Zoneomics Logo
search icon

Sunnyvale City Zoning Code

ARTICLE 6

DISCRETIONARY PERMITS AND PROCEDURES

§ 19.80.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to promote the health, safety and general welfare by establishing a site and architectural design review process to improve the design quality of developments; enhance and protect existing neighborhoods; promote economic development; create a strong and positive image for the city; improve property values; and enhance the economic well-being of the city by promoting an orderly, attractive, safe and efficient community. The provisions of this chapter identify and prescribe specific procedures and requirements for the filing, processing and consideration of design review. 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, revocation and infractions.
(Prior zoning code § 19.50.010; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.80.020 Design guidelines.

The city council shall establish criteria and various guidelines for design review. These design guidelines shall be maintained in the department of community development and shall be available to the public. Minor additions to or deletions from the guidelines may be made by the director of community development; major changes require approval of the planning commission. Properties located within a heritage district, a specific plan area or an area for which detailed design guidelines have been established by the planning commission or city council shall be subject to the requirements of the design criteria established for those districts or areas.
(Prior zoning code § 19.50.020; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2908-09 § 3; Ord. 2966-11 § 17; Ord. 3043-14 § 4)

§ 19.80.030 Applicability.

(a) 
Discretionary Approvals. Any proposed use requiring a discretionary land use permit that includes new construction, changes to the exterior of a building or other site modification is subject to design review. Design review shall be conducted as part of the review of that discretionary permit.
(b) 
Permitted Uses. Any permitted use that includes new construction, changes to the exterior of a building or other site modification is subject to design review. If the project is not subject to the required review procedures in Section 19.80.040 (Procedures and decisions) or subject to a miscellaneous plan permit, as provided in Chapter 19.82 (Miscellaneous Plan Permit), design review shall be conducted through the building plan check process.
(c) 
Single-Family Homes and Duplexes. Single-story additions or any single-story modifications to single-family detached dwellings or duplex residential dwellings which add or modify less than twenty percent of the floor area of the existing structure are generally exempt from the required procedures in Section 19.80.040 (Procedures and decisions), except that the director of community development shall have the authority to require design review for any significant modification which changes the exterior appearance of the home. Significant modifications may include, but are not limited to: exterior materials; the number, placement, or design of windows or doors; and the height, pitch, or material of the roof.
(Prior zoning code § 19.50.030; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2650-00 § 7; Ord. 2690-02 § 2; Ord. 2714-02 § 6; Ord. 2908-09 § 4; Ord. 2966-11 § 18; Ord. 3043-14 § 5)

§ 19.80.040 Procedures and decisions.

(a) 
Design Review without Public Notice or Hearing by Director. For design review applications listed in this subsection, the director of community development may, without public notice or hearing, approve the application as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the director or deny the design review application based on Section 19.80.050 (Finding). The following design review applications shall require design review without public notice or hearing:
(1) 
New single-story single-family or duplex residence in the R-0, R-1 or R-2 zoning district which does not exceed either the FAR or gross floor area threshold established in Section 19.32.020;
(2) 
Single-story exterior modification or addition to a single-family or duplex residence in the R-0, R-1 or R-2 zoning district which does not exceed either the FAR or gross floor area threshold established in Section 19.32.020; and
(3) 
As otherwise required by this title.
(b) 
Design Review with Public Notice and No Hearing by Director. For design review applications listed in this subsection, the director of community development may, after providing public notice as described in Chapter 19.98 (General Procedures) and a fourteen-day public comment period, approve the application as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the director, or deny the design review application based on Section 19.80.050 (Finding). On-site postings for single-family or duplex projects shall include a streetscape elevation showing the proposed home and one adjacent home on each side. The following design review applications shall require design review with public notice and no hearing:
(1) 
New two-story single-family or duplex residence in the R-0, R-1 or R-2 zoning district which does not exceed either the FAR or gross floor area threshold established in Section 19.32.020;
(2) 
Second-story exterior modification or second-story addition to a single-family or duplex residence in the R-0, R-1 or R-2 zoning district which does not exceed either the FAR or gross floor area threshold established in Section 19.32.020;
(3) 
New nonresidential building adjacent to a residential zoning district and which is not subject to any other discretionary permit in this title;
(4) 
Exterior modification or addition to a nonresidential building adjacent to a residential zoning district and which is not subject to any other discretionary permit in this title; and
(5) 
As otherwise required by this title.
(c) 
Appeal of Decision by Director. A decision by the director of community development on a design review pursuant to subsections (a) and (b) may only be appealed by the applicant, the owner of the subject property, or the owner of a property within the required noticing radius as described in Chapter 19.98 (General Procedures). After receiving an appeal from the decision of the director, and following a public hearing, the planning commission, whose decision shall be final, by the affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members may:
(1) 
Approve the design review as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the commission if the commission finds that the project as approved meets the required finding;
(2) 
Deny the design review if the commission finds that the project would not meet the required finding.
(d) 
Design Review with Public Hearing by Planning Commission. For design review applications listed in this subsection, the planning commission may, after holding a public hearing, approve the application as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the commission, or deny the design review application based on Section 19.80.050 (Finding). On-site postings for single-family or duplex projects shall include a streetscape elevation showing the proposed home and one adjacent home on each side. The following design review applications shall require design review at a public hearing by the planning commission:
(1) 
New single-family or duplex residence in the R-0, R-1 or R-2 zoning district which exceeds either the FAR or gross floor area threshold established in Section 19.32.020;
(2) 
Addition to a single-family or duplex residence in the R-0, R-1 or R-2 zoning districts which exceeds the FAR or gross floor area threshold established in Section 19.32.020;
(3) 
Multiple-family projects of three to fifty units in the R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5 and R-MH zoning districts and which are not subject to any other discretionary permit or action by this title; and
(4) 
As otherwise required by this title.
(e) 
Appeal of Decision by Planning Commission. A decision by the planning commission on a design review pursuant to subsection (d) may only be appealed by the applicant, the owner of the subject property, or the owner of a property within the required noticing radius as described in Chapter 19.98 (General Procedures). After receiving an appeal from the decision of the planning commission, and following a public hearing, the city council by the affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members may:
(1) 
Approve the design review as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the council if the council finds that the project as approved meets the required finding;
(2) 
Deny the design review if the council finds that the project would not meet the required finding.
(Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2650-00 § 8; Ord. 2690-02 § 3; Ord. 2908-09 § 5; Ord. 2966-11 § 19; Ord. 3043-14 § 6; Ord. 3050-14 § 5)

§ 19.80.050 Finding.

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 project's design and architecture will conform with the applicable criteria and various guidelines for design review established by the city council.
(Prior zoning code § 19.50.040; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 3043-14 § 7)

§ 19.81.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to promote the health, safety and general welfare by establishing a streamside development review process to enhance and protect land use near streams. The provisions of this chapter identify and prescribe specific procedures and requirements for the filing, processing and consideration of streamside development review. These provisions shall be used in conjunction with the general requirements and procedures identified in Chapters 19.80 and 19.98 including requirements and procedures for applications, fees, notification, appeals, conditions of approval, modifications, expiration, extensions, revocation and infractions.
(Ord. 2837-07 § 1)

§ 19.81.020 Guidelines.

The Santa Clara Valley Water Resources Protection Collaborative has established criteria for streamside development review known as the "Guidelines and Standards for Land Use Near Streams." These guidelines shall be maintained in the department of community development and shall be available to the public. Minor additions to or deletions from the guidelines may be made by the director of community development; major changes require approval of the Santa Clara Valley Water Resources Protection Collaborative.
(Ord. 2837-07 § 1)

§ 19.81.030 Procedures.

Streamside development review shall be conducted as part of a building permit plan check process, design review, miscellaneous plan permit, or discretionary review process.
(Ord. 2837-07 § 1)

§ 19.81.040 Decisions.

(a) 
The director of community development, without notice or hearing, may:
(1) 
Approve the streamside development review as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the director if the director finds that the project as approved meets the required finding;
(2) 
Deny the streamside development review if the director finds that the project would not meet the required finding.
(b) 
After receiving an appeal by the property owner/applicant from the decision of the director of community development on a requested streamside development review, and following a public hearing, the planning commission by the affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members may:
(1) 
Approve the streamside development review as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the commission if the commission finds that the project as approved meets the required finding;
(2) 
Deny the streamside development review if the commission finds that the project would not meet the required finding.
(Ord. 2837-07 § 1)

§ 19.81.050 Findings.

The director or planning commission may approve any streamside development 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 project's design will conform with the "Guidelines and Standards for Land Use Near Streams."
(Ord. 2837-07 § 1)

§ 19.82.010 Purpose.

A miscellaneous plan permit is an administrative process to allow the determination of the dimensions, colors, materials, architectural elevations, design and placement of the physical characteristics of a project. A miscellaneous plan permit may be used to review the activities noted in this chapter or may be used to review a minor change to a use previously authorized by a use permit, special development permit or variance. Evaluation shall be in accordance with the regulations of this code and with whatever limitations may be specified by the original permit. The provisions of this chapter identify and prescribe specific procedures and requirements for the filing, processing and consideration of a miscellaneous plan permit. 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, revocation and infractions.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.300, 19.51.010; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2905-09 § 16)

§ 19.82.020 When required.

