Santa Clarita City Zoning Code

Underlying Zones. A Class I application is required to authorize uses identified by Division 5 of this title (Use Classifications and Required Parking) as being permitted in the applicable underlying zone, subject to the approval of a Class I application.

Site Plan as Part of Application. Where a site plan is required in an application for a Class II, III, IV, V or VI application, the site plan shall be considered a part of the application and shall not require separate Class I approval in compliance with this chapter.

Additional Requirements. The Director may require a site plan for any development of land, structure, use, or modification of standards that involves the approval of the Director and supplemental information or material as may be necessary, including revised or corrected copies of any site plan or other document previously submitted.

Notification Requirements. The Director shall notify the applicant of the action taken on the application by first class mail, or other means deemed appropriate by the Director. Such notification may also be hand delivered to the applicant. If the project only requires an approval of the site plan, a stamp, either physical or electronic, shall constitute a notification.

Time Limit for Decision. If the Director takes no action on a Class I application within ninety (90) days from the date of filing, it shall constitute a denial of such application and the Director shall send a notice to the applicant of such action.

Scope of Approvals. Only legally established uses and development, authorized by an approved permit from the Department, may be used on a property per Section 17.06.180 (Scope of Approvals).

The decision of the Director on a Class I application is effective the date the site plan or letter is stamped or signed.

Appeals shall be filed pursuant to Chapter 17.07 (Appeals or Certification of Review).

Underlying Zones. A Class II application is required to authorize uses identified in Division 5 of this title (Use Classifications and Required Parking) as being permitted with a Class II application in the applicable underlying zone.

Other Specific Uses. A Class II application may also be required for use types having unusual site development features or operating characteristics requiring special consideration so that they may be designed, located, and operated compatibly with uses on adjacent properties and in the surrounding area.

Decision. A Class II application shall be approved or denied by the review authority in compliance with Table 17.06-1 (Review Authority), and any additional requirements or review criteria for a Class II application established in this code.

Referral. The review authority may refer a Class II application to the next higher review authority for consideration and decision.

That the use, development of land, or application of development standards is in compliance with all applicable provisions of this code;

That the use, development of land, or application of development standards, when considered on the basis of the suitability of the site for the particular use or development intended, is so arranged as to avoid traffic congestion, insure the protection of public health, safety, and general welfare, prevent adverse effects on neighboring property and is in conformity with good zoning practice; and

That the use will be consistent with the General Plan.

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for the construction of permitted structures and uses and the initiation of permitted uses as required by the Director. Through an administrative permit, the Director shall ensure that the project complies with all of the provisions of the code and the General Plan, and other applicable requirements. In order to achieve this, the Director is empowered to grant approval with conditions for uses in zones as prescribed in this code, and to impose reasonable conditions upon the granting of an administrative permit.

Applicability. In order to safeguard and enhance the appearance and quality of development in the City, administrative permit approval shall be required prior to the issuance of any building permit for new single-family homes, additions, and activities or construction of improvements which are permitted at the discretion of the Director. An administrative permit shall be filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for an administrative permit shall be in compliance with this chapter. In the case of an administrative permit for the installation of a wireless communication facility in the City right-of-way, a written notice of the application shall be transmitted to Council and Commission.

Findings. The review authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision).

Conditions of Approval. In approving a Class II permit application for an administrative permit, the review authority may impose such conditions as deemed necessary to ensure that the administrative permit will be in accordance with the findings required by subsection (D) of this section (Findings), subject to the performance of such conditions, including the provision of required improvements as the Director shall deem to be reasonable and necessary, or advisable under the circumstances, so that the objectives of the code, General Plan, adopted design guidelines, Commission, and Council policies shall be achieved. Conditions may include, but are not limited to, provisions for or limitations to the following:

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for the redesign, renovation, or alteration of existing permitted structures as required by the Director. Through architectural design review, the Director shall ensure that the architecture complies with all of the provisions of the code, the General Plan, and other applicable requirements. In order to achieve this, the Director is empowered to grant approval with conditions for uses in zones as prescribed in this code, and to impose reasonable conditions upon the granting of an architectural design review.

