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Sunnyvale City Zoning Code

ARTICLE 4

GENERAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS

§ 19.37.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to ensure that adequate landscaped areas and usable open space are provided where applicable for all zoning districts; to promote the conservation and efficient use of water and to prevent the waste of this valuable resource; and to promote water conservation as one component of sustainable building practices. This chapter shall be construed to assure consistency with the requirements of the Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of the California Government Code, or any successor statute, and any applicable implementing regulations, as they exist at the time of enactment or as later amended. In addition to compliance with the provisions in this chapter, projects shall comply with stormwater management requirements set forth in Chapter 12.60.
(Ord. 2918-10 § 3; Ord. 3082-16 § 1)

§ 19.37.020 Applicability.

(a) 
Unless otherwise provided by this section, all lots in all zoning districts are subject to Section 19.37.040 (Minimum landscaped areas and usable open space) and 19.37.120 (Landscaping and irrigation approval). The following types of projects are subject to certain provisions of this chapter as specified:
(1) 
Single-Family and Two-Family Dwelling New Construction. New landscaping installations of five hundred square feet or more in connection with the construction of a new single-family or two-family dwelling unit shall meet all requirements of this chapter. Such projects with less than five hundred square feet of landscaped area are subject only to Section 19.37.040 (Minimum landscaped area and usable open space).
(2) 
New Landscaping Installations. New landscaping installations of five hundred square feet or more for any use except for existing single-family and two-family dwellings shall meet all requirements of this chapter. Such projects with less than five hundred square feet of landscaped area are subject only to Section 19.37.040 (Minimum landscaped area and usable open space) and Section 19.37.120 (Landscaping and irrigation approval).
(3) 
Rehabilitated Landscapes. Projects to rehabilitate existing landscaped areas between one thousand square feet and two thousand five hundred square feet are subject to all requirements of this chapter, except that an irrigation audit is not required. Rehabilitated landscape projects on existing landscaped areas over two thousand five hundred square feet shall meet all requirements of this chapter. Rehabilitated landscape projects less than one thousand square feet are subject only to Section 19.37.040 (Minimum landscaped area and usable open space) and Section 19.37.120 (Landscaping and irrigation approval).
(4) 
Graywater for Landscapes. Landscape projects of two thousand five hundred square feet or less using a graywater system that conforms to Title 16 and the California Plumbing Code or rainwater captured on site to meet all of its planting water needs are subject only to Section 19.37.110 (Irrigation system design requirements).
(b) 
Specific Plans, Precise Plans and other Specialized Plan Areas. Properties within a specific plan, precise plan or other specialized plan area are subject to the minimum landscaped area, usable open space, or modified frontage strip and buffer design requirements prescribed in those individual plans. All other requirements in this chapter apply to such projects.
(c) 
Exemptions. The following projects are exempt from this chapter:
(1) 
Individual single-family or two-family dwelling landscape projects that are not in connection with construction of a new dwelling unit, except that Section 19.37.040(e)(2) applies;
(2) 
Registered local, state or federal historical sites where landscaping establishes a historical landscaping style, as determined by the Heritage Preservation Commission, planning commission, or by any applicable public board or commission responsible for architectural review or historic preservation;
(3) 
Ecological restoration or mined-land reclamation projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system; or
(4) 
Community gardens, plant collections (as part of botanical gardens and arboretums open to the public), non-irrigated areas designated for non-development (e.g., open spaces and existing native vegetation), agricultural uses, commercial nurseries and sod farms.
(d) 
Objective Design Standards. Unless otherwise provided by this section, multi-family residential or mixed-use projects are subject to landscaping standards in Chapter 7 of Citywide Objective Design Standards for Multi-Family Residential and Mixed-Use Development.
(Ord. 2918-10 § 3; Ord. 3082-16 § 1; Ord. 3216-23 § 1)

§ 19.37.030 Definitions.

The following terms and definitions pertain to the water efficiency sections of this chapter:
"Applied water"
means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscaped area.
"Automatic irrigation controller"
means an automatic timing device used to remotely control valves that operate an irrigation system using either evapotranspiration (weather-based) or soil moisture data.
"Certified professional"
means a licensed landscape architect, a licensed landscape contractor, a licensed professional engineer, certified irrigation designer, or any other person authorized by the state to design a landscape or irrigation system, or a certified landscape irrigation auditor.
"Conversion factor (0.62)"
means the number that converts acre-inches per acre per year to gallons per square foot per year.
"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.
"Estimated total water use (ETWU)"
means the total water used for the landscaped area as described in Section 19.37.050.
"ET adjustment factor (ETAF)"
means a factor 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 landscaped area.
"Evapotranspiration rate"
means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil and other surfaces and transpired by plants during a specified time.
"Flow sensor"
means an inline device installed at the supply point of the irrigation system that produces a repeatable signal proportional to flow rate, and connected to an automatic irrigation controller, or flow monitor capable of receiving flow signals and operating master valves and detecting high flow conditions created by system damage or malfunction.
"Friable"
means a soil condition that is easily crumbled or loosely compacted down to a minimum depth per planting material requirements, so that the root structure of newly planted material is allowed to spread unimpeded.
"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 wastewater from bathtubs, showers, bathroom washbasins, clothes washing machines, and laundry tubs, but does not include wastewater from kitchen sinks or dishwashers.
"Hardscape"
means any durable material (pervious and non-pervious) in a landscaped area, such as decks, patios or pedestrian walkways, and other non-irrigated elements which may include art work, benches, and bicycle parking.
"Hydrozone"
means a portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs and rooting depth. A hydrozone may be irrigated or non-irrigated.
"Irrigation audit"
means an in depth evaluation of the performance of an irrigation system. An irrigation audit includes: inspection, system tune up, system test with distribution uniformity or emission uniformity, correction of any overspray or runoff that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule.
"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.
"Low water use plant"
means a plant species whose water needs are compatible with local climate and soil conditions, and have a regionally adjusted plant factor of 0.0 through 0.3, per WUCOLS.
"Master shut-off valve"
means an automatic valve installed at the irrigation supply point which controls water flow into the irrigation system.
"Maximum applied water allowance (MAWA)"
means the upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area, expressed in gallons per year.
"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.
"Native plant"
means a plant indigenous to the coastal ranges of central and northern California, and more specifically, such plants that are suited to the ecology of the present or historic natural environment within the project's vicinity.
"No-water using plant"
means a plant species with water needs that are compatible with local climate and soil conditions such that regular supplemental irrigation is not required to sustain the plant after it has become established.
"Plant factor" or "plant water use factor"
is a factor, when multiplied by ETo (reference evapotranspiration), estimates the amount of water needed by plants.
"Precipitation rate"
means the rate of application of water measured in inches per hour.
"Recreational area"
means areas designated for active play, recreation or public assembly in parks, sports fields, picnic grounds, amphitheaters or golf courses course tees, fairways, roughs, surrounds and greens on any private property, excluding private single-family and two-family dwelling properties.
"Reference evapotranspiration" or "ETo"
means a standard measurement of environmental parameters specific to the local climate which affect the water use of plants, expressed in inches per year, and used as the basis of calculating the maximum applied water allowance for local landscapes.
"Runoff"
means water which is not absorbed by the soil or landscaping to which it is applied and flows from the landscaped area.
"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.
"Special landscaped area (SLA)"
means an area of the landscaping dedicated solely to edible plants, recreational areas, areas irrigated with recycled water, water features using recycled water, and areas dedicated to active play such as parks, sports fields, golf courses, and where turf provides a playing surface.
"Turf"
means a ground cover surface of mowed grass.
"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).
"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. 2918-10 § 3; Ord. 3082-16 § 1)

§ 19.37.040 Minimum landscaped area and usable open space.

(a) 
Minimum Landscaped Area. Table 19.37.040 describes the minimum landscaped area and usable open space required by zoning district. In addition to the minimum landscaped area, areas not used for buildings, parking lot areas, driveways or pedestrian walkways shall be landscaped unless the review authority determines that landscaping is not necessary to achieve the purposes of this chapter. For projects not involving redevelopment of the entire site, the director of community development may allow less landscaped area than required by Table 19.37.040 if existing physical constraints on the site (such as structures, parking or circulation) limit the amount of landscaping that can be provided.
(b) 
Landscaped Buffer Required. A landscaped buffer is required for any property with a nonresidential use in a residential zoning district that abuts a residential use and for any use in a nonresidential zoning district which abuts a residential zoning district. Landscaped buffers must be designed to meet the following:
(1) 
Width. The buffer shall maintain a width of at least ten feet.
(2) 
Landscaping. The buffer shall include a planted screen of approved trees and shrubs which shall be placed along the length of the buffer at intervals not to exceed twenty feet; provided, however, that the approving body may grant exceptions as part of any discretionary permit when warranted by conditions on the property.
(3) 
Wall Design. The buffer shall include a decorative masonry wall six feet in height measured from the highest adjoining grade. When the adjacent nonresidential building is two stories or more in height, the decorative masonry wall shall be eight feet measured from the highest adjoining grade. Where a residential use is permitted in a nonresidential zoning district, the wall shall be required on the residential property, unless a wall already exists.
(c) 
Landscaped Frontage Strip Required. A fifteen-foot wide landscaped frontage strip is required for all properties except for single-family properties which have a frontage on a public street. The frontage strip is measured from the inside edge of the public sidewalk, or if no sidewalk exists, from the curb. Frontage strip landscaping may be crossed by walkways and access drives.
(d) 
Usable Open Space Required. Usable open space is required for all duplex and multifamily residential properties as described in Table 19.37.040. Usable open space areas that meet the definition of landscaping may contribute towards the minimum landscaped area of the site. Required usable open space shall meet the requirements of Section 19.37.100 (Usable open space design requirements).
(e) 
Allowances and Limitations for Single-Family Uses and Single-Family Zoning Districts.
(1) 
Allowances for Single-Family Zoning Districts. Yards are not required to be landscaped in single-family zoning districts; however, the provisions of this chapter apply if landscaping is provided and meets the criteria in Section 19.37.020 (Applicability).
(2) 
Limitation on Paved Areas in the R-0 and R-1 Zoning Districts. Not more than fifty percent of the required front yard of any lot within an R-0 or R-1 zoning district shall be paved with asphalt, concrete cement, or any other impervious surface, except as may be required to meet off-street parking and access requirements of Chapter 19.46.
Table 19.37.040
Minimum Landscaped Area and Usable Open Space by Zoning District
Zoning District
Usable Open Space
Other Landscaped Area
Parking Lot Landscaped Area
Total Landscaped Area
R-0
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
R-1
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
R-1.5
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
R-1.7/PD
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
R-2
500 sq. ft./unit
850 sq. ft./unit
20% of the parking lot area
Total minimum landscaped area is the combination of the minimum parking lot landscaped area and other landscaped area. In no case shall this total be less than 20% of the lot area.
R-3
400 sq. ft./unit
425 sq. ft./unit
R-4
380 sq. ft./unit
375 sq. ft./unit
R-5
380 sq. ft./unit
375 sq. ft./unit
C-1
N/A
12.5% of floor area
C-2
N/A
12.5% of floor area
C-3
N/A
12.5% of floor area
C-4
N/A
12.5% of floor area
O
N/A
10% of lot area
P-F
N/A
10% of lot area
M-S
N/A
10% of floor area
M-3
N/A
10% of floor area
(Ord. 2918-10 § 3; Ord. 3082-16 § 1; Ord. 3105-16 § 6; Ord. 3240-25, 4/8/2025)

§ 19.37.050 Water efficiency design requirements.

Water Efficiency in Design. Landscaped areas shall be designed to achieve water efficiency and shall be based on one of two options:
(a) 
Option 1—No Turf and Eighty Percent Water Conserving Plants. There shall be no turf or high water use plants in the landscaped areas, and at least eighty percent of the plants installed shall be native, low water use or no water use plants.
(b) 
Option 2—Water Budget Calculations. If the turf limitation option is not selected, a water budget calculation shall be prepared and shall adhere to the following requirements:
(1) 
Plant Factors. The plant factors shall be obtained from WUCOLS or an equivalent reference approved by the California Department of Water Resources. For areas that mix plants with different water uses, the plant factor calculation shall be based on the proportion of the respective plant factors, or based on the plant factor of the higher water using plant. Mixing high and low water use plants in the same hydrozone is prohibited. The plant factor ranges from 0.0 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.
(2) 
Water Features. All water features not using recycled water shall be included in the high water use hydrozone and temporarily irrigated areas shall be included in the low water use hydrozone.
(3) 
Special Landscaped Areas. All special landscaped areas (SLAs) shall be identified and their water use included in the water budget calculations. The reference evapotranspiration adjustment factor for SLAs shall not exceed 1.0.
(4) 
Reference Evapotranspiration Adjustment Factor. The reference evapotranspiration adjustment factor shall not exceed 0.55 for landscaped areas on residential properties and shall not exceed 0.45 for landscaped areas on nonresidential properties.
(5) 
Water Budget Calculation. The maximum applied water allowance (MAWA) for a landscape shall be calculated using the following equations:
For residential projects:
 
MAWA = (ETo) (0.62) [(0.55 x LA) + (0.45 x SLA)]
For nonresidential projects:
 
MAWA = (ETo) (0.62) [(0.45 x LA) + (0.55 x SLA)]
Where:
MAWA = Maximum applied water allowance (gallons per year)
ETo = Reference evapotranspiration (inches per year)
0.62 = Conversion factor (to gallons)
0.7 = Reference evapotranspiration adjustment factor (ETAF)
LA = Planted landscaped area including SLA and not including hardscapes (square feet)
0.45 = Additional water allowance for SLA in residential projects
0.55 = Additional water allowance for SLA in nonresidential projects
SLA = Special landscaped area (square feet)
(6) 
Estimated Total Water Use. Estimated total water use (ETWU) shall be calculated using the equation below. The sum of the ETWU calculated for all hydrozones shall not exceed the MAWA.
Where:
ETWU = Estimated total water use per year (gallons)
ETo = Reference evapotranspiration (inches)
PF = Plant factor from WUCOLS
HA = Hydrozone area [high, medium, and low water use areas] (square feet)
SLA = Special landscaped area (square feet)
0.62 = Conversion factor
IE = Irrigation efficiency of 0.75 for overhead spray systems and 0.81 for drip irrigation systems
(Ord. 2918-10 § 3; Ord. 3082-16 § 1)

§ 19.37.060 General planting, soil management and water feature design requirements.

(a) 
Plant Material. In addition to the requirements below, plant selection and installation shall be done in accordance with accepted horticultural industry practices.
(1) 
Variety. Landscaping shall include trees, shrubs, vines, flowers, ground covers or a combination thereof.
(2) 
Size at Time of Planting. Plant materials shall be sized and spaced to achieve immediate effect, in accordance with horticultural industry practices and at the discretion of the director of community development. Trees shall be of minimum fifteen gallon size. Twenty-four or thirty-six inch box trees may be required at the discretion of the director of community development.
(3) 
Number of Trees. There shall be one tree per one thousand square feet of required landscaped area in addition to required street trees and parking lot trees.
(4) 
Turf. Any allowable turf area shall be planted with tall fescue or similar turf requiring less water. Turf shall not be planted on slopes greater than ten percent where the toe of the slope is adjacent to an impermeable hardscape.
(b) 
Grouping of Plants. Plants with similar water needs shall be grouped (also described as a hydrozone). Areas that mix plants with different water uses may be allowed if a water budget is performed per Section 19.37.050 (Water Efficiency Design Requirements).
(c) 
Soil Management.
(1) 
Mulch. A minimum three-inch layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil areas, except that up to five percent of the area may be left exposed if designed to provide a habitat for beneficial insects and other wildlife. Designated insect habitat, if any, must be included in the landscape design plan as such. Organic mulch materials 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.
(2) 
Soil Amendments. Soil amendments shall be incorporated according to the soil conditions at the project site and based on what is appropriate for selected plants. Compacted soils shall be transformed to a friable condition. Compost shall be incorporated at a minimum rate of four cubic yards per one thousand square feet of planting area to a depth of six inches, unless the soil contains more than six percent of organic matter.
(3) 
Grading. If the project includes grading, the grading shall be designed to minimize soil erosion, runoff and water waste. The grading shall avoid soil compaction in planted landscaped areas.
(d) 
Water Features. Recirculating water systems shall be used for water features. Where available, recycled water shall be used for water features.
(Ord. 2918-10 § 3; Ord. 3082-16 § 1; Ord. 3184-21 § 4)

§ 19.37.100 Usable open space design requirements.

(a) 
Function. Useable open space must be designed to be accessible to, and usable for outdoor living, recreation or utility use.
(b) 
Applicability. The provisions of this section shall apply to all new multi-family residential development in R-3, R-4, and R-5 zoning districts.
(c) 
Location. Useable open space may not be located in any required front yard area for projects with a front yard setback variance or deviation. Otherwise, up to fifty percent of the required front yard area may be counted toward the useable open space requirement.
(d) 
Minimum Useable Open Space Dimensions and Area. Each useable open space area shall have at least a twelve foot dimension in any direction and a minimum area of two hundred square feet except for:
(1) 
Private balconies must have a minimum of seven feet in any direction and a minimum area of eighty square feet.
(2) 
Roofs, decks or porches must have a minimum of ten feet in any direction and a total of one hundred twenty square feet.
(e) 
Private Useable Open Space Required. In the R-4 and R-5 zoning districts, a minimum of eighty square feet per unit shall be designed as private useable open space.
(Ord. 2918-10 § 3; Ord. 3082-16 § 1; Ord. 3142-19 § 2)

§ 19.37.110 Irrigation system design requirements.

(a) 
Irrigation System Required. All landscaped areas shall have a permanent irrigation system, except for single-family detached and two-family dwellings.
(b) 
Irrigation Efficiency and Design. Irrigation systems shall be designed and maintained to meet the water needs of each hydrozone and the following requirements:
(1) 
Efficiency. Irrigation systems must meet or exceed an average landscaping irrigation efficiency of seventy-five percent for overhead spray systems and eighty-one percent for drip irrigation systems.
(2) 
Drip Irrigation. Bubbler or other low-flow, non-spray irrigation system shall be provided for trees and shrubs, mulched areas, areas with slope greater than ten percent (unless it can be demonstrated that no runoff or erosion will occur if other types of irrigation is used) and areas that are less than ten feet wide in any direction.
(3) 
Overhead Spray Irrigation. Overhead spray irrigation may be used for clustered shrub plantings and turf areas at least ten feet wide in any direction; however, it cannot be used for areas within two feet of a non-permeable surface unless it can be demonstrated that no runoff would occur, or the adjacent non-permeable surface is designed and constructed to drain entirely to landscaping.
(4) 
Valves. Each valve shall irrigate a hydrozone with similar site, slope, sun exposure, soil conditions and plant water needs. Valves and control circuits shall be separated based on the required rate and quantity of water used. Where feasible, trees shall be placed on separate valves from shrubs, groundcovers and turf. Manual shut-off valves are required. Master shut-off valves are required unless the irrigation system includes low pressure shut down features.
(5) 
Irrigation Controllers and Sensors. All irrigation controllers must utilize either evapotranspiration or soil moisture sensor data, and be capable of dual or multiple programming and capable of maintaining programming data in the event the primary power source is interrupted. Irrigation systems shall also incorporate sensors (rain, freeze, wind, etc.) that suspend or alter irrigation operation during unfavorable weather conditions.
(6) 
Pressure Regulators. Pressure regulators shall be installed if the water pressure is below or exceeds the recommended pressure of the irrigation devices.
(7) 
Spray Heads. Spray heads and other emission devices shall be selected based on what is appropriate for the plant type within the hydrozone. Spray heads must have matched precipitation rates within each circuit. All irrigation emission devices must meet the ANSI standard, ASABE/ICC 802-2014 "Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard."
(8) 
Flow Sensors. Flow sensors are required for any landscaped areas of five thousand square feet or larger.
(c) 
Water Waste Prohibited. Water waste resulting from an inefficient irrigation system leading to runoff, low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where water flows onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas such as walkways, roadways or structures is prohibited.
(d) 
Screening of Devices. Irrigation controllers and backflow devices shall be screened from public view.
(e) 
Scheduling. Irrigation must be scheduled between eight p.m. and ten a.m.
(Ord. 2918-10 § 3; Ord. 3082-16 § 1)

§ 19.37.120 Landscaping and irrigation approval.

(a) 
Permit Required. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, no person shall install or modify any landscaped area without first obtaining approval of a miscellaneous plan permit, in accordance with the procedure described in Chapter 19.82, or as part of any discretionary permit the project is subject to pursuant to this title.
(b) 
Landscaping and Irrigation Plans Required. Landscaping and irrigation plans shall be required for any modification or installation of new landscaping that falls within the thresholds stated in this chapter. The plans shall provide the information necessary as determined by the director of community development to comply with the provisions of this chapter.
(c) 
Plan Preparation by Certified Professional. Landscaping and irrigation plans shall be prepared by, and bear the signature of, a certified professional, except for new landscaping installations or landscaping rehabilitation projects with less than two thousand five hundred square feet of landscaped area.
(Ord. 2918-10 § 3; Ord. 3082-16 § 1)

§ 19.37.130 Landscaping irrigation audit and maintenance.

(a) 
Irrigation Audit Required. Prior to approval of occupancy by a building official, a landscaping irrigation audit shall be conducted and an irrigation audit report shall be submitted for applicable projects described in Section 19.37.020 (Applicability).
(1) 
Audit by Third-Party Certified Professional. The landscaping irrigation audit shall be conducted and the report shall be prepared by a third party certified professional, and not by the entity who designed or installed the landscaping.
(2) 
Audit Report Content. The irrigation audit report shall include, but not be limited to: inspection, system tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity, correction of any overspray or runoff that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule.
(b) 
Submittal of Landscaping Maintenance Schedule. Prior to the final inspection by the building official, a regular maintenance schedule shall be submitted to the director of community development for review and approval. The maintenance schedule shall include, but not be limited to, routine inspection; adjustment and repair of the irrigation system and its components; aerating and dethatching turf areas; topdressing with compost; replenishing mulch; fertilizing; pruning; weeding in all landscaped areas; and removing obstructions to irrigation spray heads or other emission devices. Landscaping shall be maintained in accordance with the approved maintenance schedule.
(c) 
General Maintenance. Landscaping shall be maintained in compliance with the approved landscaping plan, and shall be maintained in a neat, clean and healthful condition. Removed landscaping shall be replaced with specimen plants to match the approved landscaping plan.
(Ord. 2918-10 § 3; Ord. 3082-16 § 1)

§ 19.38.010 Facilities required.

The owner or occupant of land or buildings used for any purpose in any zoning district shall provide the facilities as required by and which conform with the regulations set forth in this chapter.
(Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.38.020 Screening of equipment.

(a) 
General Requirements.
(1) 
Except as otherwise provided in subsections (b) and (c), exterior mechanical, electrical or other type equipment whether installed on the ground, roof or walls shall be screened from view from adjoining streets or property.
(2) 
Such equipment shall not be located between the face of the building and the street.
(3) 
Screening shall be as high as the highest point of the item being screened. If higher than eighteen inches, shall meet the side and rear yard setbacks of the zoning district.
(4) 
Screening shall be architecturally compatible with the building upon or adjacent to where it is constructed.
(5) 
The director of community development shall review the architectural compatibility of proposed screening.
(b) 
Mechanical, Electrical or Other Type Equipment. All roof, wall or ground mounted mechanical, electrical or other type equipment which exceeds sixteen inches in any dimension shall be screened except:
(1) 
Equipment otherwise permitted by a miscellaneous plan permit.
(2) 
Solar energy systems, collectors or devices.
(3) 
Antennas as determined by Chapter 19.54.
(4) 
Backflow preventers.
(5) 
Detector checks.
(6) 
Fire hydrants and risers.
(7) 
Gauges, meters and valves.
(8) 
Heat absorption devices.
(9) 
Pumps, stacks and windmills.
(10) 
Wind energy systems as determined by Chapter 19.56.
(c) 
Vents, Flues and Other Roof Protrusions.
(1) 
All vents, flues and other roof protrusions for buildings in commercial or residential zones shall be screened or placed so as not to be visible from public view except:
(A) 
Vents, flues or protrusions four inches or less in diameter if painted or treated to blend with the building or roof.
(B) 
On a roof slope of more than two on twelve, in addition to subsection (a), there is a minimum distance of four feet between any two vents, flues or protrusions.
(C) 
As otherwise permitted by a use permit.
(2) 
All vents, flues and other roof protrusions on an industrial building shall be screened or placed so as not to be visible from public view except vents, flues and other protrusions less than sixteen inches in diameter if painted or treated to blend with the building.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.32.146, 19.46.020, 19.46.030; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2875-08 § 4; Ord. 2904-09 § 4)

§ 19.38.030 Facilities for recyclable materials, organic materials, and solid waste.

(a) 
All residential and nonresidential uses shall provide adequate facilities on site for recyclable materials, organic materials, and solid waste ("discarded materials") as required by Chapter 8.16 of this code. Such facilities (including carts, bins, containers, and enclosures) shall be adequate in capacity, number and distribution to serve the uses on-site. The directors of environmental services and community development shall develop detailed procedures and guidelines to ensure the orderly and efficient administration of the requirements of this chapter. These procedures and guidelines are incorporated into this chapter as the "Design Guidelines for Recycling, Organics and Solid Waste Services," which may be amended from time to time by the directors of environmental services and community development.
(b) 
Nonresidential uses shall provide enclosures for the storage of discarded materials.
(c) 
Single-family and multifamily uses of three or fewer units shall obtain containers for discarded materials in accordance with Chapter 8.16.
(d) 
All residential uses with four or more units shall include centralized enclosures except that townhouse uses with dedicated attached garages shall provide for the storage of discarded materials in accordance with the options and criteria provided in the "Design Guidelines for Recycling, Organics and Solid Waste Services."
(e) 
Enclosures.
(1) 
General Requirements.
(A) 
Any additions to nonresidential buildings which equal or exceed thirty percent of the existing floor area of a building or buildings on a site shall require the property owner to provide adequate enclosures for the storage of recycling containers and solid waste containers.
(B) 
Except when approved as part of a special development permit or use permit, proposed recycling and solid waste enclosures shall require the approval of a miscellaneous plan permit by the director of community development. Plans depicting the proposed design, materials, size and location of enclosures, and the number, size, type and placement of bins and containers shall accompany each application submitted for approval. The design and construction of recycling and solid waste enclosures shall comply with established city standards. The solid waste program manager shall advise the director of community development on the size, location, number and placement of bins, containers and enclosures required for a use. The public safety department shall advise the director of community development on fire safety and hazardous materials containment requirements. The director of community development may approve an application, require modifications, or may impose additional requirements to ensure the safe and efficient collection of solid waste and recyclable materials.
(C) 
Each enclosure for discarded materials containers shall have four sides, one of which shall include a door or gate. Enclosure walls shall be a minimum of six feet high and fully screen all materials and containers from public view.
(D) 
Recycling and solid waste enclosures shall not be located in any parking, landscape or setback areas, including any increased setbacks on commercial and industrial properties as required by the zoning code, unless otherwise approved by use permit.
(E) 
The property owner is responsible for the maintenance and cleanup of the enclosures. The surface of the enclosure and all areas used for roll-out and collection shall be maintained in a good condition that does not create a safety hazard or impede access by the authorized collector.
(F) 
Authorized collectors of discarded materials (as defined in Chapter 8.16) are responsible for the maintenance of their respective bins and containers.
(G) 
Driveway or aisle leading to the enclosure shall be a minimum of sixteen feet in width.
(H) 
In a complex where driveways do not extend from street to street, a turnaround area for the collection vehicle shall be provided.
(I) 
Vehicle access to the enclosure shall be unobstructed and provide a minimum of fifteen feet vertical travel clearance.
(J) 
Loading area shall provide a minimum twenty feet vertical operational clearance. A concrete pad consisting of five inch aggregate base and six-inch Portland cement paving, or equivalent, as approved by the director of community development shall be constructed in front of each enclosure for the collection vehicle. The pad shall have a level surface where the containers are used.
(K) 
Recycling and solid waste enclosures shall be located within one hundred fifty feet by path of travel from any dwelling unit or commercial business. The path of travel shall not include any portion of the public right-of-way.
(2) 
Commercial/Office/Public Facilities Zoning Districts.
(A) 
Enclosures shall be constructed of masonry with exterior material that matches the main structure.
(B) 
Enclosure door shall be of solid steel or aluminum.
(3) 
Residential Zoning Districts.
(A) 
Enclosures shall be constructed of wood or masonry compatible with the main structure.
(B) 
Enclosure door shall be of solid steel or aluminum.
(4) 
Industrial Zoning Districts. Enclosures shall be, at a minimum, slatted chain link fencing. The director of community development may require enclosures to be constructed of wood or masonry to be compatible with the main structure or to enhance the public view of the enclosure.
(f) 
Cart Service for Residential Uses.
(1) 
Single-family and multifamily uses of three or fewer units shall store recycling and solid waste containers so that they are either screened from public view from the public right-of-way or stored in the side yard of the premises behind the face of the house. Containers may remain in public view for purposes of collection in accordance with Chapter 8.16.
(2) 
Townhouse uses with four or more units and dedicated attached garages that choose to provide individual cart service shall design facilities in accordance with the criteria provided in the "Design Guidelines for Recycling, Organics and Solid Waste Services."
(A) 
Except when approved as part of a special development permit or use permit, proposed individual cart service for storage and collection of discarded materials in multifamily developments of four or more units shall require the approval of a miscellaneous plan permit by the director of community development. The director of community development may approve an application, require modifications, or may impose additional requirements to ensure the safe and efficient collection of solid waste and recyclable materials. The solid waste program manager shall advise the director of community development on adequate facilities required for the use. The public safety department shall advise the director of community development on fire safety and hazardous materials containment requirements.
(g) 
Exemptions. Requirements of this section shall not apply to:
(1) 
Recycling bins not accessible to the general public used exclusively by a business for its recycling program.
(2) 
Recycling centers for which a use permit or special development permit is required.
(Prior zoning code § 19.46.040(a), (b), (d)—(n); Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2649-00 § 7; Ord. 2714-02 § 2; Ord. 2816-06 § 2; Ord. 2926-10 § 1; Ord. 3184-21 § 2)

§ 19.38.040 Individual lockable storage space for multiple-family residential.

(a) 
Purpose. The purposes of this section are to:
(1) 
Protect the integrity of the city's neighborhoods.
(2) 
Preserve and enhance the high-quality character of neighborhoods.
(3) 
Encourage residents to maintain clean neighborhoods by preventing unsightly accumulation of discarded materials and illegal dumping of furniture and other municipal solid waste.
(4) 
Minimize unattractive elements which clutter the roadway.
(b) 
Applicability. The provisions of this section shall apply to all new multi-family residential development in all zoning districts.
(c) 
Required Storage. A minimum of one individual lockable storage unit shall be provided for each dwelling unit which shall be separate, lockable, weatherproof, and provided to tenants without an additional cost.
(d) 
Size. The minimum interior size of the storage space shall be as follows:
(1) 
Two hundred cubic feet for studio and one bedroom units.
(2) 
Three hundred cubic feet for all other units.
(e) 
Dimensions. The storage space shall be at least eight feet in one direction and no less than three feet in any other direction. The maximum height shall not exceed ten feet.
(f) 
Location. The storage space may be accessible from inside or outside the dwelling unit such as a patio, deck, balcony, interior or exterior hallway, interior room or separate structure. If storage space is attached to a bedroom it must be in addition to a bedroom closet. Required storage space shall not be located in an attic. A two-car garage meeting the minimum area and dimensions shall satisfy the lockable storage requirement.
(g) 
Exceptions. The decision maker may allow the storage space to be split between two locations under the follow-ing circumstances:
(1) 
The combined space meets the minimum size requirements;
(2) 
Each space is of sufficient size and dimensions to meet the purposes of this section; and
(3) 
If one or both spaces is an interior closet, sufficient additional closet space is provided for the occupants' needs of daily living.
(Prior zoning code § 19.46.042; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2810-06 § 7; Ord. 3111-17 § 2; Ord. 3128-17 § 1)

§ 19.38.045 Community room or club house requirement for multiple-family residential.