(a) 
General Reviews.
(1) 
Accessory Dwelling Units. Accessory dwelling units described in Section 19.79.080(e) shall be reviewed by the director of community development for compliance with the standards set forth in Chapter 19.79. The permit shall be considered ministerially without discretionary review within the time frames required by Chapter 19.79; when the application is in compliance with the relevant standards, the permit shall be issued. The director's decision shall be final;
(2) 
Accessory structures as regulated in Chapter 19.40;
(3) 
Architectural design features not utilized for occupancy or storage where the floor area ratio exceeds the maximum permitted floor area ratio;
(4) 
Child care centers with an occupant load of thirty persons or fewer in the P-F and C-1 zoning districts;
(5) 
Colors and/or materials (exterior);
(6) 
Fences required by Section 19.48.025;
(7) 
Hazardous materials storage facilities in accordance with Section 19.22.060;
(8) 
Incidental and accessory storage, ground-mounted mechanical equipment or appurtenances if it does not exceed five percent of the net lot area upon which it is located and is fully screened by buildings or sight-proof screening from eye level view from public streets and adjacent property;
(9) 
Landscaping and/or irrigation plans;
(10) 
Lighting plans (exterior);
(11) 
Master sign programs (adoption or modification);
(12) 
Medical clinics;
(13) 
Moving van or loading spaces, car washing areas, children's play areas;
(14) 
Outdoor seating for existing restaurants (on premises), and in the DSP district when such seating will be located in the public right-of-way (off-premises), and there will be no changes to the exterior of the building;
(15) 
Parking lot configuration and paving standards and materials;
(16) 
Parking lot designs, including, but not limited to, circulation, ingress, egress, layout of parking bays and any proposed assigned spaces;
(17) 
Parking management plans;
(18) 
Reasonable accommodation requests not made concurrently with an application for some other discretionary approval;
(19) 
Recycling and Trash Enclosures. In making a determination, the director of community development shall be advised by the solid waste program manager on the size, number and type of enclosures, and by the department of public safety on fire safety and hazardous materials containment requirements;
(20) 
Retail alcoholic beverage outlets, in any zoning district, subject to the requirement of California Business and Professions Code Section 23958.4(b)(2) of a finding of public convenience or necessity, except:
(A) 
Those outlets that are exempt pursuant to Business and Professions Code Section 23958.4(a) as not located in an area of undue concentration.
(B) 
Retail alcoholic beverage outlets which, at the time of application, are located within an area subject to undue concentration but which as a part of a development application are subject to the requirements of a use permit or a special development permit and through which application the finding of public convenience or necessity will be or has been made.
(C) 
Applications which are technical in nature, such as for a mailing address of record but where no alcoholic beverages will be or are located on the premises for business purposes, or changes of ownership which occur within a period of ten years for an establishment which has previously been reviewed through a miscellaneous plan permit, special development permit or use permit and obtained a finding of public convenience or necessity;
(21) 
Signs for which a Master Sign Program is not required;
(22) 
Solar energy system incentives and accommodations as provided for in Chapter 19.39;
(23) 
Temporary commercial signs;
(24) 
Waiver of screening requirements for exposed mechanical equipment;
(25) 
Applications for the Green Building FAR Bonus, as provided for in Section 19.39. Forms and requirements will be supplied by the director of community development. The decision on whether the building qualifies for the bonus is made by the director of community development, whose decision shall be final. Applicants are not precluded from resubmitting relevant and revised information to qualify for the bonus.
(b) 
Ministerial Reviews.
(1) 
Accessory dwelling units as regulated in Chapter 19.79;
(2) 
Dual urban opportunity dwelling units as regulated in Chapter 19.78.
(3) 
By-right housing developments as regulated in Chapter 19.73.
(c) 
Extensions of time for landmark alteration permits, special development permits, use permits and variances.
(d) 
Temporary unenclosed uses subject to Chapter 19.61 (Temporary Unenclosed Uses) or appurtenant uses are permitted for:
(1) 
Amusement rides;
(2) 
Arts or crafts exhibitions or shows;
(3) 
Car washes;
(4) 
Christmas tree or pumpkin retail sales lot;
(5) 
Civic promotional events;
(6) 
Flea markets;
(7) 
Petting zoos;
(8) 
Religious or cultural festivals;
(9) 
Reverse vending machines in convenience zones as defined in California Public Resources Code Section 14509.2. This section shall not apply to reverse vending machines located within the perimeter of an existing commercial or industrial structure;
(10) 
Satellite dish, ground, wall and roof mounted antennas as specified in Chapter 19.54;
(11) 
Swimming pool heaters;
(12) 
Trailers used for other than residential purposes;
(13) 
Walk-up service windows, including automated banking or vending devices;
(14) 
Window-mounted air conditioning units.
(e) 
Appurtenant swimming pool heaters and window-mounted air conditioning units which are permitted within any residential zoning district.
(f) 
Emergency containers in accordance with Section 19.22.050.
(g) 
Floor area ratio which would otherwise meet the maximum of thirty-five percent except that floor area occupied by showers and/or dressing rooms provided for use by bicycle commuters increases the total floor area ratio over thirty-five percent but less than forty percent. This FAR bonus over thirty-five percent shall only be allowed for bicycle related facilities. Request for higher percentage substitution shall be reviewed by the planning commission through the use permit process.
(h) 
Mobile or portable living units as allowed by Chapter 19.68.
(i) 
Mobile homes as allowed by Chapter 19.68.
(j) 
In conjunction with a valid building permit, a portable storage unit (including cargo containers) may be allowed on private property during building construction or remodeling. The storage unit or cargo container shall be removed no later than one year from issuance of the miscellaneous plan permit or the completion of construction, whichever comes first.
(k) 
In conjunction with a valid building permit, debris boxes or dumpsters may be allowed on private property during building construction or remodeling. The debris box or dumpster shall be removed no later than one year from issuance of the miscellaneous plan permit, or the completion of construction, whichever comes first.
(l) 
Waivers from providing on-site art in private development and permission to pay an in-lieu art fee.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.46.0140(c), 19.51.020(a)(1)—(21)(B)(3), 19.51.030 (a)(1)—(b), (f), 19.52.015; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2649-00 § 13; Ord. 2692-02 § 4; Ord. 2726-03 § 4, 2003; Ord. 2745-04 § 4; Ord. 2744-04 § 2; Ord. 2837-07 § 2; Ord. 2848-07 § 5; Ord. 2875-08 § 8; Ord. 2877-08 § 9; Ord. 2887-08 § 12; Ord. 2894-09 § 7; Ord. 2905-09 § 16; Ord. 2907-09 § 13; Ord. 2966-11 § 20; Ord. 2987-12 § 8; Ord. 3043-14 § 8; Ord. 3105-16 § 12; Ord. 3154-20 § 10; Ord. 3156-20 § 5; Ord. 3162-20 § 5; Ord. 3189-22 § 11; Ord. 3223-24, 2/6/2024; Ord. 3240-25, 4/8/2025)

§ 19.82.030 Procedures and decisions.