Applicability. In order to safeguard and enhance the appearance and quality of development in the City, architectural design review approval shall be required prior to the issuance of any building permit for additions, alterations, and/or redevelopment of single-family, multifamily, commercial, industrial buildings, and/or parking facilities at the discretion of the Director. An architectural design review shall be filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for an architectural design review shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Findings. The review authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision).

Conditions of Approval. In approving a Class II permit application for a architectural design review, the review authority may impose such conditions as deemed necessary to ensure that the architectural design review will be in accordance with the findings required by subsection (D) of this section (Findings), subject to the performance of such conditions, including the provision of required improvements as the Director shall deem to be reasonable and necessary, or advisable under the circumstances, so that the objectives of the code, General Plan, adopted design guidelines, Commission and Council policies shall be achieved. Conditions may include, but are not limited to, provisions for or limitations to the following:

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for the construction of permitted structures and the initiation of permitted uses. Through development review, the Director shall ensure that the project complies with all of the provisions of the code, the General Plan, and other applicable requirements. In order to achieve this, the Director is empowered to grant approval with conditions for uses in zones as prescribed in this code, and to impose reasonable conditions upon the granting of a development review.

Applicability. In order to safeguard and enhance the appearance and quality of development in the City, development review approval shall be required prior to the issuance of any building permit for single-family subdivision developments, multiple-family developments, mobilehome parks, commercial, or industrial establishments, including additions, major alterations, and/or redevelopment thereof, at the discretion of the Director. A development review shall be filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a development review shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Findings. The review authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision).

Conditions of Approval. In approving a Class II permit application for a development review, the review authority may impose such conditions as deemed necessary to ensure that the development review will be in accordance with the findings required by subsection (D) of this section (Findings), subject to the performance of such conditions, including the provision of required improvements as the Director shall deem to be reasonable and necessary, or advisable under the circumstances, so that the objectives of the code, General Plan, adopted design guidelines, Commission, and Council policies shall be achieved. Conditions may include, but are not limited to, provisions for or limitations to the following:

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for development on hillside properties. It is the intent of this section to regulate the development and alteration of hillside areas, to minimize the adverse effects of hillside development.

Applicability. The provisions of this section shall be applied to parcels of land having average cross slopes of ten percent (10%) or more as determined to be applicable by the Director, and shall be subject to the issuance of a permit for hillside development review.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a hillside development review shall be in compliance with this chapter and Chapter 17.25 (Class IV Applications—Discretionary) as determined below:

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice of the public hearing for a Class IV application shall be in compliance with Section 17.06.110 (Type II Public Noticing (Public Hearing)).

Findings. The review authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision) in addition to the following findings, where applicable:

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for the use of an existing residential unit to have a home occupation as an accessory use. Through a home occupation permit, the Director shall ensure that the project complies with all of the provisions of the code, the General Plan and other applicable requirements. In order to achieve this, the Director is empowered to grant approval with conditions for uses in zones as prescribed in this code, and to impose reasonable conditions upon the granting of a home occupation permit.

Applicability. In order to safeguard existing neighborhoods, the home occupation permit process will establish provisions for the use of an existing residential unit with an appropriate accessory home occupation subject to development standards in Chapter 17.65 (Home Occupations). A home occupation permit shall be filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a home occupation permit shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Findings. The review authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision).

Conditions of Approval. In approving a Class II permit application for a home occupation permit, the review authority may impose such conditions as deemed necessary to ensure that the home occupation permit will be in accordance with the findings required by subsection (D) of this section (Findings), subject to the performance of such conditions, including the provision of required improvements as the Director shall deem to be reasonable and necessary, or advisable under the circumstances, so that the objectives of the code, General Plan, adopted design guidelines, Commission and Council policies shall be achieved.

