark or a building that is a contributor to a designated historic district. Such roof sign may be replicated in its original historic size, shape, like-appearing materials, and placement to identify a current use in the building.

D.

Certificate of Appropriateness. Any sign governed by this section shall:

1.

Be designed to have the appearance of a historic sign appropriate to the building and/or period of significance of the Historic District.

2.

Comply with current structural and electrical regulations.

3.

Be subject to review and approval per the standards, criteria, and procedures of Title 20 of the Municipal Code.

E.

Sign lighting. Lighting shall be in accordance with historically appropriate lighting types. This includes but is not limited to neon, individual incandescent bulbs, and overhead goose-neck lighting, subject to compliance with current electrical codes.

F.

Encroachments into the public right-of-way. Any sign that would encroach into the public right-of-way shall first obtain an encroachment permit from the Public Works Department. See RMC Section 10.16.040 regarding unauthorized signs in the right-of-way.

G.

Procedures. In considering the matter, the Historic Preservation Officer or Qualified Designee (HPO) or the Cultural Heritage Board may not approve any sign for the display of off-site commercial messages, and may not consider the message content of any non-commercial message. As to on-site commercial messages, the HPO or Board may not consider the message itself, but may consider whether the manner of presentation is visually consistent with the historical time and theme of the location. Whether the sign is proposed to be used for on-site commercial or noncommercial messages, the HPO or Board may consider the architectural and structural aspects for consistency and harmony with the historical theme and time of the proposed location. Unless time is waived by the applicant, the HPO or Board shall decide the issue within the time frames specified in Title 20 of the Municipal Code.

(Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

Any sign lawfully erected and maintained prior to the effective date of this ordinance, but which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter, or because of a zone change after the effective date of this chapter affecting the property upon which the sign is located ceases to comply with the applicable zone district regulations, is a nonconforming sign. The purpose of the regulations in this section is to limit the number and extent of nonconforming signage by prohibiting alteration or enlargement of such signage so as to increase the discrepancy between their condition and the standards and requirements of this chapter.

A.

Continuance and maintenance. Nonconforming signs that were legal when first installed, and which have not been modified so as to become illegal, may be continued, except as otherwise provided in this section.

1.

Reasonable and routine maintenance and repairs may be performed on signs that are nonconforming provided there is no expansion of any nonconformity with the current requirements of this chapter.

2.

A sign that did not conform to law existing at the time of its erection shall be deemed an illegal sign and shall not be a nonconforming sign. The passage of time does not cure illegality from the outset. Pursuant to the applicable requirements of State law, the City may require that an illegal sign be removed or be replaced by a conforming sign.

3.

A sign is subject to the standard procedures for abatement of nuisance if it is found to be unsafe because the structure creates an immediate hazard to persons or property.

B.

Alterations and additions to nonconforming signs. No nonconforming sign shall be moved, altered, or enlarged unless required by law or unless the moving, alteration or enlargement will result in the elimination or substantial reduction of the sign's nonconforming features.

C.

Amortization.

1.

Abandonment of nonconforming sign. Whenever a nonconforming sign has been abandoned, or the use of the property has been discontinued for a continuous period of 90 days, the nonconforming sign shall be removed as provided for in State law and Section 19.620.140, Enforcement, of this chapter.

2.

Damage to or destruction of nonconforming sign. Whenever a non-conforming sign is damaged by any cause other than intentional vandalism and repair of the damage would not exceed 50 percent of the replacement cost based on an independent professional appraisal, the sign may be restored and the non-conforming use of the sign may be resumed, provided that restoration is started within one year and diligently pursued to completion.

a.

Whenever a nonconforming sign is destroyed by any cause other than intentional vandalism and repair of the damage would exceed 50 percent of the reproduction cost based on an independent appraisal, such sign may be only be restored, reconstructed, altered or repaired in conformance with the provisions of this chapter.

b.

The extent of damage or partial destruction shall be based upon the ratio of the estimated cost of restoring the sign to its condition prior to such damage or partial destruction, to the estimated cost of duplicating the entire sign, as it existed prior to the damage or destruction.

c.

Estimates for this purpose shall be made or shall be reviewed and approved by the Community and Economic Director or his/her designee.

3.

Change in use or occupancy. Whenever there is a change in use or occupancy in a tenant space or property on which there is a nonconforming sign(s), the nonconforming sign(s) shall be removed or brought into compliance with the provisions of this chapter prior to the start of operations.

4.

Historic signs. Signs associated with designated historic or cultural resources, or eligible for historic or cultural resource designation as determined by the Historic Preservation Officer, shall be exempt from this section.

D.

Signs rendered nonconforming by annexation. Any sign that becomes non-conforming subsequent to the effective date of this section by reason of annexation to the City of the site upon which the sign is located, shall be subject to the provisions of this section.