(a) 
Review without Public Notice or Hearing by Director. Except for those applications listed in subsections (b) and (c), the director of community development, without notice or hearing, may:
(1) 
Approve the miscellaneous plan permit as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the director, if the director finds that the use or project as approved meets at least one of the required findings.
(2) 
Deny the miscellaneous plan permit if the director finds that the use or project would not meet either of the required findings.
(b) 
Ministerial Reviews. For miscellaneous plan permit applications listed in this section, the director of community development, without notice or hearing, shall consider the application ministerially without discretionary review. When the application is in compliance with the relevant standards, the permit shall be issued. The director's decision may be appealed to planning commission only by the applicant or the owner of the subject property.
(1) 
Accessory dwelling units shall be reviewed for compliance with the standards set forth in Chapter 19.79, within the time frames set forth in that chapter.
(2) 
Dual opportunity dwelling units shall be reviewed for compliance with the standards set forth in Chapter 19.78.
(3) 
By-right housing projects shall be reviewed for compliance with the standards set forth in Chapter 19.73.
(c) 
Review with Public Notice and No Hearing by Director. For miscellaneous plan permit applications listed in this subsection, the director of community development may, after providing public notice as described in Chapter 19.98 (General Procedures) and a fourteen day public comment period, approve the application as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the director, or deny the application based on the required findings. The following miscellaneous plan permit applications shall require review with public notice and no hearing:
(1) 
Accessory structures as regulated in Chapter 19.40;
(2) 
Donation centers for used goods;
(3) 
Medical clinics; and
(4) 
As otherwise required by this title.
(d) 
Review with Public Notice and No Hearing by Director. For miscellaneous plan permit applications listed in this subsection, the director of community development may, after providing public notice as described in Chapter 19.98 (General Procedures) and a fourteen-day public comment period, approve the application as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the director, or deny the application based on the required findings. The following miscellaneous plan permit applications shall require review with public notice and no hearing:
(1) 
Accessory structures as regulated in Chapter 19.40;
(2) 
Donation centers for used goods;
(3) 
Medical clinics; and
(4) 
As otherwise required by this title.
(e) 
Appeal of Decision by Director—General. After receiving an appeal from the decision of the director of community development on a miscellaneous plan permit, and following a public hearing, the planning commission, whose decision is final, by the affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members may:
(1) 
Approve the miscellaneous plan permit as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the commission, if the commission finds that the use or project as approved meets at least one of the required findings; or
(2) 
Deny the miscellaneous plan permit if the planning commission finds that the use or project would not meet either of the required findings.
(f) 
Appeal of Decision by Director—Determination of Convenience and Necessity. The decision by the director of community development on a determination of a finding of convenience or necessity may be appealed directly to the city council. After receiving an appeal from the decision of the director on a requested determination of convenience or necessity and following a public hearing, the city council by the affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members may:
(1) 
Approve the determination of convenience or necessity as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the council (including limits to hours of operation, outdoor activities, live entertainment, etc., necessary for the preservation of the public health, safety or welfare) if the council finds that the determination as approved meets at least one of the required findings;
(2) 
Deny the application if the council finds that the use or project would not meet either of the required findings. A denial action constitutes a determination by the city that the public convenience or necessity would not be served by issuance of a license by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control;
(3) 
Upon a decision by the city council to approve or deny an application on appeal for a determination of a finding of convenience or necessity, the director of community development is authorized to prepare a letter addressed to the applicant on behalf of the city, declaring that the city has made a determination that the public convenience or necessity would or would not be served by issuance of a permit for the purposes of Business and Professions Code Section 23958.4(b)(2), and that such determination shall be final.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.46.050(f), 19.51.020(e)(1),(2), (g)(1), (2); Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 3043-14 § 9; Ord. 3050-14 § 7; Ord. 3189-22 § 12; Ord. 3223-24, 2/6/2024)

§ 19.82.040 Findings.

(a) 
The director or planning commission may approve any miscellaneous plan permit, with the exception of a determination of convenience or necessity, 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 permit will either:
(1) 
Attain the objectives and purposes of the general plan, specific plan, precise plan, or other specialized plan of the city of Sunnyvale; or
(2) 
Ensure that the general appearance of proposed structures, or the uses to be made of the property to which the application refers, will not impair either the orderly development of, or the existing uses being made of, adjacent properties.
(b) 
The director or city council may approve a miscellaneous plan permit for a determination of convenience or necessity finding that the approval will either:
(1) 
Attain the objectives and purposes of the general plan of the city of Sunnyvale; or
(2) 
Ensure that the proposed use is desirable, and will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to the property, improvements or uses within the immediate vicinity and within the zoning district.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.070(c), 19.51.020(a)(21)(C)(1)—(2), 19.51.020(e)(1)(A)—(B), (g)(1); Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2920-10 § 2; Ord. 3050-14 § 8)

§ 19.84.010 Purpose.

A variance is intended to address practical difficulties, unnecessary hardships or results inconsistent with the general purposes of the zoning district, which may occur through the strict application of standard zoning requirements. The provisions of this chapter identify and prescribe specific procedures and requirements for the filing, processing and consideration of a variance application. 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, revocation and infractions.
(Prior zoning code § 19.56.010(a); Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.84.020 Restrictions.

Variances shall not be approved:
(a) 
From improvement standards required in off-street parking areas described in Chapter 19.46;
(b) 
From minimum lot area per dwelling unit regulations;
(c) 
From any sign related regulations or standards except maximum height for ground signs; or
(d) 
From any stormwater management requirements described in Chapter 12.60.
(Prior zoning code § 19.56.010; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2745-04 § 5)

§ 19.84.030 Procedures.

(a) 
All decisions by the director of community development, planning commission or city council in approving or denying a variance shall be deemed administrative acts performed for the purpose of securing substantial justice and shall not be construed as amendments of any zoning plan or regulation of the zoning district in which the subject property is located.
(b) 
Whenever a variance is requested in connection with a use for which a land use permit or approval described in this title is required, which permit or approval cannot be approved by the director of community development, such variance also may not be approved by the director. Whenever a variance is requested in connection with a miscellaneous plan permit or temporary unenclosed use that can be approved by the director, the procedures set forth for the miscellaneous plan permit or unenclosed use shall not apply, and such permit or approval shall be considered together with the variance pursuant to the hearing and appeals procedures set forth for the variance.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.56.010(b), 19.56.110; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.84.040 Actions.

(a) 
The director of community development, after holding at least one public hearing, may:
(1) 
Approve the variance as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the director if the director finds that the use or project as approved meets the required findings.
(2) 
Deny the variance if the director finds that the use or project would not meet one or more of the required findings.
(b) 
After receiving either an application for a variance, or an appeal from the decision of the director of community development on a requested variance, and following a public hearing, the planning commission by the affirmative vote o a majority of its voting members may:
(1) 
Approve the variance as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the commission if the commission finds that the use or project as approved meets the required findings.
(2) 
Deny the variance if the commission finds that the use or project would not meet one or more of the required findings.
(c) 
After receiving an appeal from the decision of the planning commission on a requested variance and following public hearing, the city council by the affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members may:
(1) 
Approve the variance as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the council if the council finds that the use or project as approved meets the required findings.
(2) 
Deny the variance if the council finds that the use or project would not meet one or more of the required findings.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.56.040, 19.56.070, 19.56.080, 19.72.050(b)(1)—2); Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.84.050 Findings.

(a) 
A variance from the requirements of this title, except for the height of a ground sign, shall be approved only upon a showing by the applicant that:
(1) 
Because of exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to the property, or use, including size, shape, topography, location or surroundings, the strict application of the ordinance is found to deprive the property owner of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity and within the same zoning district.
(2) 
The granting of the variance will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to the property, improvements or uses within the immediate vicinity and within the same zoning district.
(3) 
Upon granting of the variance the intent and purpose of the ordinance will still be served and the recipient of the variance will not be granted special privileges not enjoyed by other surrounding property owners within the same zoning district.
(b) 
A variance from the maximum height of a ground sign shall be approved only upon a determination that:
(1) 
There are exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to the property or use involved which do not apply generally to property, improvements or uses within the same zoning district; and
(2) 
The approving of such variance will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to the property, improvements or uses within the immediate vicinity and within the same zoning district; and
(3) 
Such variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property right necessary to the proposed use of the property, in that only such a variance would avoid an undue hardship resulting from an unintended limitation on the ability of a given use to advertise by means of on-site signage.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.56.020, 19.72.040; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2643-00 § 7)

§ 19.88.010 Purpose.

A use permit is intended to allow the establishment of those uses which have unique characteristics or special form such that their effect on the surrounding environment must be evaluated for a particular location. The permit application process allows for review of the location, design, configuration of improvements and potential impact on the surrounding area. The provisions of this chapter identify and prescribe specific procedures and requirements for the filing, processing and consideration of a use permit. 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, revocation and infractions.
(Prior zoning code § 19.52.010; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.88.020 Authority and types of permits.

Authority for action on a use permit shall be vested as follows:
(a) 
Minor use permit determined by the director of community development for:
(1) 
Projects, structures or activities determined to pose no significant land use consequences;
(2) 
Those uses determined to be categorically exempt pursuant to the terms of the California Environmental Quality Act;
(3) 
Unenclosed accessory uses when otherwise required under Title 19.
(b) 
Major use permit determined by the planning commission for:
(1) 
All applications for a use permit other than those determined to be minor permits or for minor permits that are determined by the director of community development to require more extensive community participation;
(2) 
Floor area ratio which would otherwise meet the maximum of thirty-five percent except that floor area occupied by showers and/or dressing rooms provided for use by bicycle commuters increases the total floor area ratio over forty percent. This FAR bonus over thirty-five percent shall only be allowed for bicycle related facilities.
(Prior zoning code § 19.52.021; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2689-01 § 1; Ord. 2745-04 § 8; Ord. 2848-07 § 6; Ord. 2906-09 § 15; Ord. 3004-13 § 8; Ord. 3209-23 § 2)

§ 19.88.040 Actions.

(a) 
The director of community development, after holding at least one public hearing, may:
(1) 
Approve the use permit as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the director of community development if the director finds that the use or project as approved meets at least one of the required findings.
(2) 
Deny the use permit if the director finds that the use or project would not meet either of the required findings.
(b) 
After receiving either an application for a use permit, or an appeal from the action of the director of community development on a requested use permit, and following at least one public hearing, the planning commission by the affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members may:
(1) 
Approve the use permit as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the planning commission if the commission finds that the use or project as approved meets at least one of the required findings.
(2) 
Deny the use permit if the commission finds that the use or project would not meet either of the required findings.
(c) 
After receiving an appeal or recommendation from an action of the planning commission on a requested use permit and following at least one public hearing, the city council by the affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members may:
(1) 
Approve the use permit as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the city council if the council finds that the use or project as approved meets at least one of the required findings.
(2) 
Deny the use permit if the council finds that the use or project would not meet either of the required findings.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.52.030, 19.52.030(b), 19.52.060, 19.52.090; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2745-04 § 9)

§ 19.88.050 Findings.