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for the installation of any new landscaping, and the redesign, renovation, or alteration of existing landscaping as required by the Director. Through landscape plan review, the Director shall ensure that the landscaping complies with all of the provisions of the code and the General Plan and other applicable requirements. In order to achieve this, the Director is empowered to grant approval with conditions for uses in zones as prescribed in this code, and to impose reasonable conditions upon the granting of landscape plan reviews.

Applicability. In order to safeguard and enhance the appearance and quality of development in the City, landscape plan review approval shall be required prior to the issuance of any grading and/or building permit for additions, alterations, and redevelopment of single-family, multifamily, commercial, industrial buildings, and/or parking facilities at the discretion of the Director. A landscape plan review shall be filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a landscape plan review shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Findings. The review authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision).

Conditions of Approval. In approving a Class II permit application for a landscape plan review, the review authority may impose such conditions as deemed necessary to ensure that the landscape plan review will be in accordance with the findings required by subsection (D) of this section (Findings), subject to the performance of such conditions, including the provision of required improvements as the Director shall deem to be reasonable and necessary, or advisable under the circumstances, so that the objectives of the code, General Plan, adopted design guidelines, Commission, and Council policies shall be achieved. Conditions may include, but are not limited to, provisions for or limitations to the following:

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for the modification of an existing lot line or lot lines. Through a lot line adjustment, the Director shall ensure that the project complies with all of the provisions of the code, the Subdivision Map Act, the General Plan, and other applicable requirements. In order to achieve this, the Director is empowered to grant approval with modifications for lot line adjustments in zones as prescribed in this code and the Subdivision Map Act.

Applicability. The provisions of this section shall be applicable to the modification of a lot line, or lot lines, between four (4) or fewer contiguous existing parcels where the land taken from one (1) parcel is added to an adjacent parcel or parcels and where a greater number of parcels than originally existed are not thereby created. In the case of a modification of the lot lines that affect more than four (4) parcels under common ownership within a subdivision even if submitted as separate lot line adjustments, an application and approval of a parcel map or tract map will be required per Section 17.25.110 (Tentative Subdivision Maps). A lot line adjustment shall be filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a lot line adjustment shall be in compliance with this chapter. In addition, prior to submittal of the request for lot line adjustment, a recorded "Unconditional Certificate of Compliance" shall be required for each existing parcel not complying with the provisions of the Subdivision Map Act, as determined by the City Engineer.

The City shall not impose conditions or exactions on its approval of a lot line adjustment except to conform to the General Plan, zoning, and building ordinances, to require the prepayment of real property taxes prior to the approval of the lot line adjustment, or to facilitate the relocation of existing utilities, infrastructure, or easements. No tentative map, parcel map, or tract map shall be required as a condition to the approval of a lot line adjustment.

Findings. The review authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision).

Standards of Approval. In approving a Class II permit application for a lot line adjustment, the review authority may impose such standards as deemed necessary to ensure that the lot line adjustment review will be in accordance with the findings required by subsection (D) of this section (Findings) and the Subdivision Map Act. Standards include, but are not limited to, provisions for, or limitations to, the following:

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements to protect and preserve oak trees in the City and to provide regulatory measures designed to accomplish this purpose.

Applicability. The provisions of this chapter shall be applied to the removal, relocation, encroachment, or impacting of any oak tree as determined to be applicable by the Director, and shall be subject to the issuance of an oak tree permit.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for an oak tree permit shall be in compliance with this chapter and Chapter 17.25 (Class IV Applications—Discretionary) as determined below:

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice of the public hearing for a Class IV application shall be in compliance with Section 17.06.110 (Type II Public Noticing (Public Hearing)).

Findings. The approving authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision) in addition to the following required findings:

Purpose. This section implements part of the City's General Plan housing element and provides a procedure for individuals with disabilities to request reasonable accommodations, consistent with the Federal Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, as those Reasonable Accommodation Acts are amended from time to time. The sole intent of this section is to ensure that individuals with disabilities have an equal opportunity to use and enjoy housing by allowing an accommodation(s) with respect to certain City regulations, policies, procedures, and standards if said accommodation(s) are both reasonable and necessary to provide such equal opportunity without compromising the City commitment to protecting community character and environmental quality.