(Ord. 7717, § 10, 2025; Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

The Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee may enforce the provisions of this chapter by appropriate permit decisions, orders and directives. Such decisions, orders and directives may include, but are not limited to, orders to get a permit or to comply with permit conditions, orders to remove, repair, upgrade, repaint, replace or relocate any sign. All such decision, orders and directives are subject to appeal as provided in this chapter. Any failure to follow a valid order or directive issued by the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee shall be deemed a violation of this chapter and may be remedied in the same manner as any violation of Title 19 (Zoning) of the Riverside City Municipal Code. Notice of all decisions, orders and directives shall be deemed given when mailed to the last known address of the responsible party or parties.

A.

Responsible parties. Sign related rights, duties and responsibilities are joint and several as to the owner of the property, the owner of any business or other establishment located on the property, and the owner of the sign. Any repair, painting, alteration, or removal will be at the expense of the property owner or business owner as applicable.

B.

Abandoned signs. Any on-site commercial sign associated with a business that has ceased operations for 90 days may be deemed an abandoned sign, and may be ordered removed within ten business days. The removal duty falls jointly and severally upon the party which used the sign as part of the business and the owner of the land on which the sign is mounted or displayed.

C.

Unremedied violations as public nuisance. When the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee has given a notice of decision, order or directive regarding a sign or sign permit, and any noticed deficiency remains uncured 30 calendar days after the notice has been mailed, the City may enforce any violation and seek any remedy authorized by law, including but not limited to those methods available for any violation of the City's zoning laws, general laws, state or federal law, whether by administrative proceedings, a criminal action, and/or a civil lawsuit for abatement of nuisance (which may include requests for declaratory and injunctive relief), or abatement or removal by the City at the cost of the responsible parties, reimbursement for which may be secured by a lien recorded against the property. In any civil court action the prevailing party shall be entitled to an award of costs and reasonable attorneys' fees.

D.

Removal by City: Public hearing. In the event that the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee seeks a cure or remedy by removal of the subject sign by the City, then the responsible parties shall be given 30 calendar day notice of a public hearing before the City Council to determine if the subject sign is a public nuisance and if the City should remove it if the responsible parties fail to do so with 30 calendar days after the City Council decision, or any other corrective action the Council may consider. All responsible parties shall be given notice of such hearing by certified mail, prepaid postage, addressed to their last known address. At such hearing, all responsible parties shall be given an opportunity to be heard, to present evidence and argument, to challenge the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee's decision, and to be represented by counsel.

E.

Removal by City: Actual removal, redemption. If, following the public hearing, the Council authorizes removal of the subject sign by the City; said removal may take place at any time five or more calendar days following the hearing and decision. The City may remove the subject sign by its own force, or by a contracted agent. Any removed sign shall be stored by the City for at least 30 calendar days, during which time the City shall take all reasonable efforts to notify the sign owner that the sign is in the City's possession and may be redeemed by reimbursing the City for the cost of removal. If the sign owner fails to redeem the sign within 30 calendar days of the notice, then the City may dispose of the sign by any means it deems appropriate. If the sign is sold, then the net proceeds of such sale shall reduce the reimbursement owed to the City by the responsible parties.

F.

Remedy by City. In the event that a valid directive or order of the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee is not followed, and is not timely appealed, then the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee may give 30 calendar day written notice and opportunity to cure, to the responsible parties that the City shall take corrective action and assess the cost of doing so as a lien against the property, using such procedures as are required by state or local law. The Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee may grant a reasonable extension of time, not to exceed 120 calendar days to effect the required correction, if the owner or occupant of the premises has made proper application for a new sign which would accomplish the same result.

G.

Removal—Scope. If the option of removing a sign or signs is exercised, whether by private parties or by the City, said sign(s) shall be completely removed, including all poles, structures, electrical equipment, cabinets and sign faces. Building walls, grounds or other items on which such signs have been placed shall be restored to good repair and appearance.

(Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

The following words and phrases shall have the following meanings when used in this chapter. In the event of a conflict between the definitions in this section and in Article X, Definitions, of the Zoning Ordinance, the terms in this section shall apply.

A-frame sign means a portable upright, rigid, self-supporting frame sign in the form of a triangle or letter "A". Other variations of such signage may also be in the shape of the letter T (inverted) or the letter H.

Figure 19.620.150.A: A-Frame Sign

Abandoned sign means a sign remaining in place or not maintained for 90 days that does not provide direction for, advertise or identify a legally established and actually operating establishment, business, product, or service available on the establishment premises where the sign is located.

Advertising statuary means a statue or other three dimensional structure with a minimum dimension of at least six inches in the form of an object that identifies, advertises, or otherwise directs attention to a product or business but not including a three-dimensional sign that is affixed to a building.