The director, planning commission or city council may approve any use permit 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 permit will either:
(a) 
Attain the objectives and purposes of the general plan, specific plan, precise plan, or other specialized plan of the city of Sunnyvale; or
(b) 
Ensure that the general appearance of proposed structures, or the uses to be made of the property to which the application refers, will not impair either the orderly development of, or the existing uses being made of, adjacent properties.
(Prior zoning code § 19.52.030(a), (b); Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2920-10 § 3)

§ 19.90.010 Purpose.

A special development permit is required to implement the provisions of certain zoning and combining districts for any development or use where the zoning district includes:
(1) 
PD planned development combining district;
(2) 
ECRSP El Camino Real Specific Plan zoning districts;
(3) 
DSP Downtown Specific Plan zoning districts;
(4) 
HH Heritage Housing combining district;
(5) 
LSAP Lawrence Station Area Specific Plan districts;
(6) 
ITR industrial to residential combining districts;
(7) 
Moffett Park Specific Plan and associated combining zoning districts.
When a use has been approved by a special development permit, no separate use permit is required. The provisions of this chapter identify and prescribe specific procedures and requirements for the filing, processing and consideration of a special development permit application. 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, revocation and infractions.
(Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 3103-16 § 4; Ord. 3194-22 § 17; Ord. 3218-23 § 1)

§ 19.90.020 Authority and types of permits.

Authority for approval of a special development permit shall be vested as follows:
(a) 
Minor special development permit, determined by the director of community development for:
(1) 
Projects, structures or activities determined to pose no significant land use consequences;
(2) 
Those uses determined to be categorically exempt pursuant to the terms of the California Environmental Quality Act, except exemptions based on Categorical Exemption Classification 32;
(3) 
Waiver of utility undergrounding requirements in combining district zones;
(4) 
Change in use of any landmark or landmark district;
(5) 
Multiple residential use of a landmark or in a landmark district;
(6) 
Automobile service stations that add or include the sale of groceries and/or beer and wine upon making the additional findings in Sections 19.98.020(g)(i).
(b) 
Major special development permit, determined by the planning commission for all applications for a special development permit other than those determined to be minor permits or for minor permits that are determined by the director of community development to require more extensive community participation.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.080, 19.20.110; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2689-01 § 1; Ord. 2848-07 § 7; Ord. 2906-09 § 16)

§ 19.90.030 Procedures.

(a) 
In approving a special development permit, the director, planning commission or city council may allow deviations to standards for:
(1) 
Lot area;
(2) 
Lot width;
(3) 
Yards;
(4) 
Setbacks;
(5) 
Height;
(6) 
Bulk (e.g., floor area ratio or lot coverage);
(7) 
Space (e.g., landscaping or open space);
(8) 
Parking space requirements (e.g. number of spaces, percent of compact, aisle width);
(9) 
Lockable storage space required by Section 19.38.040.
(b) 
Deviations from lot area per dwelling unit may not be approved though a special development permit.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.070(b), 19.20.070(d); Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2693-02 § 1; Ord. 2920-10 § 4; Ord. 3111-17 § 3)

§ 19.90.040 Decisions.

(a) 
The director of community development, after holding at least one public hearing, may:
(1) 
Approve the special development permit as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the director if the director finds that the use or project as approved meets at least one of the required findings;
(2) 
Deny the special development permit if the director finds that the use or project would not meet either of the required findings.
(b) 
After receiving either an application for a special development permit, or an appeal from the decision of the director of community development on a requested special development permit, and following a public hearing, the planning commission by the affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members may:
(1) 
Approve the special development permit as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the commission if the commission finds that the use or project as approved meets at least one of the required findings;
(2) 
Deny the special development permit if the commission finds that the use or project would not meet either of the required findings.
(c) 
After receiving an appeal from the decision of the planning commission on a requested special development permit and following public hearing, the city council by the affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members may:
(1) 
Approve the special development permit as requested or as changed, modified or conditioned by the council if the council finds that the use or project as approved meets at least one of the required findings;
(2) 
Deny the special development permit if the council finds that the use or project would not meet either of the required findings.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.040, 19.20.070(a), 19.20.105, 19.20.130; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.90.050 Findings.

The director, planning commission or city council may approve any special development permit 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 permit will either:
(a) 
Attain the objectives and purposes of the general plan, specific plan, precise plan, or other specialized plan of the city of Sunnyvale; or
(b) 
Ensure that the general appearance of proposed structures, or the uses to be made of the property to which the application refers, will not impair either the orderly development of, or the existing uses being made of, adjacent properties.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.070(c), 19.30.260; Ord. 2623 § 1; Ord. 2920-10 § 5)

§ 19.92.010 Purpose.

This chapter establishes requirements for processing applications for general plan or zoning amendments.
(Ord. 3033-13 § 2)

§ 19.92.020 Applicability.

This chapter applies to any general plan amendment and any zoning amendment. For purposes of this chapter, references to the "general plan" include any amendments to any city-adopted precise plan or specific plan. Amendments may include revisions to text in the general plan or in this title, or changes to land use designations in the general plan land use map or zoning districts map. Except as otherwise modified by this chapter, the requirements and procedures identified in Chapter 19.98 (General Procedures) apply.
(Ord. 3033-13 § 2)

§ 19.92.030 General plan amendment initiation authority.

An amendment to the general plan may only be initiated by a motion of the city council. Initiation of a general plan amendment is not a land use decision or approval of a project, and therefore, not subject to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act or Permit Streamlining Act. Any interested party residing in, owning property or doing business with the city may request council initiation of a general plan amendment in accordance with Section 19.92.040 (Requests for council initiation of general plan amendments).
(Ord. 3033-13 § 2)

§ 19.92.040 Requests for council initiation of general plan amendments.

(a) 
Applications. Any application requesting council initiation of a general plan amendment shall be filed with the director of community development on forms furnished for this purpose. The application shall be accompanied by the required fee, a letter requesting council authorization to proceed with the submittal and review of a general plan amendment application, and other supporting data determined necessary by the director. The letter shall contain the subject text of the general plan or description of the affected property, and any information pertaining to the request.
(b) 
Public Hearings and Notice Required. Requests for council initiation of a general plan amendment shall be referred to the planning commission for recommendation prior to a determination by the council. Notice of the time and place of each public hearing shall be given at least ten calendar days prior to the day of the hearing. Notice shall be mailed to owners of the affected property and of properties within three hundred feet, or greater as determined appropriate by the director.
(c) 
Planning Commission Recommendation. Following a public hearing, the planning commission shall, by the affirmative vote of a majority of its members, make a recommendation to the city council to approve or deny a request to initiate a general plan amendment.
(d) 
City Council Determination. After receiving a recommendation from the planning commission and holding at least one public hearing, the city council may, by the affirmative vote of a majority of its members, approve or deny the request for initiation of a general plan amendment.
(e) 
Expiration. Approved requests for initiation of a general plan amendment shall expire if a general plan amendment application is not filed and deemed complete within two years of the approval.
(Ord. 3033-13 § 2)

§ 19.92.050 General plan amendment proceedings.

(a) 
Applications. Following city council approval of a request for initiation, a general plan amendment application may be filed. The application shall be filed in accordance with Section 19.98.020(a) and shall include a detailed description of the proposed amendment and the reasons for the amendment.
(b) 
Public Hearings and Notice Required. General plan amendments shall be referred to the planning commission for a recommendation prior to adoption by the council. Notice of the time and place of each public hearing shall be given at least ten calendar days prior to the day of the hearing. Notice shall be provided in the following manner:
(1) 
By publishing at least once in a newspaper of general circulation in the city a copy of the notice;
(2) 
If the amendment is to the general plan land use map, the published notice shall include a map showing the subject property, surrounding properties and the nearest street intersection; and
(3) 
As required by Section 19.98.040 (Notice requirements) for any associated permit applications.
(c) 
Planning Commission Recommendation. Following a public hearing, the planning commission shall make a recommendation on the general plan amendment. A recommendation for approval shall be by the affirmative vote of a majority of its members and based on Section 19.92.080 (Finding). In the event the vote is tied or lacks the majority required to recommend either approval or denial, and cannot be resolved by subsequent motions, the vote shall be deemed a recommendation for denial.
(d) 
City Council Decision. After receiving a recommendation from the planning commission and holding at least one public hearing, the city council may, by the affirmative vote of a majority of its members and based on Section 19.92.080 (Finding), approve the general plan amendment by adopting a resolution or deny the general plan amendment.
(Ord. 3033-13 § 2; Ord. 3129-17 § 1)

§ 19.92.060 Zoning amendment proceedings.