(a) 
For all new multiple-family residential developments that contain fifty through ninety-nine housing units, a community room or club house with a minimum meeting space size of two hundred twenty-five square feet shall be provided on-site for use by all members of the residential community. For existing fifty through ninety-nine housing unit multiple-family projects that are remodeled or converted from rental to ownership housing, any existing community room or club house shall be retained.
(b) 
For all new multiple-family residential developments that contains one hundred or more housing units, a community room or club house with a minimum meeting space size of four hundred fifty square feet shall be provided on-site for use by all members of the residential community. For existing one hundred or more housing unit multiple-family projects that are remodeled or converted from rental to ownership housing, any existing community room or club house shall be retained.
(c) 
Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) and (b), the approving authority for any project subject to the terms of this section may waive the requirement to provide a community room or club house upon a determination, based upon the circumstances of the specific project, that the objectives and purposes of the general plan of the city of Sunnyvale would not be served by imposing the requirement. In determining whether a waiver is appropriate, the approving authority shall consider any impacts the requirement might have on achieving density goals, useable open space, or other development standards, and also shall consider any other amenities the proposed project might offer.
(Ord. 2793-05 § 2)

§ 19.38.050 Prewiring for residential units.

(a) 
All new construction of residential dwelling units shall provide and incorporate therein electronic communications signal distribution facilities, suitable for use with dish antennas, cable signal services, and similar master antennas or signal distribution services. Such facilities shall be constructed to the then current minimum technical standards to the extent feasible for wiring and other devices suitable for use by master antenna systems as well as cable television systems. The facilities required by this section shall terminate at the exterior wall or roof of the affected building.
(b) 
All multiple family units shall be prewired for cable, multiple phonelines and computers.
(Prior code § 19.46.045; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.38.060 Elevators.

Elevators shall be provided for each residential building of four or more stores. Each garage level shall be considered a story.
(Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.38.075 Stormwater runoff pollution prevention requirements.

Depending on a project's impervious surface area, requirements described in the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit may apply. See Chapter 12.60 and Section 19.82.020(23) of this code for stormwater management requirements and the project application process.
(Ord. 2745-04 § 3)

§ 19.38.080 Sidewalks-Industrial districts.

(a) 
Except as may be permitted by use permit, all uses within the M-S (industrial and service) and M-3 (general industrial) districts shall provide sidewalks along public street frontage. Such sidewalks shall comply with all applicable specifications and other requirements of Title 13 of this code, with the exception that alternate surface materials, colors and design thereof may be authorized by use permit; provided that durability, safety and compatibility with adjoining improvements is at least equivalent to the minimum specifications contained in Title 13. Such sidewalks shall be required at the time of any of the following and may be made a condition of issuance of any building permit, certificate of occupancy or other permit required for any of the following:
(1) 
New construction;
(2) 
Reconstruction, as defined in subsection (b) of any building or buildings, involving ten percent of the gross building area, or five thousand square feet, whichever is less; or
(3) 
Expansion of existing individual buildings by ten percent or more of existing gross floor area, or by five thousand gross square feet, whichever is less; or
(4) 
Change in use requiring a tentative map, special development permit or use permit having the potential to cause a significant increase in pedestrian traffic.
(b) 
For purposes of this section, the term "reconstruction" shall mean the demolition and replacement of an existing structure or structures, or portion thereof, which may either completely replace the original structure or which may incorporate a portion or portions of the original building in the new structure. This subsection shall not apply to reconstruction which is confined entirely to the interior of an existing structure.
(c) 
Where sidewalks are deemed required pursuant to paragraphs (2) and (3) of subsection (a), the costs of such required sidewalk construction shall not exceed ten percent of the total cost of the reconstruction or expansion.
(Prior zoning code § 19.46.055; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2634-00 § 1; Ord. 2905-09 § 10)

§ 19.38.090 Underground utilities.

(a) 
All utilities and communication services associated with new development, redevelopment, subdivision or change in use shall be placed underground unless otherwise exempted by this section.
(b) 
Utilities and communication services include:
(1) 
All sewer, water and gas facilities except appurtenant equipment such as regulator, metering and testing equipment.
(2) 
All electric and communication facilities such as telephone, cable television, fiber optics, etc. including building service (laterals and service drops); and distribution (boundary) facilities such as electric distribution lines of 34.5 KV or less and existing facilities located on the premises or within rights-of-way contiguous to the project site.
(3) 
Transformers and similar equipment capable of undergrounding located between a public street and the front of any building.
(4) 
Facilities installed in addition to nonconforming equipment if located between a public street and the front of any building.
(c) 
Electric and communication facilities do not include:
(1) 
Equipment appurtenant to laterals such as transformers, terminal boxes and meter cabinets. Transformers and similar equipment capable of undergrounding located behind the front of any building.
(2) 
Existing nonconforming equipment appurtenant to laterals associated with emergency replacement, enlargement or increase in capacity. Facilities installed in addition to nonconforming equipment if located behind the front of any building.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.045, 19.46.060; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2823-06 § 1)

§ 19.38.095 General requirements.

(a) 
Required undergrounding may be accomplished on a time schedule approved by the planning commission or director of community development.
(b) 
As conditions of approval for any use permit or special development permit the planning commission or city council may impose undergrounding requirements other than those contained in this section.
(c) 
All existing electric and communication service laterals shall be placed underground whenever such service is increased in capacity, added to or relocated except the addition, alteration or rehabilitation of single family dwellings.
(d) 
When distribution facilities are required to be undergrounded, all existing on-site and frontage overhead communication and electric distribution facilities extending from on-site boundary and frontage lines to off-site poles or build-ings shall be removed and replaced with underground facilities. Where on-site boundary line poles are within fifteen feet of a cross property line, a new pole may be required to be placed at the property line intersection at the discretion of the director of community development.
(e) 
Utilities and communication services which are not required to be placed underground include:
(1) 
Boundary lines and service drops in connection with the addition, alteration or rehabilitation of an existing single family dwelling.
(2) 
Boundary lines in connection with the addition or alteration of any dwellings other than single family.
(3) 
Service drops in connection with the addition or alteration of any dwelling other than single family unless the service drop is otherwise modified in the course of construction.
(4) 
Boundary lines and service drops in connection with temporary or accessory unenclosed uses.
(5) 
Boundary lines in connection with any unenclosed use on a paved lot or raw land with frontage less than six hundred feet.
(6) 
Change of use in any building having a floor area less than ten thousand square feet unless in connection with a use permit or special development permit.
(7) 
Boundary lines in connection with a change of use in any building with a floor area over ten thousand square feet unless in connection with a use permit or special development permit.
(8) 
Boundary lines in connection with new development, redevelopment or subdivision on a lot or lots having a frontage less than one block, six hundred feet or one-half the distance between existing poles along the street frontage, whichever is less.
(9) 
Boundary lines and service drops (unless the service drop is otherwise modified in the course of construction) with the addition of floor area to an existing building with a frontage less than two hundred feet except that service drops must be underground if the gross floor area after the addition exceeds two thousand five hundred square feet.
(10) 
Boundary lines where additions to an existing building results in a gross floor area up to five thousand square feet with a frontage between two hundred feet and six hundred feet but less than one block.
(11) 
Existing single family properties with overhead lines located in the rear of the property.
(12) 
Existing single family properties with overhead lines located in the front of the property that have less than one hundred fifty feet of frontage and less than fifteen thousand square feet of land area.
(f) 
Waiver of undergrounding requirements. The director of community development may waive undergrounding requirements if topographical, soil or any other condition makes underground installation of such facilities unreasonable or impracticable, or if such undergrounding would result in the deleterious erection of alternate above-ground facilities for servicing other properties.
(g) 
In lieu fees and deferral agreements.
(1) 
The director of community development may allow for an in-lieu fee and/or a deferral agreement when immediate undergrounding is not feasible for a qualifying project. Deferral agreements shall specify when the work and payment are to be completed and shall be recorded against the property.
(2) 
The director of community development may allow for the payment of an in-lieu fee or a deferral agreement for qualifying property located in a Rule 20 Area.
(Ord. 2823-06 § 2; Ord. 2905-09 § 10)

§ 19.38.100 Allocation of costs for undergrounding.

(a) 
The developer shall bear all costs associated with placing utilities underground as required under Section 19.38.090.
(b) 
The developer shall share undergrounding costs with the city in the following instances:
(1) 
Where existing overhead utilities, except service drop to subject development, extend from the boundary of developer's property across a public right-of-way or in the case of lines across or into adjoining private property; or
(2) 
Where existing overhead utilities extend beyond a street frontage boundary of developer's land along a street frontage boundary of an adjacent property owner; or
(3) 
Service drops from the subject development to property not owned by the developer, where the service drops do not extend directly across a public right-of-way from the subject development.
(c) 
The undergrounding costs in subsection (b) shall be allocated in accordance with the following provisions:
(1) 
The developer and the city shall equally divide the cost of placing utilities underground where the service extends from a pole at the extremity of the developer's land and extends across a public right-of-way to a pole fronting on or located on land owned by other than the developer;
(2) 
The developer and the city shall each pay a pro rata share of costs in relation to the percentage of linear feet of service traversing the land or street frontage of developer's land to that traversing the land or street frontage of adjacent property not owned by the developer;
(3) 
The city shall pay only the cost of the undergrounding and on-site conversions on property not owned by the developer where the existing overhead service drops originate from poles or lines that are not located along the street frontage or on the developer's land. Such service drops include street crossings and service drops to adjoining properties not owned by the developer.
(d) 
Nothing herein shall obligate the city of Sunnyvale to pay the allocated costs as described in subsection (b). The city may decide not to contribute to the cost of placing the service underground. In such case, the appropriate review authority of the city reserves the right to substitute a reasonable and less costly alternative; to require partial undergrounding; or to require any reasonable combination of undergrounding, no undergrounding, and conduits to mitigate the visual effects of above-ground service or such alternatives may be utilized in order to facilitate future undergrounding.
(e) 
Nothing herein shall prevent the city from seeking reimbursement of amounts expended under the provisions set forth in subparagraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (c) from property owners benefited from the work in the event that the owner of property so benefited subsequently applies for any permit which would have required the placement of utilities underground pursuant to Section 19.38.090.
(Prior zoning code § 19.46.065; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2823-06 § 3)

§ 19.39.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to implement sustainable development with development and construction practices designed to use natural resources in a manner that does not eliminate, degrade or diminish their usefulness for future generations, to enhance the public health and welfare by promoting the environmental and economic health of the city through the design, construction, maintenance, operation and deconstruction of buildings and other site development, and to incorporate green building practices into all development projects. The green building provisions referred to in this chapter are designed to achieve the following goals:
(a) 
Increase energy efficiency in buildings;
(b) 
Encourage water and resource conservation;
(c) 
Minimize waste generated by construction projects;
(d) 
Provide durable buildings that are efficient and economical to own and operate;
(e) 
Promote the health and productivity of residents, workers, and visitors to the city; and
(f) 
Recognize and conserve the energy embodied in existing buildings.
(Ord. 2894-09 § 6)

§ 19.39.020 Covered projects.

This chapter applies to covered projects, defined as means any planning permit application(s) or building permit application(s) for new construction, addition, or remodel of an existing public facility or private building, except that it shall not apply to any project for which a complete building permit application has been submitted prior to January 1, 2010, as determined by chief building official. Projects within the scope of this chapter are:
(a) 
Newly constructed residential buildings;
(b) 
Residential alterations;
(c) 
Newly constructed non-residential buildings that are five thousand gross square feet or more;
(d) 
New large nonresidential interiors;
(e) 
Major alterations of existing nonresidential buildings.
(Ord. 2894-09 § 6)

§ 19.39.030 Standards for compliance.

(a) 
The standards for compliance shall be implemented in three phases as shown in the Green Building Tables, effective January 1, 2010, as adopted by resolution of the city council, and as amended from time to time.
(b) 
The following projects, regardless of scope of work, are exempt from this section:
(1) 
Solar or energy generation/conservation facilities;
(2) 
Heritage buildings;
(3) 
Fire, flood, wind, earthquake, or other natural disaster damage repairs;
(4) 
Disabled access upgrades;
(5) 
Seismic upgrades;
(6) 
Exterior modifications;
(7) 
Swimming pools;
(8) 
Temporary structures;
(9) 
Anything in the opinion of the director of community development that is a hardship or infeasible per Section 19.39.060.
(c) 
In order to qualify for the incentives, as set forth in the Green Building Tables, for industrial and office projects, applicant shall submit a transportation demand management program and analysis for the entire project site that demonstrates that vehicle-trip rates for the project are not greater than the number that would be generated by development of the site at the permitted FAR.
(d) 
It is intended that the green building FAR bonus permitted by this section shall supersede any other FAR allowances provided for in Section 19.32.070 of this code.
(e) 
Public Recognition for Exceptional Green Building Design. Those projects that implement exceptional green building design and construction practices that meet thresholds for incentives as specified in the above standards for compliance section shall be recognized by the city and eligible to receive a plaque that may be displayed on the structure.
(f) 
Wherever the LEED or GreenPoint Rate systems include a minimum energy or other performance requirement, the applicant may choose to meet the minimum performance requirements with an alternative equivalent method approved by the director of community development.
(g) 
Maintenance of Required Features. Any structure subject to this chapter shall maintain the green building features required herein, regardless of subsequent alterations, additions, or changes of use, unless subject to equal or more stringent requirements.
(h) 
The city council shall establish by resolution, and shall periodically review and update as necessary, green build-ing standards for compliance. The standards for compliance shall include, but are not limited to, the following:
(1) 
The types of projects subject to regulation (covered projects);
(2) 
The green building rating system to be applied to the various types of projects;
(3) 
Minimum thresholds of compliance for various types of projects; and
(4) 
Timing and methods of verification of compliance with these regulations.
(Ord. 2894-09 § 6)

§ 19.39.040 Administrative procedures.

(a) 
The director of community development shall promulgate any rules and guidelines necessary or appropriate to achieve compliance with the requirements of this chapter and as more fully outlined in the administrative procedures promulgated by the director of community development.
(b) 
The procedures for compliance documentation shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
(1) 
Upon submittal of an application for any discretionary planning entitlement (if required) for any covered project, application materials shall include the appropriate completed checklists, as required by the standards for compliance specified in Section 19.39.040, accompanied by a text description of the proposed green building program and expected measures and milestones for compliance.
(2) 
Upon submittal of an application for a building permit, building plans for any covered project shall include a checklist and green building program description, reflecting any changes proposed since the planning entitlement phase (if a planning entitlement was required). The checklist shall be incorporated onto a separate plan sheet included with the building plans
(3) 
Prior to final building inspection and occupancy for any covered project, a qualified building professional, if required by the standards for compliance, shall provide evidence of adequate green building compliance or documentation to the director of community development to satisfy the requirements of the standards for compliance for review and approval. This information shall include, but is not limited to:
(A) 
Documentation that verifies incorporation of the design and construction related credits specified in the project approval for the covered project;
(B) 
A letter from the qualified green building professional that certifies that the covered project has been constructed in accordance with the approved green building project checklist;
(C) 
Any additional documentation that would be required by the LEED™ reference guide for LEED certification (if required), or by the GreenPoint Rated manuals for GreenPoint Rated certification (if required); and
(D) 
Any additional information that the applicant believes is relevant to determining that a good faith effort has been made to comply with this chapter.
(Ord. 2894-09 § 6)

§ 19.39.050 Noncompliance.

If, as a result of any inspection, the city determines that the covered project does not or is unlikely to comply with the approved plans or green building checklist, a stop work order shall be issued if the director of community development determines that continuation of construction activities will jeopardize the project's ability to meet the required compliance threshold. The stop work order shall remain in effect and final certificate of occupancy withheld (moved) until the director of community development determines that the project will be brought into compliance with the approved plans and/or checklist.
(Ord. 2894-09 § 6)

§ 19.39.060 Hardship or infeasibility exemption.

If a project applicant believes that circumstances exist presenting an unreasonable hardship to meet the requirements of this chapter, the applicant may apply for an exemption as set forth in this section. In applying for an exemption, the burden is on the applicant to show significant hardship. Acceptance or denial of an exemption is at the discretion of the director of community development Hardship exemptions will only be granted in unusual circumstances based upon a showing of good cause and a determination that the public interest is not served by compliance or other compelling circumstances.
An unreasonable hardship shall be defined as practical infeasibility, difficulties, or results inconsistent with the general purposes of this chapter or harms designated heritage resources.
(Ord. 2894-09 § 6)

§ 19.39.070 Appeal.

(a) 
Any aggrieved applicant or person may appeal the determination of the director regarding: (1) the granting or denial of an exemption pursuant to the Building Code; or (2) compliance with any other provision of this chapter.
(b) 
Any appeal must be filed in writing with the community development department not later than fifteen days after the date of the determination by the director. The appeal shall state the alleged error or reason for the appeal.
(c) 
The appeal shall be processed and considered at a Building Code board of appeals hearing in accordance with the Building Code. The city council shall serve as the board of appeals.
(d) 
An appeal from the decision of the Building Code board of appeals may be made to the city council, which decision shall be final.
(Ord. 2894-09 § 6; Ord. 3212-23 § 5)

§ 19.40.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to regulate and establish standards for accessory structures within R-0, R-1, R-1.5, R-1.7/PD, R-2 residential zoning districts, and DSP Blocks 8 through 12 and Block 17. Accessory structures in other zon-ing districts are subject to development and permitting requirements for those zoning districts.
(Ord. 2907-09 § 7)

§ 19.40.020 General requirements.

(a) 
Measurement of Area. The area (square footage) of an accessory structure is determined by measuring the floor area exclusive of eaves, overhangs or other projections.
(b) 
Calculation of Height. The height of an accessory structure shall be determined by measuring the vertical distance from the average finished grade within five feet of the accessory structure, or within five feet of the main building, whichever is less, to the highest point of the accessory building.
(c) 
Appearance. All accessory structures greater than one hundred twenty square feet shall be compatible in exterior appearance with the principal structure on the premises. Permanent accessory structures are not permitted to be constructed of temporary materials such as tarps, plastic, or aluminum poles. The director of community development is authorized to require modifications to the exterior of such an accessory structure as necessary to achieve a compatible appearance.
(d) 
Total Lot Coverage and Required Rear Yard Coverage. Detached habitable spaces, detached required parking, and utility buildings are counted toward permitted lot coverage and rear yard coverage (as required in Sections 19.32.020 and 19.48.050). These structures shall not cause lot coverage or rear yard coverage to be exceeded unless otherwise approved by a use permit.
(e) 
Maximum Height. No accessory structure may exceed fifteen feet in height unless otherwise approved with a use permit.
(f) 
Maximum Allowable Square Footage. Any single accessory structure or the total area of all accessory structures on a property shall not exceed four hundred fifty square feet unless otherwise approved by a use permit. In no event shall the total area of all accessory structures exceed eight hundred square feet. Legal accessory units as regulated in Chapter 19.68 shall be exempt from the maximum allowable square footage for accessory structures.
(Ord. 2907-09 § 7; Ord. 3105-16 § 7; Ord. 3154-20 § 5)

§ 19.40.030 Permit requirements for accessory structures.

Accessory structures greater than four hundred fifty square feet are subject to approval of a use permit. Permit requirements for accessory structures four hundred fifty square feet or less are described in Table 19.40.030.
Table 19.40.030
Permit Requirements for Accessory Structures Less Than Four Hundred Fifty Square Feet
Structure Type
Location
Front or Reducible Front Yard1
All Other Areas Including Side and Rear Yards
Open Garden Feature
8 ft. or less in height
No planning permit required
No planning permit required
Greater than 8 ft. in height up to 15 ft.
MPP with notice
MPP with notice
Open Outdoor Equipment, Utility Buildings and Detached Habitable Spaces
8 ft. or less in height
Prohibited
No planning permit required
Greater than 8 ft. in height up to 15 ft.
Prohibited
MPP with notice
Detached Required Parking
Up to 15 ft. in height
MPP with notice
MPP with notice
Greater than 15 ft. in height
Use permit
Use permit
Notes:
1
Includes any areas where the structure is visible between any face of the building and the street.
(Ord. 2907-09 § 7)

§ 19.40.040 Minimum setback requirements for accessory structures.

Accessory structures greater than four hundred fifty square feet must meet zoning district setbacks. Minimum setback requirements for accessory structures four hundred fifty square feet or less are described in Table 19.40.040.
Table 19.40.040
Minimum Setback Requirements for Accessory Structures Less Than Four Hundred Fifty Square Feet
Structure Type
Required Setback
Front Yard and Reducible Front Yard
Side
Rear Yard
Open Garden Feature
 
 
 
Up to 8 ft. in height and up to 120 sq. ft.
0 ft.
0 ft.
0 ft.
Up to 8 ft. in height and more than 120 sq. ft.
20 ft.
Zoning setback
10 ft.
Greater than 8 ft. in height up to 15 ft.
20 ft.
Zoning setback
10 ft.
Open Outdoor Equipment, Utility Buildings and Detached Habitable Spaces
 
 
 
Up to 8 ft. in height and up to 120 sq. ft.
N/A
0 ft.
0 ft.
Up to 8 ft. in height and more than 120 sq. ft.
N/A
Zoning setback
10 ft.
Greater than 8 ft. in height up to 15 ft.
N/A
Zoning setback
10 ft.
Detached Required Parking Garages
 
 
 
Up to 15 ft. in height
20 ft.
Zoning setback
10 ft.
Greater than 15 ft. in height
20 ft.
Zoning setback
10 ft.
Temporary Utility Tents up to 15 ft. in height.
20 ft.
Zoning setback
10 ft.
(Ord. 2907-09 § 7)

§ 19.42.010 Operation of home occupations.

Home occupations may be conducted in any zoning district with a business license, provided the director of community development has determined that the proposed use shall comply with the following restrictions:
(a) 
The home occupation will not change the residential character or appearance of the dwelling unit or mobile home;
(b) 
The home occupation shall be restricted to the dwelling area and shall not be conducted in the yard, garage or any accessory structure except detached habitable spaces;
(c) 
No internal or external alterations to the structure are made which are nonresidential in nature;
(d) 
No more than twenty percent of the floor area within the dwelling unit or four hundred square feet, whichever is less, shall be devoted to the business (including storage described in subsection (h));
(e) 
No persons other than residents of the dwelling shall work or report to work on the premises;
(f) 
Signage shall comply with the provisions of Section 19.44.040 of this code pertaining to residential name plates;
(g) 
All advertising shall clearly state "by appointment only" if the residential address is used;
(h) 
No more than fifty cubic feet of storage of inventory or products shall be devoted to business purposes in any part of the dwelling;
(i) 
No merchandise, product, or tangible thing shall be sold on the premises;
(j) 
The business shall not generate vehicular traffic which will interfere with residential traffic circulation or shall not cause more than three vehicles including vehicles used by customers, vendors or delivery services to visit the premises per day;
(k) 
The business shall not generate external noise, odor, glare, vibration or electrical interference detectable to the normal sensory perception by adjacent neighbors;
(l) 
No explosive, toxic, combustible or flammable materials in excess of what would be allowed incidental to normal residential use shall be stored or used on the premises;
(m) 
The use or storage of any supplies, electrical or mechanical equipment, shall be limited to that which is compatible with the residential use of the dwelling unit or mobile home;
(n) 
The total number of home occupations at any one address is not limited, except the cumulative impact of all such businesses shall not exceed the limits set forth in this section for a single home occupation.
(Prior zoning code § 19.24.005; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2907-09 § 8; Ord. 3000-13 § 1)

§ 19.42.020 Operations upon land-Nuisance prohibited.

(a) 
Operations upon land in any zoning district shall be conducted in such a manner as to promote and protect the public health, safety, convenience and general welfare of the inhabitants of the city. The owner or occupant of land used for any agricultural, commercial, industrial or residential purpose shall not suffer or permit any activity, operation or installation on such land which is obnoxious or offensive or creates a nuisance to the occupants or commercial visitors of adjacent buildings or premises by reason of the emission of dust, fumes, glare, heat, liquids, noise, odor, smoke, steam, vibrations or similar disturbances.
(b) 
Recyclable or refuse materials which have been permitted to accumulate for more than twenty-four hours at any recycling collection or processing facility and which are not properly contained within containers, bins or enclosures intended as receptacles for such materials shall constitute a nuisance, as described in Section 9.26.030. Such materials shall be deemed abandoned, and the city shall have the right to enter any business premises for the purpose of abating or removing any such materials which have remained continuously on the premises for more than twenty-four hours.
(Prior zoning code § 19.24.010; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.42.030 Noise or sound level.

(a) 
Residential Noise Limits.
(1) 
Operational noise shall not exceed 50 dBA during nighttime or 60 dBA during daytime hours at any point on the property line of the adjacent single-family or duplex uses.
(2) 
Operational noise shall not exceed 55 dBA during nighttime or 65 dBA during daytime hours on the primary useable open space of multi-family uses.
(3) 
Operational noise shall not exceed 60 dBA during nighttime or 70 dBA during daytime hours on the primary useable open space of residential uses located along major transportation corridors (freeways, expressways, arterials, and rail lines) or mixed-use residential properties.
(b) 
Nonresidential Noise Limits.
(1) 
Operational noise shall not exceed 60 dBA during nighttime or 70 dBA during daytime hours at any point on the property line of the adjacent nonresidential use.
(2) 
Operational noise generated at industrial, manufacturing, or similar uses shall not exceed 75 dBA during daytime hours at the adjacent property line.
(c) 
Special Exceptions from Noise Limits.
(1) 
Powered Equipment. Powered equipment used on a temporary basis during daytime hours is exempt from the operational noise limits. When used on a continuous basis or during nighttime hours, they should comply with operational noise limits. When used adjacent to residential uses, operation of powered equipment is not allowed during nighttime hours.
(2) 
Construction. Construction activity regulated by Title 16 of this code shall not be governed by this section.
(3) 
Deliveries. Noise from deliveries shall not be considered operational noise. It is unlawful for any person to make or allow to be made a nighttime delivery to a commercial or industrial establishment when the loading/unloading area of the establishment is adjacent to a residential use. Businesses legally operating at a specific location as of February 1, 1995, are exempt from this requirement.
(4) 
Leaf Blower. A "leaf blower" is a small, combustion engine-powered or electric device used for property or landscape maintenance that can be hand-held or carried by the operator and which operates by propelling air under pressure through a cylindrical tube. It is unlawful for any person to operate a leaf blower on private property in or adjacent to a residential use except between the hours of eight a.m. and eight p.m. Effective January 1, 2000, all leaf blowers operated in or adjacent to a residential area shall operate at or below a noise level of 65 dBA at a distance of 50 feet, as determined by a test conducted by the American National Standards Institute or an equivalent. The dBA rating shall be prominently displayed on the leaf blower.
(5) 
Warning Sounds. Warning sounds necessary for the protection of public health, safety, and welfare including, but not limited to: civil defense and fire sirens; commercial and residential burglar or fire alarms; and emergency response warning noises are exempt from the operational noise limits.
(6) 
Emergency Utility and Street Repairs. Noise from emergency utility and street repairs are exempt from this chapter.
(7) 
Street Sweeping and Refuse Collection Services. Noise from street sweeping and refuse collection services (garbage, recycling, and organic materials) are exempt from this chapter.
(Prior zoning code § 19.24.020(b)—(d); Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 3219-23, 8/8/2023)

§ 19.42.040 Fuel permitted.

In order to reduce air pollution, only natural gas or petroleum products or electrical energy shall be used as a fuel for the conduct of any use. All activities, operations or equipment installations which produce or may produce air pollutants shall comply with the regulations adopted by the Bay Area Air Pollution Control District.
(Prior zon-ing code § 19.24.030; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.42.050 Lights-Restrictions.

Lights, spotlights, floodlights, reflectors, and other means of illumination shall be shielded or equipped with special lenses in such a manner as to prevent any glare or direct illumination on any public street or other property. When adjacent to residential zoning districts, non-residential light standards located within the required setback areas as defined in Section 19.34.030 shall be a maximum of eight feet high.
(Prior zoning code § 19.24.040; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2714-02 § 4)

§ 19.42.060 Ground vibration regulated.

Every activity or operation shall be conducted in such a manner that ground vibration generated or produced on the premises is not perceptible at any point on the property line of the premises without the use of a special measuring instrument.
(Prior zoning code § 19.24.050; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.42.070 Fireplace or woodburning appliance.

No new fireplace or new woodburning appliance shall be utilized except in accordance with Chapter 8.14.
(Ord. 2672-01 § 2)

§ 19.44.010 Title.

This chapter may be known as the Sign Code of the city of Sunnyvale, California.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2)

§ 19.44.020 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to establish a comprehensive and balanced system of sign regulation that will facilitate communication by sign and simultaneously serve public interests, including, but not limited to, the following:
(a) 
Free Speech. To accommodate and encourage the right of free speech by sign display, while balancing this right against other public interests.
(b) 
Public Health and Welfare. To serve the public health, safety, and welfare through appropriate prohibitions, regulations, and controls on the design, location, and maintenance of signs.
(c) 
General Plan. To implement the sign-related goals, purposes and strategies of the city's General Plan.
(d) 
Regulation System. To establish a comprehensive and reasonable system for regulating signs integrated within the zoning code.
(e) 
Notice. To provide public notice of rights and responsibilities related to sign display.
(f) 
Equal Rights. To ensure that similarly situated persons have equal rights and responsibilities regarding sign display.
(g) 
Community Aesthetics. To serve the aesthetic interests of the city by minimizing visual clutter that can be caused by excessive signs.
(h) 
Visibility. To relate sign area and height to viewing distance and optical characteristics of the eye.
(i) 
Safety. To reduce safety hazards to drivers and pedestrians by minimizing the view obstruction, distraction, and confusion that can result from inappropriate or improperly placed signs.
(j) 
Structural Integrity. To minimize safety risks by ensuring structural integrity and proper maintenance of signs.
(k) 
Residential Tranquility. To protect the peaceful, quiet, residential nature of neighborhoods from intrusion or degradation by excessive commercial signage.
(l) 
Compatibility. To ensure that sign structures are physically compatible with the surrounding area.
(m) 
Property Values. To protect and enhance property values by minimizing signs that contribute to the visual clutter of the streetscape, such as oversized signs and excessive temporary signage.
(n) 
Economic Value. To enhance the economic value of the city and each area therein by setting reasonable rules regarding sign size, location, design and illumination.
(o) 
Information. To serve the public convenience by providing for directional and functional information on signs.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2)

§ 19.44.030 Scope, authority and basic principles.