Applicability. The provisions of this section shall apply to all requirements of this code as well as all other regulations, policies, procedures, and standards regulated by the Department.

Application. Any individual with a disability, someone acting on their behalf, or a provider or developer of housing for individuals with disabilities, desiring to obtain a reasonable accommodation in accordance with this section shall file a Class II application with the Director. Information requested on the application shall be provided on the checklist as provided by the City. The Director may request additional information as they deem reasonably necessary where such request is consistent with the Reasonable Accommodation Acts and the privacy rights of the individual with a disability. All procedures for processing the application shall be in compliance with Chapter 17.06 (Common Procedures), except where otherwise stated in this section.

Findings. The findings for a request for reasonable accommodation are as follows:

Concurrent Review with Other Applications. When a request for reasonable accommodation is filed in conjunction with an application for another application, variance, or any other discretionary land use entitlement, the approving authority shall grant or deny a request for a reasonable accommodation concurrently with the decision rendered for such application, variance, or other discretionary land use entitlement, and shall make findings addressing the criteria set forth in subsection (D) of this section (Findings).

Waiver of Fees. An applicant requesting a reasonable accommodation shall not be required to pay the City environmental assessment fee if the project that is the subject of said request qualifies for either a categorical exemption or statutory exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act.

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for the installation of any new signage. Through sign review, the Director shall ensure that the signage complies with all of the provisions of the development code, the General Plan, and other applicable requirements. In order to achieve this, the Director is empowered to grant approval with conditions for signage in zones as prescribed in this code, and to impose reasonable conditions upon the granting of a sign review.

Applicability. In order to safeguard and enhance the appearance and quality of development in the City, sign review approval shall be required prior to the issuance of any installation and/or permit for any signage at the discretion of the Director. A sign review shall be filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a sign review shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Findings. The approving authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision) in addition to the following required findings:

Conditions of Approval. In approving a Class II permit application for a sign review, the approving authority may impose such conditions as deemed necessary to ensure that the sign review will be in accordance with the findings required by subsection (D) of this section (Findings), subject to the performance of such conditions, including the provision of required improvements as the approving authority shall deem to be reasonable and necessary, or advisable under the circumstances, so that the objectives of the development code, General Plan, adopted design guidelines, Commission and Council policies shall be achieved. Conditions may include, but are not limited to, provisions for or limitations to the following:

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for temporary activities and events that may not otherwise be allowed in the underlying zones, but may be acceptable because of their limited or temporary nature. This section also establishes procedures for both short-term and extended-term special events.

Applicability. Where this section prescribes regulations more restrictive than the zone in which a use or conditional use is permitted, the provisions of this section shall apply. A temporary use permit shall be applicable as follows:

Application Filing, Fees and Project Review. Applications for a temporary use permit shall be in compliance with this chapter for a standard temporary use permit and Chapter 17.25 (Class IV Applications—Discretionary) for extended-term temporary use permits.

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice of the public hearing for an extended-term temporary use permit shall be in compliance with Section 17.06.110 (Type II Public Noticing (Public Hearing)).

Findings. The approving authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision) in addition to the following required findings:

Conditions of Approval. In approving a Class II temporary use permit or Class IV extended-term temporary use permit, the approving authority may impose such conditions as deemed necessary to ensure that the permit will be in accordance with the findings required by subsection (E) of this section (Findings). Conditions imposed by the approving authority may involve any pertinent factors affecting the operation of the use for which such temporary use permit is requested. Conditions may include, but are not limited to, provisions for or limitations to the following:

Extension or Modification of Limitations. Upon written application, the Director may extend the time within which temporary uses may be operated for up to a total of one (1) year for a temporary use permit and five (5) years for an extended-term temporary use permit, or may modify the limitations under which such uses may be conducted if the Director determines that such extension or modification is in accordance with this code. Should a reasonable case be presented to the Director that there is a public nuisance created as a result of the temporary use permit, additional review in the form of a noticed public hearing before the Commission may be required. At that hearing, additional conditions may be imposed to mitigate any nuisance, or the temporary use permit may be revoked in accordance with the provisions of this code.