Area of signs (sign area) means the area within the perimeter of one or two contiguous or overlapping rectangles of a size sufficient to enclose the outer limits of any writing, representation, emblem, logo, figure or character. Sign area does not include supporting structures such as sign bases and columns that contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags. (See Section 19.620.070.R, Calculation of Sign Area, for specific rules for measuring the area of different sign types.)

Area identification sign means a permanent sign that identifies a residential area, shopping district, industrial district, or any area identifiable area.

Awning sign means a sign affixed permanently to the outside surface of an awning.

Balloon. (See "inflatable sign").

Banner sign or banner means a sign made of fabric or any non-rigid material with no enclosing framework on which a message or image is painted or otherwise affixed.

Bench sign means a sign painted on or affixed to a bench or similar structure located in or near a public right-of-way, public transportation terminal, park, or other public property.

Blade sign means a double-sided sign oriented perpendicular to the building wall on which it is mounted. (See "projecting sign")

Billboard means a sign used for the purpose of general advertising for hire when some or all of the display area is used to display the messages of advertisers or sponsors other than the owner or an occupant of the property on whose property where the sign is located. Such signs are sometimes called outdoor advertising.

Building frontage. As used in this chapter, the linear measurement of exterior walls enclosing interior spaces which are oriented to and most nearly parallel to public streets, public alleys, parking lots, malls or freeways.

Building identification sign means a sign that contains the name and/or trademark and/or address of the building to which it is affixed or of the occupant located therein but does not include general advertising for hire.

Building sign means a sign with a single face of copy that is painted or otherwise marked on or attached to the face of a building wall, mansard roof or canopy fascia. Signs placed on a mansard roof are building signs if they do not extend above the roofline or top of the parapet of the main building wall to which the mansard roof is attached.

Bunting. (See "pennant")

Business sign means a sign that directs attention to the principal establishment, business, profession, activity or industry located on the premises where the sign is displayed, to type of products sold, manufactured or assembled, or to services or entertainment offered on such premises.

Cabinet sign means an internally illuminated sign consisting of frame and face(s), with a continuous translucent message panel; also referred to as a panel sign.

Canopy sign means a sign attached to a fixed overhead shelter used as a roof, which may or may not be attached to a building.

Changeable copy sign means a sign displaying a message that is changed by means of moveable letters, slats, lights, light emitting diodes, or moveable background material. "Digital signs," "dynamic signs," and CEVMS (changeable electronic variable message signs) are all within this definition.

Channel letters means three-dimensional individual letters or figures typically made of formed metal, usually with an acrylic face, with an open back or front, illuminated or non-illuminated, that are affixed to a building or to a freestanding sign structure by sliding the letters into channels.

Channel letter sign means a sign with multiple components, each built in the shape of an individual dimensional letter or symbol, each of which may be independently illuminated, with a separate translucent panel over the letter source for each element.

City means the City of Riverside California.

Civic organization sign means a sign which contains the names of, or any other information regarding civic, fraternal, eleemosynary or religious organizations located within an unincorporated community or city, but which contains no other advertising matter.

Commercial complex means Section 19.910 of the Zoning Ordinance.

Commercial mascot means a person or animal costumed or decorated to function as a commercial advertising device. Includes "sign twirlers", "sign clowns", "human sandwich boards", and persons or animals holding or supporting any sign or advertising device displaying commercial speech or conveying a commercial message. The definition also applies to robotic devices intended to simulate a live person and/or animal.

Commercial speech or commercial message means an image on a sign that concerns primarily the economic interests of the message sponsor or the viewing audience, or both, or that proposes a commercial transaction.

Consistent means free from variation or contradiction.

Construction sign means a temporary sign that describes a planned future development project on a property in words and/or drawings.

Copy means the visually communicative elements mounted on a sign. Also called sign copy.

Digital display means a display method utilizing LED (light emitting diode), LCD (liquid crystal display), plasma display, projected images, or any functionally equivalent technology, and which is capable of automated, remote or computer control to change the image, either in a "slide show" manner (series of still images), or full motion animation, or any combination of them.

Directional sign means an exterior on-site sign that directs or guides pedestrian or vehicular traffic and which does not include general advertising for hire but may direct persons to specific parts of the establishment that have separate exterior entrances. Examples include handicapped parking, one-way, exit, entrance, rest rooms, emergency room, garage, and such similar functions.

Directory sign means a freestanding or wall sign that identifies all businesses and other establishments located within a commercial or industrial complex or an institutional establishment.

Electronic message center sign (electronic message display) means a sign that uses digital display to present variable message displays by projecting an electronically controlled pattern and which can be programmed to periodically change the message display. See "digital display."

Figure 19.620.150.B: Electronic Message Center Sign

Establishment means any legal use of land, other than long-term residential, which involves the use of structures subject to the Building Code. By way of example and not limitation, this definition includes businesses, factories, farms, schools, hospitals, hotels and motels, offices and libraries, but does not include single-family homes, mobile homes, residential apartments, residential care facilities, or residential condominiums. Multi-unit housing developments are considered establishments during the time of construction; individual units are not within the meaning of establishment once a certificate of occupancy has been issued or once a full-time residency begins.