(a) 
Scope. This chapter regulates signs, as defined herein, which are within the legal corporate limits of the city, but not on city property or in the public right-of-way, or on property owned and/or controlled by other city controlled entities. Signs on city property and the public right-of-way are regulated by Chapter 9.58. This chapter does not regulate signs used in conjunction with parades, demonstrations or public assemblies, which are covered by Chapter 9.45 (Special Event Permits).
(b) 
Message Neutrality Policy. It is the policy of the city to regulate signs in a manner that does not favor commercial speech over noncommercial speech, and does not regulate protected noncommercial speech by message content.
(c) 
Message Substitution Policy. Subject to the private property owner's consent, a constitutionally protected non-commercial message of any category or content may be substituted, in whole or in part, for any allowed commercial message or any other protected 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. The purpose of this provision is to prevent any favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech, or favoring of any particular protected noncommercial message over any other protected noncommercial message. Message substitution is a continuing right which may be exercised any number of times. The substitution right applies to the sign owner and to any other message sponsor displaying any image on the sign with the owner's consent. The message substitution right does not: (1) create a right to increase the total amount of sign display area on a site or parcel; (2) create a right to substitute an off-site commercial message in place of an on-site commercial message or in place of a non-commercial message; (3) affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device must be properly permitted; (4) authorize changing the physical method of image presentation (such as digital or neon) display without a permit; or (5) authorize a physical change to the sign structure without compliance with applicable building codes, safety codes, and neutrally-applicable rules for sign size, height, orientation, setback, separation or illumination.
(d) 
Enforcement Authority. The director is authorized and directed to administer and enforce this chapter.
(e) 
Administrative Interpretation. Interpretations of this chapter are to be made initially by the director in consultation with the city attorney. The director may refer an interpretation question to the planning commission. All interpretations of this chapter are to be exercised in light of the message neutrality and message substitution policies. Where a particular type of sign is proposed, 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, as adopted by the city, then the planning commission or director, as applicable, shall approve, conditionally approve or disapprove the application based on the most similar sign type, using physical and structural similarity, that is expressly regulated by this chapter, in light of the policies stated in this chapter.
(f) 
Responsibility for Compliance. The responsibility for compliance with this chapter rests jointly and severally upon the sign owner, the permit holder, all parties holding the present right of possession and control of the property whereon a sign is located, mounted or installed, and the legal owner of the lot or parcel, even if the sign was mounted, installed, erected or displayed without the consent or knowledge of the owner and/or other parties holding the legal right to immediate possession and control.
(g) 
On-Site—Off-Site Distinction. Within this chapter, the distinction between on-site signs and off-site signs applies only to commercial messages. It does not apply to noncommercial messages.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3048-14 § 3)

§ 19.44.040 Definitions.

Automobile retail establishment.
An establishment whose primary use of a building or property is for outdoor and indoor display and sale of new or used automobiles, trucks, vans, motorcycles, trailers or recreational vehicles. The term does not include establishments for which the sale of vehicles is an incidental use, such as rental car agencies.
Audible signs.
Signs which emit sounds.
Billboard.
A permanent sign structure in a fixed location which meets any one or more of the following criteria: (A) it is used for the display of off-site commercial messages; (B) the message display area, or any part thereof, is made available to message sponsors other than the owner(s) or operator(s) of the sign, typically for a fee or other consideration, i.e., general advertising for hire; (C) the sign is a principal or secondary use of the land, rather than appurtenant or accessory to some other principal use of the land.
Building wrap sign (also known as supergraphic).
A large-format vinyl or mesh sign that is affixed or adhered to a building façade and extends across one or more floors of a multi-story building.
Commercial and office districts.
Commercial and office zoning districts are P‐F, C‐1, C‐2, C‐3, C‐4, VCC, O, commercial tenant spaces in VCMU, ECR‐O, VCO, and DSP Blocks 1, 2, 3, 20, and 21.
Commercial mascot.
A person or animal attired or decorated with commercial insignia, images, costumes, masks or symbols, and/or holding signs displaying commercial messages, when a principal purpose is to draw attention to or advertise a commercial enterprise. This definition includes "sign twirlers," "sign clowns," "sign spinners," and "human sandwich board" signs. Also known as "living signs" and "human signs." "Scarecrow" like devices, which simulate liv-ing persons or animals, are also within this definition.
Commercial message.
An image or message on a sign which primarily concerns the commercial or economic interests of the sign sponsor or intended audience, or which proposes a commercial transaction.
Construction site sign.
A sign that is displayed on the site of a construction project during the actual construction.
Copy (also called sign copy).
Any letters, numerals, or symbols displayed on a sign face to convey a message to the public; the elements of a visual image which are intended to be communicative.
Copy height.
The height of the tallest number or letter on a sign. For wall signs mounted on multiple-tenant buildings and not consisting of individual letters, the copy height is the height of the sign face. Logos are not included in calculations of copy height.
Decorative banner.
A non-permanent sign, made of durable fabric, fastened from the top and bottom to a pole or similar structure on private property located within thirty feet of the property line adjacent to a public street.
Digital display.
"Digital display" means display methods 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.
A sign that serves to control traffic, parking or pedestrian movements on private property, and that is located entirely on the property to which it pertains.
Director.
Director of community development or designee.
Display area or display face.
That portion of the sign structure which is available or usable for display of the copy. Also known as "copy area."
Election period.
See Pre-election period.
Electronic message center (also called EMC or message center).
A sign using digital display and capable of remote changes of image. An electronic sign designed for periodically changing messages. EMCs (also known as programmable electronic, electronic readerboards, LED, commercial electronic variable message signs, or digital signs) are those with message elements or sign copy that may be readily changed.
Establishment.
Any legal use of land, other than residential, which may involve the use of structures subject to the building code. Examples include a business, private school, place of assembly, or office.
Face change.
Any change to the letter style, size, color, background, or message that requires the manufacturing of a new or modified sign face.
Fin sign.
A type of wall sign that is perpendicular to a building wall or part of a building and has lettering on both sides. Also known as a projecting or blade sign.
Flag.
A piece of fabric or other flexible material, usually rectangular, of distinctive design, used as a symbol.
Garage sale sign.
A sign whose message concerns short-term rummage, estate, boutique or garage sales of used or handmade common household items from a residential property.
Gas station pump island.
The area of a gas station in which the fuel pump islands are located.
General advertising (also known as "general advertising for hire").
The enterprise of advertising or promoting other businesses or causes using methods of advertising, in contrast to self-promotion or on-site advertising.
Government sign.
Signs installed by government or public utilities, including school districts.
Ground sign.
Any sign which is self-supporting in a fixed location and not attached to a building.
Ground sign sleeve.
A temporary sign made of durable fabric or material that is stretched taut around the ground sign used while the permanent ground sign is being renovated or refaced.
Industrial districts.
Industrial districts are M-S, M-3 and the Moffett Park Districts.
Information sign.
A sign that displays functional information, such as open and close times, credit cards honored, locations of restrooms, etc., but which is not displayed for purposes of commercial advertising or debate on topics of public concern.
Large inflatable object.
An object that is used for attention-getting or advertising purposes, inflated with air that exceeds fourteen inches in any dimension.
Logo.
A distinctive graphic symbol identifying a use, product or company. Logos may include lettering.
Master sign program.
A tool to integrate the design and placement of signs within a project with the overall development design to achieve a more unified appearance.
Moving signs.
Any sign that rotates, changes, or has other visible mechanical movement, not including electronic message centers.
Mixed use districts.
Mixed use districts are DSP Blocks 1a and 20, any property with a MU (mixed use) combin-ing district and all mixed use specific plans.
Noncommercial message.
A constitutionally protected message that addresses topics of public concern, debate or controversy such as, by way of example and not limitation, politics, religion, philosophy, science, art or social commentary.
Office districts.
See Commercial and office districts.
On-site sign.
A sign that is located on the same premises as the establishment advertised on the sign.
Permanent sign.
A sign which by its physical nature is designed for and suitable for display longer than ninety days; the term includes all signs which qualify as a "structure" in the building code.
Portable sign.
Any sign not attached to the ground or to a building, such as "A-frame" or "sandwich board" signs as well as any sign that is easily moved.
Pre-election period.
That period of time which begins ninety days before, and ends ten days after any primary, general or special election in which voters in Sunnyvale may vote.
Readerboard sign.
A sign that allows for the message to be changed by manual means, such as channel lettering or adhesive lettering.
Real estate sign.
A sign whose message concerns a proposed transaction, such as sale, lease, or exchange, of real property. Signs on establishments offering transient occupancy, such as hotels, motels, inns and bed and breakfast places, indicating name, vacancies, rates and policies, are not within this definition. All signs described in California Civil Code 713 are within this definition.
Regional retail.
Any property zoned ECR-C, commercial tenant spaces in ECR-MU, or in DSP Block 1a, 18 or 22.
Residential districts.
Residential districts are R‐0, R‐1, R‐1.5, R‐1.7/PD, R‐2, R‐3, ECRR3, R‐4, ECR‐R4, R‐5, R‐MH, residential uses in ECR‐MU or VCMU; residential uses in MXD‐I, MXD‐I/S, MXD‐II, MXD‐III, MXD‐IV; residential uses in MP‐AC, MP‐R, MP-MU; and DSP Blocks 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 8a, 8b, 9, 9a, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 23.
Residential name plate.
A sign used to identify a residential person, family, or a home-based business (home occupation).
Sign.
Any structure, object, visual device or advertising artwork used for the purpose of communicating a message or identifying or attracting attention to a premises, product, service, person, organization, business or event. The above definition does not include the following:
(A) 
Holiday and cultural observance decorations displayed in season, including inflatable objects which do not include commercial messages;
(B) 
Inflatable gymnasiums associated with legal residential uses: inflatable, temporary, moveable, gymnasium devices commonly used for children's birthday parties, and similar devices (also called "party jumps" or "bounce houses");
(C) 
Interior graphics: visual communicative devices that are located entirely within a building or other enclosed structure and are not visible from the exterior thereof;
(D) 
Manufacturers' marks: marks on tangible products, which identify the maker, seller, provider or product, and which customarily remain attached to the product even after sale;
(E) 
Symbols embedded in architecture: symbols of noncommercial organizations or concepts, including, but not limited to, religious or political symbols, when such are permanently integrated into the structure of a permanent build-ing which is otherwise legal; by way of example and not limitation, such symbols include stained glass windows on churches, carved or bas relief doors or walls, bells and religious statuary.
Sign face.
That portion of a sign containing sign copy, which constitutes a single plane, which is intended to be visible from a single vantage point.
Temporary sign.
A non-permanent sign such as a banner, portable sign, balloon, inflatable object or ground sign that is constructed of lightweight or flimsy materials, which is easily installed and removed using ordinary handtools and which is not intended for permanent or long-term use. Any sign that qualifies as a "structure" under the building code is not a temporary sign.
Tenant frontage.
The width of a tenant space, measured in lineal feet on a building elevation, occupied by the use to be identified. Tenant frontage includes the wall with the primary entrance as well as the wall directly facing a public street. See Figure 19.44.040 (Tenant Frontage) for further demonstration.
Traffic signs.
Signs whose principal function is to advise drivers and pedestrians of traffic rules (such as Stop signs or Speed Limit signs) or provide directional information.
Wall sign.
A permanent sign that is attached to the exterior of a wall, including fin signs, awnings or canopies. Under-canopy signs are not within this definition.
Warning sign.
A sign that warns of danger, such as "no trespassing" or "beware of dog" or "danger high voltage."
Window sign.
A visually communicative image that is applied or attached to the interior of a window, or painted on or attached to the exterior or interior of a window.
Wind activated sign.
A sign with physical motion that is activated by wind or forced air.
Under-canopy signs.
A sign suspended below a fascia, canopy or awning in a manner that is perpendicular to the building and oriented to pedestrians.
Figure 19.44.040 Tenant Frontage
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3048-14 § 4; Ord. 3194-22 § 10; Ord. 3242-25, 7/29/2025)

§ 19.44.050 Signs exempt from sign permit requirement.

The following signs are allowed without a sign permit and do not count toward the otherwise applicable limit on sign display area or size, so long as they meet the stated requirements:
(a) 
Address numbers on a building.
(b) 
Government signs.
(c) 
Warning signs.
(d) 
Window Signs. Window signs limited to twenty-five percent of the total window area per façade, per tenant space.
(e) 
Residential Open House Signs. A residential open house directional sign may be placed on private property without a permit, provided that sign is not placed on a traffic median, sidewalk, bicycle lane or other travel way or path. The sign is limited to three and one-half feet in height as measured from the ground immediately adjacent to the sign, and four square feet in area. The sign may only be displayed between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on the same day of the open house. Open house directional signs may be placed in the public right-of-way only as authorized by Section 9.58.080.
(f) 
Real Estate Signs on Private Property. A lease, sale or construction sign that consists of a banner or a temporary ground sign, and meets all of the following criteria:
(1) 
One sign per street frontage;
(2) 
A ground sign shall not exceed forty square feet per sign face, with eighty square feet total;
(3) 
The maximum ground sign height is ten feet;
(4) 
The sign is not located in the public right-of-way;
(5) 
Any banner shall be limited to sixty square feet and must be stretched taut and secured against the building, fence or wall and not attached to landscaping; and
(6) 
Sign must be removed within ten days after the property is no longer for lease or sale or within sixty days after the issuance of certificate of occupancy of the last building within a development.
(g) 
Directory Signs for Multifamily Uses. Directory signs within a multifamily residential use are not counted toward allowable sign area and may be installed without a permit provided the sign meets all of the following requirements:
(1) 
Is oriented to on-site vehicles and pedestrians;
(2) 
Does not exceed twenty square feet in area per sign face;
(3) 
Does not exceed five feet in height;
(4) 
Is set back a minimum of twenty feet from the public right-of-way.
(h) 
Information Signs. Information signs shall not exceed sixteen square feet sign area.
(i) 
Flags Displaying Noncommercial Images or Messages. Limited to three per property. Examples of noncommercial flags include the American flag or state of California flag. The top of the flag must not exceed twenty feet in residential zoning districts, as measured from the ground. Flag height is limited to thirty feet in all other zoning districts. Flag poles are included in the total height restriction. The maximum lateral dimension of the flag is limited to twenty-five percent of the height of the pole or other structure to which it is affixed.
(j) 
Directional signs may be installed without a sign permit provided the sign meets all of the following requirements:
(1) 
Is located on the property to which it pertains;
(2) 
Does not in any way advertise a business;
(3) 
Does not exceed four square feet in area; and
(4) 
Does not exceed five feet in height as measured from the ground immediately adjacent to the sign.
(k) 
Residential Name Plate. Each separate residential dwelling unit, whether in attached multifamily, detached single-family, town home, condominium, or apartment, is allowed a residential name plate placed at the home entrance or along the front wall of a residential use, limited to two square feet in area.
(l) 
Traffic Signs. Shall be located on the property to which it pertains, shall not exceed four feet in area, and shall not exceed five feet in height as measured from the ground immediately adjacent to the sign.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3048-14 § 5)

§ 19.44.060 Prohibited signs.

The following signs are prohibited in all zoning districts:
(a) 
Moving signs.
(b) 
Commercial mascots.
(c) 
Wind activated signs.
(d) 
Audible signs, not including signs at establishments offering drive-up or walk-up service.
(e) 
Billboards.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2)

§ 19.44.070 Sign permit required.

Unless exempted from the permit requirement, all signs regulated by this chapter may be installed, maintained, erected, or displayed only pursuant to a sign permit issued pursuant to chapter, using the design criteria identified in this chapter and other applicable regulations. The sign owner, message sponsor, and property owner must satisfy all other applicable permit and planning approval requirements, even if the sign is exempt from the sign permit requirement.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3048-14 § 6)

§ 19.44.080 Building permit required in certain instances.

A building permit as required by Title 16 may be required for freestanding signs and flag poles qualifying as structures under the building code, any signs permanently mounted or fastened to a building, or any sign that requires an electrical connection for illumination.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3048-14 § 7)

§ 19.44.090 Changes to permitted signs-Requirement for amended or new permit.

A sign initially approved and for which a sign permit is issued shall not thereafter be modified, altered or replaced, nor shall any design elements of any building or lot upon which such sign is maintained be modified, altered or replaced if the physical design elements constituted a basis for the sign approval, without an amended or new permit first being obtained pursuant to this chapter. If the original permit did not contain physical design elements, and only the copy or graphic design on the display face is changed, a new or amended permit is not required. If the physical structure of a permitted sign is changed, whether by repair, alteration, expansion, change in electrical supply, change in physical method of image presentation, change in dimension or weight, or similar factors, then a new permit or amendment to the existing permit is required.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3048-14 § 8)

§ 19.44.100 Application, fee, and accompanying material.

An application for a sign permit shall be made in writing on a form prescribed by the director and shall be accompanied by the required fee, in an amount established by city council resolution from time to time. The applicant shall submit plans, drawings and other supporting data as determined necessary by the director. The director shall prepare a sign permit application form and provide it to any person on request, along with such other materials and information as applicants need to submit for a permit. The same form may be used for both the application and the decision thereon. A single form may be used for multiple signs on the same site; however, the director may make separate decisions as to each sign.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2)

§ 19.44.110 Application review, timeframes.

(a) 
All sign permit applications shall be initially reviewed by the director as a ministerial matter. Whenever any sign permit, variance, conditional use permit, specific plan, site development plan, planned development approval, master sign program or other sign-related decision is made by any exercise of official discretion, such discretion shall be exercised only as to location, structural, and safety factors, and not as to message content. The director may refer signs or Master Sign Programs to the planning commission for review and approval.
(b) 
Conditional Approval. A sign permit application may be approved subject to conditions, so long as the purpose of the conditions is to satisfy requirements of this chapter or some other applicable law, rule, regulation or policy.
(c) 
Inspections. All signs subject to a building permit require final inspection and approval by the building division.
(d) 
Permit Denials. All sign permit denials shall be in writing, state the grounds for denial, and be sent or delivered to the address shown on the application.
(e) 
Time Limits. Signs subject to approval at the staff level shall be reviewed and acted upon within thirty calendar days. For projects requiring planning commission or city council review, the application will be scheduled for the next available agenda that provides adequate time for report preparation and noticing, but in any event within sixty calendar days. The time period for decision begins running when the application is deemed complete. The timely decision requirement may be waived by the applicant. If a written decision is not rendered within the required time, then the application shall be deemed denied.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3048-14 § 9)

§ 19.44.120 Processing of applications.

(a) 
Completeness. The director shall determine if the application contains all the required information. If the application is not complete, the applicant shall be so notified in person or in writing initially within thirty calendar days of the date of receipt of the application; the notice shall state the points of incompleteness and identify any additional information necessary. The applicant shall then have one opportunity, within thirty calendar days, to submit additional information to render the application complete; failure to do so within the thirty-calendar day period shall render the application void.
(b) 
Disqualification. No sign permit application will be approved under any of the following circumstances:
(1) 
Uncured Violation of Sign Rules. No sign permit will be approved if the applicant has installed a sign in violation of the provisions of this chapter and, at the time of submission of the application, each illegal sign has not been legalized, removed or a cure included in the application.
(2) 
Other Code Violations. No sign permit will be approved if there is any other existing zoning code violation(s) located on the site of the proposed sign(s) (other than an illegal or nonconforming sign that is not owned or controlled by the applicant and is located at a different business location on the site from that for which the approval is sought) which has not been cured at the time of the application, unless the noncompliance is proposed to be cured as part of the proposed new sign.
(3) 
Previous Denial. No sign permit will be approved if the sign approval application is substantially the same as an application previously denied, unless either twelve months have elapsed since the date of the last application, or the applicant provides new evidence or proof of materially changed conditions, or the reasons for the earlier denial have been cured or will be cured as part of the new application.
(4) 
Failure to Obtain Zoning Permits. No sign permit will be approved if the applicant has not obtained any other applicable required zoning permits.
(5) 
Outstanding Unpaid Balance. No sign permit will be approved if the applicant has an outstanding unpaid balance for prior community development department services.
(c) 
Applications for Multiple Signs. When an application proposes two or more signs, the application may be granted either in whole or in part, with separate decisions as to each proposed sign. When a multiple sign application is denied in whole or in part, the director's written notice of determination shall specify the grounds for such denial.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2)

§ 19.44.130 Revocation or cancellation.

(a) 
The director may revoke any approval or permit upon refusal or failure of the permittee to comply with the provisions of the permit and the requirements of this chapter after written notice of noncompliance and at least fifteen calendar days opportunity to cure. The notice and opportunity to cure does not apply when a sign, by virtue of its physical condition, constitutes an immediate and significant threat to public safety.
(b) 
Permits Issued in Error. Any approval or permit issued in error may be summarily revoked by the city upon written notice, to the permittee, stating the reason for the revocation. "Issued in error" means that the permit should not have been issued in the first place, and includes, but is not limited to, material misrepresentations or omissions in the application materials, and oversights or errors in the processing thereof.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2)

§ 19.44.140 Appeals, judicial review.

(a) 
Any action of the director regarding signs may be appealed to the planning commission, whose decision shall be final, pursuant to the procedures contained in Chapter 19.98 (General Procedures).
(b) 
Stay of Proceedings. The request for appeal shall automatically stay the proceedings until a final decision is rendered on the action, permit or determination being appealed, except whenever a sign, by virtue of its physical condition, constitutes an immediate and significant threat to public safety.
(c) 
Judicial Review. Following final decision by the planning commission, any affected person may seek judicial review of the final decision on a sign permit application pursuant to the applicable provisions of the California Code of Civil Procedure. Judicial review must be filed with the time limits specified by the applicable provisions of California law.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3050-14 § 1)

§ 19.44.150 General sign requirements.

The following requirements apply to all signs. Adjustments to specific requirements may be granted in accordance with Section 19.44.230 (Exceptions to sign standards).
(a) 
Number of Signs. The number and size of permanent and temporary signs allowed are described in Section 19.44.160 (Permanent signs in nonresidential zoning districts), Section 19.44.170 (Permanent signs in residential zoning districts), and Section 19.44.050 (Signs exempt from sign permit requirements).
(b) 
Application of Requirements Governed by Use of Property. Legal residential uses in nonresidential zoning districts shall be governed by the provisions of this chapter that apply to residential zoning districts. Legal nonresidential uses in residential zoning districts (other than home occupations) shall be governed by the provisions of this chapter that apply to nonresidential zoning districts. In the case of mixed-use parcels where both residential and nonresidential uses are allowed, the residential uses shall be subject to the provisions of this chapter that apply to residential zoning districts, and the nonresidential uses shall be subject to the provisions of this chapter that apply to nonresidential zoning districts.
(c) 
Location. All signs are subject to the following location requirements. In addition to the general requirements listed below, details about allowable locations for individual permanent or temporary signs are described in their respective sections.
(1) 
On-Site. All signs used to display commercial messages must identify or advertise an on-site establishment. Billboards and all other signs advertising off-site commercial messages are prohibited. Commercial establishments with no street frontage may request approval of a sign on immediately adjacent property (with the property owner's permission) near the driveway leading to the establishment, which shall be reviewed in accordance with Section 19.44.230. Such a sign shall be considered on-site for purposes of this section. Within this chapter, the distinction between on-site signs and off-site signs applies only to commercial messages.
(2) 
If both residential and nonresidential uses are allowed or in place, then the residential portion of the development is subject to the requirements for residential uses, and the nonresidential portion is subject to the requirements for the most restrictive abutting nonresidential zoning district.
(3) 
No Encroachment. Signs must be placed on private property and must not overhang the public right-of-way or sidewalk, except as authorized by Section 9.58.100.
(4) 
Clearance from Sidewalk and Property Line. The minimum horizontal clearance between any part of the sign structure and the property line shall be one foot. For ground and fin signs over sidewalks and driveways, the minimum clearance between the lowest point of the sign and grade immediately below must be eight feet for pedestrian areas and fifteen feet for vehicular clearance.
(5) 
Safety. All signs must meet the following requirements:
(A) 
All signs must meet vision triangle requirements in Section 19.34.060 (Vision triangles).
(B) 
All signs must meet the following setbacks from fire hydrants and fire hose connections:
(i) 
Front and side setbacks: fifteen feet.
(ii) 
Side setback: three feet.
(C) 
Any sign that presents a substantial risk to public safety by virtue of its physical condition is subject to an order to repair, remediate, or remove. In the case of a sign that presents imminent danger to public safety may be summarily removed by the city. The actual cost of removal may be recovered by the city, provided that the sign owner is given opportunity to challenge whether the removal was necessary and the amount of the cost recovery.
(d) 
Sign Area. Sign area is the nearest of any two of rectangle, circle or triangle shapes that enclose all the visually communicative sign elements, including the logo, but not counting non-communicative aspects of the support structure, see Figure 19.44.150 (Sign Area).
Figure 19.44.150 Sign Area
(e) 
Logos. Logos may be detached from other sign copy and are counted towards sign area but shall not be included in calculations of copy height.
(f) 
Sign Type Requirements.
(1) 
Wall Signs.
(A) 
Area. Wall sign allowances may be split into separate signs on the building, provided the minimum and maximum copy height are met and the total amount of signage on the building does not exceed the total allowed. Wall sign area is limited to a minimum of twenty-five square feet regardless of building frontage.
(B) 
Fin Signs. Fin signs must not project more than four feet from the face of the building and must meet minimum clearance as specified in subsection (c)(4) (Clearance from sidewalk and property line).
(C) 
Location. Wall signs may be placed on any face of the building, except wall signs on side or rear elevations within one hundred fifty feet from any residential zoning district may be illuminated only from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Wall signs may also be located on the side of a building perpendicular to the street. Wall signs must be located on the same story as the primary entrance, except multi-story wall signs shall be placed only on the top floor. In no case may the sign extend above the top of a roof structure or be mounted on a roof equipment screen or penthouse.
(2) 
Awning and Canopy Signs. Awning and canopy signs may be attached to or painted on the vertical edges of awnings, canopies, arcades, or similar features or structures in nonresidential and multifamily residential zones in accordance with the following standards:
(A) 
Height. Maximum twelve feet.
(B) 
Clearance between sidewalk and bottom of awning or canopy. Minimum eight feet.
(C) 
Clearance between canopy and curb. Minimum two feet.
(D) 
Illumination. None allowed.
(3) 
Under-Canopy Signs. Where allowed, under-canopy signs must meet the requirements of subsection (c)(4) (Clearance from sidewalk and property line).
(4) 
Ground Signs.
(A) 
Shape and Location. Ground signs must be set back at least one foot from the public right-of-way and any property line. Ground signs are limited to two display faces. Signs in the shape of a "V" or "X" are prohibited.
(B) 
Address Numbers. All new ground signs must have address numbers of a minimum of six inches and maximum of two feet in height. Address numbers on a ground sign must be located between two to fifteen feet from the ground.
(5) 
Flags. A flag with a commercial image is permitted only in commercial and industrial zoning districts or in conjunction with a multifamily residential use.
(A) 
Commercial and Industrial Zoning Districts. In commercial and industrial zoning districts, up to three commercial flags are allowed per property with a maximum cumulative area of all flags not to exceed sixty square feet and a maximum height of thirty feet in height, as measured from the ground level and including the pole. Maximum lateral dimension of the flag is twenty-five percent of the total height of the pole or structure.
(B) 
Multifamily Uses. For multifamily uses, up to four flags with commercial images are allowed. The maximum flag size is fifteen square feet and the maximum height is twenty feet, as measured from the ground and including the pole. Maximum lateral dimension is twenty-five percent of the total height of the pole or structure.
(g) 
Materials. All signs must be constructed of wood, rigid plastic, metal, or other permanent material, with the exception of flags, banners, pennants, balloons, and large inflatable objects.
(h) 
Master Sign Programs. Master Sign Programs are required for properties with six or more establishments in accordance with Section 19.44.220 (Master Sign Programs).
(i) 
Illumination. Permanent signs may be illuminated with continuous lighting, and can include neon tube lighting, external and internal lighting. No sign shall be illuminated so that the bulb or other primary source of the light is visible beyond the property line or in any way will cause excessive glare or brightness. Wall signs on side or rear elevations within one hundred fifty feet from any residential zoning district may be illuminated only from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 pm. The city reserves the right to require and/or complete a post-installation inspection of the sign illumination. If, as a result of this inspection, it is determined that the illumination is so bright as to adversely impact adjacent properties or uses, the city may require shielding or a reduction and/or adjustment in the intensity of the sign illumination, so that it is in keep-ing with the general level of illumination on surrounding properties. Such intensity restriction may vary by time of day and ambient light conditions. Illuminated signs located adjacent to any residential area shall be shielded to direct light downward and away from adjacent properties such that there is no spillover light and shall be controlled by a rheostat or functional equivalent to avoid excessive glare to residential properties.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3042-14 § 1; Ord. 3048-14 § 10)

§ 19.44.160 Permanent signs in nonresidential zoning districts.

(a) 
Standards. All signs in nonresidential districts are subject to the standards in this section, except that residential uses in nonresidential zoning districts must comply with standards for signs in residential zoning districts.
(1) 
Table 19.44.160(a) applies to properties in the commercial and office zoning districts, except as listed in subsection (2).
(2) 
Table 19.44.160(b) applies to properties in regional retail and industrial zoning districts.
(b) 
Permit Required. A sign permit is required for installation, replacement, or a face change of the signs listed in Tables 19.44.160(a) and (b). Signs conforming to a previously approved Master Sign Program do not require a separate planning permit. Multi-tenant properties with six or more establishments must obtain a Master Sign Program permit.
(c) 
Specialized Sign Requirements.
(1) 
Electronic Message Centers. Electronic message centers may be substituted for a wall sign or a ground sign in the ECR-C zoning district and in Block 18 of the Downtown Specific Plan. See Section 19.44.200 (Electronic message center (EMC) restrictions) for requirements. In all other locations, electronic message centers are prohibited.
(2) 
Freeway Adjacent Establishments. Establishments that provide food, lodging and/or fuel to freeway users are permitted to display signage subject to the rules in this subsection. The establishment must be located adjacent to qualifying freeway, freeway frontage road or freeway overpass. Qualifying roads are U.S. Highway 101 and State Highways 85 and 237 only. The following requirements apply to height and area of the display face; all other copy height and other restrictions apply:
(A) 
Location. Signs must be located along freeway, frontage road or freeway off-ramp frontage parallel to the freeway.
(B) 
Ground Signs. Freeway establishments are allowed ground signs of up to thirty feet in height and up to one hundred square feet per sign face, or two hundred square feet for both sides.
(C) 
Wall Signs. Wall signs on the tenant frontage parallel to the freeway are allowed an additional one hundred fifty square feet beyond the standard wall sign area allowance.
(3) 
Gas Station Signs. The following sign types are permitted for gas stations, subject to the applicable requirements:
(A) 
Wall or Canopy Mounted Gas Station Signs. All wall or canopy signs shall be counted towards maximum wall signage.
(B) 
Fuel Price Signs. Fuel price signs, as required by state law, Business and Professions Code Section 13532 et seq., shall be limited in size to the minimum necessary to satisfy state law and are not counted toward allowable sign area.
(C) 
Pump Island Signs. Messages on pumps and pump islands do not count toward total allowable sign area, but may not be used for general advertising for hire, and each sign area is limited to four square feet.
(4) 
Readerboard Signs. Readerboard signs are allowed only in conjunction with places of assembly and theater uses and shall be included in calculations of the area and height of signs, and shall conform to those regulations.
Table 19.44.160(a)
Sign Requirements for Commercial, Office and Public-Facility Zoning Districts
Type
Number
Maximum Area
Copy Height
Sign Height
Special Requirements
Wall
No limit
0.66 sq. ft. of sign for every one lineal foot of building frontage. 200 sq. ft. maximum sign area.
6 in. minimum 48 in. maximum
Cannot extend above the top of the building.
Multiple wall signs cannot exceed maximum wall sign area. Fin signs are calculated towards overall wall sign area. Buildings over 100 feet tall may have a maximum copy height of 60 in.
Ground
One per street frontage, two if lot is wider than 300 ft.
60 sq. ft. per side 120 sq. ft. on both sides.
6 in. minimum 48 in. maximum
10 ft. high maximum as measured from top of nearest curb.
None
Under-
canopy
One per entrance
5 sq. ft. per side, 10 sq. ft. on both sides.
No limit
Lower edge must be at least 8 ft. above walkway.
None
Table 19.44.160(b)
Sign Requirements for Regional Retail Business and Industrial Zoning Districts
Type
Number
Maximum Area
Copy Height
Sign Height
Special Requirements
Wall
No limit
1 sq. ft. of sign for every one lineal foot of building frontage. 300 sq. ft. maximum sign area.
6 in. minimum 48 in. maximum
Cannot extend above the top of the building.
Multiple wall signs cannot exceed maximum wall sign area. Fin signs are calculated towards overall wall sign area.
In addition to the sign area on the ground floor, theaters located on the second floor are also permitted 1 sq. ft. of sign area for every 1 lineal foot of building frontage, with 500 sq. ft. maximum combined sign area per building frontage.
Ground
One per street frontage, two if lot is wider than 300 ft.
70 sq. ft. per side, 140 sq. ft. on both sides.
6 in. minimum 48 in. maximum
25 ft. high maximum as measured from top of nearest curb.
None
Under-
canopy
One per entrance
5 sq. ft. per side, 10 sq. ft. on both sides.
No limit
Lower edge must be at least 8 ft. above walkway.
None
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3048-14 § 11; Ord. 3141-19 § 1; Ord. 3194-22 § 11)

§ 19.44.170 Permanent signs in residential zoning districts.