Successive Permits. After the submission of a new application, the Director may allow successive applications for temporary use permits for a like use on the same parcel of land.

Underlying Zones. A Class III application is required to authorize uses identified in Division 5 of this title (Use Classifications and Required Parking) as being allowed in the applicable underlying zone, subject to the approval of a Minor Use Permit or other Class III applications.

Other Specific Uses or Standards. A Class III application may also be required for use or structure types having unusual site development features or operating characteristics requiring special consideration so that they may be designed, located, and operated compatible with uses on the same or adjacent properties and in the surrounding area.

General Requirements. A Class III application shall be approved, conditionally approved, or denied by the review authority in compliance with Table 17.06-1 (Review Authority), and any additional requirements or review criteria for a Class III review established in this code.

Referral. The Director may refer a Class III application to the Hearing Officer for consideration and decision.

Approval. The approving authority may approve a Class III application if:

Referral. The Director shall refer a Class III application to the Hearing Officer for consideration if, during the public noticing period, a request for a hearing is filed with the Director.

Denial. The approving authority shall deny the Class III application if the findings, principles, or standards of Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision) are not substantiated.

Written Requests. The written requests for a public hearing shall be based on issues of significance directly related to the application; provision of evidence that the request cannot meet one (1) or more of the findings, principles, or standards identified in Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decisions) in order to be considered valid.

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for granting adjustments, a form of relief from development standards within this code. An adjustment may be requested when practical difficulties, unnecessary hardships, or results inconsistent with the general purposes of this code develop through the strict literal interpretation and enforcement of such development standards provisions.

Applicability. Unless specifically modified by an adjustment, all regulations prescribed in the underlying zone in which such adjustment is granted shall apply. An adjustment shall be filed subject to this chapter. Any modification not listed below shall be subject to Section 17.25.120 (Variances). An adjustment is required as described below:

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for an adjustment shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice shall be in compliance with Sections 17.24.050 (Project Notice) and 17.24.060 (Required Actions).

Findings. The review authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates the required findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision) in addition to the following:

Expiration and Extensions. In the granting of a Class III permit for an adjustment, the applicant shall utilize the permit in compliance with Section 17.06.230 (Time Limits and Extensions).

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for granting a variance from the standards contained in Section 17.51.080 (Sign Regulations (Private Property)), or designating a sign as historic and therefore exempt from the standard size, height, and type regulations of this code. An administrative sign variance may be requested when practical difficulties, unnecessary hardships, or results inconsistent with the general purposes of this code develop through the strict literal interpretation and enforcement of such development standards and provisions.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for an administrative sign variance or historic sign designation shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice shall be in compliance with Sections 17.24.050 (Project Notice) and 17.24.060 (Required Actions).

Findings. The approving authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates the following required findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision) in addition to the following:

Expiration and Extensions. In the granting of a Class III permit for an administrative sign variance or historical sign designation, the applicant shall utilize the permit in compliance with Section 17.06.230 (Time Limits and Extensions).

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for granting a minor use permit, in order to give the use regulations the flexibility necessary to achieve the objectives of this code. Because of their unusual characteristics, certain land uses require special consideration so that they may be located properly with respect to the objectives of the code and with respect to their effects on surrounding properties. In order to achieve these goals, the approving authority is empowered to grant approval with conditions for uses in zones as prescribed in this code, and to impose reasonable conditions upon the granting of minor use permits.

Applicability. A minor use permit shall be filed as a Class III application, subject to this chapter. The reviewing authority shall review an application for a minor use permit as required below:

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a minor use permit shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice shall be in compliance with Sections 17.24.050 (Project Notice) and 17.24.060 (Required Actions).