Externally illuminated sign means any sign that is lit by a light source that is external to the sign directed towards and shining on the face of the sign.

Feather banner means a type of vertical banner made of flexible materials, (e.g., cloth, paper, or plastic), the longer dimension of which is typically attached to a pole or rod that is driven into the ground or supported by an individual stand. Also called a "swooper" or "teardrop" banner. Also known as quill signs or quill banners.

Figure 19.620.150.C: Feather Banner

Flag means a piece of fabric or other flexible material, usually rectangular, of distinctive design, used as a symbol, which is capable of movement, or fluttering in moving air or wind.

Flashing or scintillating sign means a sign which, by method or manner of construction or illumination, flashes on or off, winks or blinks with varying light intensity, shows motion or creates the illusion of motion, or revolves to create the illusion of being on or off. This definition does not include changeable copy signs with displays that change less frequently pursuant to the requirements of this chapter. See "changeable copy sign."

Freestanding sign means a sign supported by structures or supports that are placed on, or anchored in, the ground and which are structurally independent from any building including "monument signs", "pole signs", "pylon signs" and "ground signs."

Freeway-oriented sign means a freestanding sign that orients primarily to the traveling public using a freeway or expressway, and installed for the purpose of identifying major business locations within certain commercial zoning districts in close proximity to a freeway or expressway.

Fuel pricing sign means a sign that indicates, and limited to, the brand or trade name, method of sale, grade designation and price per gallon of gasoline or other motor vehicle fuel offered for sale on the business premises, and such other information as may be required by county ordinance or state law, such as California Business and Professions Code section 13530 et seq..

General advertising for hire means the enterprise of advertising or promoting other businesses, establishments or causes using methods of advertising, typically for a fee or other consideration, in contrast to self-promotion or on-site advertising.

Ground sign means a sign that is permanently supported upon the ground by poles or braces and is not attached to any building or other structure. These may include freestanding pole signs and movement signs. See freestanding sign.

Hanging sign. See "shingle sign."

Illuminated sign means a sign that is illuminated with an artificial source of light incorporated internally or externally.

Industrial complex. See Section 19.910 of the Zoning Ordinance.

Inflatable sign means a balloon or other inflatable device (e.g., shaped as an animal, blimp, or other object) that is displayed, printed, or painted on the surface of an inflatable background.

Interpretive historic sign means a sign located within a historic district or a designated historic street right-of-way as approved by the Cultural Heritage Board in accordance with adopted design guidelines for this type of sign. Also known as "historic sign".

Lighted sign means a sign that is illuminated by any artificial light source, whether internal, external or indirect.

Major street frontage means the major street frontage from which the majority of the pedestrian or vehicular traffic is drawn or toward which the building or buildings are oriented for primary visual impact. See building frontage and secondary frontage.

Mansard sign means a sign attached below the deck line or principal roofline of a mansard roof or similar roof-like façade.

Figure 19.620.150.D: Mansard Sign

Marquee sign means a sign that advertises an event, performance, service, seminar, conference, or show, and displayed on a permanent roof-like structure or canopy made of rigid materials supported by and extending from the facade of a building.

Figure 19.620.150.E: Marquee Sign

Mobile sign means any sign carried or conveyed by a vehicle.

Monument sign means a low-profile freestanding sign erected upon or supported solely by a planter, pedestal base, or similar ground structure approximately the same width as the sign and which is designed to incorporate the architectural theme and building material of the building on the premises. Internal supports, poles or pylons, if any, are enclosed by decorative covers or otherwise not exposed to view.

Moving image sign (animated sign) means a sign or any portion thereof on which the communicative image rotates, moves, or appears to move in some manner, whether by mechanical, electrical, natural, air activation or other means.

Mural means a work of graphic art on an exterior building wall that may or may not contain a commercial logo or trademark but does not serve to advertise or promote any business, product, activity, service, interest, or entertainment and is not general advertising for hire.

Neon sign means a sign comprised partially or entirely of exposed small diameter tubing that is internally illuminated by neon, argon or other fluorescing gas.

Non-commercial message means a message or image on a sign that directs public attention to or advocates an idea or issue of public interest or concern but is not advertising for hire and or does not promote any business, product, activity, service, interest, or entertainment.

Off-site sign means a sign that advertises commercial products, accommodations, services or activities not provided in or on the property or premises upon which it is located. The on-site/off-site distinction does not apply to non-commercial messages.

On-site sign (also: on-premises sign) means a sign that advertises the commercial business, establishment, accommodation, services or activities provided on the premises on which the sign is located, or is expected to be provided in the near future [i.e., "coming soon" movie posters]. All establishments within a shopping center are on-site as to any sign(s) also located within that shopping center. Where such center is subject to master sign program, all establishments subject to the program are considered on-site whenever located within any location subject to the program. As to construction site signs, "on-site" includes all parties involved in the specific construction project.