The requirements of this section apply to all uses in residential zoning districts and all legal residential uses in other districts.
(a) 
Standards. Table 19.44.170 applies to permitted nonresidential uses and multifamily residential uses in residential zoning districts.
(b) 
Permit Required. A sign permit is required for installation, replacement, or a face change of the signs listed below.
(c) 
Residential Project Identification Signs. Signs identifying a residential project shall follow ground sign regulations shown in Table 19.44.170, and are limited to one per street frontage.
Table 19.44.170
Signs for Nonresidential Uses and Multifamily Residential Uses in Residential Zoning Districts
Type
Number
Maximum Area
Copy Height
Sign Height
Special Requirements
Wall
No limit
0.33 sq. ft. of sign for every one lineal foot of building frontage. 75 sq. ft. maximum sign area.
6 in. minimum 24 in. maximum
Cannot extend above the top of the building.
Multiple wall signs cannot exceed maximum wall sign area.
Ground
One per street frontage, two if lot is wider than 300 ft.
32 sq. ft. per side, 64 sq. ft. on both sides.
6 in. minimum 24 in. maximum
5 ft. high maximum as measured from nearest top of curb.
None
Under-canopy
One per entrance
5 sq. ft. per side, 10 sq. ft. on both sides.
No limit
Lower edge must be at least 8 ft. above walkway.
None
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3048-14 § 12)

§ 19.44.180 Temporary signs-Nonresidential zoning districts.

The following regulations apply to temporary signs in nonresidential zoning districts, except as qualified by Section 19.44.150(b). Display time for temporary signs is limited to a total of one hundred twenty days in a calendar year, unless otherwise specified in this code.
(a) 
Signs that Require a Permit. A sign permit is required for installation of temporary signs listed below:
(1) 
Banners, Pennants and Ribbons. One banner or a collection of pennants or ribbons are each considered one temporary sign. Two such signs per tenant are allowed at one time, except for shopping centers with two or more tenants may have up to four signs on a property at one time.
(A) 
Banners. Banners are limited to sixty square feet and must be stretched taut and secured against the building, fence or wall and not attached to landscaping.
(B) 
Pennants and Ribbons. Ribbons and pennants must not be attached to landscaping.
(2) 
Large Inflatable Objects. No more than one large inflatable object is allowed on site at a time. If ground mounted, large inflatable objects shall not exceed ten feet in height. If roof mounted, such signs shall not exceed ten feet above building height. May not be located within required parking areas, landscaping or walkway areas. Display time: a maximum of ten days in a calendar year.
(3) 
Ground Sign Sleeve. Ground sign sleeves must be made of durable fabric, and not increase the size of the ground sign or obscure the address numbers. Ground sign sleeves are allowed for up to ninety days or until the permanent sign is installed, whichever is less.
(4) 
Building Wrap. Building wrap signs are allowed only in commercial buildings of five stories or greater in Block 18 of the Downtown Specific Plan District. The building wrap sign is limited to three floors of the building and cannot include any movement or animation. Display time for building wrap signs is limited to a maximum of one hundred twenty days in a calendar year.
(5) 
Automotive Banner Program. See Section 19.44.210 (Automobile sales decorative banner program).
(b) 
Signs that Do Not Require a Permit. The following types of temporary signs are allowed without a permit.
(1) 
Exempt Signs. Any sign exempt from permitting under Section 19.44.050.
(2) 
Balloons for Commercial Uses. Balloons that do not exceed fourteen inches in any dimension are limited to ten feet above the ground and shall not extend over the public sidewalk or roadway. If balloon exceeds fourteen inches in any dimension, it is considered a large inflatable object.
(3) 
Portable Signs. Portable signs of up to eight square feet in area are allowed with the following restrictions:
(A) 
The sign is oriented to on-site vehicles and pedestrians;
(B) 
Only one portable sign is permitted per tenant space;
(C) 
Portable signs cannot exceed three and one-half feet in height measured from the ground immediately adjacent to the sign;
(D) 
Portable signs must be placed with a minimum three feet of clearance for pedestrian travel;
(E) 
Portable signs are prohibited in landscaping or parking areas;
(F) 
Portable signs shall only be displayed when the establishment is open;
(G) 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, portable non-commercial signs may be placed in landscaped areas of nonresidential property during the pre-election period (ninety days prior to an election and ten days after an election) with the permission of the person who owns or controls the property. Such signs may be displayed whether the establishment is open or closed. Signs shall not be placed in the public right-of-way or on any parkway strip, traffic median, sidewalk, bicycle lane or other travel way or path, or attached to any tree, utility pole, light pole, fire hydrant, utility box, or traffic control device.
(H) 
Portable signs are not permitted in the public right-of-way unless authorized by Chapter 9.58.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3042-14 § 2; Ord. 3048-14 § 13)

§ 19.44.190 Temporary signs-Residential zoning districts.

The following requirements apply to temporary signs in residential zoning districts, except as qualified by Section 19.44.150(b). No permit is required for temporary signs that meet all of the following standards:
(a) 
Noncommercial Message. The sign does not display a commercial message.
(b) 
Sign Area. The total of all temporary signs on a single premises shall not exceed sixteen square feet in total sign area, except that during the pre-election period (ninety days prior to an election and ten days after an election), the total area of all signs shall not exceed thirty-two feet in area. These limitations on total sign area do not apply to window signs.
(c) 
Sign Height. Signs shall not project above any wall, fence, or other structure to which the sign is affixed. Temporary ground signs and portable signs shall not exceed three and one-half feet in height measured from the ground immediately adjacent to the sign.
(d) 
Location. Signs shall not be placed on trees or in walkways, driveways, or other areas of the property used for vehicular or pedestrian travel. Temporary ground signs and portable signs may not be placed in the public right-of-way except as authorized by Section 9.58.090.
(e) 
Permission of Owner. Signs shall not be placed in any location without the permission of the owner or occupant of the property. In the case of signs that are allowed in the public right-of-way pursuant to Chapter 9.58, signs shall not be placed without the permission of the owner or occupant of the contiguous and adjacent private parcel.
(f) 
Flags displaying noncommercial messages do not count toward the total sign area for temporary signs as long as the total area of each flag does not exceed sixteen square feet.
(g) 
Flags displaying commercial messages are prohibited in residential zones except for multifamily uses. For multi-family uses, up to four flags with commercial messages are allowed. The maximum flag size is fifteen square feet and the maximum height is twenty feet, as measured from the ground and including the pole. Maximum lateral dimension is twenty-five percent of the total height of the pole or structure.
(h) 
Places of Assembly. Churches, community centers, and other places of assembly located on residentially-zoned property are not subject to this section. Places of assembly are subject to the regulations applicable to signs in commercial zoning districts.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3042-14 § 3; Ord. 3048-14 § 14)

§ 19.44.200 Electronic message center (EMC) restrictions.

Where allowed, EMC sign elements shall be designed as a part of and fully integrated with the architectural design of any other sign permitted on the same parcel of land. EMC signs shall conform to the following:
(a) 
Permitted Zoning District. EMC signs are permitted only in the regional retail areas.
(b) 
Permitted by Use. Places of assembly and theaters may establish a separate EMC sign in addition to any primary signs allowed in the applicable zone district.
(c) 
Calculation Towards Sign Area. EMC signs are counted towards sign area limitations of the subject zoning district. If the EMC is a ground sign, no other ground sign is allowed in that location. If the EMC is located on a building, it shall count towards the maximum building sign allowance. If the EMC is located in a window, it shall count towards the maximum window coverage.
(d) 
Sign Area. An EMC wall sign shall not exceed one hundred square feet sign area, and an EMC ground sign shall not exceed fifty square feet sign area per side.
(e) 
Sign Height. EMC sign height shall not exceed ten feet high as measured from top of nearest curb.
(f) 
Location.
(1) 
Safety. EMCs shall be located in a manner that the director determines based on reasonable evidence will not adversely interfere with the visibility or functioning of traffic signals and traffic signage, taking into consideration the physical elements of the sign and the surrounding area, such as information analyzing physical obstruction issues, line of sight issues, brightness issues and visual obstruction or impairment issues, but not including the message content on the sign.
(2) 
Distance from Residential Zoning Districts. EMCs must be one hundred fifty feet or more from the nearest residential zoning district on the same street as the sign, and an EMC shall not face a residential use on an abutting property.
(g) 
Message Requirements.
(1) 
On-Site. EMCs may display noncommercial messages or messages advertising on-site establishments. Messages displaying off-site commercial messages are prohibited.
(2) 
Duration. Sign messages shall have a minimum hold time of two minutes. EMCs are allowed to be illuminated between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. and only while businesses are open.
(3) 
Illumination. Illumination shall not exceed 0.3 footcandles over ambient lighting when measured at the following distances based on sign area. For signs with an area other than those listed, the measurement distance may be calculated using: Distance= Square root of sign area (sq. ft. X 100).
Sign Area
(square feet)
Measurement Distance
(feet)
40
63
50
71
60
77
70
84
80
89
90
95
100
100
110
105
120
110
130
114
140
118
(4) 
Motion. Animated messages, including flashing, blinking, fading, rolling, shading, dissolving, or any other effect that gives the appearance of movement are prohibited. Transition from one message to another message shall appear instantaneous as perceived by the human eye.
(5) 
Audio, Emissions. Audio messages, and emissions of smoke, fumes, and vapors, are prohibited.
(6) 
Defaults for Malfunction. All EMC signs shall contain a default mechanism that will cause the sign to revert immediately to a black screen if the sign malfunctions.
(h) 
Prohibition on Temporary Signs. If an EMC is installed on a property, no temporary signs are allowed for the property during any time that the EMC is in operation.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2)

§ 19.44.210 Automobile sales decorative banner program.

(a) 
Purpose. The purpose of allowing decorative banners for automobile retail establishments located in the ECR-C zoning district along El Camino Real is to recognize the distinctive requirements of this form of retail and to foster a unified image of a Sunnyvale "auto row." Uniform decorative banners strengthen the collective impact of display and advertising for auto retail along El Camino Real, in a manner that is attractive, compatible, and safe, and enhances the streetscape and the economic well-being of the city.
(b) 
Decorative Banner Program. Any automobile retail establishment desiring to display decorative banners may do so only as a participant in an approved decorative banner program. All decorative banners must be consistent with the approved program, and no more than one decorative banner program may be approved for any twelve-month period.
(c) 
Decorative Banner Program Permit and Requirements. The director may approve a decorative banner program permit in accordance with the regulations and criteria set forth in this section. The following regulatory standards are required conditions for any decorative banner program:
(1) 
Location. The entire decorative banner shall be located on private property, outside of vision triangles and shall not extend into or be allowed to move into the public right-of-way.
(2) 
Quantity. Each property participating in a decorative banner program may display a maximum of one banner for every thirty lineal feet of street frontage.
(3) 
Size. Each decorative banner shall be a minimum of eight square feet and a maximum of sixteen square feet. All decorative banners in a decorative banner program shall be the same size.
(4) 
Distance Between Decorative Banners. No decorative banner shall be located closer than ten feet to another banner.
(5) 
Height. The bottom of each banner shall be at least eight feet and not more than twelve feet high measured from the top of the nearest curb. All decorative banners located on a property shall be the same height.
(6) 
Materials. Decorative banners shall be of durable fabric intended for outdoor use such as altrafab, pryatone, sunbrella or similar quality fabric. Non-fade inks shall be used on the decorative banners.
(7) 
Hardware. Brackets for mounting the decorative banners to poles shall be of high quality such as stainless steel banding with fiberglass arms which can flex with the wind.
(8) 
Maintenance. Regardless of the time frame permitted for decorative banners through a decorative banner program, decorative banners shall be promptly replaced when ink fades or fabric tears, frays or fades. Hardware shall be replaced or repaired when damaged or twisted. All decorative banners shall be fastened to keep taut and shall not be loose or floppy.
(d) 
Permit Application. An application for a decorative banner program permit shall be made on a form supplied by the director and initiated by owners or agents of automobile retail establishments. The application shall be accompanied by the required fee, as adopted by resolution of the city council. In order to apply, the applicants must demonstrate, by providing written documentation that at least fifty-one percent of the automobile retail establishments located along El Camino Real in Sunnyvale consent to the proposed program.
Along with demonstrating that all of the above required conditions of approval have been met, the following information shall be submitted to the director in conjunction with an application for a permit:
(1) 
Site plans for each automobile retail establishment that will be participating in the program, indicating quantity, location and height of decorative banners for each property;
(2) 
Color drawings showing decorative banner design, including colors, materials, hardware and size; and
(3) 
Explanation of duration of display of each set of banners that are requested as part of the decorative program.
(e) 
Permit Duration and Renewal. A decorative banner program permit may be issued for a total of twelve months with a maximum of four sets of decorative banners. A set of decorative banners may be displayed for a maximum of six months, after which the banners shall be removed or replaced by another set of decorative banners which have been pre-approved; however, upon request, the director may approve an extension of display time for any set of decorative banners for up to six additional months. Maximum total duration is one year. The permit shall expire automatically after twelve months from the date of issuance. Upon expiration of the permit, automobile retail establishments may apply for another permit following the same procedures as for an original application.
(f) 
Appeal of Denial of Permit. The applicant may appeal the decision of the director to deny a decorative banner program within fifteen days of the decision to the planning commission, in accordance with the general procedures set forth in Chapter 19.98. The planning commission may approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application for a decorative banner program. The decision of the planning commission shall be final.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3194-22 § 12)

§ 19.44.220 Master Sign Programs.

The purpose of Master Sign Programs is to harmonize the appearance of signs, in a manner allowing creativity in design and commercial identification, while avoiding extremes of size, color and shape. A Master Sign Program is also used to distribute allowable sign area for multi-tenant buildings and complexes. Master Sign Programs existing at the time of the adoption of this chapter may continue in effect, until modified.
(a) 
Applicability. A Master Sign Program is required whenever any of the following circumstances exists:
(1) 
New nonresidential developments of six or more separate tenant spaces will share either the same parcel or structure and use common access and parking facilities (e.g., shopping centers, malls, office complexes and industrial parks);
(2) 
Proposal for an off-site sign for an immediately adjacent site where opportunities for on-site signage are limited.
(b) 
Allowable Modifications. A Master Sign Program may provide for exceptions from the standards of this chapter, subject to the findings in Section 19.44.230, Exceptions to sign standards.
(c) 
Review Authority. All Master Sign Programs are reviewed with a sign permit.
(d) 
Required Findings. In order to approve a Master Sign Program, the following findings must be met, in addition to other applicable regulations in this section:
(1) 
The proposed signs are compatible in architectural style and character with any building to which the signs are to be attached, any surrounding structures and any adjoining signage on the site;
(2) 
Future tenants will be provided with adequate opportunities to construct, erect or maintain a sign for identification; and
(3) 
Directional signage and building addressing is adequate for pedestrian and vehicular circulation and emergency vehicle access.
(e) 
Revisions to Master Sign Programs. The director may approve revisions to an approved Master Sign Program with a sign permit.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2)

§ 19.44.230 Exceptions to sign standards.

(a) 
Requests for Exceptions. Unusual site conditions may warrant signs not otherwise permitted by this chapter. A sign permit application that includes a request for exceptions to standards established by these regulations is subject to review by the director and shall include reasons for the request. The maximum allowable deviation is twenty-five percent of the requirement.
(b) 
Any of the following aspects of a permanent sign are eligible for the consideration of an exception:
(1) 
Sign area;
(2) 
Sign height;
(3) 
Sign location (on-site only);
(4) 
Copy height.
(c) 
Findings for Approval of an Exception. An exception to the sign regulations may be granted only if all of the following findings are met:
(1) 
There are exceptional or unusual circumstances applying to the property involved which do not apply generally to properties in the vicinity with the same zoning, such as, but not limited to:
(A) 
The presence of a legal, nonconforming structure; or
(B) 
Visual obstructions; or
(C) 
Unusual building location or use on-site; or
(D) 
Unusual building design, architectural style, or historic significance.
(2) 
The exception is consistent with the purpose and intent of the sign regulations, as set forth in Section 19.44.020, and will not constitute a grant of special privilege or entitlement inconsistent with limitations applied to other properties in the vicinity with the same zoning.
(3) 
The sign exception will not result in visual clutter and is consistent with the intent and purpose of these sign regulations.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2; Ord. 3048-14 § 15)

§ 19.44.240 Nonconforming signs.

The following provisions apply to legal nonconforming signs. Any sign installed or maintained without required permits is considered an illegal nonconforming sign and must conform to the current code. All temporary signs must meet current requirements.
(a) 
Repairs and Minor Alterations. A nonconforming sign may be maintained and repaired. A nonconforming sign may also be altered as a change of copy, sign face or color. Any such minor alteration cannot increase the sign's nonconformity. Any repair that qualifies as a major alteration or expansion must meet the requirements of the relevant subsection(s) of this chapter.
(b) 
Major Alterations. Alterations that change the sign location, frame, or sign support structure require the sign to meet current requirements.
(c) 
Expansion of the Sign. Any expansion of a sign structure that affects a nonconforming sign shall meet current requirements. Affected signs are signs that must temporarily or permanently change the location or appearance of the sign, excluding sign face changes.
(d) 
Approval of a Discretionary Review. The director or applicable approving body may require a nonconforming sign to meet current requirements as a condition of a sign permit, use permit or special development permit.
(e) 
Discontinuance of Use. A sign associated with a use that has been discontinued for a period of ninety days must conform to current requirements. Notice shall be sent to the property owner who will have ten days to respond to the notice.
(f) 
Replacement. Nonconforming signs may be replaced only under the circumstances provided for in Section 19.50.090 (Damage or destruction of a nonconforming use).
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2)

§ 19.44.250 Construction and maintenance.

Signs must be maintained in a safe, unbroken and structurally sound manner. Damaged or missing sign faces must be repaired or replaced. All signs must be maintained in the same condition as when the sign was installed. Normal wear and tear of aged signs shall be repaired when they detract from the visible quality of the sign. When signs are repaired, they must be done so in a manner (paint colors shall match, etc.) that is consistent with the approved sign permit. When signs are removed, the wall behind the sign shall be repaired and painted to match the rest of the building.
(Ord. 3000-13 § 2)

§ 19.45.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to further the transportation goals of the Sunnyvale General Plan and the Sunnyvale Climate Action Plan by promoting the adoption of Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Programs in industrial, office, and multi-family residential developments; promoting and increasing work-related transit use, ridesharing, walk-ing and bicycling to minimize the number of employees traveling in single-occupant vehicles to and from work at the same time and during peak-hour periods; and improving the mobility and general efficiency of circulation and transportation systems by reducing single-occupant vehicle trips and total vehicle miles traveled within the community and the region.
(Ord. 3094-16 § 2)

§ 19.45.020 Applicability.

TDM Programs shall be required in all new developments and redevelopment meeting the criteria set forth in this chapter. Developments in an area subject to a specific plan shall comply with any additional or different TDM requirements imposed by that specific plan.
(Ord. 3094-16 § 2)

§ 19.45.030 High-intensity industrial and office development.

(a) 
Applicability. A TDM program shall be required for the following developments:
(1) 
High-Intensity Industrial Development in the M-S or M-3 Zoning District. High-intensity industrial development means any project that creates new floor area exceeding floor area ratio (FAR) thresholds defined in Table 19.32.020 (Building Height, Lot Coverage and Floor Area Ratio) or exceeding seventy percent FAR in industrial intensification sites defined in Section 19.32.070 (Floor area ratio (FAR)); and
(2) 
Industrial and office developments utilizing green building incentives, as described in Chapter 19.39 (Green Building Regulations) and the Green Building Tables adopted by resolution.
(b) 
Goals for Peak-Hour Trip Reduction. TDM programs must meet the following goals in peak-hour trip reduction for the entire project site:
(1) 
Industrial-Intensification Sites. High-intensity industrial and office development that exceeds seventy percent FAR in an industrial intensification area must demonstrate that peak-hour vehicle-trip rates for the project do not exceed the projected peak-hour trip generation of a seventy percent FAR project.
(2) 
Green Building Incentives. Industrial and office development that use the voluntary incentives in the Green Building Tables must demonstrate that peak-hour vehicle-trip rates are not greater than the number that would be generated by development of the site at the floor area ratio thresholds defined in Table 19.32.020 (Building Height, Lot Coverage and Floor Area Ratio).
(c) 
Standard M-S and M-3 FAR Zoned Sites. The approving body may require a TDM program for projects requir-ing a use permit for floor area ratio exceeding those thresholds defined in Table 19.32.020 (Building Height, Lot Coverage and Floor Area Ratio).
(d) 
TDM programs required by this section shall be administered and enforced by the director of public works pursuant to Chapter 10.60 of this code.
(Ord. 3094-16 § 2)

§ 19.45.040 Multi-family residential Transportation Demand Management Program.

(a) 
Applicability. A TDM Program is required of all new developments and redevelopments of ten or more residential units, including residential components of mixed-use developments.
(b) 
Standards. The city council shall adopt standards for the multi-family residential Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Program which shall contain specific requirements necessary for compliance. These standards shall be updated from time to time to reflect best practices in the field of transportation demand management.
(c) 
Administrative Procedures.
(1) 
The director of community development shall adopt administrative procedures containing any rules and guidelines necessary or appropriate to achieve compliance with the requirements of this section.
(2) 
The procedures for compliance documentation shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
(i) 
Upon submittal of an application for any discretionary planning entitlement (if required) for any covered project, application materials shall include a TDM plan that documents how the development will comply with the requirements of the multi-family TDM Program.
(ii) 
Upon submittal of an application for a building permit, building plans shall show any physical improvement measures required by the approved TDM plan for the project.
(iii) 
Prior to final building inspection and occupancy, evidence shall be provided to the director of community development to confirm that all required physical improvements and programmatic measures in the approved TDM plan for the project have been installed or implemented.
(d) 
Noncompliance. The director of community development shall enforce the provisions of this section. In addition to any other remedies authorized by law, if the director determines that the project during construction does not or is unlikely to comply with the approved TDM plan, a stop work order may be issued. The stop work order shall remain in effect and final certificate of occupancy withheld until the director determines that the project will be brought into compliance with the approved TDM plan.
(e) 
Hardship or Infeasibility Exemption. If a project applicant believes that circumstances exist presenting an unreasonable hardship to meet the requirements of this section, the applicant may apply for an exemption in their development application. In applying for an exemption, the burden is on the applicant to show significant hardship. The exemption request shall be decided by the approval authority for the development permit. Hardship exemptions shall only be granted in unusual circumstances based upon a showing of good cause and a determination that the public interest is not served by compliance or other compelling circumstances. An unreasonable hardship shall be defined as practical infeasibility, difficulties, or results inconsistent with the general purposes of this chapter.
(f) 
Modifications of TDM Plan. Any modification of an approved TDM plan requires a miscellaneous plan permit under Chapter 19.82 of this code. A request to modify a TDM plan may only be granted if it is designed to be at least as effective as the original TDM plan in meeting the objectives and purposes of this chapter.
(g) 
Appeal. Any person aggrieved by a final decision of the director of community development may appeal the decision to the planning commission pursuant to Section 19.98.070.
(Ord. 3094-16 § 2)

§ 19.46.010 Findings and purpose.

(a) 
Findings. The city council finds that:
(1) 
Sufficient parking for daily or weekly peaks is important towards furthering economic goals;
(2) 
Flexible parking ratios enhance opportunities for re-use of buildings and stimulate economic vitality;
(3) 
The needs of vehicular traffic shall be balanced with the need for adequate bicycle and pedestrian facilities to facilitate a variety of transportation modes;
(4) 
Creating rarely used parking spaces can result in negative environmental impacts through excessive impervious surface, discourages other productive uses of land, and conflict with pedestrian and bicycle travel;
(5) 
Shared parking or other parking management tools are an effective method of ensuring sufficient parking;
(6) 
Parking spillover into residential neighborhoods should be avoided; and
(7) 
Street parking is not intended to meet the parking needs for private uses.
(b) 
Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to ensure sufficient and well-designed vehicular and bicycle facilities that satisfy the need for sufficient parking on a property. Parking rates are also designed to achieve maximum efficiency of parking areas and reduce the occurrence of both large numbers of empty spaces or overcrowding in parking lots at daily or weekly peak times.
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11)

§ 19.46.020 Definitions.

"Garage, fully-enclosed"
means a building designed for the parking of vehicles which is fully enclosed on all sides.
"Parking lot"
means an area devoted to the parking of vehicles, including parking spaces, aisles, driveways, and interior and perimeter landscaped areas.
"Parking space"
means an area designated specifically for the parking of a single vehicle that meets the standards of this chapter. In this chapter, the term "space" is the same as "parking space."
"Parking structure"
means a structure designed to accommodate parking spaces that are fully or partially enclosed. Parking structures include underground parking spaces and under-building parking areas. "Parking structure" does not include a garage in conjunction with a single-family or duplex dwelling.
"Tandem parking"
means the placement of two parking spaces in such an arrangement where access to one or more parking spaces is dependent on moving another vehicle. Mechanical lifts, stackers or other similar means of mechanized parking where parking spaces are not independently accessible shall be considered tandem parking.
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11; Ord. 3056-15 § 2)

§ 19.46.030 Applicability.

(a) 
This chapter applies to all uses on a property where parking is required or voluntarily proposed. The following types of projects require upgrades or changes as specified:
(1) 
New Construction. New construction shall meet all requirements of this chapter.
(2) 
Use Change or Expansion. Any change or expansion to a use or structure which requires additional parking shall meet the requirements of this chapter except for parking maximums. Existing parking lots with nonconforming parking space dimensions may be continued.
(3) 
Restriping and Minor Modifications. Restriping, surface resealing and minor surface changes are not required to update parking lot dimensions to current requirements. Any changes to parking lot layout or dimensions are required to meet the standards of this chapter.
(4) 
Major Modifications to the Lot. Modifications to the asphalt paving to the baserock level require compliance with this chapter. Changes to paved parking area may also require compliance with Chapter 12.60 (Stormwater Management).
(b) 
Exemption from Minimum Parking Requirements. A development project located within one-half mile of a major transit stop is not required to comply with minimum parking requirements.
(1) 
For purposes of this exemption, "major transit stop" means an existing rail transit station or the intersection of two or more major bus routes with a frequency of service interval of fifteen minutes or less during the morning and afternoon peak commute periods. A major transit stop also includes transit stops that are included in an applicable regional transportation plan.
(2) 
This exemption does not apply to any of the following projects:
(A) 
Event Centers. For purposes of this exemption, an event center means a community center, activity center, auditorium, convention center, stadium, amphitheater, fairgrounds, or other building, collection of buildings, or facility which is used exclusively or primarily for the holding of sporting events, athletic contests, contests of skill, conventions, meetings, concerts, or shows, or for providing public amusement or entertainment.
(B) 
A project where any portion of the project is designated for use as a hotel, motel, bed and breakfast inn, or other transient lodging, except where a portion of a housing development project is designated for use as a residential hotel, as defined in Section 50519 of the Health and Safety Code.
(3) 
This section shall not reduce, eliminate, or preclude the enforcement of any requirement imposed on a new multifamily residential or nonresidential development that is located within one-half mile of a major transit stop to provide bicycle parking, electric vehicle supply equipment installed parking spaces, or parking spaces that are accessible to persons with disabilities that would have otherwise applied to the development if this section did not apply.
(c) 
Specific Plans. Minimum parking rates for specific plan properties, including the Downtown Specific Plan, Moffett Park Specific Plan, Peery Park Specific Plan, Lawrence Station Area Plan, and El Camino Real Specific Plan are listed within Chapter 19.28 (Downtown Specific Plan District), Chapter 19.29 (Moffett Park Specific Plan District), Book 2 of the Peery Park Specific Plan, Chapter 19.35 (Lawrence Station Area Plan), and Chapter 19.36 (El Camino Real Specific Plan), respectively. All other standards in this chapter apply to specific plan areas.
(d) 
Design Guidelines. New construction and building or site modifications shall conform to the citywide design guidelines or other applicable guidelines to ensure sufficient and well-designed vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11; Ord. 3162-20 § 4; Ord. 3206-22 § 2; Ord. 3207-23 § 2)

§ 19.46.040 General requirements for residential parking.