Findings. The approving authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision) in addition to the following:

Conditions of Approval. In approving a Class III permit application for a minor use permit, the approving authority may impose such conditions as deemed necessary to ensure that the minor use permit will be in accordance with the findings required by subsection (E) of this section (Findings). Conditions imposed by the review authority may involve any pertinent factors affecting the establishment, operation and maintenance of the use for which such minor use permit is requested. Conditions may include, but are not limited to, provisions for or limitations to the following:

Expiration and Extensions. In the granting of a Class III permit for a minor use permit, the applicant shall utilize the permit in compliance with Section 17.06.230 (Time Limits and Extensions).

General Requirements. A Class IV application shall be approved, conditionally approved, or denied by the review authority in compliance with Table 17.06-1 (Review Authority), and any additional requirements or review criteria for a Class IV application established in this code.

Referral. The review authority may refer a Class IV application to the next higher review authority for consideration and decision.

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for granting conditional use permits, in order to give the use regulations the flexibility necessary to achieve the objectives of this code. Because of their unusual characteristics, certain land uses require special consideration so that they may be located properly with respect to the objectives of the development code and with respect to their effects on surrounding properties. In order to achieve these goals, the approving authority is empowered to grant approval with conditions for uses in zones as prescribed in this code, and to impose reasonable conditions upon the granting of conditional use permits.

Applicability. A conditional use permit shall be filed as a Class IV application, subject to this chapter. The reviewing authority shall review an application for a conditional use permit as required below:

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a conditional use permit shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice of the public hearing shall be in compliance with Section 17.06.110 (Type II Public Noticing (Public Hearing)).

Findings. The approving authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision);

Conditions of Approval. In approving a Class IV permit application for a conditional use permit, the approving authority may impose such conditions as deemed necessary to ensure that the conditional use permit will be in accordance with the findings required by subsection (E) of this section (Findings). Conditions imposed by the review authority may involve any pertinent factors affecting the establishment, operation, and maintenance of the use for which such conditional use permit is requested. Conditions may include, but are not limited to, provisions for or limitations to the following:

Expiration and Extensions. In the granting of a Class IV permit for a conditional use permit, the applicant shall utilize the permit in compliance with Section 17.06.230 (Time Limits and Extensions).

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for the review and approval of tentative subdivision maps for the division of all land within the City, in accordance with the Subdivision Map Act and this code.

Applicability. This section shall regulate the content of tentative subdivision maps for all land within the City and the filing of tentative tract maps and tentative parcel maps as indicated below:

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a tentative subdivision map shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice of the public hearing shall be in compliance with Section 17.06.110 (Type II Public Noticing (Public Hearing)). Approval of a vesting tentative map shall establish a vested right to proceed with applicable ordinances and general and specific plans in effect at the date the accompanying application is deemed complete pursuant to Government Code Section 65943 in accordance with Sections 66474.2 and 66498.1 of said Government Code.

Findings. The approving authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision) in addition to the following: The design of the subdivision or type of improvements will not conflict with easements, acquired by the public at large, for access through or use of, property within the proposed subdivision.

Expiration and Extensions. In the granting of a Class IV permit for a tentative subdivision map, the applicant shall record the map in compliance with Section 17.06.230 (Time Limits and Extensions) and Subdivision Map Act.

Purpose. This section establishes procedures and requirements for granting variances, a form of relief from development standards within this code. A variance may be requested when practical difficulties, unnecessary hardships, or results inconsistent with the general purposes of this code develop through the strict application and enforcement of such development standards and provisions.

Applicability. Unless specifically modified by a variance, all regulations prescribed in the underlying zone in which such variance is granted shall apply. A variance shall be filed as a Class IV application, subject to this chapter.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a variance shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice of the public hearing shall be in compliance with Section 17.06.110 (Type II Public Noticing (Public Hearing)).

Findings. The approving authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision) in addition to the following:

Expiration and Extensions. In the granting of a Class IV permit for a variance, the applicant shall utilize the permit in compliance with Section 17.06.230 (Time Limits and Extensions).