Pedestrian Mall. See Section 19.910 of the Zoning Ordinance.

Pennant means a device made of flexible materials, (e.g., cloth, paper, or plastic) that is typically triangular or swallow-tail in shape, may or may not contain copy, and which is installed for the purpose of attracting attention. Does not include pennants used for watercraft signaling purposes. For the purposes of this chapter, bunting a form of banner or pennant that is typically presented and displayed in a folded or gathered fashion or combination is considered a pennant.

Permanent sign means a sign that is solidly attached to a building, structure, or the ground by means of mounting brackets, bolts, welds, or other combination of attachment methods, thereby rendering the sign non-moveable or difficult to reposition without the use of machinery, cutting devices, or mechanical devices. Contrast: temporary sign.

Placard means a poster or similar sign for public display.

Pole sign means a freestanding sign that is supported by one or more exposed poles that are permanently attached directly into or upon the ground.

Political sign means a sign that advertises a political candidate, a political party, or a political issue including but not limited to a local, state or national election. See "non-commercial message."

Portable sign means a freestanding sign that is not permanently affixed, anchored or secured to either the ground or a structure on the property it occupies.

Projecting sign means a building wall sign, the surface of which is not parallel to the face of the supporting wall and which is supported wholly by the wall. See "blade sign."

Projected sign means a visible image, intended to be communicative, that is created by projecting light onto a solid surface, whether by means of drones or search light or other light projecting device.

Public transportation sign means a sign that is placed on a structure, such as a bench or shelter, located on a public alley, road, street, parkway or highway, for the purpose of facilitating the use of public transportation and promote the safety, comfort and convenience of public transit patrons. Includes signs on bus shelters and bus benches.

Pylon sign means a freestanding sign that is supported and in direct contact with the ground or one or more solid, monumental structures or pylons and which typically has a sign face with a vertical dimension that is greater than its horizontal dimension.

Figure 19.620.150.F: Pylon Sign

Real estate sign means a temporary sign that advertises the sale, lease or rental of the property but not including signs on establishments offering transient occupancy such as hotels, motels, and inns.

Revolving sign means a sign or any portion thereof, which rotates, moves or appears to move in some manner by mechanical, electrical, natural or other means. Includes "tri-vision" signs with rotating triangular prisms.

Roof sign means any sign supported by or attached to or projecting through the roof of a building or structure, or projecting above the eave line or parapet wall of the building or structure. Roof sign shall not include a sign attached to a mansard roof pursuant to the definitions of building sign and mansard roof or a vertical sign as defined in this section.

Secondary street frontage means any street frontage other than a major street frontage.

Shingle sign means a sign that hangs from a canopy or awning or from the roof of an arcade or passageway.

Sign face means an exterior display surface of a sign including non-structural trim exclusive of the supporting structure. The area of a sign that is available for mounting and public display of the visually communicative image.

Sign spandrel means a sign or group of signs located between or extending from the supporting columns of a canopy structure.

Subdivision entry sign means a temporary sign which provides necessary travel directions to and within a subdivision offered for initial sale or lease, but which contains no other advertising matter.

Temporary sign means a sign or advertising display constructed of fabric, cardboard, plywood or other light material, with or without a frame that is designed or intended to be displayed for a short period of time. Temporary signs do not include permitted portable signs such as A-frame signs that are required to be removed when an establishment is not open.

Tenant sign means a sign that identifies a tenant, occupant, or establishment whether residential or commercial and provides no other advertisements or product identification.

Traffic sign means a sign for traffic direction, warning, and roadway identification. Includes signs displaying traffic rules, such as "one way" and "speed limit".

Under-canopy or under-marquee sign. See "shingle sign."

Vehicle display sign means a sign mounted, attached, affixed or painted on a vehicle, trailer or similar conveyance parked on public or private property that serves to promote any business, product, activity, service, interest or entertainment for the purpose of general advertising for hire on the property where the vehicle is located.

Wall sign (or wall-mounted sign) means a sign affixed to and wholly supported by a building in such a manner that its exposed face is approximately parallel to the plane of such building and is not projecting more than 18 inches from the building face or from a permanent roofed structure projecting there from.

Way-finding sign means a sign that is designed and located to provide orientation and direction to a destination or destinations within a specific geographic area or commercial or institutional complex.

Window sign means a sign with a single face of copy that is painted or installed on a glass window or door or located within 24 inches from inside the window in a manner that it can be viewed from the exterior of a structure.

(Ord. 7717, § 11, 2025; Ord. 7331 §96, 2016; Ord. 7300 §2, 2015; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

The policies and principles stated in this chapter apply to all billboards within the regulatory scope of this chapter. These policies are to prevail over any other provision to the contrary, even if more specific.