The following requirements apply to all residential developments, including single-family, two-family and multiple-family dwellings, single-room occupancy facilities, special housing developments and mobile home parks.
(a) 
Location. Required parking shall be located off-street. Parking is allowed in all required yards. Up to fifty percent of the front yard may be used for vehicle parking. The following special restrictions apply:
(1) 
Operable Vehicles. Vehicles parked in the front or side yards are limited to currently-registered operable vehicles, trailers and boats. An operable vehicle is a vehicle that can move under its own power and which can operate legally and safely on the highways of the state.
(2) 
RVs, Trailers and Boats. Effective January 1, 2005, all recreational vehicles (RVs), trailers and boats parked in a front yard shall be parked perpendicular to the street, unless the legal driveway configuration dictates otherwise. RVs, trailers and boats are subject to the vision triangle requirements in Section 19.34.060 (Vision triangles).
(b) 
Type. Residential developments are required to provide assigned and unassigned parking spaces in accordance with this chapter unless exempted by Section 19.46.030.
(1) 
Covered Assigned Parking Spaces. Required or voluntarily proposed assigned parking spaces shall be covered. A garage, carport or covered space in a parking structure counts as a covered parking space. Garages or carports shall meet the following dimensions:
(A) 
Two-Car Garages. A two-car garage shall be four hundred square feet gross floor area minimum. Inside the garage, a minimum area of seventeen feet in width by eighteen feet in depth shall be kept clear of appliances, water heaters, shelves, etc.
(B) 
One-Car Garage. A one-car garage shall be two hundred square feet minimum. Inside the garage, a minimum area of eight and one-half feet in width by eighteen feet in depth shall be kept clear of appliances, water heaters, shelves, etc.
(C) 
Carport. Carports shall meet the minimum area standards described for garages and be designed so future enclosures meet the minimum dimensions for garages. Each dwelling unit with a carport is required to provide additional storage of at least three hundred cubic feet for each carport space.
(D) 
Parking Structure Spaces. Assigned spaces in an underground parking garage shall meet the minimum dimensions of a standard space in Section 19.46.120 (Parking lot design).
(2) 
Unassigned Parking Spaces. Required or voluntarily proposed unassigned parking spaces may be covered or uncovered and shall meet the requirements of Section 19.46.120 (Parking lot design).
(c) 
Minimum Spaces. Residential uses must provide minimum spaces in accordance with the use types as described in this chapter unless exempted by Section 19.46.030. When any fraction of a parking space is required, the entire space shall be provided. Conversion of any garage or carport for any residential use shall meet the requirements in Section 19.46.050(e) (Garage or carport conversion).
(d) 
Parking Lots. Parking lots shall meet the requirements in Section 19.46.120 (Parking lot design).
(e) 
Parking Surfaces. Parking surfaces shall meet the requirements of Section 19.46.120(c) (Parking lot surfaces and markings).
(f) 
Mechanized Parking. Parking lifts, carousels or other types of mechanized parking shall be located within a building or parking structure.
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11; Ord. 3056-15 § 3; Ord. 3206-22 § 3; Ord. 3207-23 § 3)

§ 19.46.050 Parking for single-family and two-family dwellings.

(a) 
Minimum Spaces. Each single-family dwelling and two-family dwelling shall provide a minimum of four spaces total, two of which shall be covered and not in tandem unless exempted by Section 19.46.030. Covered spaces are required to meet the requirements in Section 19.46.040 (General requirements for residential parking) as shown in Figure 19.46.050 (Single-Family and Two-Family Dwelling Parking Dimensions). Uncovered parking spaces on a driveway with minimum dimensions of seventeen feet in width by twenty feet in depth and located in front of a garage or carport shall count as two of the four spaces required for single-family and two-family dwellings.
(b) 
Single-Family Homes with Less Than Two Covered Spaces. Any legal nonconforming single-family dwelling with less than two covered parking spaces is subject to the following:
(1) 
Required Upgrade. Two covered parking spaces that meet the minimum size and dimensions in Section 19.46.040 (General requirements for residential parking) shall be provided if:
(A) 
An alteration or addition to the dwelling results in four or more bedrooms; or
(B) 
An addition to the dwelling results in a gross floor area of one thousand eight hundred square feet or more, excluding garages and carports. Homes that already exceed the one thousand eight hundred gross floor area threshold shall provide the two covered spaces with any addition of floor area.
(2) 
Allowance for Tandem Parking. Without a variance, an approving authority, as part of any discretionary permit or, if no discretionary permit would be otherwise required, a miscellaneous plan permit, may allow a tandem parking garage or carport to satisfy the two covered space requirement pursuant to subsection (b)(1) if the approving authority makes one or more of the following findings:
(A) 
The width of the subject lot is less than fifty-seven feet; or
(B) 
Significant structural modifications are required to expand the existing covered parking area into the living area to meet the minimum size and dimensions for two covered spaces.
(c) 
Additional Parking Required. New developments of single-family or two-family dwellings with limited street parking shall provide an additional 0.4 unassigned parking spaces per unit in addition to the minimum spaces required. Parking spaces on driveways do not qualify as required unassigned parking.
(d) 
Driveway Widths. A driveway leading to a garage at the rear of the lot shall be at least ten feet wide.
(e) 
Garage or Carport Conversion. As provided in Chapter 19.79 (Accessory Dwelling Units), replacement parking is not required when a garage or carport is converted to an accessory dwelling unit, or demolished for the purpose of constructing an accessory dwelling unit. Otherwise, conversion of a garage or carport to a non-parking use requires review through a miscellaneous plan permit, which shall be conditioned on replacement of each converted space by a covered space that meets current standards.
Figure 19.46.050 Single-Family and Two-Family Dwelling Parking Dimensions
(Ord. 3207-23 § 4; Ord. 3206-22 § 4; Ord. 3156-20 § 3; Ord. 3154-20 § 6; Ord. 3105-16 § 8; Ord. 3056-15 § 4; Ord. 2988-12 § 11)

§ 19.46.060 Parking for multiple-family dwellings.

(a) 
Definitions.
"Assigned space"
means a parking space reserved for the exclusive use by the residents of a specific dwell-ing unit.
"Unassigned space"
means a parking space that is not reserved for exclusive use by the residents of a specific dwelling unit; however, unassigned spaces may be reserved for guest use only.
"Guest"
means a person who is not a permanent resident as defined by the homeowners' association or apartment management.
"One-bedroom unit"
means any dwelling with only one bedroom and includes studio and efficiency units.
(b) 
Minimum Spaces. Multiple-family dwellings are required to provide at least one covered assigned space per unit and additional unassigned spaces in accordance with Section 19.46.040 (General requirements for residential parking) and Table 19.46.060 (Parking for Multiple-Family Dwellings) unless exempted by Section 19.46.030.
(1) 
Allowances for Tandem Parking. Providing two covered tandem parking spaces may satisfy covered space requirements for up to fifty percent of the units in a multiple-family development. Each set of tandem spaces must be assigned to the same unit. Required unassigned spaces shall not be provided as tandem parking. Tandem parking may be allowed for any parking spaces provided in addition to the minimum number of spaces required. Any allowance for tandem parking shall be approved by the approving body as part of any discretionary permit or, if no discretionary permit would be otherwise required, a miscellaneous plan permit, and shall be consistent with the tandem parking allowance guidelines set forth in the city's High Density Residential Design Guidelines.
(2) 
Independent Mechanized Parking. Mechanical lifts, stackers or other similar means of mechanized parking where parking spaces are independently accessible may satisfy covered assigned space requirements.
(c) 
Additional Parking Required. The director or any approving body may require additional unassigned parking spaces beyond the minimum requirements for projects with limited street parking.
(d) 
Compact Spaces. Up to ten percent of the total number of unassigned parking spaces may be compact in parking lots of ten or more spaces.
(e) 
Bicycle Parking. New multiple-family developments shall provide bicycle parking in accordance with Section 19.46.150 (Bicycle parking).
(f) 
Parking Management Plan. If on-site parking is required or voluntarily proposed in conjunction with a new multiple-family development, a parking management plan in accordance with Section 19.46.160 (Parking management plans and tools) is required.
Table 19.46.060
Parking for Multiple-Family Dwellings
Type of Covered Assigned Space Provided
Number of Bedrooms
Number of Unassigned Spaces
One parking space per unit in carport or parking structure
One-bedroom units
0.5 unassigned spaces per unit
2-bedroom units
1 unassigned space per unit
3-bedroom units
1 unassigned space per unit
4-bedroom units or more
Use the 3-bedroom requirement and add 0.15 unassigned spaces for each bedroom above the third bedroom
One parking space per unit in fully-enclosed garage
One-bedroom units
0.8 unassigned spaces per unit
2-bedroom units
1.33 unassigned spaces per unit
3-bedroom units
1.4 unassigned spaces per unit
4-bedroom units or more
Use the 3-bedroom requirement and add 0.15 unassigned spaces for each bedroom above the third bedroom
Two parking spaces per unit
One-bedroom units
0.25 unassigned spaces per unit
2-bedroom units
0.4 unassigned spaces per unit
3-bedroom units
0.5 unassigned spaces per unit
4-bedroom units or more
Use the 3-bedroom requirement and add 0.15 unassigned spaces for each bedroom above the third bedroom
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11; Ord. 3056-15 § 5; Ord. 3206-22 § 5; Ord. 3207-23 § 5)

§ 19.46.070 Parking for single room occupancy facilities.

(a) 
Minimum Spaces. Single room occupancy facilities shall provide spaces in accordance with Table 19.46.070 (Parking for Single Room Occupancy Facilities) unless exempted by Section 19.46.030.
(b) 
Compact Spaces. Up to ten percent of the total number of uncovered and unassigned parking spaces may be compact in parking lots of ten or more spaces.
Table 19.46.070
Parking for Single Room Occupancy Facilities
Single-Room Occupancy Unit Size
Required Parking Spaces
Less than 200 square feet
0.25 spaces per unit
200 – 250 square feet
0.5 spaces per unit
Greater than 250 square feet
1 space per unit
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11; Ord. 3206-22 § 6; Ord. 3207-23 § 6)

§ 19.46.080 Parking for special housing developments.

(a) 
Definition. "Special Housing Development" includes:
(1) 
Affordable housing developments for lower income households; and
(2) 
Senior citizen housing, as defined in California Civil Code Sections 51.3 and 51.12, or successor sections;
(3) 
Housing for persons with disabilities, as defined in the Federal Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, or successor statutes.
(b) 
Minimum Spaces. Special housing developments shall provide spaces in accordance with Table 19.46.080 (Park-ing for Special Housing Developments) unless exempted by Section 19.46.030.
(c) 
Request for Reductions. Special housing developments may request a reduction in parking requirements as described in Section 19.46.130 (Adjustment to parking requirements).
(d) 
Compact Spaces. Up to ten percent of the total number of unassigned parking spaces may be compact in parking lots of ten or more spaces.
(e) 
Parking Management Plan. A parking management plan is required for all special housing developments to ensure an adequate mix of assigned and unassigned parking spaces for residents, staff and guests. Parking management plan requirements are located in Section 19.46.160 (Parking management plans).
Table 19.46.080
Parking for Special Housing Developments
Type of Housing
Type of Unit
Required Parking Spaces
Affordable to lower income households
One-bedroom
1 space per unit
2 or 3 bedrooms
2 spaces per unit
4 or more bedrooms
2.15 spaces per unit
Unit of any size for senior citizens or persons with disabilities
0.6 spaces per unit
Standard housing (not restricted affordable units)
Unit of any size for senior citizens or persons with disabilities
1 space per unit
Assisted living
Unit of any size
0.25 spaces per resident
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11; Ord. 3206-22 § 7; Ord. 3207-23 § 7)

§ 19.46.090 Parking for mobile home parks.

(a) 
Minimum Spaces. Mobile home parks shall have two spaces per unit plus one space per employee living off site plus one space per special purpose vehicle unless exempted by Section 19.46.030.
(b) 
Tandem Parking. Tandem parking is permitted for mobile home parks.
(c) 
Compact Spaces. Compact spaces are prohibited.
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11; Ord. 3206-22 § 8; Ord. 3207-23 § 8)

§ 19.46.100 General requirements for nonresidential and mixed-use parking.

(a) 
Allowable Locations for Parking. Required or voluntarily proposed parking shall be located off-street. Parking is allowed in any required setback area except for required vision triangles described in Section 19.34.060 (Vision triangles). Parking shall be located on site unless a parking management plan is approved with associated parking agreements.
(b) 
Type of Parking. Parking may be provided in the following forms: surface lots or within parking structures. Parking lifts, carousels or other types of mechanized parking shall be located within a building or parking structure and require approval of the planning commission through a use permit, special development permit, or a plan review permit. Any proposal for mechanized parking shall be accompanied with a proposed parking management plan.
(c) 
Minimum Spaces. Nonresidential uses shall provide parking in accordance with Tables 19.46.100(a), (b) and (c) (Nonresidential Parking Requirements) unless exempted by Section 19.46.030. All square footage numbers refer to gross floor area of the use. For uses not listed, the director shall determine required parking ratios based on accepted guidelines such as ITE or ULI. When any fraction of a parking space is required, the entire space shall be provided. Uses that provide certain facilities may be allowed fewer parking spaces as described in subsection (d) (Incentives).
(d) 
Incentives. The total number of parking spaces may be reduced by up to three percent of the total spaces if the development includes the installation of employee showers and locker rooms. Calculations justifying the parking reduction shall be submitted with the planning application.
(e) 
Shared Parking. Shared parking between developments may be approved as part of a use permit, plan review permit, or special development permit and is not subject to the requirements for multiple uses on a property in subsection (f) of this section.
(f) 
Multiple Uses on a Property. For multi-tenant properties, the approving body may use a combination of appropriate requirements to determine the required parking. Shopping center uses are regulated separately in Section 19.46.110(i) (Shopping centers).
(1) 
Mixed Uses Including Residential. "Mixed use" means a development that includes nonresidential uses and residential uses on the same development site. Required or voluntarily proposed parking shall be based on accepted guidelines such as ITE or ULI. Parking management plans are required for mixed use development. Bicycle parking required by Chapter 19.36 (El Camino Real Specific Plan District) shall not be reduced.
(2) 
Nonresidential Multi-Tenant Properties.
(A) 
Calculation. In determining which requirements are appropriate in the case of a multi-tenant use on a property that is not a shopping center, any single use occupying thirty percent or less of the total floor area occupied by all of the uses shall be treated as though it were part of the uses occupying the remaining seventy percent.
(B) 
Captive Market. For uses that are accessory to a larger business and primarily serve the needs of that business, no additional parking is required. Examples include a coffee or snack shop within an office or hotel development or a copy/package store within a business park.
(g) 
Additional Requirements. Tables 19.46.100(a), (b) and (c) list additional requirements as described in this section.
(1) 
Specific Use Standards. Refer to Section 19.46.110 (Definitions and parking standards for specific nonresidential land uses) for definitions and information on parking requirements specific to a particular land use.
(2) 
Bicycle Parking. Refer to Section 19.46.150 (Bicycle parking) for related requirements.
(3) 
Parking Management Plans. Refer to Section 19.46.160 (Parking management plans and tools) for related requirements.
(4) 
Loading Spaces. If the use lists "loading space" as an additional requirement, one loading space shall be available per lot as described in the citywide design guidelines. Lots with less than fifteen spaces are exempt from this requirement.
(5) 
Car Share Spaces. "Car share" means a space for carpool vehicles or a vehicle-sharing provider. If the use lists "car share spaces" as an additional requirement, a minimum of five percent of all parking spaces shall be permanently reserved for the exclusive use of car share vehicles. Car share spaces will be reserved with lot markings, signs, or other techniques.
(6) 
Electric Car Chargers. New construction of industrial uses, research and development office or other office uses with one hundred spaces or more is required to provide pre-wiring for a minimum of Level 2 electric car chargers for a minimum of three percent of the total parking spaces provided.
(h) 
Fleet Vehicles. Parking of fleet vehicles is regulated separately in Section 19.46.140 (Parking and storage of fleet vehicles).
Table 19.46.100(a)
Parking Requirements for Restaurant, Commercial Retail and Service
Primary Use
Minimum Spaces / 1,000 sq. ft.
Maximum Spaces / 1,000 sq. ft.
Additional Requirements
Auto
Auto sales and rental
4
No maximum
Auto sales and rental standards
Loading space
Auto service uses
2.5 for retail or office space plus 3 per service bay
No maximum
Auto-related use standards
Bars or nightclubs
13
18
 
Financial institution
3.3
4
Bicycle parking
Hotel or boardinghouse
0.8 spaces/hotel room
1.2 spaces/hotel room
Hotel standards
Loading space
Restaurant
No bar or entertainment
9
13
Restaurant standards
Bicycle parking
Including a bar or entertainment
13
18
Restaurant standards
Bicycle parking
Takeout
4
5
Restaurant standards
Bicycle parking
Retail
General retail and service
4
5
Retail use standards
Bicycle parking
Parking management plan
Loading space
Warehouse retail or bulky-merchandise retail
2.5
4
Retail use standards
Bicycle parking
Parking management plan
Loading space
Shopping center
4
5
Shopping center standards
Bicycle parking
Parking management plan
Loading space
Table 19.46.100(b)
Parking Requirements for Office, Industrial and Warehousing
Primary Use
Minimum Spaces / 1,000 sq. ft.
Maximum Spaces / 1,000 sq. ft.
Additional Requirements
Industrial uses, research and development office and corporate office
2
4
Loading space
Car share
Bicycle parking
Electric car chargers
Administrative, professional and medical office
3.3
4
Loading space
Car share
Bicycle parking
Electric car chargers
Commercial storage or self-storage
0.4
2
Loading space
Warehousing
1
2
Loading space
Car share
Bicycle parking
Table 19.46.100(c)
Parking Requirements for Recreation, Education and Care
Primary Use
Minimum Spaces
Additional Requirements
Adult day care center
2.5/1,000 sq. ft.
 
Child care center
0.25/child
Education use standards
Convalescent hospital
1.5/bed
Loading space
Education
Recreation and enrichment
4/1,000 sq. ft.
Bicycle parking
Primary (Grades K-8)
3/classroom
 
High school (Grades 9-12)
0.25/student
Education use standards
Institution of higher learning
0.5/student
Education use standards
Place of assembly—Community-serving or business-serving
25/1,000 for primary gathering areas
Place of assembly standards
Parking management plan
Recreational and athletic facility
5/1,000 sq. ft. of general area plus 20/1,000 sq. ft. of classroom area
Bicycle parking
Recreational and athletic facility standards
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11; Ord. 3056-15 § 6; Ord. 3194-22 § 13; Ord. 3206-22 § 9; Ord. 3207-23 § 9)

§ 19.46.110 Definitions and parking standards for specific nonresidential uses.

Vehicle parking, bicycle parking and other requirements are described in Tables 19.46.100(a), (b) and (c) (Nonresidential Parking Requirements). This section specifies definitions and additional parking regulations for specific uses.
(a) 
Auto Sales and Rental. Auto sales and rental is defined in Chapter 19.12 (Definitions). Unenclosed display spaces and storage of cars for auto sales do not count towards required parking. Building areas devoted to vehicle repair and service shall be parked at the minimum for auto-service uses.
(b) 
Auto-Service Uses. "Auto-service uses" include gasoline stations, autobroker and wholesale auto sales, carwashes and vehicle service and repair as defined in Chapter 19.12 (Definitions). The following requirements apply to autorelated uses:
(1) 
Secondary Retail. The retail parking rate shall be applied to associated secondary retail such as a gas station convenience market, and related office space or parts supply at a repair shop.
(2) 
Gasoline Stations. Gasoline pump canopies do not require parking spaces. Spaces in front of air, water or propane supplies do not count towards required parking. Service bays are not a required space.
(3) 
Car Washes. Accessory car washes with three or fewer employees require a minimum of one additional parking space. Car washes with four or more employees require a parking study.
(c) 
Education Uses. Education uses are defined in Chapter 19.12 (Definitions). Parking rates are calculated for the maximum number of students or children that can be on-site at any given time.
(d) 
Hotels. Hotels are defined in Chapter 19.12 (Definitions). Hotels with banquet facilities, meeting facilities or restaurants with a bar require a parking study.
(e) 
Places of Assembly. Place of assembly includes both business-serving and community-serving as defined in Chapter 19.12 (Definitions). "Primary gathering areas" means rooms such as auditoriums, sanctuaries, primary conference rooms and similar areas. Primary gathering areas include all space within the room, wall to wall. The director or approving body may require additional parking if other areas are expected to generate significant parking demand during use of the primary gathering area.
(f) 
Recreational and Athletic Facility. Recreational and athletic facility is defined in Chapter 19.12 (Definitions). "Classroom areas" are any space set aside for workout instruction, spinning class or similar use. Classroom areas do not include sport courts.
(g) 
Retail. Retail uses include retail sales, retail service and personal service uses as defined in Chapter 19.12 (Definitions). Retail does not include auto sales.
(1) 
General Retail and Service. "General retail and service" means any retail or service business that is not defined as warehouse retail or bulky-merchandise retail. Examples of retail and service businesses include grocery stores, dry cleaners, shoe repair and drug stores.
(2) 
Warehouse Retail or Bulky-Merchandise Retail. "Warehouse retail or bulky-merchandise retail" means a tenant that primarily sells bulky goods or retail in a warehouse setting that is not part of shopping center. Home improvement stores, discount bulk stores, or furniture stores can be considered warehouse retail or bulky-merchandise retail.
(h) 
Restaurants. Restaurant is defined in Chapter 19.12 (Definitions). For the purposes of parking, the following clarifications are applied.
(1) 
Takeout Restaurant. Takeout restaurant does not have any seating. The presence of indoor or outdoor seat-ing requires parking at the rate of "restaurant (no bar or entertainment)." The presence of a bar or entertainment requires parking at the rate of a "restaurant with a bar or entertainment."
(2) 
Restaurant (No Bar or Entertainment). Restaurants with this parking rate may have takeout services and alcohol sales. Restaurants with a bar, live entertainment or a dance floor shall be parked at the rate for "restaurant with a bar or entertainment." Examples include fast-food restaurants, coffee shops, pizza restaurants, and similar.
(3) 
Restaurant with a Bar or Entertainment. "Restaurant with a bar or entertainment" means a restaurant includ-ing a bar, dance floor, or live entertainment. For the purposes of this section, a bar is defined as a raised counter area with seating that serves alcoholic beverages and separates customers from employees working behind the counter area. Delivery and take-out service are incidental to the restaurant use.
(4) 
Outdoor Seating. Additional parking is required for outdoor seating exceeding twelve seats per business. Seats exceeding this amount are required to provide additional parking at the rate of 0.33 spaces per seat for each seat above twelve.
(i) 
Shopping Centers.
(1) 
Applicability. Shopping center is defined in Chapter 19.12 (Definitions). All individual businesses within a shopping center use the shopping center parking rate except in the following instances:
(A) 
A restaurant with a bar or entertainment;
(B) 
Total recreational and athletic facility square footage of greater than eight thousand square feet; or
(C) 
Total restaurant square footage (not including takeout restaurants) of greater than forty percent of the shopping center floor area.
(2) 
Calculation of Parking. For the uses listed above, the applicable parking requirement is calculated for the specified use separately. The remainder of the center is calculated at the shopping center rate.
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11)

§ 19.46.120 Parking lot design.

(a) 
Access. Parking spaces shall have direct access to a public or private roadway or shall be served by an aisle or driveway leading to the roadway. All uses requiring or voluntarily proposing more than fifteen parking spaces shall be served by a single two-way driveway or two one-way driveways.
(b) 
Minimum Dimensions.
(1) 
Parking Space Dimensions.
(A) 
Standard Space. Minimum space dimensions are eight and one-half feet in width by eighteen feet in depth. Low-growing groundcover two feet beyond a wheel stop or curb may be counted toward minimum space length provided the landscape island is a minimum of six feet wide interior to the parking lot or four feet wide for perimeter landscaping.
(B) 
Compact Space. Residential uses may provide compact spaces seven and one-half feet in width by fifteen feet in depth. Low-growing groundcover shall not be counted toward minimum compact space depth. Compact spaces are prohibited for new development of nonresidential uses and mixed uses.
(C) 
Mechanical Lift Parking. The director or approving body may allow minimum space dimensions for mechanized parking that vary from what is required for standard and compact spaces.
(2) 
Specialized Spaces. The director or approving body may allow specialized spaces such as motorcycle park-ing or other unique vehicle parking.
(3) 
Aisle Width and Layout. Aisle width and layout requirements are described in Table 19.46.120 (Parking Lot Dimensions) and as shown in Figure 19.46.120 (Parking Lot Design). Service vehicle access such as fire lanes and solid waste vehicle requirements may expand aisle width requirements for certain projects. Aisle width requirements are dependent on the angle of parking provided. For intermediate-angle parking, the aisle width shall be determined by straight-line interpolation between specified standards. Interlock parking spaces or alternative parking layouts may be approved by the director based on accepted guidelines such as ULI.
(4) 
Driveways. Minimum one-way driveway width shall be twelve feet and minimum two-way driveway width shall be twenty feet except for residential uses, which may have two-way driveways of eighteen feet in width minimum.
(5) 
Maneuvering Area. Backing distance for ninety-degree parking spaces shall be twenty-four feet minimum.
(c) 
Surfaces and Markings.
(1) 
Parking Surfaces. All parking surfaces shall be permanently paved in compliance with the citywide design guidelines and using one of the following methods:
(A) 
Currently adopted building codes;
(B) 
Current geotechnical report for the property; or
(C) 
As allowed by the director.
(2) 
Markings. All spaces shall be clearly marked. The director or approving body may modify this requirement for paving surfaces with permeable pavement.
(3) 
Wheel Stops. Bumper guards, wheel stops or curbs are required for all parking spaces that head into a build-ing, property line, fence or landscaped areas. These barriers shall be installed no closer than two feet from the building, property line or fence.
(d) 
Parking Areas in Vision Triangles. Parking areas are subject to the vision triangle requirements in Section 19.34.060 (Vision triangles).
(e) 
Design Guidelines. Parking lot design and lighting is subject to the citywide design guidelines.
(f) 
Landscaping Area. Parking lot landscaping shall follow the general requirements of Chapter 19.37 (Landscaping, Irrigation and Useable Open Space). A minimum of twenty percent of the parking lot area is required to be landscaped. Parking lots in single-family zoning districts (R-1, R-0, R-1.5 and R-1.7/PD) are exempt from parking lot landscaping requirements.
(g) 
Shading Requirements. Trees shall be planted and maintained throughout the parking lot to ensure that at least fifty percent of the parking area will be shaded within fifteen years of tree establishment. Up to twenty-five percent of the fifty percent parking lot shading requirement (twelve and one-half percent of the total parking lot area) may be met with installation of solar energy systems rather than trees.
(1) 
Surfaces Subject to Shading Calculation. All surfaces that can be driven on, including parking spaces, vehicular drives, drive-through lanes and maneuvering areas are subject to shade calculation. The following areas are exempt from shading requirements:
(A) 
Truck Areas. Truck loading areas in front of overhead door and truck maneuvering and parking areas exclusive of vehicle parking are exempt from shading requirements.
(B) 
Inaccessible Paved Areas. Paved or surfaced areas not used for vehicle parking, driving or maneuver-ing are exempt from shading requirements provided they are made inaccessible to vehicles by barriers such as bollards or fencing.
(C) 
Auto Sales. Display, sales, service or vehicular storage areas for automobile sales are exempt from shading requirements. Required parking for auto sales is still subject to shading requirements.
(D) 
Areas paved prior to January 1, 2002. Surfaces paved prior to January 1, 2002 are exempt from shad-ing requirements.
(2) 
Calculation of Shading. Shading is calculated by using the diameter of the tree crown at fifteen years or the dimensions of any roofed area within the parking lot.
(h) 
Groundcover and Shrubs on Parking Islands. Parking islands shall contain living groundcover or shrubs with trees unless it can be shown that groundcover is incompatible with the tree. If living groundcover is found unsuitable, porous, nonliving groundcover may be used.
Table 19.46.120
Parking Lot Dimensions
 
 
One-Way Traffic
Parking Angle (degrees)
Vehicle Projection (feet)
Aisle Width (feet)
Bay Depth (feet)
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
8.5
12.0
29.0
45°
17.6
12.8
48.0
60°
19.0
14.5
52.5
90°
18.0
24.0
60.0
Figure 19.46.120 Parking Lot Design
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11; Ord. 3056-15 § 7; Ord. 3206-22 § 10; Ord. 3207-23 § 10)

§ 19.46.130 Adjustments to parking requirements.

(a) 
Purpose. A parking adjustment permits flexibility in parking requirements to address unusual or specific use or locational characteristics.
(b) 
Applicability. Adjustments may be granted from parking ratio minimums, maximums or type of bicycle parking provided for nonresidential uses or for special housing developments as described in Section 19.46.080 (Parking for special housing developments). Adjustments are not permitted for residential parking ratios except for special housing developments. An adjustment request may be reviewed by the approving body as part of any discretionary permit or, if no discretionary permit would be otherwise required, a miscellaneous plan permit. Changes in use for existing properties with established parking lots do not require an adjustment to exceed the parking maximum. A request to deviate from any other requirement in this chapter requires a variance.
(c) 
Findings for Parking Adjustments for Special Housing Developments. To grant an adjustment from a parking minimum for special housing developments, the director or approving body shall find:
(1) 
One or more of the following applicable characteristics are present:
(A) 
Location or proximity to transportation;
(B) 
Variety or forms of transportation available;
(C) 
Accessibility; or
(D) 
Services and programs offered, or population served by the housing development.
(2) 
Based on the characteristics present in subsection (c)(1), the proposed parking is adequate.
(d) 
Findings for Parking Adjustments from Minimum Parking Ratios for Nonresidential Uses. To grant an adjustment from a parking ratio minimum for nonresidential uses, the director or approving body shall find:
(1) 
One or more of the following applicable characteristics are present:
(A) 
There are parking agreements with off-site properties; or
(B) 
There is a parking management plan that includes valet parking, off-site employee parking, parking agreements, or other demand management tools; or
(C) 
The uses on a site have complementary peak hours; or
(D) 
The use is commercial in nature and is intended to serve adjacent employment centers. The use provides adequate pedestrian connections to the site from nearby properties and businesses; or
(E) 
The use is within one-half mile of a walk from a rail station, light rail station, or major bus stop. A major bus stop is defined as a stop where six or more buses per hour from the same or different routes stop during the peak period in core, corridor or station areas; or
(F) 
The proposed use has an unusual characteristic that results in less parking demand. This characteristic shall be described and limited in applicable conditions of approval for a discretionary land use permit. Land uses that are permitted by right may not apply for adjustment because of this criterion of unusual characteristics.
(2) 
Based on the characteristics present in subsection (d)(1), the proposed parking is adequate and will not spill over onto surrounding properties or streets.
(e) 
Findings for Parking Adjustment from Maximum Parking Ratios. To grant an adjustment from a parking ratio maximum, the director or approving body shall find:
(1) 
The applicant has submitted sufficient information to prove that additional parking is needed to support the use; and
(2) 
The site is in compliance with the citywide design guidelines for parking lots; and
(3) 
The lot complies with current bicycle parking standards; and
(4) 
Shopping centers may exceed the maximum if the following uses are proposed:
(A) 
A restaurant with a bar;
(B) 
A recreational and athletic facility over eight thousand square feet; or
(C) 
A cumulative restaurant square footage equaling forty percent or more of the total floor area.
(f) 
Findings for Parking Adjustment from Type of Required Bicycle Parking. To grant an adjustment from the type of bicycle parking required, either secured or bicycle rack, the director or approving body shall find:
(1) 
The proposed project is a change of use in an existing building; and
(2) 
An unusual configuration of the site, buildings or parking precludes installation of a particular type of bicycle parking; and
(3) 
The proposed type of bicycle parking meets the needs of the use.
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11)

§ 19.46.140 Storage and parking of fleet vehicles.

(a) 
Definitions.
"Commercial vehicle"
means any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of ten thousand pounds or more according to the manufacturer's specifications, which is required to obtain a commercial vehicle license. This definition is intended to be consistent with California Vehicle Code Section 22507.5 or successor statute.
"Fleet vehicle"
means any vehicle owned or operated by the person, company or business which is used for purposes of delivery, pick up or service to patrons of the primary use. A fleet vehicle may also be a commercial vehicle.
(b) 
Applicability. This section regulates the accessory storage or parking of fleet vehicles in parking lots. Parking of fleet vehicles on streets or on residential properties is regulated in Title 10 (Vehicles and Traffic). Service yards for fleet vehicles require a use permit reviewed by the planning commission.
(c) 
Commercial Vehicles in Residential Zoning Districts. Storage and parking of commercial vehicles is prohibited in residential zoning districts and residential uses.
(d) 
Fleet Vehicles in Nonresidential Zoning Districts. Storage and parking of up to five fleet vehicles is permitted on each property for nonresidential uses. Properties with more than five fleet vehicles require a miscellaneous plan permit. To approve the additional fleet vehicle parking, the director shall be able to make the findings that:
(1) 
The property provides sufficient parking for employees and patrons of the primary use; and
(2) 
The number of proposed fleet vehicles is consistent with the purpose of the zoning district.
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11)

§ 19.46.150 Bicycle parking.