(a) 
Initiation. A zoning amendment may be initiated by a motion of the city council or planning commission, or by filing an application in accordance with subsection (b).
(b) 
Applications. Any zoning amendment application shall be filed in accordance with Section 19.98.020(a) and include a detailed description of the proposed amendment and the reasons for the amendment.
(c) 
Public Hearings and Notice. Zoning amendments shall be referred to the planning commission for a recommendation prior to adoption by the council. Notice of the time and place of each public hearing shall be given at least ten calendar days prior to the day of the hearing. Notice shall be provided in the following manner:
(1) 
By publishing at least once in a newspaper of general circulation in the city a copy of the notice;
(2) 
If the amendment is to the zoning districts map, the published notice shall include a map showing the subject property, surrounding properties and the nearest street intersection; and
(3) 
As required by Section 19.98.040 (Notice requirements) for any associated permit applications.
(d) 
Planning Commission Recommendation. Following a public hearing, the planning commission shall make a recommendation on the zoning amendment. A recommendation for approval shall be by the affirmative vote of a majority of its members and based on Section 19.92.080 (Finding). In the event the vote is tied or lacks the majority required to recommend either approval or denial, and cannot be resolved by subsequent motions, the vote shall be deemed a recommendation for denial.
(e) 
City Council Decision. After receiving a recommendation from the planning commission and holding at least one public hearing, the city council may, by the affirmative vote of a majority of its members and based on Section 19.92.080 (Finding), approve the zoning amendment by adopting an ordinance or deny the zoning amendment.
(Ord. 3033-13 § 2; Ord. 3129-17 § 2)

§ 19.92.070 Prezoning.

Adoption of a precise plan or amendment to a precise plan concerning land outside of the boundaries of the city of Sunnyvale shall be conducted in accordance with Section 19.92.060 (Zoning amendment proceedings). The adopted ordinance shall not take effect until the date on which the land affected becomes a part of the city of Sunnyvale pursuant to state law.
(Ord. 3033-13 § 2)

§ 19.92.080 Finding.

The city council may approve a general plan or zoning amendment upon finding that the amendment, as proposed, changed or modified is deemed to be in the public interest.
(Ord. 3033-13 § 2)

§ 19.92.090 Reapplication after denial.

When a general plan amendment initiation or general plan or zoning amendment application is denied by the city council, no application for the same request or amendment may be filed within two years of the council decision. The director shall determine whether any application filed within those two years is substantially the same as the previously denied application.
(Ord. 3033-13 § 2)

§ 19.94.010 Findings.

The city council finds that:
(a) 
The city of Sunnyvale has a great diversity of trees that are of economic value to the city and make it a desirable place for residents, business owners and visitors;
(b) 
The appearance of Sunnyvale contributes to the economic prosperity of the city;
(c) 
Trees contribute to the scenic beauty of Sunnyvale;
(d) 
Trees help to naturally control flooding and erosion, moderate noise pollution, climate, dust and other airborne pollutants, remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and produce oxygen, and shelter and feed birds and other wild-life;
(e) 
The development and redevelopment of the city often necessitates the removal of trees, thereby contributing to their depletion; and
(f) 
It is necessary to protect and manage these valuable assets and their habitat to protect the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Sunnyvale.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.010; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.94.020 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to regulate the protection, installation, removal and long term management of significantly sized trees on private property within the city and city owned golf courses and parks; encourage the proper protection and maintenance of significantly sized trees which are located on such property; establish a review and permit procedure to assure the correct planting, maintenance, protection and removal of significant trees on such property; and establish penalties for violation of its provisions. This chapter is not intended to regulate trees on public rights-of-way, which are regulated pursuant to Chapter 13.16. The provisions of this chapter identify and prescribe specific procedures and requirements for the filing, processing and consideration of the removal and preservation of trees. 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, revocation and infractions, as applicable.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.020; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.94.030 Definitions. [1]

For the purpose of this chapter the following definitions apply:
"Damage"
means any intentional action or gross negligence which causes injury, death or disfigurement of a tree. Actions include, but are not limited to, cutting, girdling, poisoning, overwatering, unauthorized relocation or transportation of a tree or trenching, excavating, altering the grade or paving within the dripline of a tree.
"Dripline"
means the outermost line of the tree's canopy projected straight down to the ground surface. As depicted in a plan view, the dripline appears as an irregularly shaped circle.
"Protected tree"
means a tree of significant size.
"Significant size"
means a tree thirty-eight inches or greater in circumference measured four and one-half feet above ground for single-trunk trees. For multi-trunk trees "significant size" means a tree which has at least one trunk with a circumference thirty-eight inches or greater measured four and one-half feet above ground level, or in which the measurements of the circumferences of each of the multi-trunks, when measured four and one-half feet above the ground level, added together equal an overall circumference one hundred thirteen inches or greater.
"Tree"
means any woody plant which has a trunk thirteen inches or more in circumference at four and one-half feet above ground level.
"Tree removal"
means the physical removal of a tree or causing the death of a tree through damaging, poisoning, or other direct or indirect action, including excessive trimming, pruning, or mutilation that sacrifices the health, destroys, or diminishes the aesthetic quality, or diminishes the life expectancy of the tree.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.030; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2808-06 § 2)
[1]
Editor's Note: The definitions in Section 19.94.030 also appear in Ch. 19.12.

§ 19.94.040 Actions prohibited.

(a) 
It is unlawful to damage or kill any protected tree.
(b) 
It is unlawful to remove any protected tree from private property in any zoning district or from any city owned golf course or park, without a protected tree removal permit.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.040; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.94.050 Permits required.

(a) 
In order to remove any protected tree from private property in any zoning district, or from any city owned golf course or park, it is necessary to obtain a protected tree removal permit from the department of community development. Any tree which has been designated as a heritage landmark, pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 19.96, shall not be removed without obtaining a tree removal permit in addition to a landmark alteration permit in accord with Chapter 19.96.
(b) 
Tree removal permits shall be filed at least ten working days prior to the proposed date of tree removal.
(c) 
Removal of orchard trees as part of farming operations or upon order of the county agricultural inspector are exempt from the provisions of this chapter.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.81.050, 19.81.080(a); Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2808-06 § 3)

§ 19.94.060 Standards and criteria.

The director of community development may, without public notice or hearing, approve or deny a tree removal permit application in accordance with this chapter. One or more of the following standards must be met before a protected tree removal permit may be approved:
(a) 
The tree is diseased or damaged;
(b) 
The tree represents a potential hazard to people, structures or other trees;
(c) 
The tree is in basically sound condition, but restricts the owner's ability to enjoy the reasonable use or economic potential of the property, or unreasonably restricts an adjoining property owner's use or economic potential of the adjoining property. In the event this is the sole basis for the application, the following criteria shall be used to evaluate the application under this subsection:
(1) 
The necessity of the requested removal to allow construction of improvements such as additions to existing buildings or incidental site amenities or to otherwise allow economic or reasonable enjoyment of property;
(2) 
The topography of the land and the effect of the requested action on water retention and diversion or increased flow of surface water;
(3) 
The approximate age of the tree relative to its average life span;
(4) 
The potential effect of removal on soil erosion and stability where the tree is located;
(5) 
Current and future visual screening potential;
(6) 
The property has become over landscaped with trees so that they are too numerous, crowded, and unreasonably restricts the property owner's ability to use their land. In this event, selective removal can be approved in conjunction with acceptable arborist's practices;
(7) 
The tree has outgrown its useful landscape value due to its inappropriate species, size and location, relative to the existing structures on the property;
(8) 
Any other information the director of community development finds pertinent to the application.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.060; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2808-06 § 4; Ord. 3043-14 § 10)

§ 19.94.065 Decisions and procedures.

(a) 
Review by Director. The director of community development may, without notice or hearing, approve the tree removal permit as requested, or as changed, modified or conditioned by the director, or deny the tree removal permit application, consistent with the standards and criteria set forth in Chapter 19.94;
(b) 
Appeal of Decision by Director. A decision by the director of community development on a tree removal permit may only be appealed by the owner of the subject property. After receiving an appeal from the decision of the director on a tree removal permit, and following a public hearing, the planning commission by the affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members, pursuant to the criteria in this chapter, may approve the tree removal permit as requested, or as changed, modified or conditioned, or may deny the tree removal permit application. The decision of the planning commission shall be final.
(Ord. 3050-14 § 9)

§ 19.94.070 Display of permit.

All permits issued for tree removal shall be so displayed as to be clearly visible from a public right-of-way.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.070; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.94.080 Replacement trees.