(Ord. 7331 §97, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

The City completely prohibits the construction, erection or use of any billboards, other than those which legally exist in the City, or for which a valid permit has been issued and has not expired, as of the date on which this provision is first adopted. No permit shall be issued for any billboard which violates this policy, and the City will take immediate abatement action against any billboard constructed or maintained in violation of this policy. In adopting this provision, the City Council affirmatively declares that it would have adopted this billboard policy even if it were the only provision in this chapter.

The City Council intends for this billboard policy to be severable and separately enforceable even if other provision(s) of this chapter may be declared, by a court of competent jurisdiction, to be unconstitutional, invalid or unenforceable. This provision does not prohibit agreements to relocate presently existing, legal billboards.

(Ord. 7331 §97, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

The Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee shall have the authority to administratively approve the issuance of a permit for the relocation of an existing billboard, subject to design review, which meets all of the following requirements:

1.

The billboard was legally permitted by the County of Riverside or otherwise had legal non-conforming status with the County;

2.

The parcel on which the billboard is located was subsequently annexed to the City of Riverside;

3.

The City has required the relocation of the existing billboard;

4.

The sign will be relocated on the same parcel or property it was originally located;

5.

The size of the new or relocated billboard will not exceed the size, area, height, length, width, shape and number of sides or faces of the existing billboard;

6.

The new or relocated billboard will constitute an improvement in the aesthetic appearance of the original billboard structure;

7.

All proposed lighting for the new or relocated billboard shall be the same or similar to the lighting of the original billboard and, in any case, the new sign will not utilize display technology which creates a moving or changing image, of the illusion thereof; and

8.

All costs associated with the relocation and installation of the new or relocated billboard will be borne solely by the billboard owner or applicant. If a new structure is to be built, it must comply with all applicable Building Code and safety requirements.

(Ord. 7331 §97, 2016; Ord. 6987 §1, 2008)

If any section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion or provision of this chapter is held invalid or, unconstitutional, or unenforceable, by any court of competent jurisdiction, such holding shall not affect, impair, or invalidate any other section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion, or provision of this chapter which can be given effect without the invalid portion. In adopting this chapter, the City Council affirmatively declares that it would have approved and adopted the Chapter even without any portion which may be held invalid or unenforceable.

(Ord. 7331 §97, 2016; Ord. 6987 §2, 2008; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

This division of the chapter states the City's policies for the placement of signs by private parties, or other governmental units, on land or other property owned or controlled by the City.

(Ord. 7331 §98, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

As it relates to the placing of signage on public property, the City declares its intent that all public property in the City shall not function as a designated public forum, unless some specific portion of public property is designated herein as a public forum of one particular type; in such case, the declaration as to public forum type shall apply strictly and only to the specified area and the specified time period, if any.

(Ord. 7331 §98, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

Except as expressly allowed by a provision of this chapter, or another provision of law, private parties may not display or post signs on public property or in the public right-of-way.

(Ord. 7331 §98, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

The following signs are exempted from the general ban: Traffic control and traffic directional signs erected by a governmental unit; official notices required by law; signs placed by the City.

(Ord. 7331 §98, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

In areas qualifying as traditional public forums, such as streets, parks and sidewalks, persons may display noncommercial message signs thereon, provided that their sign displayed on public property conforms to all of the following:

A.

The signs must be personally held by a person, or personally attended by one or more persons. "Personally attended" means that a person is physically present within 15 feet of the sign at all times.

B.

The maximum aggregate size of all signs held by a single person is 12 square feet.

C.

The maximum size of any one sign which is personally attended by two or more persons is 50 square feet.

D.

The displayed signs may not be inflatable or air-activated.

E.

In order to serve the City's interests in traffic flow and safety, persons displaying signs under this section may not stand in any vehicular traffic lane when a roadway is open for use by vehicles and persons displaying signs on public sidewalks must give clearance for pedestrians to pass by.

(Ord. 7331 §98, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

No temporary sign or banner shall extend over or into a street, alley, sidewalk or other public place except those signs placed by the City for the purpose of advertising civic events.

(Ord. 7331 §98, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

This section applies only in the pedestrian mall as defined in Article 10 (Definitions).

A.

One pedestrian mall sidewalk sign is allowed per ground floor lease space for food service businesses and museums subject to issuance of a sign permit and approval of the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee, including conformance with the following location and design criteria:

1.

Persons may display a noncommercial message on an A frame or similar portable sign, on the public sidewalk within the pedestrian mall, subject to:

a.

A person must be physically present within 15 feet of the sign at all times that it is on display;

b.

A pedestrian mall sidewalk sign may not exceed 12 square-feet in overall area, nor a maximum height or width of four feet; and

c.