(a) 
Definitions.
"Secured bicycle parking"
means lockable facilities such as individual lockers or enclosed, locked, limited-access areas for parking of bicycles. Secured bicycle parking may also be known as Class I bicycle parking. For residential uses, an enclosed garage assigned to one residential unit meeting the minimum area requirements for a two-car garage is considered one secured bicycle parking space.
"Bicycle racks"
means a stationary object to which a bicycle can be locked. Examples include "inverted U" racks or "ribbon weave" racks. Bicycle racks may also be known as Class II bicycle parking.
(b) 
Applicability. Bicycle parking shall be provided for multiple-family uses and nonresidential uses as specified in Tables 19.46.100(a), (b) and (c).
(c) 
Number of Bicycle Parking Spaces. Bicycle parking shall be provided in the following amounts:
(1) 
Multiple-Family Uses. Multiple-family uses of five or more units shall provide one bicycle parking space for every four units, but no fewer than four spaces. All required bicycle parking shall be secured.
(2) 
Nonresidential Uses. Nonresidential uses shall provide bicycle parking in the amount of five percent of the total number of vehicular parking spaces provided. Industrial uses, research and development office and corporate office shall provide secured bicycle parking for a minimum of seventy-five percent of required bicycle parking spaces. All other nonresidential uses shall provide bicycle racks for a minimum of seventy-five percent of required bicycle parking spaces.
(3) 
Mixed Uses. Mixed uses shall provide bicycle parking for the residential and nonresidential uses in the proportions required by this section.
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11)

§ 19.46.160 Parking management plans and tools.

(a) 
Definitions.
"Parking management plan"
means a plan designed to manage the use of parking on a property. A parking management plan may be a component of a transportation demand management (TDM) plan.
"Valet parking"
means a service where an attendant parks and retrieves patrons' vehicles for free or for a fee.
"Fee-based parking"
means any parking lot where a fee is required to park.
(b) 
Applicability. Parking management plans shall be provided when required by this chapter. Parking management plans shall be reviewed by the director with a miscellaneous plan permit or by the hearing body reviewing the associated development. Uses in a public parking district are exempt from requirements for a parking management plan unless required as a condition of approval of a planning permit.
(c) 
Submittal Requirements. Submittal requirements shall include information about peak hour use, vehicular circulation, total number of parking spaces, distribution of parking on the site, needs of specific users, including employees, guests, residents and patrons and other applicable information deemed necessary by the director.
(d) 
Parking Management Tools. Proposed parking management tools may include valet parking, designation of car sharing or guest spaces, parking agreements, short-term parking, transit subsidies for employees or residents, or other tools to achieve parking efficiency. Valet parking or fee-based parking shall be considered as part of a new or amended parking management plan. To approve valet parking or fee-based parking, the director shall be able to make the findings that:
(1) 
The proposed fee-based or valet parking will not hinder the parking or circulation on the site; and
(2) 
If there are multiple uses on the site, the fee-based or valet parking is made available for all uses; and
(3) 
Valet parking spaces shall not take prime locations in front of existing businesses.
(e) 
Temporary Uses. Valet parking is permitted at temporary events such as a festival.
(Ord. 2988-12 § 11; Ord. 3056-15 § 8)

§ 19.47.010 Purpose.

This chapter establishes requirements to allow parking on certain properties in the city for events held at stadiums in neighboring jurisdictions. These requirements provide additional parking opportunities on private property while minimizing the potential impact of stadium overflow parking on city streets and neighborhoods.
(Ord. 3039-14 § 1)

§ 19.47.020 Applicability.

This chapter applies to the operation of private property parking lots for off-site stadium event parking in conjunction with events held at stadiums in neighboring jurisdictions (referred to as "off-site stadium parking" in this chapter). This chapter does not apply to parking on private property for any purpose other than off-site stadium parking. Except as otherwise modified in this chapter, the requirements and procedures identified in Chapter 19.98 (General Procedures) apply.
(Ord. 3039-14 § 1)

§ 19.47.030 Off-site stadium parking location and operational standards.

(a) 
MP and M-S Zoning Districts Only. Off-site stadium parking may be permitted on properties located in the MP (Moffett Park Specific Plan) and M-S (industrial and service) zoning districts. Off-site stadium parking is prohibited in all other zoning districts.
(b) 
Operations and Property Owner Responsibility. The owner of the property for which off-site stadium parking has been permitted shall be responsible for ensuring compliance with the requirements of this chapter and any permit conditions of approval during operations. Off-site stadium parking operations shall comply with the following:
(1) 
Hours of Operation. Stadium parking operations shall not coincide with the hours of operation of other permitted uses on-site. Parking lots shall not open earlier than three hours before any event time and shall close within three hours after the event.
(2) 
Operations Adjacent to Residential. In addition to the requirements of this section, off-site stadium parking operations on a property that abuts a residentially zoned property shall comply with the following:
(A) 
Limited to Daytime Hours of Operation. The hours of operation shall be limited from seven a.m. to ten p.m.; and
(B) 
Buffer Walls and Landscaping. A landscaped buffer and wall shall be provided and maintained in accordance with Chapter 19.37 (Landscaping, Irrigation and Useable Open Space), or as may be required by the director.
(3) 
Unobstructed Access. There shall be an unobstructed exit available to every vehicle parked on the lot. No vehicle is to be blocked in for any reason. Valet parking is prohibited.
(4) 
Pedestrian Pathways or Shuttle. The property shall have a direct pedestrian path of travel, such as on public sidewalks and marked crosswalks, between the parking lot and the destination stadium or a nearby public transit stop. If no direct pedestrian path of travel exists, the property owner shall provide a shuttle to transport all patrons from the park-ing lot to a nearby public transit stop, to the destination stadium, or to an appropriate location where there is a direct pedestrian path of travel to the stadium.
(5) 
Parking Management Attendants. At least one on-site attendant shall be on-site to manage parking operations at all times the lot is open for off-site stadium event parking. The director may require additional attendants for larger operations. Parking lot attendants shall display or keep upon their person a copy of the miscellaneous plan permit issued in accordance with Section 19.47.040 (Miscellaneous plan permit required).
(6) 
Waste Management. Adequate waste and recycling receptacles shall be provided on-site during operations. The property shall be clean and litter-free immediately after operations. Generated waste shall be collected and disposed of, consistent with applicable state and local standards.
(7) 
Lighting. Adequate lighting shall be provided on the parking lot for pedestrians and maintained, subject to Section 19.42.050 (Lights—Restrictions).
(8) 
Parking Lot Maintenance. All vehicular and pedestrian access ways shall be appropriately surfaced per Section 19.46.120 (Parking lot design), and all existing landscaping, art and other site features shall be maintained.
(9) 
Signs. Signs for off-site stadium parking shall be temporary and subject to the temporary sign regulations and other applicable provisions under Chapter 19.44 (Sign Code). Signs shall not be displayed when the off-site parking is not in operation.
(10) 
Vendors Prohibited. Vendors are prohibited on the property during parking operations.
(11) 
Tailgating Prohibited. Tailgating is prohibited at all times. Tailgating includes loitering or any outdoor gathering on or around a vehicle prior to, during or after a scheduled stadium event, and may include food or drink or the use of items such as chairs, tables, free-standing canopies or umbrellas, awnings attached to vehicles, coolers, barbeques, grills or other food or drink preparation or serving equipment, games, generators, televisions or sound systems.
(Ord. 3039-14 § 1)

§ 19.47.040 Miscellaneous plan permit required.

(a) 
Permit Required Annually. No person may operate a parking lot for off-site stadium parking without first obtain-ing a miscellaneous plan permit (MPP) from the director, in accordance with Chapter 19.82 (Miscellaneous Plan Permit). A MPP issued shall be valid for up to one calendar year from the date of permit issuance. The director may issue subsequent MPPs for the same property to continue operations annually.
(b) 
Applications. MPP applications for off-site stadium parking shall include the following:
(1) 
Vicinity Map. Aerial photo showing the location of the stadium in relation to the site proposed for off-site stadium parking. This vicinity map shall clearly indicate the distance between the two locations and the pedestrian path of travel or shuttle route required in Section 19.47.030 (Off-site stadium parking location and operational standards);
(2) 
Site Plan. A clearly dimensioned site plan including the proposed location where stadium parking will be provided, the number of parking spaces to be provided and any spaces reserved for other permitted uses on-site. The site plan shall show the proposed locations for waste and recycling receptacles, signs, any shuttle stops, and lighting;
(3) 
Written Description. A written description of the proposal, a description and the hours of operation of other permitted uses on-site, property owner name and twenty-four-hour contact information, and a written statement that operations will comply with the requirements of Section 19.47.030 (Off-site stadium parking location and operation standards);
(4) 
Parking Management Plan. A parking management plan that includes a description or plan showing vehicular circulation and how vehicles will be directed when the lot is at capacity, the number of attendants present for any given event and other applicable information deemed necessary by the director;
(5) 
Signs. A site plan depicting the location of all temporary signs and an illustration of each sign proposed to be displayed;
(6) 
Additional Information. Any additional information or supporting materials to describe existing property conditions and the proposed operations as required by the director.
(Ord. 3039-14 § 1)

§ 19.47.050 Revocation or modification.

A miscellaneous plan permit for off-site stadium parking may be revoked or modified by the director upon refusal or failure of the permittee to comply with provisions of the permit or the requirements of this chapter as follows:
(a) 
Revocation Notice and Hearing. Notice of revocation shall be mailed to the permittee at the address specified in the permit. The notice shall specify the time and place of an administrative revocation hearing with the director of community development no sooner than the sixth business day following the mailing date of the notice of revocation. The permittee shall be given the opportunity to present written and oral evidence on the issues of noncompliance of the permit conditions at the hearing. Failure to appear at the hearing shall constitute a waiver of any objections to the revocation or other appropriate remedy imposed by the director and shall result in revocation or modification of the permit.
(b) 
Revocation or Modification Findings and Decision. Following the hearing, the director may revoke or modify the permit if the director makes one or more of the following findings:
(1) 
The permit was obtained by fraud;
(2) 
The permit conditions have been or are being violated;
(3) 
A public health or safety nuisance has been created by the exercise of the permit, or by changed circumstances from when the permit was approved; or
(4) 
An error or omission made in establishing the original conditions requires modification or additions to the permit conditions.
(c) 
Reaffirmation. If the director does not make any of the findings in subsection (b), the director shall reaffirm the permit.
(d) 
Notice of Decision. Upon revocation, modification or reaffirmation of the permit, a written notice of the decision shall be prepared and mailed to the permittee at the address specified in the permit. If the permit is revoked, the notice shall contain a statement directing the permittee to immediately cease the permitted use, and that failure to cease such use shall be subject to enforcement and penalties as set forth in Chapter 1.04.
(e) 
Appeal of Revocation. A decision by the director to revoke for noncompliance a miscellaneous plan permit for off-site stadium parking may be appealed by the permittee to the City Council. The permit shall be suspended pending a determination on the merit of the appeal.
(Ord. 3039-14 § 1)

§ 19.48.010 Purpose.

This chapter establishes setback standards and processing requirements for fences in all zoning districts, distances between buildings and extensions into yards.
(Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2906-09 § 9)

§ 19.48.020 General fence requirements.

(a) 
Definitions.
"Fence"
means a barrier of wood, masonry, stone, wire, metal or other material erected to enclose, screen, or separate areas. See subsection (c) of this section for prohibited materials.
"Open fence"
means a fence up to four and one-half feet tall with posts spaced at least eight feet apart. The fence structure above three and one-half feet in height must be no more than fifty percent solid, similar to the illustration. Posts or other decorations cannot exceed twelve inches in width or thickness. (See Figure 19.48.020, Open Fences).
(b) 
Applicability. Fences are permitted in all zoning districts with permitting requirements as described in Table 19.48.025. Vegetation may be considered a fence and is subject to the requirements of this section.
(c) 
Prohibited Materials. It is unlawful to erect any electrically charged fence or any fence composed of barbed wire, razor wire or other material which is designed to cause injury upon contact on or adjacent to any residential use regardless of the underlying zoning. Chain link fences may not be constructed after January 1, 2010 in the front or reducible front yard of residential uses and residential zoning districts.
(d) 
Measurement of Fence Height. Fence height in the rear and side yard (not located on a street) is measured from the highest adjoining grade to the highest point of the fence. Fence height in the front and reducible front yard is measured from the top of curb, or street if there is no curb to the highest point of the fence.
(e) 
Vision Triangles. All fences, except open fences must meet vision triangle requirements described in Section 19.34.060 (Vision triangles).
(f) 
Fences in the Public Right-of-Way. Fences or walls may be built to the existing sidewalk, or if there is a monolithic sidewalk or if there are no sidewalks, to the existing property line; however, nothing in this section shall prohibit the city from exercising its rights pursuant to existing public rights-of-way or easements, and nothing in this section shall be construed as a waiver by the city of its rights thereto. Further, nothing in this section shall be construed as establishing any responsibility on the part of the city for any fence or wall, or portion thereof, which is constructed within the public right-of-way or easement.
(g) 
Property Owner Responsibility. It is the responsibility of the affected property owners to determine the desired height for any fence built along a property line.
(h) 
Reducible Front Yard Fences. For fences in the required reducible front yards, fences greater than six feet up to eight feet tall may be allowed as a matter of right provided they are set back two feet from the property line for every foot in height above six feet. For example, a seven-foot tall fence must be set back two feet from the property line. Fences that do not meet this setback must obtain approval through a miscellaneous plan permit.
Figure 19.48.020 Open Fences
(Prior zoning code § 19.44.100; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2906-09 § 10; Ord. 2981-12 § 15)

§ 19.48.025 Fence requirements by location.

Table 19.48.025 stipulates the permitting and height requirements for fences.
Table 19.48.025
Location
4 ft. or less in height
Greater than 4 ft. up to 6 ft. in height
Greater than 6 ft. up to 8 ft. in height
Greater than 8 ft. in height
Front Yard1
Permitted
MPP
UP
UP
Reducible Front Yard
Permitted
Permitted
See Section 19.48.020(h)
UP
Side or Rear Yard
Permitted
Permitted
Permitted
UP
Notes:
1
Includes the area between the face of the building and the street.
(Ord. 2906-09 § 11)

§ 19.48.030 Distance between main buildings required.

When more than one detached main building is erected or constructed on the same lot, the distance between such build-ings shall be twenty feet at ground level for buildings of one story height. The distance between detached main buildings at ground level shall be increased three additional feet for the second and each additional story of each building above the first story or for each additional ten-foot unit of height above twenty feet of each building in the event the buildings are not divided by stories. This requirement does not apply to dual urban opportunity dwelling units that are approved pursuant to Chapter 19.78.
(Prior zoning code § 19.44.080; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 3189-22 § 9)

§ 19.48.040 Distance between main buildings and accessory structures.

A detached garage or other detached accessory structure shall be located either directly adjacent to the structure or at least five feet away from another accessory structure, accessory dwelling unit or main building.
(Prior zoning code § 19.44.090; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2907-09 § 9; Ord. 3105-16 § 9)

§ 19.48.050 Extension of buildings into required rear yards.

Any single story main or accessory structure in any residential zoning district, subject to conformance with maximum structural coverage regulations, may extend ten feet into the required rear yard providing the area of such extension does not exceed twenty-five percent of the required rear yard area.
(Prior zoning code § 19.44.110; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2650-00 § 6; Ord. 2907-09 § 10)

§ 19.48.070 Extension of structural features into required yards.

Cornices, eaves, canopies, fireplaces and architectural projections may extend into any required yard a distance not to exceed two feet. Bay windows which are cantilevered a minimum of twenty-four inches above ground may project up to two feet into a required yard; provided that, they do not exceed twelve feet in length. Canopies may project into required front yards in industrial and commercial zoning districts for a distance not to exceed ten feet. Uncovered porches or stairways, fire escapes, landing places or that portion of a balcony which extends beyond a support structure may extend into any required front yard (except any reducible front yard or rear yard) a distance of not to exceed six feet and into any required side yard or front yard which may be reduced a distance of not to exceed three feet. In commercial and industrial zoning districts only, marquees and canopies may extend into any front yard of corner lots a distance of not to exceed ten feet.
(Prior zoning code § 19.44.130; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2649-00 § 10)

§ 19.48.080 Raised decks or patios.

Raised decks or patios less than eighteen inches in height, measured from the average finished grade within five feet of the deck or patio, must be located not less than three feet from any property line. Raised decks or patios eighteen inches or greater in height must meet the applicable setbacks.
(Prior zoning code § 19.40.070; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.48.090 Pools and spas.

(a) 
Spas and pools which extend more than eighteen inches above grade must meet the side and rear yard setback requirements of the zoning district of the property where such pool or spa is located.
(b) 
Pool and spa equipment shall not be constructed or located within three feet of any other structure or any property line, and shall comply with adopted noise requirements.
(c) 
Covers are required for new pool or spa installations.
(Prior zoning code § 19.40.080; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 3082-16 § 2)

§ 19.48.100 Mechanical equipment-Setback requirements.

Mechanical equipment, such as but not limited to heating or air conditioning units, shall not be located between the face of building and the street, and shall be screened from view. Any mechanical equipment which is higher than eighteen inches must meet the side and rear yard setbacks of the zoning district of the property where such equipment is located. All mechanical equipment shall comply with the noise requirements set forth in Section 19.42.030.
(Prior zoning code § 19.40.090; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.50.010 Nonconforming lots.

The owner of legally created lots which do not meet current minimum lot area or lot width, providing the owner does not own sufficient adjoining land to permit compliance, may obtain a building permit to construct a building which complies with applicable zoning regulations.
(Prior zoning code § 19.36.060; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.50.020 Nonconforming residential building.

(a) 
A building legally built and occupied as a dwelling, in all zoning districts except R-1, R-0 and R-2, which does not meet current development standards except for lot area per dwelling unit, may be repaired, altered, enlarged or replaced without requiring a variance provided:
(1) 
No increase in nonconformities will result; and
(2) 
Any required permits are obtained.
(b) 
A building legally built and occupied as a single-family or duplex dwelling in the R-0, R-1 and R-2 zoning districts may be repaired, altered, enlarged or replaced without a variance even if it does not meet current development standards for lot area per dwelling unit, provided all other current development standards are met and any required permits are obtained.
(c) 
A building legally built and occupied as a single-family dwelling in a nonresidential zoning district may be repaired, altered, enlarged or replaced without a variance provided that it complies with applicable development standards for the R-0 district.
(1) 
The lot may include one accessory dwelling unit and one junior accessory dwelling unit that comply with the requirements in Chapter 19.79 of this code for single-family lots.
(2) 
The lot shall not be eligible for dual urban opportunity housing under Chapter 19.78 of this code.
(3) 
The lot shall not be eligible for an urban lot split under Chapter 18.26 of this code.
(d) 
A building legally built and occupied as a two-family dwelling in a nonresidential zoning district may be repaired, altered, enlarged or replaced without a variance provided that it complies with applicable development standards for the R-2 district.
(1) 
The lot may include accessory dwelling units that comply with the requirements in Chapter 19.79 of this code for multifamily lots.
(2) 
The lot shall not be eligible for dual urban opportunity housing under Chapter 19.78 of this code.
(3) 
The lot shall not be eligible for an urban lot split under Chapter 18.26 of this code.
(Prior zoning code § 19.28.005; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2745-04 § 1; Ord. 3211-23 § 1; Ord. 3240-25, 4/8/2025)

§ 19.50.030 Nonconforming nonresidential building.

(a) 
A building legally built and used for nonresidential purposes, in any zoning district, which does not meet current development standards may be repaired, altered, enlarged or replaced without requiring a variance provided any repair, alteration, addition or enlargement must comply with the latest applicable zoning standards. Any required permits must be obtained.
(b) 
If the existing building is damaged to the extent that repairs would exceed fifty percent of the value of the build-ing, as determined by the building official, the entire building must comply with the latest applicable zoning standards. Any required permits must be obtained.
(c) 
If the existing building is damaged by a catastrophic event to the extent that repairs would exceed fifty percent of the value of the building, as determined by the building official, a use permit may be obtained to allow reconstruction to its configuration prior to damage by the catastrophic event. An application for such a use permit to replace the nonconforming structure shall be heard by the planning commission and is subject to the procedures set forth in Chapter 19.88. The application must be submitted within six months of the catastrophic event. Failure to apply for a building permit within three months of the issuance of the use permit, or failure to begin construction within three months of the issuance of a building permit, shall be deemed to be discontinuation or abandonment of the use permit. In granting a use permit, the planning commission must take the following factors into account:
(1) 
The building may be reconstructed or replaced only for occupancy or use by a conforming use;
(2) 
The nonconforming portion may be replaced or reconstructed to its previous configuration, provided it will not create, cause, or increase any nonconformity beyond that which existed prior to destruction;
(3) 
Except as otherwise provided in this section with regard to replacement or reconstruction of a portion of a facility to its previous nonconforming condition, all reconstruction shall be subject to all applicable laws, regulations, and procedures otherwise governing construction on the site at the time the construction is undertaken;
(4) 
The planning commission may impose such conditions as determined necessary to insure compatibility with surrounding properties, including, but not limited to, improvements or modifications to existing improvements on the property such as landscaping, parking, etc., limitation on nature of operations and a specified term of years for which the use permit shall be granted.
(Prior zoning code § 19.28.007; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2673-01 § 4)

§ 19.50.040 Nonconforming floor area ratio.

Nothing contained in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit alterations to a building or use made nonconforming with respect to maximum floor area ratio, or with respect to maximum floor area ratio permitted without a use permit, due to the establishment or change of a zoning district or modification of the maximum floor area ratio limitations of Chapter 19.32, provided that such building or use was lawful at the time of such change and provided that the alteration does not increase the floor area ratio or the floor area occupied by the use made nonconforming.
(Prior zoning code § 19.28.080; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.50.050 Nonconforming required facilities.

Except as provided in Section 19.50.020, a use which was lawfully established and which becomes nonconforming, including residential uses that do not meet minimum lot area per dwelling unit requirements, may be continued so long as no enlargement of the area, space or volume occupied by such use occurs.
(Prior zoning code § 19.46.010; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2745-04 § 2)

§ 19.50.060 Continuance of an existing nonconforming use.

A use which was lawfully established and which becomes nonconforming, including residential uses that do not meet minimum lot area per dwelling unit requirements, may be continued so long as no enlargement of the area, space or volume occupied by such use occurs.
(Prior zoning code § 19.28.010; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.50.070 Change of a nonconforming use.

Nonconforming use of a building may be changed to another type of nonconforming use provided:
(a) 
No structural alterations are made.
(b) 
The new use is the same type as, or no more incompatible with the zoning district than, the previous use.
(Prior zoning code § 19.28.020; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.50.080 Additions or alterations.

Nothing contained in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit such additions or alterations to a building occupied by a nonconforming use as may be reasonably necessary to comply with any lawful order of any public authority made in the interest of the public health, safety or general welfare.
(Prior zoning code § 19.28.070; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.50.090 Damage or destruction of a nonconforming use.

(a) 
Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b), if any building occupied by a nonconforming use has been damaged or destroyed to the extent that the cost of repairs to the building would exceed fifty percent of the value of the building, then the repaired or reconstructed building shall not thereafter be occupied by a nonconforming use. If any part of a building occupied by a nonconforming use has been damaged or destroyed to the extent that the cost of repairs to that part of the building occupied by a nonconforming use would exceed fifty percent of the value of that part of the building, then the repaired or reconstructed part of the building shall not thereafter be occupied by a nonconforming use. The determination of the cost of repairs and the value of the building or part thereof shall be made by the building official.
(b) 
Any nonconforming residential use that was in conformity at the time it was constructed or added to, located in any residential or commercial zoning district, that is damaged or destroyed may be reconstructed within one year of such damage or destruction with the same number of units, provided that the reconstructed portion does not enlarge the area, space, volume or increase the nonconformity.
(c) 
Any covered residential parking built within one year of damage or destruction to replace covered parking shall not require more than a one-for-one replacement.
(Prior zoning code § 19.28.050; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.50.100 Abandonment or discontinuance of a nonconforming use.

(a) 
In the event an unenclosed nonconforming use is abandoned or is discontinued for a period of six months or more, subsequent use of such land shall comply with the provisions of this title.
(b) 
Any building or part thereof which has been vacated by a nonconforming use and subsequently occupied by a conforming use shall not thereafter be occupied by a nonconforming use. In the event a nonconforming use of any build-ing or part thereof has been abandoned or discontinued for a period of one year or more, subsequent use of such building or part thereof shall comply with the provisions of this title.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.28.030, 19.28.040; Ord. 2623-99 § 1 )

§ 19.50.110 Nonconforming signs.

Except as noted in Section 19.44.130, signs lawfully established may continue to be displayed, maintained and repaired.
(Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.50.120 Conversion of single-family garage.

As provided for in Section 19.46.050 (Parking for single-family and two-family dwellings) any conversion of a single-family residential garage for which a building permit was obtained is considered a legal nonconforming use.
(Prior zoning code § 19.48.180(g); Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2988-12 § 17)

§ 19.50.130 Nonconforming status in the ITR (industrial to residential) district.

The nonconforming status of existing uses in the ITR are determined as set forth in Chapters 19.18 and 19.22.
(Prior zoning code § 19.20.354; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.50.140 Nonconforming status in the downtown specific plan.

The nonconforming status of buildings or uses in the downtown specific plan are determined as set forth in Chapter 19.28.
(Prior zoning code § 19.30.050(c); Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.52.010 Findings and purpose.

(a) 
Findings. The city council makes the following findings:
(1) 
The city's visual and aesthetic quality has a significant impact on property values, economic well-being and orderly development;
(2) 
Development of large-scale or highly visible sites contributes to the city's unique character;
(3) 
The incorporation of publicly visible art on large-scale sites, highly visible intersections or spaces that are publicly accessible within private developments enhances the city's visual and aesthetic quality and creates a unique sense of community and self-image; and
(4) 
Providing art mitigates an undesired and potentially deleterious sense of uniformity and loss of human scale and orientation and is in the public interest.
(b) 
Purpose. This chapter regulates and establishes standards for inclusion of art in private development.
(Ord. 2977-12 § 2)

§ 19.52.020 Applicability.

(a) 
Major Intersection. Nonresidential development, including hotels, shall provide art when located at a major street intersection listed in this section. A lot is located at one of the referenced intersections if the lot has frontage along both of the streets forming the intersection. The development may include either new construction of a main building of any size, an addition of at least ten thousand square feet to a main or accessory building, or new construction of an accessory building.
(1) 
El Camino Real and Wolfe Road;
(2) 
El Camino Real and Remington Drive/Fair Oaks Avenue;
(3) 
El Camino Real and Sunnyvale Avenue/Sunnyvale Saratoga Road;
(4) 
El Camino Real and Mathilda Avenue;
(5) 
Central Expressway and Lawrence Expressway;
(6) 
Central Expressway and Mary Avenue;
(7) 
Mathilda Avenue and State Highway 101;
(8) 
Mathilda Avenue and State Highway 237;
(9) 
Lawrence Expressway and State Highway 237;
(10) 
Lawrence Expressway and State Highway 101.
(b) 
Lots of Two Acres or More. Nonresidential development, including hotels, shall provide art when located on any lot of two acres or more. The development may include either new construction of a main building of any size, an addition of at least thirty thousand square feet to a main or accessory building, or new construction of an accessory building. If more than one lot is developed jointly or as an integrated project, the requirements of this chapter apply if the aggregate lot area is two acres or more, regardless of whether the property is under common ownership.
(c) 
Phased Projects. In the event of construction occurring over a period of time, projects become subject to this chapter when the aggregate floor area of all construction reaches the specified levels.
(d) 
Public Interest. Art may be required for any proposed project, including those not mentioned in this section when deemed in the public interest.
(Ord. 2977-12 § 2)

§ 19.52.030 Art requirement.

(a) 
Provision of Art. Projects shall provide publicly visible art on site that is equal in value to two percent of the project construction valuation.
(b) 
Building Valuation. Building permit valuation is determined by the chief building official using the city building permit valuation formula. Valuation of development projects includes the construction of the building shell. Valuation does not include land acquisition, site improvements, parking structures, off-site improvements or tenant improvements. In the event of multi-phased development, valuation is based on the cost of all phases, even though all phases may not be completed at the same time.
(c) 
Art Valuation. When calculating the value of an art to be placed on a private development site, eligible costs include:
(1) 
Purchase price of the art;
(2) 
Art consultant fees;
(3) 
Installation costs, including transportation of the art to the site, pedestals or display costs;
(4) 
Wiring, fixtures and other costs directly related to the installation of lighting the art;
(5) 
Identification plaque; and
(6) 
Ineligible costs include land acquisition, site preparation, travel costs for the artist, architect fees, utility fees associated with the installation or operation of the art, fees associated with dedication ceremonies, publicity, or educational components and maintenance fees and repairs.
(d) 
Art Valuation Remainders. In some instances the cost of artwork may not equate precisely to two percent of the construction valuation. If the developer does not spend the entire two percent on public art, then the remaining amount shall be contributed to the public arts fund.
(e) 
Alternative to Provision of Art. Developers may choose to make a contribution to the public arts fund in-lieu of placing art on their project site. Developers shall allocate an in-lieu amount equal to 1.1 percent of the building valuation. The additional 0.1 percent is to be used for maintenance of art provided through the public arts fund. The in-lieu fee shall be paid prior to issuance of the building permit.
(Ord. 2977-12 § 2; Ord. 3167 § 1)

§ 19.52.040 Standards for art.