(a) 
At the discretion of the director of community development, replacement trees may be required as a condition of issuance of a protected tree removal permit, or as a condition of any discretionary permit for development or redevelopment. The need for replacement trees shall be evaluated based on the following criteria:
(1) 
The number, species, size and location of existing trees on the site; and
(2) 
Good forestry practices such as, but not limited to, the number of healthy trees a given parcel of land will support.
(b) 
At the discretion of the director of community development, other mitigation measures may be required, where either it is not feasible to plant any replacement trees on the site, or where the replacement trees to be planted are deemed inadequate by the director to sufficiently mitigate the effects of the removal of the tree(s). Mitigation measures could include, but would not be limited to, paying for the planting of additional trees in parks or other public areas of the city.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.090; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.94.090 Requirements for replanting programs.

The following items shall be included in replanting programs when protected trees must be removed:
(a) 
Minimum distances between trees and between trees and buildings shall be provided such that the health of the replacement trees shall be ensured;
(b) 
Replanting shall occur within a specified time period;
(c) 
Mixed species shall be used in large replantings whenever possible to reduce the likelihood of disease and infestations;
(d) 
Tree care procedures shall be included in all replanting plans and shall include, but not be limited to, the following items: mulching; straightening; new staking or restaking; fertilizing; and any other procedures deemed necessary by the city;
(e) 
Minimum size for the replacement of a protected tree shall be a California Association of Nurserymen's standard twenty-four inch box size tree. The director of community development shall have the authority to require larger or smaller replacement trees upon review of specific cases. Smaller trees may be approved if the applicant can document the long term advantages of using the smaller tree size.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.100; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.94.100 Relocation of trees.

At the discretion of the director of community development, the tree(s) to be removed may be required to be relocated on or off the subject site. The need for relocation shall be evaluated based on the criteria found in Section 19.94.080 plus the ease with which the removed tree can be replanted.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.110; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.94.110 Requirements concerning protected trees during site development or modification.

When site development or modification is occurring and a discretionary permit and a public hearing are required, the developer or owner shall meet the following requirements:
(a) 
Tree Survey. A tree survey conducted by an arborist who has been certified by the International Society of Arboriculture shall be submitted as part of the required application materials for all use, design or special development permits on developing or redeveloping property. The survey shall show the location, size, and species (both common and Latin names required) of all trees (protected and unprotected) on the site, and shall include a calculation of the value of each tree. A written letter shall be included when a protected tree(s) is proposed to be removed explaining why the tree(s) cannot be relocated or the design of the structures altered to maintain the trees.
(b) 
Plan Modifications.
(1) 
The approving body shall have the ability to require the reasonable alteration of a proposed building in order to retain protected trees.
(2) 
The approving body shall have the ability to require relocation (on or off site) of protected trees which the applicant proposes to remove.
(c) 
Replanting Plans. When protected trees must be removed, replanting plans shall be submitted as part of the landscaping plan for the proposed project. The replanting plan shall be subject to the requirements of Section 19.94.090, but actual number and sizes of replacement trees shall be reviewed on a case by case basis.
(d) 
Tree Protection Plan. The developer shall submit a tree protection plan which shall demonstrate how tree protection shall be provided during and after construction and shall include, where appropriate, a description of any of the protective measures set forth in Section 19.94.120.
(e) 
Tree Bonds. The approving body shall have the authority to require a developer to post a bond with the City for the value of any tree required to remain as a condition of permit approval during development activities on a site.
(1) 
The bond may be for a maximum period of five years.
(2) 
The value of the tree shall be determined by the director of community development.
(3) 
The bond will be released back to the developer if the tree remains in good health through the end of the bond period.
(4) 
In the event the tree dies or begins to decline in poor health, the bond will be used by the City to replace the aesthetic value of the tree that was lost.
(f) 
Soil Mitigation. The approving body shall have the authority to require underground soil or planting measures, such as structural soils, in any location deemed appropriate for future or existing tree growth.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.120; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2808-06 § 5)

§ 19.94.120 Tree protection during construction.

Protected trees designated for preservation shall be protected during construction of a project by use of the following methods:
(a) 
Protective fencing shall be installed no closer to the trunk than the dripline, and far enough from the trunk to protect the integrity of the tree. The fence shall be a minimum of four feet in height and shall be set securely in place. The fence shall be of a sturdy but open material (i.e., chain link) to allow visibility to the trunk for inspections and safety.
(b) 
The existing grade level around a tree shall normally be maintained out to the dripline of the tree. Alternate grade levels, as described in the tree protection plan, may be approved by the director of community development.
(c) 
Drain wells shall be installed whenever impervious surfaces will be placed over the root system of a tree (the root system generally extends to the outermost edges of the branches).
(d) 
Pruning that is necessary to accommodate a project feature, such as a building, road or walkway shall be reviewed and approved by the department of community development and the department of public works.
(e) 
New landscaping installed within the dripline of an existing tree shall be designed to reproduce a similar environment to that which existed prior to construction.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.130; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.94.130 Project review committee.

All tree surveys, replanting plans and tree protection plans submitted with discretionary permit applications made pursuant to Title 19, shall be reviewed at a project review committee meeting at which the applicant shall be present. Discretionary permits shall not be issued until such time as the tree survey, replanting plan and tree protection plans are deemed complete and have been approved by the director of community development.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.140; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.94.140 On-site inspections.

Appropriate city staff shall be authorized to conduct on-site inspections during construction to ensure that tree preservation procedures are being followed and replanting plans implemented. Failure to abide by an approved plan or permit may result in a stop work order to be issued by the director of community development.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.150; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.94.150 Emergency waivers and exemptions.

The provisions of this chapter are waived if compliance would hamper the rescue of life or property from immediate danger or the repair of utilities in the event of emergencies such as wind storms, ice storms or other natural disasters.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.160; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.94.160 Penalties for violation.

(a) 
Any person, property owner, firm or corporation who intentionally or negligently violates any of the provisions of this chapter or any permit issued pursuant to it, or who fails to comply with any condition of any discretionary permit which relates to protected tree preservation, shall be liable for a civil penalty assessed and recovered in a civil action brought by the city attorney.
(1) 
In the event that the violation results in any substantial injury or damage to a protected tree, the civil penalty shall be not less than five thousand dollars nor more than twenty-five thousand dollars. In the event that the violation results in the destruction or improper removal of a protected tree, the civil penalty shall be not less than ten thousand dollars nor more than fifty thousand dollars. The appropriate penalty shall apply separately to each tree affected by the improper action.
(2) 
In any civil action brought to seek such civil penalties, and/or to obtain injunctive relief for violation of any provision of this chapter, in which the city prevails, the court shall determine and impose reasonable expenses, including attorneys' fees incurred by the city in the investigation and prosecution of the action.
(b) 
The director of community development or his designee shall have the authority to require an administrative hearing for any violations of the provisions of this chapter, including but not limited to, illegal tree removal.
(1) 
The administrative hearing shall be set for a date that is not less than fifteen calendar days and not more than thirty calendar days from the date the "Notice of Violation" is served in accordance with Section 1.08.100.
(2) 
The hearing officer may impose such fines, reasonable expenses and landscaping deemed necessary to replace the aesthetic value of the tree based on generally accepted arborist's practices.
(3) 
The hearing officer may consider any relevant evidence and the decision must be supported by the weight of the evidence. Strict rules of evidence shall not apply.
(4) 
The hearing officer shall issue a written decision within fifteen days of the hearing date. The hearing officer may continue the hearing and request additional information from city staff or the recipient of the "Notice of Violation" before issuing a written decision.
(5) 
If the hearing officer imposes a fine for a violation of this chapter and the fine has not been satisfied within ninety days or has not been appealed, then the obligation shall become a lien against the real property on which the obligation occurred.
(6) 
The failure of any recipient of a "Notice of Violation" to appear at the administrative hearing shall constitute a waiver of any objections to the imposition of a fine or other appropriate remedy imposed by the hearing officer and constitutes a failure to exhaust administrative remedies.
(7) 
The decision of the hearing officer may be appealed to the planning commission within fifteen days of the date of service of the written decision. The decision of the planning commission shall be final.
(c) 
The remedies provided for in this section are in addition to and do not supersede or limit any and all other remedies, civil or criminal.
(Prior zoning code § 19.81.190; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2808-06 § 6)

§ 19.96.010 Findings and purpose.