A pedestrian mall sidewalk sign must be weighted so as not to be easily knocked down or blown over. Maintenance of the sign and any damage or injury caused by the sign is the responsibility of the business owner.

B.

Location criteria:

1.

A pedestrian mall sidewalk sign shall only be permitted as provided herein, within the limits of the downtown pedestrian mall as defined in Article 10 (Definitions).

2.

A pedestrian mall sidewalk sign shall be located in front of the business and extend no more than ten feet into the public right-of-way, and not closer than 35 feet from the curb face of any cross-street open to vehicular traffic.

3.

A pedestrian mall sidewalk sign shall not be located in a landscape planter, permanent seating area, or any location which may create an impediment to pedestrian, disabled, or emergency access.

C.

Design criteria:

1.

A pedestrian mall sidewalk sign may not exceed 12 square-feet in overall area, nor a maximum height or width of four feet. No more than 50 percent of the overall sign area may be used for changeable copy.

2.

A pedestrian mall sidewalk sign must be constructed of quality materials, such as smooth particle board or medium density plywood, which are sturdy and designed for paint.

3.

All visible surfaces of the sign shall be finished in a uniform or complimentary manner.

4.

Lettering and graphics shall be of a professional quality. Borders, artistic enhancements, and graphics reflecting the nature of the related business are encouraged.

5.

Balloons, banners, flags, lights, pinwheels, umbrellas, or other similar items, shall not be attached to, or made a part of, a pedestrian mall sidewalk sign.

6.

The Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee may refer the design of a pedestrian mall sidewalk sign to either the Cultural Heritage Board or the City Planning Commission for resolution of design related issues.

7.

A pedestrian mall sidewalk sign must be weighted so as not to be easily knocked down or blown over. Maintenance of the sign and any damage or injury caused by the sign is the responsibility of the business owner.

8.

A pedestrian mall sidewalk sign must be removed and placed indoors each day at the close of business.

9.

A pedestrian mall sidewalk sign may not be displayed until the required sign permit, including proof of insurance, has been obtained. A pedestrian mall sidewalk sign permit is required to be renewed annually at the beginning of each calendar year.

10.

Every permittee, at his/her sole cost and expense, and during the term of his/her permit or any renewal thereof, shall obtain and maintain liability insurance to the approval of the City's Risk Manager. Prior to the issuance of any permit, the applicant shall file and maintain with the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee a valid current policy or sufficient certificate evidencing the policy of liability insurance, covering use of the pedestrian mall sidewalk sign. The policy shall contain an endorsement naming the City as additional insured, shall provide that the City Risk Manager will be given 30 days written notice prior to cancellation or material change, and shall be in such minimum limits as set by resolution of the City Council.

11.

Any decision of the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee, Cultural Heritage Board, or Planning Commission may be appealed to the City Council within ten days of receipt of notice by permittee.

(Ord. No. 7701, § 41, 2025; Ord. 7331 §98, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

Location and purpose. Subject to the requirements of applicable State law, this section authorizes a single, permanent, electronic message center sign on land owned by Riverside Public Utilities, namely APN 223150001. When constructed, such sign shall be a strictly limited forum which may be used only for commercial speech to provide freeway visibility and identification for Riverside Plaza and the establishments located therein.

B.

Physical characteristics. Such sign shall be oriented so as to be visible primarily from State Route 91. Each display face shall not exceed 750 square feet. The maximum number of display faces shall be two. The height shall not exceed 50 feet above the elevation of the freeway travel lane nearest to the sign location. However, the actual approved size and/or height of an electronic message center sign may be less than the maximum dimensions.

C.

Permanent identification. For purposes of this section only, "onsite commercial" means messages related to the establishments located within the Riverside Plaza. To the extent the sign is used to display commercial messages, such messages may be only onsite commercial messages, images or logos, with a maximum of four lines of commercial copy per display face. No offsite commercial messages shall be displayed on the sign. The sign owner may determine any noncommercial messages to be displayed thereon.

D.

Property license or lease. The sign shall be permitted only through an approved license agreement or lease between the Riverside Public Utilities and the sign owner.

(Ord. 7331 §98, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

Any sign projecting into the public right-of-way, or into public property, is subject to an encroachment permit.

(Ord. 7331 §98, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

Any sign posted on public property or the public right-of-way, in violation of the provisions of this chapter, is declared to be a trespass and a public nuisance, may be summarily removed by the City without notice, and the persons or parties responsible for such unauthorized posting may be charged with the City's actual costs of removal. In addition, any violation of this chapter may be enforced or punished in any manner prescribed by law, including any method provided for enforcement of the Zoning Code and a criminal proceeding under the Penal Code.

(Ord. 7331 §98, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

This chapter establishes standards for setback measurement and required yard areas. These provisions, in conjunction with other applicable provisions of this title, are intended to ensure open areas around primary structures; maintain clear visibility for traffic safety and pedestrian access; buffer incompatible land uses; and establish natural and visual light and air space for privacy, landscaping, and recreation.