General Requirements. Class V applications shall be approved, conditionally approved, or denied by the approving authority in compliance with Table 17.06-1 (Review Authority), any additional requirements, or review criteria for a Class V review established in this code.

Assignment. The Director shall assign a Class V application to the Commission for a public hearing and recommendation to the Council.

Purpose. This section establishes procedures for the discretionary consideration of the removal and relocation of pre-existing, legally established billboards to new and different locations, and to enable the substitution of billboards meeting more current standards, while achieving an overall reduction in the number of billboards throughout the City in accordance with the State policy set forth in and local discretion authorized by Business and Professions Code Section 5412.

Application Filing, Fees and Project Review. Applications for a billboard reduction and relocation agreement shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice of the public hearing shall be in compliance with Section 17.06.110 (Type II Public Noticing (Public Hearing)).

Findings. The review authority may approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision) in addition to the following:

Purpose. This section establishes procedures for consideration of amendments, additions, deletions, or changes to the General Plan and associated maps and/or exhibits. The General Plan and associated maps and/or exhibits may be amended in accordance with the procedure prescribed in this section as authorized by the State Government Code.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a General Plan amendment shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice of the public hearings shall be in compliance with Section 17.06.110 (Type II Public Noticing (Public Hearing)).

Findings. The Council shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates the following:

Purpose. This section establishes procedures for consideration of master plans as authorized by the State Government Code. A master plan is intended to achieve the following purposes:

Applicability. The Director may require public, semi-public, or private uses of any size in the City to submit a master plan, appropriate environmental documents and plans including but not limited to landscape, transportation, and building, as required by this chapter. Permitted and conditionally permitted uses may be included in an application for a master plan. The submission of applications for additional use permits will not be required; provided, that uses proposed are consistent with the provisions of the master plan.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a master plan shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice of the public hearing shall be in compliance with Section 17.06.110 (Type II Public Noticing (Public Hearing)).

Findings. The Council shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates the required findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision).

Permitted Uses. Master plans may be considered for development projects, which meet the following:

Property Development Standards. All development standards of the underlying zone shall apply to master plans. The approving authority shall be permitted to increase the setback requirements of the underlying zone and also to modify or delete the following requirements when it can be shown that the alternative achieves a similar purpose.

Purpose. In an effort to achieve the City's objective to preserve the ridgelines within the City limits for the public health, safety, and welfare for the long-term benefit of the community, maintenance of the unique visual characteristics, resources, and ridgeline integrity, and to achieve a higher quality of life for its residents, the ridgeline alteration permit is established to regulate development located in the ridgeline preservation (RP) overlay zone.

Applicability. A ridgeline alteration permit shall be filed as a Class V application, subject to this chapter. The reviewing authority shall review an application for a ridgeline alteration permit for any development, including but not limited to grading permits, building permits and land use entitlements, in the vicinity of a generally designated significant ridgeline designated on the ridgeline preservation overlay zone. Exceptions include minor improvements to existing, developed, single-family homes and property, where the Director may approve projects that require minor grading or are limited in scope such as those regarding yard areas for pool/spa construction, landscaping, additions to existing structures or construction of accessory structures. A proposed development may also be exempt from the RP overlay zone in accordance with Section 17.38.070(B). When limited in scope and associated with existing single-family residences, the Director may also review projects, or may refer projects to the Planning Commission and/or City Council that require grading of large, flat areas, such as sports courts or riding rings.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a ridgeline alteration permit shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice of the public hearing shall be in compliance with Section 17.06.110 (Type II Public Noticing (Public Hearing)).

Findings. The Council shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision) in addition to the following:

General Requirements. Class VI applications shall be approved, conditionally approved, or denied by the review authority in compliance with Table 17.06-1 (Review Authority), and any additional requirements or review criteria for a Class VI review established in this code.

Assignment. The Director shall assign a Class VI application to Council for a public hearing and action.

Purpose. The purpose of this section is to provide procedures, requirements, and a formal agreement for consideration of the acceptance of existing County entitlements and standards that do not meet the City's development standards as part of an annexation.