Proposed art in private development shall meet the criteria in this section. The arts commission may allow modifications that are consistent with the intent of this chapter.
(a) 
Type of Art. Art should be one significant piece of art, except that requirement may be met with several works of art when specifically found by the arts commission to fulfill the intent of this chapter. The nature and style of the art is considered in the context of other similar art in the surrounding area to encourage a wide range of types of art, styles and materials in order to create a balanced and interesting artistic and aesthetic appearance. The following types of art are permitted as long as they are on a large public scale:
(1) 
Sculpture: in the round, bas-relief, mobile, fountain, kinetic, electronic, or other, in any material or combination of materials;
(2) 
Painting: all media, including permanently affixed works, such as murals;
(3) 
Graphic arts: printmaking, drawing, calligraphy and photography, but only when on a large public scale;
(4) 
Mosaics;
(5) 
Glass;
(6) 
Clay, fiber and textiles, wood, metal, plastics and other materials;
(7) 
Mixed media: any combination of forms or media, including collage. Water, neon, fiber optic and electronic sculpture generally should not be encouraged due to difficulty of maintenance. Such art may be permitted if adequate assurance of continued maintenance is provided;
(8) 
Functional art created by a professional artist, such as benches, tree grates and trash receptacles; or
(9) 
Any other form of work of art determined to satisfy the intent of this chapter.
(10) 
Ineligible Works. The following do not meet the requirements for art in private development:
(i) 
Artwork that is similar to, reminiscent of or based on a corporate logo;
(ii) 
Reproductions by mechanical or other means of original works of art. Permitted art may include, however, limited editions controlled by the artists of original prints, cast sculpture, photographs and other art forms;
(iii) 
Directional or other functional elements such as supergraphics, signing, color coding, except where these elements are integral parts of original signed arts;
(iv) 
Art objects which are mass produced from a standard design, such as playground equipment, fountains, flags or banners; and
(v) 
Landscaping and gardening, except where these elements are designed by the artists and are an integral part of a fine art.
(b) 
Artist Qualifications. The artist is required to have experience and knowledge of monumental-scale art intended for public viewing. The artist's qualifications will be evaluated and examples of past work may be reviewed to determine whether or not the artist has appropriate experience for the project.
(c) 
Artistic Preference. The determination of artistic preferences is primarily a function of the owner or developer of the property. It is the intent of this chapter to provide for the public display of private art on private property without substituting the artistic preferences of the city for those of the owner or developer of the property.
(d) 
Visibility and Locations. Appropriate locations may include, but are not limited to, vehicular entryways to the property, plazas, greenbelts and building façades. The location selected should allow reasonable accessibility to the art, including visibility of the art from the public street. The location shall be exterior and installation of the art piece shall enhance the art and allow for unobstructed public viewing from as many angles as possible. When located in proximity to major traffic thoroughfares, the art should be at a motorist's scale and oriented toward the view corridor of the motorist. The art shall be an integral part of the landscaping and/or architecture of the buildings.
(e) 
Proportional Size. The art shall be proportional to the scale of the development and designed to create an artistic, visual and aesthetic impact upon observers. Particularly in locations on major thoroughfares and major intersections, the art should be of such size and nature as to strengthen the urban design and aesthetic quality of life in the community.
(f) 
Inoffensive. Because the art will necessarily be highly visible to the public, will be associated with city requirements, and because the traveling public will have no real opportunity to avoid the visual aspects of the art, expressions of obvious bad taste or profanity is prohibited. It is the intent of this criterion to address proposed art which by its nature would generally be considered offensive to the public.
(g) 
Permanence. The art shall be a permanent, fixed asset to the property. The composition of the art shall be of permanent materials requiring a low level of maintenance. Materials used shall be durable and weather resistant.
(Ord. 2977-12 § 2)

§ 19.52.050 Art permit.

(a) 
Art Permit Required. An art permit is required for installation of art in private development. The art permit shall be obtained prior to building permit occupancy. In phased projects, the director retains discretion as to which building permit triggers the need for the art permit application.
(b) 
Application. The art permit application shall contain the following information:
(1) 
An application signed by the owner of the affected property;
(2) 
Landscape and site plans indicating the location and orientation of the art, signage, utility boxes, fire suppression systems, and the landscaping and architectural treatment integrating the piece into the overall project design;
(3) 
Color elevation rendering clearly showing the artwork to scale in relation to its surroundings;
(4) 
A sample, model, or photograph and "to-scale" drawings or renderings of the proposed art piece;
(5) 
Material samples and finishes;
(6) 
A resume of the proposed artist including slides or photographs of the proposed artist's past work which demonstrates similar work to the proposal;
(7) 
A written statement by the artist describing any theme or development of the art, as well as a discussion of the manner in which the proposed art meets the criteria in Section 19.52.040 (Standards for art);
(8) 
A lighting plan including samples of lighting fixtures; and
(9) 
Other information as required by the superintendent of community services.
(c) 
Finding. The proposed art is consistent with Section 19.52.040 (Standards for art) and the purpose of this chapter.
(d) 
Decision. The application, along with the recommendation of the superintendent of community services, will be forwarded to the arts commission for review and action at a public hearing. The arts commission, based on the finding, may either:
(1) 
Approve the permit as requested or conditioned to meet the requirements of this chapter; or
(2) 
Deny the permit.
(e) 
Appeals. Actions of the arts commission may be appealed by any aggrieved person in accordance with Chapter 19.98 (General Procedures). The city council, based on the finding, may either:
(1) 
Approve the permit as requested or conditioned to the requirement of this chapter; or
(2) 
Deny the permit.
(f) 
Failure to Act. Failure of the arts commission to act on a permit application within sixty calendar days, or an extended period as mutually agreed upon by the applicant and the arts commission, is deemed a denial of the application. Denial may be appealed to the city council in accordance with this section. The superintendent of community services shall send a notice of the action to the applicant. Failure to send notice does not affect the arts commission action or extend any appeals period.
(Ord. 2977-12 § 2; Ord. 3050-14 § 2)

§ 19.52.060 Master art permit.

(a) 
Applicability. Development of any property having an aggregate area of more than fifty acres may apply for a master art permit. Development may occur at one time or in phases and shall consist of contiguous lots.
(b) 
Application. Application for a master art permit is filed in the same manner as an art permit, except that the application does not need to specifically identify each particular piece of art proposed.
(c) 
Content. The master art permit may define the total obligation to provide art and include information on the quantity, type, orientation and timing of installation of the proposed art. The master art permit may waive art permit requirements for individual installations.
(d) 
Decision. Decisions require a city council hearing after recommendation by the arts commission.
(Ord. 2977-12 § 2)

§ 19.52.070 Installation and maintenance requirements.

(a) 
Timing of Installation. If art installation is impracticable prior to the anticipated date of building occupancy, the director may allow building occupancy provided that the art permit has been issued and the applicant has filed with the city adequate security to guarantee installation of the art. The security may take the form of a bond, letter of credit, cash deposit, or similar security instrument, along with an agreement to install the required art in such amount and form as is acceptable to the director.
(b) 
Permit for Installation. The applicant shall obtain a building permit for the art.
(c) 
County Recordation. Prior to completion of the art installation, a document shall be recorded with the county containing a description of the art and noting the obligation of present and future property owners to maintain and repair the art.
(d) 
Plaque Required. Each piece of art shall provide an appropriate identification plaque or monument measuring at least eight inches by eight inches. The plaque shall be made of cast metal and be placed near the art piece. Information must include the date, title and artist. The requirement of this section may be waived if determined in a particular circumstance to be inconsistent with the intent of this chapter.
(e) 
Maintenance. Art shall be maintained in good condition after its installation. Maintenance of the art includes related landscaping, lighting and the identification plaque. Violation of the maintenance requirements may result in the imposition of administrative fines and penalties under Chapter 1.06 (Administrative Fines and Penalties) and may include the city's cost of maintaining or repairing the art.
(f) 
Removal. Removal of required art is prohibited without the city approval. The city may require replacement of the art. Removal or replacement of art shall comply with Section 19.52.050 (Art permit).
(Ord. 2977-12 § 2; Ord. 3167 § 1)

§ 19.52.080 Establishment of the arts funds.

The city council authorizes the establishment of two funds for the deposit of all fees paid under this chapter.
(a) 
Public Arts Fund. This fund uses one percent of the construction valuation for the acquisition and installation of the art and administration of the public art program, including, but not limited to, improvements, site preparation, light-ing and landscaping.
(b) 
Art Maintenance Fund. The 0.1 percent of the construction valuations shall be set aside in the art maintenance fund for repairing and maintaining art purchased by the in-lieu fee.
(Ord. 2977-12 § 2)

§ 19.54.010 Purpose and intent.

(a) 
The purpose and intent of this chapter is to provide a uniform and comprehensive set of standards for the development, siting and installation of wireless telecommunication facilities and antennas. The regulations contained herein are designed to protect and promote public health, safety, community welfare and the aesthetic quality of the city as set forth within the goals, objectives and policies of the general plan, the telecommunications policy and the city-wide design guidelines, while at the same time providing for managed development of wireless telecommunications infrastructure in accordance with the guidelines and intent of the Telecommunications Act of 1996.
(b) 
It is intended that the city shall apply these regulations in furtherance of the goals and policy objectives as set forth in the telecommunications policy, recognizing the city's roles as regulator, service provider, facilitator and user, including, but not limited to, the following:
(1) 
To retain control of public property within the confines of state and federal legislation to regulate wireless telecommunications services;
(2) 
To promote universal access to wireless telecommunications services;
(3) 
To use wireless telecommunications to maintain and enhance information resources and services;
(4) 
To promote use of wireless telecommunications technology, where appropriate and within the scope of available resources, to enhance the economic vitality of Sunnyvale;
(5) 
To facilitate the creation of an advanced wireless telecommunications infrastructure, within given resources, for citizens, businesses, industries and schools.
(c) 
Consistent with the foregoing purpose and objectives, and pursuant to the city's inherent police power authority to regulate such uses through zoning, building and safety requirements, the city seeks to:
(1) 
Protect the city from potential adverse effects of wireless telecommunication facility development;
(2) 
Retain local responsibility for management of the use of public rights-of-way;
(3) 
Facilitate the development of high-quality wireless telecommunications infrastructure and services to serve the citizens and business community of the city;
(4) 
Ensure that the wireless telecommunications infrastructure is designed to enhance and not interfere with the city's emergency response network;
(5) 
Streamline the process for obtaining necessary permits for wireless telecommunication facilities while at the same time ensuring compliance with all applicable zoning, building, health and safety requirements under this code.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.010; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.54.020 Minimum application requirements.

In addition to meeting standard application submittal requirements for discretionary permits, detailed in other chapters in Title 19, all wireless telecommunication facility carriers or providers, upon submitting an application for approval of a telecommunication facility pursuant to this chapter, shall comply with the following requirements and provide:
(a) 
Name, address and telephone number of the officer, agent or employee responsible for processing the application;
(b) 
A map and narrative description of all telecommunication sites proposed or planned by applicant, including the specific site which is the subject of the application, which are to be located within the city and within one mile of any border of the city;
(c) 
A description of the services that the applicant proposes to offer or provide in conjunction with the proposed sites;
(d) 
Documentation certifying the applicant has obtained all applicable licenses or other approvals required by the Federal Communications Commission to provide the services proposed in connection with the application;
(e) 
A visual impact analysis, maximum silhouette and proposed or required screening. The visual impact analysis shall include scaled elevation diagrams within the context of the building, and photo simulations and may require photo overlays, scaled models, renderings, or mockups. A map depicting where the photos were taken shall be included;
(f) 
Any application for a proposed facility which has been identified as not meeting the general requirements and design criteria shall include a narrative description and explanation of anticipated corrective measures;
(g) 
At the discretion of the director of community development, the applicant may be required to provide an authorization and waiver to permit the city to hire an independent, qualified consultant to evaluate any technical aspect of the proposed telecommunication facility, including, but not limited to, compliance with applicable federal emission standards, potential for interference with existing or planned public safety emergency response telecommunication facilities, or analysis of feasibility of alternate screening methods or devices. Any authorization for this purpose shall include an agreement by the applicant to reimburse the city for all reasonable costs associated with the consultation. Any proprietary information disclosed to the city or the consultant is hereby deemed not to be a public record and shall remain confidential and not be disclosed to any third party without the express consent of the applicant;
(h) 
Where applicable, a plan depicting existing surrounding landscaping, proposed landscaping, a landscape protection plan for construction and a maintenance plan (including an irrigation plan);
(i) 
Name and address of the provider of service connecting the applicant's wireless facilities to one or more mobile telephone switching facilities and/or long-distance providers, or the public switched telephone network, and a statement about whether the service is wired or wireless. If at any time this information changes, the city must be provided with updated information promptly;
(j) 
Any other relevant information as required by the director of community development.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.030; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.54.030 General requirements.

The following general requirements apply at all times to all wireless telecommunications facilities located on private or public property in all zoning districts:
(a) 
Each facility must comply with any and all applicable provisions of the Sunnyvale Municipal Code, including but not limited to provisions concerning streets and sidewalks and provisions of the Uniform Building Code, National Electrical Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform Mechanical Code, and Uniform Fire Code, and any conditions of approval imposed as part of the approval process. As to any specific requirement which will not be satisfied, applicant shall provide a written narrative explanation which shall include, but not be limited to, the following information: specific identification of each requirement or requirements with which the proposed facility will not be in compliance; a detailed explanation why full compliance will not or can not be achieved; and as to each identified requirement, a description of feasible alternate measures proposed by the applicant which are designed to compensate for lack of compliance with the specific requirement.
(b) 
Each facility must comply with any and all applicable regulations and standards promulgated or imposed by any state or federal agency, including, but not limited to, the Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Aviation Administration.
(c) 
Certification must be provided that the proposed facility will at all times comply with all applicable health requirements and standards pertaining to RF emissions.
(d) 
Interference with city communication systems is prohibited. All proposed facility applications shall include reports, as required by the department of public safety, to evaluate for potential interference (HF, UHF, VHF, eight hundred mHz). The applicant shall be responsible for any costs incurred by the city, including the costs of retaining consultants, to review and analyze the reports.
(e) 
The owner or operator of any facility shall obtain and maintain current at all times a business license issued by the city.
(f) 
The owner or operator of any facility shall submit and maintain current at all times basic contact and site information on a form to be supplied by the city. Applicant shall notify city of any changes to the information submitted within thirty days of any change, including change of the name or legal status of the owner or operator. This information shall include, but is not limited to the following:
(1) 
Identity, including name, address and telephone number, and legal status of the owner of the facility includ-ing official identification numbers and FCC certification, and if different from the owner, the identity and legal status of the person or entity responsible for operating the facility;
(2) 
Name, address and telephone number of a local contact person for emergencies;
(3) 
Type of service provided.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.040; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 3031-13 § 1)

§ 19.54.040 Design requirements.

In addition to all other requirements set forth in this chapter, all wireless telecommunication facilities shall meet the following design requirements:
(a) 
Based on potential aesthetic impact, the order of preference for facility type is: façade mounted, roof mounted, ground mounted, and freestanding tower. If a ground mounted or freestanding tower is proposed, the application must include an explanation as to why other facility types are not being considered.
(b) 
All facilities shall be designed to minimize the visual impact to the greatest extent feasible, considering technological requirements, by means of placement, screening, and camouflage, to be compatible with existing architectural elements and building materials, and other site characteristics. The applicant shall use the smallest and least visible antennas possible to accomplish the owner/operator's coverage objectives.
(c) 
Colors and materials for facilities shall be chosen to minimize visibility. Facilities shall be painted or textured using colors to match or blend with the primary background.
(d) 
Facility lighting shall be designed so as to meet but not exceed minimum requirements for security, safety or FAA regulations, and in all instances shall be designed so as to avoid glare and minimize illumination on adjacent properties.
(e) 
Lightning arresters and beacon lights shall not be included in the design of facilities unless required by the FAA. Lightning arresters and beacons shall be included when calculating the height of facilities such as towers, lattice towers and monopoles.
(f) 
Façade mounted equipment shall be camouflaged by incorporating the antenna into the dominant design elements of the building; they shall be painted and textured to match the existing structure, and shall not project beyond a maximum of eighteen inches from the face of the building or other support structure unless allowed by a minor use permit.
(g) 
Satellite dish or parabolic antennas shall be situated as close to the ground as possible to reduce visual impact without compromising their function. No such antenna shall be located in any front yard, nor in a corner side yard unless the antenna is screened from pedestrian-level view. No such antenna exceeding thirty-nine inches in diameter shall be located within a required setback unless approved through a miscellaneous plan permit upon a showing that no reasonable alternative location is available.
(h) 
All facilities shall be designed so as to be resistant to and minimize opportunities for unauthorized access, climb-ing, vandalism, graffiti, and other conditions which would result in hazardous conditions, visual blight, or attractive nuisances.
(i) 
Where appropriate, facilities shall be installed so as to maintain and enhance existing landscaping on the site, including trees, foliage and shrubs, whether or not utilized for screening. Additional landscaping shall be planted where such vegetation is deemed necessary to provide screening or to minimize the visual impact of the facility.
(j) 
All monopoles and lattice towers shall be designed to be the minimum functional height and width required to support the proposed antenna installation.
(k) 
Roof mounted antennas shall be constructed at the minimum height possible to serve the operator's service area. Roof mounted antennas shall be designed to minimize their visibility.
(l) 
In order of preference, ancillary support equipment for facilities shall be located either within a building, in a rear yard or on a screened roof top area. Support equipment pads, cabinets, shelters and buildings require architectural, landscape, color, or other camouflage treatment for minimal visual impact.
(m) 
No freestanding facility or ancillary support equipment may be located between the face of a building and a public street, bikeway or park, except for approved facade-mounted equipment or facilities located on existing or new permitted structures in accordance with this section.
(n) 
The city shall retain the authority to limit the number of antennas with related equipment and providers to be located at any site and adjacent sites in order to prevent negative visual impact associated with multiple facilities. Architectural and other camouflaging treatment shall be coordinated between all users on each site.
(o) 
Landscaping, including shrubs and trees shall be used, when possible, to block the line of sight between facilities and adjacent residential uses and residentially zoned properties.
(p) 
Freestanding facilities, including towers, lattice towers, and monopoles, shall be restricted to a maximum height of sixty-five feet when located adjacent to residentially zoned properties. New facilities located on private property shall be set back at a ratio of two horizontal feet for every one foot in height. Facilities located on private property shall not be readily visible to the nearest residentially zoned property.
(q) 
At the time of modification or upgrade of facilities, existing equipment shall be replaced with equipment of equal or greater technical capacity and reduced size so as to reduce visual impact.
(r) 
Except as approved by use permit, no component of any facility shall be located within required front or side yard setbacks, except for facilities mounted on poles in the public right-of-way, or facilities and related equipment not readily visible mounted on existing or new structures already allowed by the Municipal Code. No facility component shall be located so that it straddles a property line.
(s) 
Proposed facilities shall not reduce below the amount required the number of available parking spaces.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.050; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 3031-13 § 2)

§ 19.54.050 Operation and maintenance standards.

All wireless telecommunication facilities shall comply at all times with the following operation and maintenance standards:
(a) 
All facilities and related equipment, including lighting, fences, shields, cabinets, and poles, shall be maintained in good repair, free from trash, debris, litter and graffiti and other forms of vandalism, and any damage from any cause shall be repaired as soon as reasonably possible so as to minimize occurrences of dangerous conditions or visual blight. Graffiti shall be removed from any facility or equipment as soon as practicable, and in no instance more than forty-eight hours from the time of notification by the city.
(b) 
Each facility which contains trees, foliage or other landscaping elements, whether or not used as screening, shall be maintained in good condition at all times, and the owner or operator of the facility shall be responsible for replacing any damaged, dead or decayed landscaping as promptly as reasonably possible.
(c) 
Each facility for which a landscape plan was required and approved shall maintain the facility and site in accordance with the approved landscape plan at all times. Amendments or modifications to the plan shall be submitted for approval to the director of community development.
(d) 
Each facility shall be operated in such a manner so as to minimize any possible disruption caused by noise. Backup generators shall only be operated during periods of power outages, and shall not be tested on weekends or holidays, or between the hours of ten p.m. and seven a.m. on weekday nights. At no time shall equipment noise from any source exceed an exterior noise level of sixty dB at the property line.
(e) 
Each owner or operator of a facility shall routinely and regularly inspect each site to ensure compliance with the standards set forth in this section.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.060; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.54.060 Structural standards.

All wireless telecommunication facilities shall, at all times, comply with all applicable requirements of the Uniform Building Code in effect on the date the building permit is issued. Thereafter, upon renewal of the permit, the chief build-ing official may, at his or her discretion, require the facility to be upgraded to meet then-current requirements if it is deemed necessary to protect the public health, safety and welfare.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.070; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 3212-23 § 6)

§ 19.54.070 Residential districts.

Wireless telecommunication facilities are prohibited on private property in all residential zoning districts unless specifically authorized or exempted pursuant to this chapter.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.080; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.54.080 Telecommunication facilities permits.

The type of permit required for telecommunication facilities, and any applicable exemptions, are set forth in Table 19.54.080.
Table 19.54.080 Telecommunications Facilities Permits
Zoning Districts
Exemptions
Miscellaneous Plan Permits
Minor Use Permits
Major Use Permits
Residential, Public Facilities, Commercial and Office
 
R-0, R-1, R-1.5, R-1.7, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, RMH, C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, O, PF, DSP, LSP, PPSP, MXD-I, MXD-I/S, MXD-II, MXD-III, MXD-IV, O-R, ECR-C, ECR-MU, ECR-O, ECR-PF, ECR-R3, ECR-R4, VCC, VCO, VCMU
For all properties:
 
(1) DBS, MMDS or TVBS antennas, provided that:
(a) Antenna has diameter of 39″ or less.
(b) Antenna is mounted on mast less than 12′ high.
(c) Antenna is not located in a historic district or on a historic building.
(d) To the extent feasible, the antenna location is not readily visible from public right-of-way.
(e) Amateur radio antennas not exceeding maximum building height limits of zoning district by 25′.
For properties with residential uses:
 
Receive-only parabolic dishes or antenna > 39″ in diameter.
 
For properties with nonresidential uses:
 
(1) Ground mounted antenna up to 15′ high and 6″ in diameter.
(2) Façade mounted antenna not readily visible and no projection more than 18″ from façade.
(3) Roof mounted antenna or antennas mounted on an existing electrical transmission tower that are not readily visible and do not extend above the structure ridgeline
For properties with nonresidential uses:
 
(1) Façade mounted antennas extending above structure ridgeline or projecting more than 18″ from building façade.
(2) Roof mounted antennas or antennas mounted on an existing electrical transmission tower which extend up to 15′ above the structure ridgeline.
(3) Any facility or equipment which, when installed, would result in 2 or more telecommunications facilities at the same property.
For properties with nonresidential uses:
 
(1) Satellite earth stations.
(2) New freestanding facilities including monopoles, lattice towers and other towers up to a maximum of 65′ in height.
(3) Any facility located in the required side or front yard setbacks. Such facilities must meet design standards.
(4) Facilities not otherwise enumerated
Industrial
 
MS, M3, MP-TOD, MP-C, MP-I, MXD-I, MXD-I/S, MXD-II, MXD-III, MXD-IV, M-S/LSAP, M-S/LSAP 60%, M-S/LSAP 120%
Same as for Residential and Public Facilities
(1) Receive-only parabolic dishes or antennas greater than 39″ in diameter.
(2) Ground mounted antennas not exceeding 15′ in height and 6″ in diameter.
(3) Façade mounted antennas extending above the structure ridgeline or projecting more than 18″ from the building façade.
(4) Roof mounted antennas or antennas mounted on an existing electrical transmission tower extending up to 15′ above the structure ridgeline.
(5) Any facility or equipment which, when installed, would result in 2 or more telecommunications facilities at the same property.
(6) Monopoles, lattice towers or other towers up to 65′, if located more than 1,000′ from the right-of-way of a freeway, expressway or arterial street.
(7) Antennas mounted on an existing electrical transmission tower
(1) Roof mounted antennas or antennas mounted on an existing electrical transmission tower extending more than 15′ above the structure ridgeline.
(2) Monopoles, lattice towers or other towers > 65′ but < 90′ high, and located more than 1,000′ from the right-of-way of a freeway, expressway or arterial street.
(1) Satellite earth stations.
(2) Monopoles, lattice towers or other towers > 65′ but < 90′ high, which is located less than 1,000′ from the right-of-way of a freeway, expressway or arterial street.
(3) Monopoles, lattice towers or other towers > 90′ high.
(4) Facilities or equipment located in the front or side yard setbacks of properties not in residential use.
(5) Freestanding facilities include towers, lattice towers and monopoles which will be located within 1,000′ of another freestanding facility.
(6) Facilities not otherwise enumerated
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.70.100(a)—(c)(5), 19.70.110(a)—(c), 19.70.120; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2649-00 § 11; Ord. 2906-09 § 12; Ord. 3103-16 § 3; Ord. 3181-21 § 3; Ord. 3194-22 § 14; Ord. 3242-25, 7/29/2025)

§ 19.54.090 Exempt telecommunication facilities.

(a) 
Installation of any of the antennas and/or appurtenant equipment identified in Table 19.54.080 as exempt which complies with all applicable provisions of Title 16 of this code and which does not pose a threat to the safety of any person does not need a land use permit. The building official is authorized to determine whether special measures may be required to ensure that the antenna will not pose a threat to public safety, including, but not limited to, minimum separation from power lines, compliance with electrical and fire code requirements, and secure installation.
(b) 
The city finds that amateur (including ham and short wave) radio operators provide a valuable and essential telecommunication service during periods of natural disasters and other emergency conditions, and therefore specifically exempt amateur radio antenna from the requirements of this chapter; provided that the antenna does not exceed the maximum building height for the zoning district in which it is located by more than twenty-five feet.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.090; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.54.100 Miscellaneous plan permit required.

(a) 
The determination of whether or not a proposed facility meets the requirements for a miscellaneous plan permit is at the discretion of the director of community development. The director has the discretion to require that the application be processed for a minor use permit or use permit.
(b) 
Minor modifications and aesthetic upgrades to all wireless telecommunication facilities are as determined by the director of community development and in accordance with this chapter.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.100(d)—(e); Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.54.110 Minor use permit required.

(a) 
In all zoning districts, on public or private property, including the public right-of-way, any wireless telecommunication service established for use by the city which is not governed by state or federal design criteria and which is unable to meet the design requirements or other location requirements of this chapter, shall be subject to approval of a minor use permit. The findings to be made are:
(1) 
The project is necessary to provide essential city services;
(2) 
The proposed project attains the objects of the general plan and the telecommunication policy;
(3) 
The proposed project will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to the property, improvements or uses within the immediate vicinity;
(4) 
The site is physically suited for the project, and design and location alternatives have been determined to be infeasible by the director of information technology;
(5) 
The project meets the radio frequency emissions safety standards and operation and maintenance standards of this chapter.
(b) 
The determination of whether or not a proposed facility meets the requirements for a minor use permit is at the discretion of the director of community development. The director has the discretion to require that the application be processed for a use permit.
(c) 
The decision of the director of community development may be appealed to the city manager, whose decision is final.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.110(d)—(e); Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.54.120 Permit review, renewal and revocation procedures.

(a) 
The city finds that the technology associated with telecommunication equipment is subject to rapid changes and upgrades as a result of industry competition and customer demands, and anticipates the telecommunication antennas and related equipment with reduced visual impacts will be available from time to time with comparable or improved coverage and capacity capabilities. The city further finds that it is in the interest of the public health, safety and welfare that telecommunication providers be required to replace older facilities with newer equipment of equal or greater capacity and reduced visual impacts as technological improvements become available. Before January 31st of each even numbered year following the issuance of any permit authorizing establishment of a wireless telecommunication facility, an authorized representative for each wireless carrier providing service in the city of Sunnyvale shall provide written certification to the city executed under penalty of perjury that: (1) each facility is being operated in accordance with the approved local and federal permits and includes test results that confirm the facility meets city noise requirements and RF emissions requirements; (2) each facility complies with the then-current general and design standards and is in compliance with the approved plans; (3) whether the facility is currently being used by the owner or operator; and (4) the basic contact and site information supplied by the owner or operator is current.
(b) 
Every owner or operator of a wireless telecommunication facility shall renew the facility permit at least every ten years from the date of initial approval. If a permit or other entitlement for use is not renewed, it shall automatically become null and void without notice or hearing ten years after it is issued, or upon cessation of use for more than a year and a day, whichever comes first. Unless a new use permit or entitlement of use is issued, within one hundred twenty days after a permit becomes null and void all improvements, including foundations and appurtenant ground wires, shall be removed from the property and the site restored to its original pre-installation condition within one hundred eighty days of nonrenewal or abandonment.
(c) 
At any time, the director of community development may initiate proceedings to revoke a permit issued pursuant to this chapter. Grounds for revocation shall be limited to a finding that the owner or operator has abandoned the facility, the facility is no longer in compliance with either the general requirements or design standards of this chapter and the owner or operator has failed to bring the facility into compliance within one hundred eighty days after a notice has been sent by the director of community development requiring the facility to be brought into compliance, the facility is no longer in compliance with applicable FCC or FAA regulations, the use is no longer permitted in the zoning district in which it is located, the facility has not been upgraded to reduce or minimize its impact to the extent reasonably permitted by the technology available at the time of renewal, or if the director determines that revocation would be in the best interests of the public health, safety or welfare. Upon making a determination that the permit should be revoked, the director may, at his or her discretion, issue a compliance order pursuant to Chapter 1.06 or initiate a nuisance abatement action pursuant to Chapter 9.26 of this code.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.130; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2906-09 § 13)

§ 19.54.130 Indemnity and liability for damages.

(a) 
The wireless telecommunication facility provider shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the city or any of its boards, commissions, agents, officers, and employees from any claim, action or proceeding against the city, its boards, commissions, agents, officers, or employees to attack, set aside, void, or annul, the approval of the project when such claim or action is brought within the time period provided for in applicable state and/or local statutes. The city shall promptly notify the provider(s) of any such claim, action or proceeding. The city shall have the option of coordinating in the defense. Nothing contained in this stipulation shall prohibit the city from participating in a defense of any claim, action, or proceeding if the city bears its own attorney's fees and costs, and the city defends the action in good faith.
(b) 
Facility lessors shall be strictly liable for any and all sudden and accidental pollution and gradual pollution resulting from their use within the city. This liability shall include cleanup, intentional injury or damage to persons or property. Additionally, lessors shall be responsible for any sanctions, fines, or other monetary costs imposed as a result of the release of pollutants from their operations. "Pollutants" means any solid, liquid, gaseous or thermal irritant or contaminant, including smoke, vapor, soot, fumes, acids, alkalis, chemicals and waste. "Waste" includes materials to be recycled, reconditioned or reclaimed.
(c) 
Wireless telecommunication facility operators shall be strictly liable for interference caused by their facilities with city communication systems. The operator shall be responsible for all labor and equipment costs for determining the source of the interference, all costs associated with eliminating the interference, (including but not limited to filtering, installing cavities, installing directional antennas, powering down systems, and engineering analysis), and all costs arising from third party claims against the city attributable to the interference.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.140; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2906-09 § 14)

§ 19.54.140 Co-located and multiple-user facilities.

(a) 
Wherever technically feasible, wireless telecommunication service providers are encouraged to co-locate telecommunication facilities in order to reduce adverse visual impacts; however, the city discourages the development of "antenna farms" or the clustering of multiple antennas on a single monopole, tower or other elevation, unless the site is determined to be suitable based on the following factors:
(1) 
Compliance with all FCC RF emission standards;
(2) 
Visibility from residentially zoned property;
(3) 
Visibility from El Camino Real or the right-of-way of a freeway, expressway or other major arterial street;
(4) 
Visibility from the downtown specific plan area or other area declared by the director of community development to be visually sensitive; and
(5) 
Lack of aesthetically preferable feasible alternatives.
(b) 
Facilities which are not proposed to be co-located shall provide a written explanation why the subject facility is not a candidate for co-location.
(c) 
Co-located and multiple-user wireless telecommunication facilities may be required when in the determination of the director of community development or planning commission it is technically feasible and appropriate and will minimize overall visual impact to the community.
(d) 
When determined to be technically feasible and appropriate, unutilized space should be made available for colocation of other wireless telecommunication facilities, including space for entities providing similar, competing services. Co-location is not required in cases where the addition of the new service or facilities would cause quality of service impairment to the existing facility or if it became necessary for the host to go off-line for a significant period of time.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.150; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.54.150 Radio frequency emission exposure.