(Ord. 7331 §99, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

The required yard area (front, interior side, street side, and rear) of a lot is the horizontal area between the property line and the minimum building setback distance required for the specific zone in question. Except as otherwise specified in this title, required yard areas shall be kept open and unobstructed from the ground upwards, free of any buildings and structures.

(Ord. 7331 §99, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

General. Except as otherwise specified in this section, all building setback distances shall be measured at right angles from the designated property line, and the building setback line shall be drawn parallel to the designated property line at the required building setback distance.

Figure 19.630.030.A
Building Setback Measurements

B.

Front yard setbacks. The front setback building line is a line parallel to the front property line abutting the street, at a minimum distance specified by the base zone measured at right angles from the front property line, except as follows:

Figure 19.630.030 B
Front Yard Setbacks

1.

Corner lots. The front yard setback shall be measured from the narrowest street frontage, subject to approval of the Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee. Where a lot or parcel of land at the junction of two intersecting streets in any residential zone has frontage on each street over 130 feet in length, front yards of the depth required in the appropriate zone shall be required on both frontages. The Community & Economic Development Director or his/her designee may determine that the front setback shall be established from the longer street frontage if the primary orientation of the building is to that frontage.

2.

Flag lots. Regardless of the orientation of the main building, the measurement shall be taken from a parallel line established where the access strip meets the buildable area of the parcel closest to the public street or right-of-way.

3.

Through lots. The front yard setback on the street side of a through lot is a line parallel to the property line abutting both streets. In other words, a through lot has two front yards.

Figure 19.630.030.B
Front Yard Setbacks

4.

Averaging. For the R-1-7000 Zone, where lots comprising 50 percent or more of the frontage on one side of a street between intersecting streets are developed with front yards setbacks of a greater depth. The average of such front yard setbacks shall establish the front yard setback for the entire frontage on that side of the street within that block.

C.

Side yard setbacks. The side setback building lines are the lines parallel to the side yard property lines and perpendicular to the front and rear property lines, at a minimum distance specified by the base zone and measured horizontally from the nearest part of the side lot line to the main building.

Figure 19.630.030.C
Side Yard Setbacks

D.

Rear yard setback. The rear setback building line is a line parallel to the rear property line, at a minimum distance specified by the base zone measured at right angles from the rear property line, that extends between the side yards, except as follows:

1.

Irregular, triangular or gore shaped lots. The rear yard setback is measured from a line that is opposite, parallel to and at a maximum distance form the front building setback line, having a length of not less than 10 feet.

Figure 19.630.030.D.2
Rear Yard Setback—Gore Lot

(Ord. 7331 §99, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

Cornices, eaves, belt courses, sills bay windows, buttresses, or other similar architectural features may project up to four feet into a required front yard area and may project into a required side or rear yard area up to four inches per one foot of width of such yard.

B.

Fire escapes may project up to four feet into any required yard area.

C.

Open, unenclosed, and uncovered staircases or balconies may project up to two and one-half feet into any required yard area.

D.

Single-story porches may encroach into the required front yard up to 20 percent of the yard length or six feet, whichever is less.

E.

Permitted projections into required yards for RA-5, RE, RR and R-1 Zones.

1.

Flexible yard setbacks.

a.

In the R-1 Zones, on local streets only, where the residential structure has the garage set back ten or more feet from the required front yard setback, the habitable portion of the residential structure may extend into the front setback up to a maximum of five feet.

b.

In conjunction with the consideration of a tentative tract or parcel map in the R-1-7000 Zone, interior side yard setbacks may be reduced to five feet provided a minimum distance of 15 feet is maintained between adjacent dwellings.

c.

In the R-1 Zones, portions of the dwelling may encroach up to ten feet into the required rear yard setback provided that the encroachment does not exceed 500 square feet in total area.

2.

Additions to established dwellings. For lawfully established dwellings that do not conform to the side yards required in the RC, RR, RE and R-1 Zones additions may be constructed within such required side yards if such additions are located not closer to the side lot line than the existing dwelling; provided, that in no case shall such additions be located closer than five feet to interior side lot lines or ten feet to street side lot lines.

3.

Garage in the R-1-7000 Zone. In the R-1-7000 Zone, a garage that is an integral part of the main dwelling may be located not closer than five feet to any interior side lot line.

F.

A minimum distance of three feet shall be maintained between all projections and any property line.

(Ord. 7652 § 13, 2023; Ord. 7331 §99, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

No more than 1,000 square feet of the rear yard shall be paved, or 25 percent of the rear yard area, which ever is less, for parking purposes. A paved driveway must extend to the parking area from a public street or alley. Parking areas greater than 25 percent of the rear yard area or 1,000 square feet which ever is less may be considered under a Minor Conditional Use Permit.

(Ord. 7331 §99, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)