Applicability. The Council may grant exceptions to the following provisions of the code in accordance with County-approved entitlements that annex to the City upon a finding that the impacts of such minor exceptions are consistent with the General Plan and proposed zoning and will not adversely affect or be materially detrimental to adjacent uses or residents:

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a pre-annexation agreement shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice of the public hearing shall be in compliance with Section 17.06.110(B)(1) (Publication).

Findings. The Council shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates the required findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision).

General Requirements. Class VII applications shall be approved, conditionally approved, or denied by the review authority in compliance with Table 17.06-1 (Review Authority), and any additional requirements or review criteria for a Class VII review established in this code.

Assignment. The Director shall assign a Class VII application to the Commission for a public hearing and recommendation to the Council.

Purpose and Interpreting Provisions. The purpose of this section is to provide procedures, requirements for consideration of development agreements, implementing, amending, and enforcing development agreements.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a development agreement shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Findings. The review authority shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates all of the findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision) in addition to the following:

Subsequently Enacted City Special District, County, State, and Federal Laws or Regulations. In the event that special district, County, State, or Federal laws, mandates, or regulations enacted subsequent to the execution of a development agreement prevent or preclude compliance with one (1) or more provisions of the agreement, the provisions of the agreement shall be deemed modified or suspended to the extent necessary to comply with the subsequently enacted special district, County, State, or Federal laws, mandates, or regulations. Unless modified by the development agreement, all structures shall be constructed using the building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and fire codes in effect at the time of building permit issuance.

Violation of Agreement—Council Review. Where the Commission reports the violation of a development agreement, the Council may take one (1) of the following actions:

Purpose. This section establishes procedures for consideration of specific and corridor plans as authorized by the State Government Code. The specific plan and corridor plan are intended to achieve the following purposes:

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a specific or corridor plan shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Contents. The specific or corridor plan shall include the text and a diagram or diagrams, which specify the following in detail and include:

Additional Contents for a Specific Plan. In addition to the above, the following contents shall be included as part of a specific plan application:

Project Notice and Required Actions. The notice of the public hearing shall be in compliance with Section 17.06.110 (Type II Public Noticing (Public Hearing)).

Findings. The Council shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates the required findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision).

List of Specific Plans. The following specific plans are added by reference, together with all maps and provisions pertaining thereto:

List of Corridor Plans. The following corridor plans are added by reference, together with all maps and provisions pertaining thereto:

Purpose. This section provides procedures and criteria for zone changes and amendments of zoning maps, and this code, whenever the Council determines that public convenience, general welfare, and/or zoning practice justify a zone change or an amendment. All such zone changes and amendments shall be made pursuant to the provisions of this code and Title 7 (Planning and Land Use) of the State Government Code. A prezone for areas to be included in an annexation area shall be considered a zone change in accordance with this code.

Review Authority and Related Procedures. Zone changes and amendments shall be approved or denied by the Council in compliance with Table 17.06-1 (Review Authority), and any additional requirements or review criteria for a Class VII application and amendment review established in this code.

Application Filing, Fees, and Project Review. Applications for a zone change or amendment shall be in compliance with this chapter.

Findings. The Council shall approve an application only after the applicant substantiates the required findings per Section 17.06.130 (Findings and Decision).

Change of Zoning Map. A zone change shall be adopted by ordinance and shall become the zoning for the property. The City Clerk shall notify the County Assessor of any changes of zone within ninety (90) calendar days of adoption by the Council.

Consistency with Proposed Zone Changes or Amendments. Upon the determination of completeness by the Director of a zone change or development code amendment, a permit and/or application may be approved for the erection, construction, alteration, or change of any building, structure, or improvement covered by the proposed zone change or amendment which would conform to the requirements for the proposed zone. Permits and/or applications for the erection, construction, alteration, or change of any building, structure, or improvement in compliance with the existing zone and/or amendment under consideration shall be held in abeyance until the effective date of the proposed zone change or amendment.