(a) 
The city council finds that the character and history of the city are reflected in its cultural, historical, and architectural heritage, that these historical and cultural foundations should be preserved as living parts of community life and development to build an understanding of the city's past so that future generations may have a genuine opportunity to appreciate, enjoy, and understand the rich heritage of the city, that with ever increasing pressures of modernization and urbanization, city landmarks, neighborhoods, and other areas of historical and cultural interest are threatened with demolition, and that pursuant to the provisions of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, the city of Sunnyvale joins with private concerns, the state of California, and the United States Congress to develop preservation programs and activities to give maximum encouragement to agencies and individuals undertaking preservation of the city's unique architectural, historical, aesthetic, and cultural heritage. The provisions of this chapter identify and prescribe specific procedures and requirements for the filing, processing and consideration by the heritage preservation commission. 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, revocation and infractions.
(b) 
The purpose of this chapter is to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare, and
(1) 
To safeguard the city's unique cultural heritage as embodied and reflected in the city's architectural history and patterns of cultural development;
(2) 
To encourage and facilitate public knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the city's historic past and unique sense of place and to encourage public participation in identifying heritage resources;
(3) 
To promote the enjoyment, celebration, and use of heritage resources appropriate for the educational, cultural, recreational as well as material needs of people;
(4) 
To preserve diverse architectural styles, patterns of development, and design preferences reflecting phases of the city's history and to encourage complementary contemporary design and construction and inspire a more livable urban environment;
(5) 
To enhance property values and to increase economic and financial benefits to the city and its inhabitants through incentives for preservation;
(6) 
To protect and enhance the city's attraction to tourists and visitors thereby stimulating business and in dustry;
(7) 
To identify as early as possible and resolve conflicts between the preservation of heritage resources and alternative land uses by integrating the preservation of heritage resources into the comprehensive planning, management and development processes for both public and private property;
(8) 
To conserve valuable material and energy resources by ongoing use and maintenance of the existing built environment;
(9) 
To stabilize neighborhoods through the preservation of heritage resources and establishment of heritage resource districts; and
(10) 
To develop and maintain appropriate settings and environments for heritage resources.
(Prior zoning code § 19.80.005; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.96.020 Heritage preservation commission.

The heritage preservation commission is established and functions pursuant to Article X of the City Charter. The members of the heritage preservation commission shall have a demonstrated interest in the heritage of the city. Strong consideration shall be given applicants with a background in architecture, design, history, museums, urban preservation, planning, construction, real estate or structural engineering.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.80.010, 19.80.020; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.96.030 Responsibilities.

The heritage preservation commission shall have the responsibility to:
(a) 
Recommend criteria for and supervise a comprehensive survey of improvements, buildings, structures, signs, features, landscape, trees, sights, places, areas or other artifacts of architectural, artistic, cultural, engineering, aesthetic, political or social significance to the citizens of Sunnyvale;
(b) 
Provide recommendations and other assistance concerning development and maintenance of a local inventory of the above described heritage resources of the city including the nomination of neighborhoods to be considered by the city council for HH heritage housing district consideration;
(c) 
Recommend criteria for designation of heritage resources, landmark sites, and landmark districts;
(d) 
Recommend heritage resources for landmark site or landmark district status;
(e) 
Review and comment upon the conduct of matters undertaken by the city, county or state which have a bearing upon heritage resources including, but not limited to, land use, municipal improvement, and housing;
(f) 
Assist in the preparation of standards for the commission to use in reviewing applications for permits which significantly affect any landmark or landmark district, including permits to construct, change, alter, modify, remodel, or demolish the foregoing;
(g) 
Review all applications for permits regarding heritage resources, heritage resource districts, landmark site or landmark district designated structures that involve changing use, exterior alterat ion or demolition, and approve, disapprove, or approve as modified said applications. All related environmental documentation shall also be reviewed;
(h) 
Participate in, promote, and conduct public information and explanatory programs pertaining to heritage resources;
(i) 
Cooperate with other interests and programs that are developed by both public and private agencies in the fields of museums and the development of city archives;
(j) 
Promote the restoration, maintenance and operation of heritage resources owned by the city;
(k) 
Investigate and report to the city council on public or private fund sources and mechanisms available to promote preservation of heritage resources in the city;
(l) 
Recommend to the city council the purchase of appropriate interests in property for purposes of preservation of heritage resources;
(m) 
Make other recommendations, perform studies and make deliberations deemed desirable or necessary to the effective functioning of the commission;
(n) 
Encourage citizen participation in support of heritage resources;
(o) 
Make available to the public copies of all recommendations, studies, standards and criteria produced in the exercise of the above functions;
(p) 
Approve demolitions and new construction of replacement structures in any HH heritage housing district.
(Prior zoning code § 19.80.040; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2780-05 § 1)

§ 19.96.040 Definitions. [1]

For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions apply:
"Alteration"
means any exterior change or modification to an improvement or site which affects the exterior architectural features of property.
"Designated heritage resource"
means a heritage resource which has specific elements which are expressly found to meet one or more of the Criteria of the National Register of Historic Places as established by the Secretary of the Interior and incorporated by reference into this code and which has been designated and determined to be appropriate for preservation by the city council, and has been recognized by the state or the nation to be historically significant.
"Designated heritage resource district"
means a heritage resources district which has specific elements which are expressly found to meet one or more of the Criteria of the National Register of Historic Places as established by the Secretary of the Interior and incorporated by reference into this code and which has been designated and determined to be appropriate for preservation by the city council, and has been recognized by the state or the nation to be historically significant.
"Exterior architectural feature"
means the architectural elements embodying style, design, general arrangement and components of all of the outer surfaces of an improvement. This includes such visual characteristics as paint, color, surface texture, grading, surface paving, materials, accessory structures, trees and other natural features, and exterior objects such as signs, plaques, light fixtures, street furniture, walls, fences, steps, plantings and landscape accessories.
"Heritage housing combining district"
means a heritage resource district consisting of residential properties which has been zoned as a heritage housing combining district for the purposes of preserving, protecting, enhancing and perpetuating the appearance of the district which contributes to the cultural or aesthetic heritage of the city.
"Heritage resource"
means improvements, buildings, portions of buildings, structures, signs, features, sites, scenic areas, views and vistas, places, areas, landscapes, trees, or other natural objects or objects of scientific, aesthetic, educational, political, social, cultural, architectural, or historical significance to the citizens of the city, the Santa Clara Valley region, the state, or the nation, which are designated and determined to be appropriate for preservation by the city council.
"Heritage resource district"
means any geographically definable area containing a concentration or continuity of heritage resources which are thematically related, or which contribute to each other and are unified by a special character, historical interest, aesthetic value, or which represents one or more architectural periods or styles typical to the city, and that has been designated and determined to be appropriate for preservation by the city council, pursuant to provisions of this chapter.
"Improvement"
means any building, structure, place, parking facility, fence, gate, wall, work of art, or other object constituting a physical betterment of real property, or any part of such betterment.
"Local landmark"
means a heritage resource which is significant in that the resource materially benefits the historical character of a neighborhood or area, or the resource in its location represents an established and familiar visual feature of the community or city, and has been designated and determined to be appropriate for preservation by the city council.
"Local landmark district"
means a heritage resources district which demonstrates a higher collective integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association which is essential to the sustained value of the separate individual resources and which has been designated and determined to be appropriate for preservation by the city council. A local landmark district possesses a significant concentration or continuity of heritage resources unified by past events, or aesthetically by plan or physical development; or the collective value of the local landmark district as a whole may be greater that the value of each individual heritage resource within it.
"Local register of heritage resources"
means a list of heritage resources officially designated or recognized by the city.
"Preservation"
means the identification, protection, conservation, enhancement, perpetuation or rehabilitation of any heritage resource that prevents the deterioration, alteration, destruction or removal of such resource.
(Prior zoning code § 19.80.050; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2780-05 § 1)
[1]
Editor's Note: The definitions in Section 19.96.040 also appear in Ch. 19.12.

§ 19.96.050 Criteria for evaluation and nomination of heritage resources.

Any improvement, building, portion of buildings, structures, signs, features, sites, scenic areas, views, vistas, places, areas, landscapes, trees, or other natural objects or objects of scientific, aesthetic, educational, political, social, cultural, architectural, or historical significance can be designated a heritage resource by the city council and any area within the city may be designated a heritage resource district by the city council pursuant to provisions of this chapter if it meets the Criteria of the National Register of Historic Places, or one or more of the following:
(a) 
It exemplifies or reflects special elements of the city's cultural, social, economic, political, aesthetic engineering, architectural, or natural history;
(b) 
It is identified with persons or events significant in local, state, or national history;
(c) 
It embodies distinctive characteristics of a style, type, period, or method of construction, or is a valuable example of the use of indigenous materials or craftsmanship;
(d) 
It is representative of the work of a notable builder, designer, or architect;
(e) 
It contributes to the significance of an historic area, being a geographically definable area possessing a concentration of historic or scenic properties or thematically related grouping of properties which contribute to each other and are unified aesthetically or by plan or physical development;
(f) 
It has a unique location or singular physical characteristic or is a view or vista representing an established and familiar visual feature of a neighborhood, community, or the city of Sunnyvale;
(g) 
It embodies elements of architectural design, detail, materials, or craftsmanship that represents a significant structural or architectural achievement or innovation;
(h) 
It is similar to other distinctive properties, sites, areas, or objects based on a historic, cultural, or architectural motif;
(i) 
It reflects significant geographical patterns, including those associated with different eras of settlement and growth, particular transportation modes, or distinctive examples of park or community planning;
(j) 
It is one of the few remaining examples in the city, region, state, or nation possessing distinguishing characteristics of an architectural or historic type or specimen;
(k) 
With respect to a local landmark, it is significant in that the resource materially benefits the historical character of a neighborhood or area, or the resource in its location represents an established and familiar visual feature of the community or city;
(l) 
With respect to a local landmark district, a collective high integrity of the district is essential to the sustained value of the separate individual resources;
(m) 
With respect to a designated landmark and designated landmark district, the heritage resource shall meet Criteria of the National Register of Historical Places, which are incorporated by reference into this chapter.
(Prior zoning code § 19.80.060; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.96.060 Heritage resources and heritage resource districts designation procedures.