(a) 
No wireless telecommunication facility shall be sited or operated in such a manner that it poses, either by itself or in combination with other such facilities, a potential threat to public health. To that end, no facility or combination of facilities shall produce at any time power densities in any inhabited area that exceed the FCC's Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) limits for electric and magnetic field strength and power density for transmitters or any more restrictive standard subsequently adopted or promulgated by the city, county, the state of California, or the federal government.
(b) 
Initial compliance with this requirement shall be demonstrated for any facility within three hundred feet of residential uses or sensitive receptors such as schools, churches, hospitals, etc., and all broadcast radio and television facilities, regardless of adjacent land uses, through submission, at the time of application for the necessary permit or entitlement, calculations specifying MPE levels in the inhabited area where the levels produced are projected to be highest. If these calculated levels exceed eighty percent of the MPE limits, the applicant shall hire a qualified electrical engineer licensed by the state of California to measure exposure levels at the location after the facility is in operation. A report of these measurements and the engineer's findings with respect to compliance with MPE limits shall be submitted to the director of community development. The facility shall not commence normal operations until it complies with, or has been modified to comply with this standard. Proof of compliance shall be a certification provided by the engineer who prepared the original report. In order to assure the objectivity of the analysis, the city may require, at the applicant's expense, independent verification of the results of the analysis.
(c) 
Every wireless telecommunication facility within three hundred feet of an inhabited area and all broadcast radio and television facilities shall demonstrate continued compliance with the MPE limits. Every five years a report listing each transmitter and antenna present at the facility and the effective radiated power radiated shall be submitted to the director of community development. If either the equipment or effective radiated power has changed, calculations specifying exposure levels in the inhabited areas where the levels are projected to be highest shall be prepared. Calculations shall also be prepared every time the adopted MPE limits change. If calculated levels in either of these cases exceed eighty percent of the MPE limits, the operator of the facility shall hire a qualified electrical engineer licensed by the state of California to measure the actual exposure levels produced. A report of these calculations, required measurements, if any, and the engineer's findings with respect to compliance with the current MPE limits shall be submitted to the director of community development within five years of facility approval and every five years thereafter. In the case of a change in the limits, the required report shall be submitted within ninety days of the date the change becomes effective.
(d) 
Failure to supply the required reports or to remain in continued compliance with the MPE limits shall be grounds for revocation of the discretionary permit.
(Prior zoning code § 19.70.160; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.54.160 Telecommunication facilities in the public right-of-way.

(a) 
Design Criteria. The city council shall, by resolution, establish criteria and various guidelines ("Design Criteria") for design review of wireless telecommunication facilities in the public right-of-way.
(b) 
Design Review Not Requiring a Public Hearing. An application for a wireless telecommunication facility in the public right-of-way shall be considered by the director of community development following the procedures for design review with public notice and no public hearing in Section 19.80.040 (Procedures and decisions) if the facility:
(1) 
Meets the adopted Design Criteria for wireless telecommunication facilities on joint poles or light poles; and
(2) 
Will be placed on a pole located more than three hundred feet from any property line of a public park, public school or heritage resource or landmark.
(c) 
Design Review Requiring a Public Hearing. An application for a wireless telecommunication facility in the public right-of-way shall be considered by the planning commission following the procedures for design review with public hearing in Section 19.80.040 (Procedures and decisions) if the facility:
(1) 
Does not meet the adopted Design Criteria for wireless telecommunication facilities on joint poles; or
(2) 
Will be placed on a pole located within three hundred feet of a public park, public school or heritage resource or landmark; or
(3) 
If the director determines, in his or her discretion, that it is in the public interest to have the application referred to the planning commission for hearing.
(d) 
Findings. The director or planning commission may approve any design review upon such conditions, in addition to those expressly provided in other applicable provisions of this code, as it finds desirable in the public interest, upon finding that the approval will either:
(1) 
Attain the objectives and purposes of the Design Criteria; or
(2) 
Ensure that the general appearance of proposed facilities will not materially impair the visual aesthetics of adjacent properties.
(e) 
Master agreement for use of city-owned poles. Any person that proposes to install a wireless facility on city light structures or other city-owned poles must enter an agreement with the city for a continuing encroachment under Section 13.08.110 of this code. Facilities that are approved by the city engineer pursuant to such an agreement shall not be required to obtain a permit from the department of community development.
(f) 
Carriers shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the city and its agents, officers, and employees ("indemnified parties") from any claim, action, or proceeding against the city or indemnified parties to attack, set aside, void, or annul the project or any prior or subsequent related development approvals or project condition imposed by the city or as a result of the city granting any permits for the project, or to impose liability against the city or indemnified parties resulting from the grant of any permits for the project, which claim, action or proceeding is brought within the time period provided by law, including any claim for private attorney general fees claimed by or awarded to any party against the city.
(Ord. 3031-13 § 3; Ord. 3043-14 § 3; Ord. 3169-20 § 1)

§ 19.56.010 Solar energy systems-Permitted use.

The use of solar energy systems and active and passive solar collectors for the purpose of providing energy to the structure upon which they are placed, whether as a part of such a structure or incidental thereto, is a use which may be established without the necessity for any discretionary land use approval, within all zoning districts, notwithstanding any provision of this title to the contrary.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5)

§ 19.56.020 Solar energy systems-Impairment of solar access by structures.

(a) 
No building permit shall be issued for any construction, the effect of which when completed would be to interfere with solar access to the rooftops of the sum of all permitted structures on an adjacent property or to any preexisting active solar collector on an adjacent property. Solar access means the absence of shadows blocking or reducing exposure to the sun to an extent greater than ten percent daily during the hours between nine a.m. to three p.m., Pacific Time, throughout any solar cycle. Nothing contained herein shall require modification to any structure, the shade pattern of which would impair solar access to rooftops or active solar collectors established later in time.
(b) 
Applications for new construction above the first level of any structure shall include the following solar shading analysis by a qualified professional:
(1) 
The solar shading analysis shall show the extent to which the proposed construction will shade adjacent rooftops and solar collectors at nine a.m. and three p.m. Pacific Time on December 21st.
(2) 
If the above solar shading analysis shows a conflict with solar access greater than ten percent, the applicant shall provide an additional analysis which calculates the extent to which the proposed construction will shade adjacent rooftops and solar collectors between nine a.m. to three p.m. Pacific Time throughout the entire three hundred sixty-five-day solar cycle. If the analysis shows a cumulative shadowing effect of less than ten percent total over the course of the three hundred sixty-five-day solar cycle, the application shall be deemed to be in compliance with this section.
(c) 
Exemptions.
(1) 
The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to shading of structures or uses within the ECRSP zoning districts. Applications for construction within an ECRSP zoning district shall comply with this section with respect to adjacent properties located outside of the ECRSP zoning districts.
(2) 
The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to structures or uses within the DSP and LSAP zoning districts.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5; Ord. 3091-16 § 1; Ord. 3181-21 § 4; Ord. 3194-22 § 15)

§ 19.56.030 Solar energy systems-Conditions of tentative map.

Each tentative subdivision map approved pursuant to the procedures set forth in Title 18 of this code shall be conditioned so as to prohibit new construction of structures that would interfere with passive or active natural heating or cooling opportunities available to structures capable of being built on adjoining parcels, in accordance with all site development and zoning regulations in effect at the time of such approval. No such conditions shall be imposed, however, which would result in reducing allowable residential unit densities or the percentage of lot area which may be occupied by a building or structure under those applicable land use regulations in effect at the time such a tentative subdivision map is filed. Positive conditions, covenants and restrictions shall be provided as a part of each tentative map. Adverse conditions, covenants and restrictions shall not be included therein, and, to the extent that they may be contained in subdivision documents approved prior to the effective date of this chapter, they are hereby declared to be contrary to the public welfare and to the public policies set forth herein.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5)

§ 19.56.040 Solar energy systems-Variances.

(a) 
Variances may be granted from restrictions imposed by this title on the height, setback and location of structures, in the public interest, upon a showing by the applicant, made pursuant to the procedures set forth in Chapter 19.84:
(1) 
That the proposed construction or alteration is necessary for the purpose of placing or constructing an active or passive solar collector as defined herein;
(2) 
That the proposed design complies in all material respects with the provisions of Title 16 of this code;
(3) 
That the proposed construction or alteration has been designed, located, and screened in a manner calculated to minimize adverse visual, audible, and other effects on surrounding properties; and
(4) 
That the granting of such a variance will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare.
(b) 
Applications for variances from the regulations imposed by this chapter shall be considered in accordance with the standards and procedures set forth in Chapter 19.84.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5)

§ 19.56.050 Solar energy systems-Accommodation for solar energy systems.

To accommodate the installation of solar energy systems, including systems located on top of parking structures, the maximum height may be increased by two feet, and required setbacks for front, side and rear yards may be reduced by up to one foot upon application and approval of a miscellaneous plan permit granted at the discretion of the director of community development pursuant to Chapter 19.82.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5)

§ 19.56.060 Wind energy systems-Purpose and intent.

The purpose and intent of this chapter is to provide a uniform and comprehensive set of standards for the development, siting and installation of wind energy systems. The regulations contained herein are designed to protect and promote public health, safety, community welfare and the aesthetic quality of the city as set forth within the goals, objectives and policies of the general plan and the city-wide design guidelines, while at the same time providing for the safe, effective and efficient use of wind energy systems to reduce the on-site consumption of utility supplied electricity and reduce dependence on nonrenewable energy sources.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5)

§ 19.56.070 Wind energy systems-Permitted use.

Wind energy systems, as defined in Chapter 19.12 of this code, shall be a permitted or conditionally permitted accessory use to any permitted principal use as set forth in Table 19.56.090 and subject to all of the following requirements:
(a) 
Number of Systems. The number of systems on a property is limited as follows:
(1) 
One wind energy system shall be permitted for properties with a lot size of one acre or less and located in or adjacent to a property in a residential zoning district.
(2) 
Two or more wind energy systems may be conditionally permitted with approval of a use permit for properties with a lot size of more than one acre and located in or adjacent to a property in a residential zoning district.
(3) 
There is no limit on the number of systems for all other properties.
(b) 
Setback. The minimum setback from all property lines to the base of the tower shall be equal to the height of the wind energy system, as defined in Chapter 19.12, except that the minimum setback for a freestanding wind energy system in or adjacent to a property in a residential zoning district shall be equal to twice the height of the wind energy system.
(c) 
Noise. Wind energy systems shall comply with the noise requirements set forth in Section 19.42.030.
(d) 
Approved Wind Turbines. The system shall use a wind turbine that has been approved by the California Energy Commission as qualifying under its Emerging Renewables Program or has been certified by a national program recognized and approved by the California Energy Commission. The applicant shall present proof of qualification or certification of the wind turbine.
(e) 
Electrical Wires. All onsite electrical wires associated with a wind energy system shall be located within the tower and underground, except where necessary to connect the system with a public utility company transmission line.
(f) 
Braking Systems. All systems shall be designed with braking, governing, or feathering systems to prevent uncontrolled rotation, over-speeding, and excessive pressure on the support structure, rotor blades and system components.
(g) 
Lighting. Exterior lighting on any tower or turbine associated with the wind energy system shall not be allowed except that which is specifically required by the Federal Aviation Administration.
(h) 
Compliance with Federal Aviation Administration. All wind energy systems shall comply with applicable Federal Aviation Administration rules and regulations. The applicant shall present proof of compliance with Federal Aviation Administration rules and regulations.
(i) 
Electromagnetic Interference. The system shall be operated such that no disruptive electromagnetic interference is caused to off-site telecommunications, surveillance or other similar systems. If it has been demonstrated that a system is causing such disruptive interference, the system operator shall promptly eliminate the disruptive interference or cease operation of the system.
(j) 
Signs. All signs on any structure or component associated with a wind energy system that is visible from any public road shall be prohibited, except for the manufacturer's or installer's identification, appropriate warning signs, or owner identification.
(k) 
Utility Notification. No small wind energy system shall be installed until evidence has been given that the utility company has been informed of the customer's intent to install an interconnected customer-owned wind energy system.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5)

§ 19.56.080 Wind energy systems-Design requirements.

In addition to all other requirements set forth in this chapter, all small wind energy systems shall meet the following design requirements:
(a) 
Based on potential aesthetic impact, the order of preference for the design of a wind energy system tower is: building mounted, then freestanding. If a freestanding tower is proposed, the application must include an explanation as to why other facility types are not being considered.
(b) 
Based on potential aesthetic impact, the order of preference for the type of wind turbine is: vertical axis wind turbine, then horizontal axis wind turbine.
(c) 
All systems shall be designed to minimize the visual impact to the greatest extent feasible, considering technological requirements, by means of placement and camouflage, to be compatible with existing architectural elements and building materials, and other site characteristics.
(d) 
Towers shall be of a monopole design and shall be self-supporting without the use of guy wires or other similar features.
(e) 
Colors and materials for small wind energy systems shall be chosen to minimize visibility. Facilities shall be painted using colors to match or blend with the primary background.
(f) 
All facilities shall be designed so as to be resistant to and minimize opportunities for unauthorized access, climbing, vandalism, graffiti, and other conditions which would result in hazardous conditions, visual blight or attractive nuisances.
(g) 
A freestanding structure shall not be located in any required front, side or rear yard, nor shall they be located between the face of a building and a public street, bikeway or park, except for approved building-mounted systems located on existing or new permitted structures in accordance with this section.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5)

§ 19.56.090 Wind energy systems-Permits.

The provisions of this chapter identify and prescribe specific procedures and requirements for the filing, processing and consideration of the installation of wind energy systems. These provisions shall be used in conjunction with the general requirements and procedures identified in Chapter 19.98 including requirements and procedures for applications, fees, notification, appeals, conditions of approval, modifications, expiration, extensions and revocations.
The type of permit required for wind energy systems, and any applicable exemptions, are set forth in Table 19.56.090.
Table 19.56.090 Permits Required For Wind Energy Systems
Wind Energy Systems Permits Zoning Districts
Exemptions
Miscellaneous Plan Permits
Minor Use Permits
Major Use Permits
Residential
 
R-0, R-1, R1.5, R1.7, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, RMH, DSP (residential blocks) MXD-I, MXD-I/S, MXD-II, MXD-III, MXD-IV, ECR-MU, ECR-R3, ECR-R4
 
Commercial and Office
 
C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, O, DSP (office and mixed use blocks) MXD-I, MXD-I/S, MXD-II, MXD-III, MXD-IV, M-S/LSAP, M-S/LSAP 60%, M-S/LSAP 120%, ECR-C, ECR-O
For all properties:
 
(1) Wind turbine with a diameter of 39″ or less; building-mounted system with a height of up to 15′ above the structure ridgeline; and is not located in a heritage district or on a heritage building.
(1) Building-mounted system with a height of up to 15′ above the structure ridgeline, including otherwise exempted wind energy systems located in a heritage district or on a heritage building.
For all properties:
 
(1) Building-mounted system with a height of more than 15′ above the structure ridgeline but not more than 65′, as measured from existing grade.
 
For properties with nonresidential uses:
 
(1) Freestanding system up to 65′ in height.
(1) Requests for height deviations pursuant to Section 19.56.110
Industrial
 
M-S, M-3, MP-I, MP-TOD, MP-C MXD-I, MXD-I/S, MXD-II, MXD-III, MXD-IV, M-S/LSAP, M-S/LSAP 60%, M-S/LSAP 120%
 
Public Facilities
PF MXD-I, MXD-I/S, MXD-II, MXD-III, MXD-IV, M-S/LSAP, M-S/LSAP 60%, M-S/LSAP 120%, ECR-PF
Same as for residential and commercial zoning districts.
(1) Building-mounted system with a height of up to 15′ above the structure ridgeline.
(2) Freestanding system1 up to 65′ in height if located more than 1,000′ from the right-of-way of a freeway, expressway or arterial street
(1) Building-mounted system with a height of more than 15′ above the structure ridgeline.
(2) Freestanding system1 > 65′ but < 90′ high and located more than 1,000′ from the right-of-way of a freeway, expressway or arterial street.
(1) Freestanding system1 of any height located less than 1,000′ from the right-of-way of a freeway, expressway or arterial street.
(2) Freestanding system1 equal to or > 90′ high.
(3) Requests for height deviations pursuant to Section 19.56.110.
Notes:
1
Freestanding (not building-mounted) wind energy systems shall be restricted to a maximum height of sixty-five feet when located adjacent to residentially zoned properties.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5; Ord. 3181-21 § 5; Ord. 3194-22 § 16)

§ 19.56.100 Wind energy systems-Exemptions.

Installation of any wind energy system identified in Table 19.56.090 as exempt which complies with all applicable provisions of Title 16 of this code (Buildings and Construction) and which does not pose a threat to the safety of any person does not need a land use permit. The building official is authorized to determine whether special measures may be required to ensure that the wind energy system will not pose a threat to public safety, including, but not limited to, compliance with electrical and fire code requirements, and secure installation.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5)

§ 19.56.110 Wind energy systems-Deviations to height.

The planning commission may allow a deviation from the height limits defined in Table 19.56.090 only, subject to compliance with the following requirements:
(a) 
The applicant shall demonstrate proof of substantial wind obstruction preventing maximum efficiency of the wind energy system at the maximum allowable height.
(b) 
The applicant shall include a visual impact analysis of the proposed wind energy system as installed, which shall include, at a minimum, a photographic simulation and any visual screening incorporated into the development that is intended to lessen the system's visual prominence.
(c) 
The proposed device shall satisfy all other requirements set forth in Sections 19.56.070 and 19.56.080, including the required setback.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5)

§ 19.56.120 Wind energy systems-Abandonment of use.

A wind energy system which is not used for twelve consecutive months shall be deemed abandoned and shall be dismantled and removed from the property at the expense of the property owner.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5)

§ 19.56.130 Wind energy systems-Indemnity and liability for damages.

(a) 
The small wind energy system operator shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the city or any of its boards, commissions, agents, officers, and employees from any claim, action or proceeding against the city, its boards, commissions, agents, officers, or employees to attack, set aside, void, or annul, the approval of the project when such claim or action is brought within the time period provided for in applicable state and/or local statutes. The city shall promptly notify the provider(s) of any such claim, action or proceeding. The city shall have the option of coordinating in the defense. Nothing contained in this stipulation shall prohibit the city from participating in a defense of any claim, action, or proceeding if the city bears its own attorney's fees and costs, and the city defends the action in good faith.
(b) 
Operators shall be strictly liable for any and all sudden and accidental pollution and gradual pollution resulting from their use within the city. This liability shall include cleanup, intentional injury or damage to persons or property. Additionally, operators shall be responsible for any sanctions, fines, or other monetary costs imposed as a result of the release of pollutants from their operations. "Pollutants" means any solid, liquid, gaseous or thermal irritant or contaminant, including smoke, vapor, soot, fumes, acids, alkalis, chemicals, and waste. "Waste" includes materials to be recycled, reconditioned or reclaimed.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5)

§ 19.56.140 Installation of solar energy systems and wind energy systems in commonly-held areas.

A letter from the owners association approving the application shall be submitted for installation of solar energy systems and wind energy systems in commonly-held areas where the owners association is responsible for maintenance and repairs in condominium or other common interest developments.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5)

§ 19.56.150 Incentives for installation of solar and wind energy systems.

(a) 
To provide incentives for the installation of solar, wind or solar-wind hybrid energy systems, lot coverage may be exceeded by up to one percent, and/or floor area ratio or the threshold triggering design review may be exceeded by up to one percent, as the case may be, upon approval of a miscellaneous plan permit granted at the discretion of the director of community development and subject to subsection (b) of this section.
(b) 
For single-family residential, the incentives provided in subsection (a) for the installation of solar, wind or solar-wind hybrid energy systems shall be based on providing a minimum monthly energy output of 270 kWh or a minimum of fifty gallons for solar hot water systems. For all other uses, the incentive shall be based on a minimum system size of ten percent of the anticipated or average electrical energy use.
(Ord. 2904-09 § 5)

§ 19.58.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to set forth requirements for family daycare homes to comply with applicable provisions of the California Health and Safety Code Section 1596.72 et seq.
(Ord. 3208-23 § 1)

§ 19.58.020 Definitions.

For purposes of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply:
"Family daycare home"
means a home that regularly provides care, protection, and supervision for fourteen or fewer children, in the provider's own home, for periods of less than twenty-four hours per day, while the parents or guardians are away, and is either a large family daycare home or a small family daycare home.
"Large family daycare home"
means a facility that provides care, protection, and supervision for seven to fourteen children, including children under the age of ten years who reside at the home, as set forth in Health and Safety Code Section 1597.465 and as defined in state regulations, as amended from time to time.
"Small family daycare home"
means a facility that provides care, protection, and supervision for eight or fewer children, including children under the age of ten years who reside at the home, as set forth in Health and Safety Code Section 1597.44 and as defined in state regulations, as amended from time to time.
"Home"
means the licensee's residence as defined by Government Code Section 244, and includes a detached single-family dwelling, a townhouse, a dwelling unit within a dwelling, or a dwelling unit within a covered multifamily dwelling in which the underlying zoning allows for residential uses.
"Licensee"
means an adult licensed to operate a family daycare home by the California Department of Social Services or designated state licensing agency, and who is primarily involved in providing care for the children during the hours that the home provides care.
(Ord. 3208-23 § 1)

§ 19.58.030 Family daycare homes allowed.

(a) 
The use of a home as a small or large family daycare home shall be considered a residential use of property and a use by right for all purposes under this code.
(b) 
Family daycare licensees shall comply with all regulations generally applicable to the type of residential zone the family daycare is situated. The licensee shall also comply with all health and safety requirements of the state fire marshal.
(Ord. 3208-23 § 1)

§ 19.60.010 Permitted uses-Zoning districts-M-S and M-3.

(a) 
Adult business establishments, as defined in Chapter 9.40, shall be allowed in addition to other uses permitted in the M-S and M-3 zoning districts, subject to the requirements of this chapter.
(b) 
Adult business establishments are prohibited uses in all other zoning districts.
(c) 
For purposes of this chapter, unless the context clearly requires a different meaning, the words, terms and phrases set forth in this chapter shall have the same meanings given them in Chapters 9.40 and 9.41 of this code.
(Prior zoning code § 19.76.010; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 3064-15 § 5)

§ 19.60.020 Anti-skid row regulations.

(a) 
The purpose of this chapter is to provide reasonable regulations to prevent the adverse effect of the concentration or clustering of certain uses of real property, specifically adult business establishments. Such uses have serious objectionable characteristics when several of them are located in close proximity to each other. Such concentration tends to create a "skid-row" atmosphere and has a detrimental effect upon the adjacent area. Regulation of the locations of these uses is necessary to insure that such adverse effects will not contribute to the blight or downgrading of neighborhoods or interfere with the development and operation of hotels, motels, lodging houses and other businesses which are needed and desirable in the city.
(b) 
Notwithstanding anything elsewhere in this code to the contrary, except the provisions of Section 19.60.040 relating to nonconforming uses, no lot or parcel or property in any zoning district or any building or structure thereon or any portion thereof shall be used for an adult business establishment at a location closer than two hundred feet to any other lot, parcel or property, within or outside the city boundaries, on which an adult business establishment is located.
(c) 
The regulations set forth in this section are intended to be in addition to and not in lieu of other regulations of this code applicable to any of the above specified uses, and, unless specifically provided, shall not be deemed to repeal or amend any other provision or provisions of this code which are applicable to the above mentioned uses or activities, nor be deemed to excuse noncompliance with any such other provisions.
(Prior zoning code § 19.76.020; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.60.030 Prohibition of certain uses from residential zoned property, churches, schools and parks.

(a) 
The purpose of this section is to prevent the adverse secondary effects of the location of certain uses of real property, specifically adult business establishments, in any zoning district which is in close proximity to and/or serves residentially zoned property, churches, schools and parks. Regulations restricting the location of such uses with reference to residentially zoned property, and church, school or park property are reasonably necessary to prevent such deleterious effects, as described in the findings set forth in Section 9.41.010, and incorporated by reference herein.
(b) 
Notwithstanding anything elsewhere in this code to the contrary, except the provisions of Section 19.60.040 of this chapter and subsection (c) of this section, no lot or parcel or property in any zoning district or any building or structure thereon or any portion thereof shall be used for an adult business establishment at a location closer than one thousand feet to any residentially zoned lot or parcel of property; or to any church, synagogue or place of worship; or to any public or private school providing educational services to students at any level from kindergarten through the twelfth grade, inclusive; or to any park, whether any such residentially zoned property, church, school or park is situated within or outside the city.
(c) 
For purposes of subsection (b) of this section, a lot, parcel, building or structure shall not be deemed to be closer than one thousand feet from another lot, parcel, building or structure when they are separated from one another by a state freeway.
(d) 
The regulations set forth in this section are intended to be in addition to and not in lieu of other regulations of this code applicable to any of the above specified uses, and, unless specifically provided, shall not be deemed to repeal or amend any other provision or provisions of this code which are applicable to the above mentioned uses or activities, nor be deemed to excuse noncompliance with any such other provisions.
(Prior zoning code § 19.76.030; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.60.040 Application to existing establishments.

(a) 
An adult business establishment lawfully existing on a lot shall not be deemed to be in violation of Section 19.60.020(b) due to the subsequent establishment of an adult business establishment on another lot in violation of the locational limitations of Section 19.60.020(b), or in violation of Section 19.60.030(b) due to the subsequent establishment of residential zoning or a church, synagogue or place of worship, school or park within one thousand feet of such adult business establishment.
(b) 
For the purpose of determining compliance with Sections 19.60.010, 19.60.020 and 19.60.030 as to, between and with respect to adult business establishments in operation as of January 14, 1999, priority between such existing establishments shall be assigned in accordance with the dates upon which the establishments commenced such operation, priority being given to the establishment having the earliest of such dates, provided the adult business establishment was at all relevant times in full compliance with the applicable provisions of Chapter 9.40 in effect at the time, or as amended. In the event any dispute arises regarding the date, the applicant shall have the obligation to establish the date on which the adult business establishment commenced operation.
(Prior zoning code § 19.76.040; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.61.010 Purpose.

This chapter establishes requirements for uses not conducted within an enclosed building, which are intended to be of limited duration of time and will not permanently alter the character or physical facilities of the site where they occur.
(Ord. 2987-12 § 6)

§ 19.61.020 Definitions.

"Temporary unenclosed use"
means a use not conducted within an enclosed building, or that is not fully screened from off-site view, which is conducted for a fixed, limited period of time with the intent to discontinue such use upon the expiration of the time period. Temporary unenclosed uses include car washes, Christmas tree or pumpkin retail sales lots, civic events, amusement rides, arts or crafts exhibitions, flea markets, religious or cultural festivals, business promotional events, and other similar events.
(Ord. 2987-12 § 6)

§ 19.61.030 Applicability.

Temporary unenclosed uses are permitted in all zoning districts subject to the requirements of this chapter.
(Ord. 2987-12 § 6)

§ 19.61.040 Standards.

Temporary unenclosed uses shall comply with the following standards:
(a) 
Duration.
(1) 
General Duration. Except as otherwise specified in this section, a temporary unenclosed use is limited to:
(A) 
Thirty consecutive days at the same location. Unused hours or days within the thirty-day period are not stored or credited; and
(B) 
One occurrence (of up to thirty consecutive days) every sixty consecutive days from the last day of the authorized occurrence.
(2) 
Duration for Specified Uses.
(A) 
Christmas Tree and Pumpkin Sales Duration. Christmas tree or pumpkin sales lots may be operated for up to ninety consecutive days per calendar year.
(B) 
Car Wash Duration. Car washes are limited to two consecutive days and not more than ten total days in a thirty-day period.
(C) 
Vendor Duration. A permit issued for a vendor to conduct business on a property shall be valid for up to one calendar year from the date of permit issuance. Vendors shall comply with all applicable requirements of Chapter 5.26 (Vending).
(b) 
Noise. The temporary unenclosed use must comply with all applicable noise regulations in Chapter 19.42 (Operating Standards).
(c) 
Obstructions. The public right-of-way and vision triangles shall be free of all obstructions.
(d) 
Limited Hours Adjacent to Residential. If the temporary unenclosed use is within one hundred feet of any residentially zoned property, the hours of operation shall be limited to seven a.m. to ten p.m.
(e) 
Temporary Structures and Equipment. Temporary structures, trash, signs, and other fixtures shall be dismantled and removed within twenty-four hours of the last day of operation.
(f) 
Licenses and Permits. A Sunnyvale business license and other applicable permits and licenses shall be obtained.
(g) 
Signs. Signs for temporary unenclosed uses are subject to the temporary sign regulations under Chapter 19.44 (Signs).
(Ord. 2987-12 § 6)

§ 19.61.050 Permit requirements.

(a) 
Special Event Permit. If the temporary unenclosed use requires closure of a public street or will likely have a significant impact on traffic, parking, public safety or other public services as a result of the number of vehicles and persons expected to attend, a special event permit under Chapter 9.45 (Special Event Permits) is required. Examples include a charity walk-a-thon held on public school property or an annual cultural festival. If a special event permit is required for a temporary unenclosed use, a miscellaneous plan permit is not required.
(b) 
Miscellaneous Plan Permit.
(1) 
Events Open and Advertised to the Public. If the temporary unenclosed use is open and advertised to the general public and does not require a special event permit, a miscellaneous plan permit is required in accordance with Chapter 19.82 (Miscellaneous Plan Permit). Examples include Christmas tree and pumpkin sales lots, retail sales events, or car wash fundraiser events.
(2) 
Not Accommodated by the Site. If the temporary unenclosed use is unable to be entirely accommodated on the site, but does not require a special event permit, a miscellaneous plan permit is required.
(3) 
Vending. If a vendor exceeds the operational standards under Section 5.26.070 (Vending on private property), a miscellaneous plan permit is required.
(c) 
No Permit. If the temporary unenclosed use does not require a special event permit, is not open and advertised to the general public, and can be entirely accommodated on the site, then the use may be conducted without a permit. An example is an onsite, outdoor company picnic for employees only.
(d) 
Permanent or Recurring Events. If the use is conducted longer or more frequently than the duration allowed in this chapter, a use permit is required.
(Ord. 2987-12 § 6)

§ 19.61.060 Permit decision and conditions.

(a) 
Decision on Miscellaneous Plan Permit. The director may approve a miscellaneous plan permit for a temporary unenclosed use pursuant to the findings in Chapter 19.82 (Miscellaneous Plan Permit) and in addition, the following findings:
(1) 
The proposed use will not unreasonably interfere with pedestrian or vehicular traffic or circulation in the area surrounding the proposed use; and
(2) 
The proposed use will not unreasonably affect adjacent properties, or the surrounding neighborhood, and will not in any other way constitute a nuisance or be detrimental to the health, safety, peace, comfort, or general welfare of the city.
(b) 
Decision on Use Permit. A use permit application for a temporary unenclosed use shall be reviewed pursuant to the procedures and findings in Chapter 19.88 (Use Permits).
(c) 
Conditions. The director may impose conditions deemed necessary to achieve the findings for a miscellaneous plan permit including regulation of vehicular ingress and egress and traffic circulation; regulation of parking, regulation of lighting; regulation of hours and/or other characteristics of operation; improvements to site conditions; or such other conditions as the director may deem necessary and reasonable.
(Ord. 2987-12 § 6)

§ 19.62.010 Marijuana.

All commercial marijuana activities and outdoor cultivation, as defined in Chapter 9.86 and described in Section 9.86.030, are prohibited uses in all zoning districts in the city of Sunnyvale.
(Ord. 2947-10 § 2; Ord. 3077-16 § 10; Ord. 3125-17 § 9)