Heritage resources and heritage resource districts shall be designated by the city council in the following manner:
(a) 
The heritage preservation commission, city council, or owners or the authorized agents of the owners of property for which designation is requested may request the designation of an improvement as a heritage resource or a heritage resource district, as the case may be, by submitting an application for such designation to the director of the department of community development.
(b) 
Each proposal shall be considered by the heritage preservation commission at a noticed public hearing. In addition to the requirements of Section 19.98.040 (Public notice), notice of the time and place of each public hearing by the heritage commission shall be provided by certified mail to the owners of property for which designation is requested.
(c) 
The commission may continue a hearing but not in excess of thirty days from the date originally established for such hearing provided that such thirty day period may be extended by mutual consent of the commission and the party submitting the application. A party's consent to an extension of such period shall be presumed unless timely objection is made thereto within the thirty day period by the party or at the time the matter is continued beyond such period. A record of pertinent information presented at the hearing shall be maintained and made available to the public as a public record.
(d) 
The heritage preservation commission shall recommend to the city council approval, disapproval or approval with modifications of the application for designation.
(e) 
Prior to recommending approval or approval with modifications, the heritage preservation commission shall find:
(1) 
That the proposed heritage resource, or heritage resource district, has significance;
(2) 
That the proposed designation may be made without imposing an undue hardship upon the owner(s) of the property; and
(3) 
That approval or approval with modification(s) of the application is consistent with the purpose and criteria of this chapter.
(f) 
After receiving a recommendation from the commission, the city council shall hold a public hearing. In addition to the requirements of Section 19.98.040 (Public notice), notice of the time and place of the city council hearing shall be provided by certified mail to the owners of property for which designation is requested.
(g) 
Upon the conclusion of the hearing, the city council may approve, disapprove, or approve with modifications the proposed designation as a heritage resource or heritage resource district.
(h) 
Following approval of the designation, the director of community development shall send to the owner of the property so designated a letter outlining the basis for such designation, and the regulations resulting from such designation. The director may also forward a copy of the letter to any other department or agency requesting it or that the director considers affected by the designation.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.330, 19.80.070(a); Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 3043-14 § 11)

§ 19.96.065 Ranking of heritage resources, alteration process.

(a) 
Within the overall category of historic resources, the city recognizes three levels of significance, ranked in descending from most significant as follows:
(1) 
Local landmark resource/local landmark district;
(2) 
Designated heritage resource/designated heritage resource district; and
(3) 
Heritage resource/heritage resource district.
(b) 
Designated heritage resources and heritage resource districts are those resources that have been designated by both the city and the state or federal government as historically significant. Any person desiring to reconstruct, demolish, relocate or modify a designated heritage resource/district must first apply for a resource alteration permit, as described in Section 19.96.090, as well as comply with all state or federal requirements.
(c) 
No person shall carry out or cause to be carried out on a landmark or in a landmark district any material change in exterior appearance of such landmark or landmark district through alteration, construction, relocation, or demolition without a landmark alteration permit issued by the heritage preservation commission as described in Section 19.96.090.
(d) 
No person shall carry out or cause to be carried out on a heritage resource or in a heritage resource district any material change in exterior appearance of such resource or district through alteration, construction, relocation, or demolition without a resource alteration permit issued by the heritage preservation commission as described in Section 19.96.095. Minor modifications to heritage resources or heritage resource districts may be processed by city staff through the miscellaneous plan permit process set forth in Section 19.82.030(a) of this code; provided, however, that appeal of such decision shall be made to the heritage preservation commission rather than the planning commission, and the decision of the heritage preservation commission shall be final.
(Ord. 3050-14 § 10)

§ 19.96.070 Change of use or multiple residential uses of landmark or landmark district.

The use of any landmark or landmark district shall not be changed, nor shall any multiple residential use be allowed of a landmark or of or in a landmark district unless a special development permit is first issued by the city.
(Prior zoning code § 19.80.080; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.96.080 Landmarks and landmark districts-Exceptions for reconstruction or additions.

Exceptions from dimensional requirements may be granted by the heritage preservation commission in conjunction with a landmark alteration permit filed in accordance with Section 19.96.090.
(a) 
Reconstruction of a landmark or a structure within a landmark district shall be exempt from setback and height requirements if rebuilt as originally constructed.
(b) 
Additions to landmarks or structures within landmark districts may be granted exceptions from dimensional requirements provided that the following findings can be made:
(1) 
The proposed work will not adversely affect the exterior architectural characteristics or other features of the landmark, nor adversely affect the character of historical, architectural or aesthetic interest or value of the landmark and its site; and
(2) 
In landmark districts, the proposed work will not adversely affect the exterior architectural characteristics, nor adversely affect its relationship in terms of harmony and appropriateness, with its surroundings, including neighboring structures, nor adversely affect the character, architectural or aesthetic interest or value of the district.
(Prior zoning code § 19.80.085; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.96.090 Construction, demolition, relocation, or material change to landmark or landmark district.

(a) 
No person shall carry out or cause to be carried out on a landmark or in a landmark district any material change in exterior appearance of such landmark or landmark district through alteration, construction, relocation, or demolition without a landmark alteration permit issued by the heritage preservation commission.
(b) 
The department of community development shall maintain with the building inspection division a current record of designated landmarks and landmark districts. When an application for a permit which indicates possible material change to the exterior architectural features of the building, structure or landmark is received, an application for a landmark alteration permit shall be required.
(c) 
The director of community development shall forward all applications to the heritage preservation commission. Upon receipt of an application for a landmark alteration permit, the commission shall hold a public hearing. Notice of the time and place of each public hearing by the heritage preservation commission sh all be provided in accordance with Section 19.98.040 (Public notice).
(d) 
The commission in considering the appropriateness of the landmark alteration application shall consider, among other things, the purposes of this chapter and the historic architectural value and significance of the landmark or landmark district, as well as present and prospective effects or hardships upon the owners and occupants of the affected properties. The commission shall take into consideration exterior architectural features of the building or structure in question, other buildings within a landmark district, and the position of such building or structure in relation to the street or public way and to other buildings and structures. The United States Secretary of the Interior's "Guidelines for Rehabilitation" shall provide base criteria for evaluating proposed alterations to a landmark structure.
(e) 
The commission may approve, approve with modifications, or disapprove the application.
(f) 
Prior to the approval, or approval with modifications, the commission shall find that:
(1) 
The action proposed is consistent with the purposes of this chapter; and
(2) 
The action proposed will not be detrimental to a structure or feature of significance as a heritage resource;
(3) 
The applicant has demonstrated that the action proposed is necessary to correct an unsafe or dangerous condition on the property pursuant to Section 19.96.110; or
(4) 
The applicant has demonstrated that denial of the application will result in immediate, undue, or substantial hardship pursuant to Section 19.96.120.
(5) 
If all of the findings in subsections (f)(2) through (f)(4) of this section are not made, the permit shall be denied.
(g) 
The commission may continue action on landmark alteration permits for two meetings, not to exceed fifty-five days from the date of the public hearing for purposes of reaching a mutually acceptable solution in keeping with the criteria of this chapter. If at the end of that time a mutually acceptable solution has not been achieved, the application shall be finally granted or denied.
(h) 
Within seven days following upon approval of an application, the commission shall issue a landmark alteration permit, one copy of which shall be forwarded to the applicant, one copy of which shall be retained in the files of the department of community development and one copy of which shall be forwarded to the building inspection division. In addition, a copy shall be forwarded to any other requesting department or agency which will be affected by the permit.
(i) 
The applicant may appeal the action of the commission to the city council.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.80.090(a), (b), 19.80.090(d), 19.80.090(e)—(j); Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 3043-14 § 12)

§ 19.96.095 Construction, demolition, relocation, or material change to heritage resource or heritage resource district.

(a) 
No person shall carry out or cause to be carried out on a heritage resource or in a heritage resource district any material change in exterior appearance of such resource or district through alteration, construction, relocation, or demolition without a resource alteration permit issued by the heritage preservation commission.
(b) 
The department of community development shall maintain with the building inspection division a current record of heritage resources and districts. When an application for a permit which indicates possible material change to the exterior architectural features of the building, structure or district is received, an application for a resource alteration permit shall be required.
(c) 
The director of community development shall forward all applications to the heritage preservation commission. Upon receipt of an application for a resource alteration permit, the commission shall first consider whether the resource is historically or culturally significant, based upon evidence submitted by staff and the applicant to aid its determination. In the event the commission finds the resource is not culturally or historically significant, it shall return the application to the department of community development for processing in accordance with other relevant city procedures.
(d) 
If the commission finds the resource to be culturally or historically significant, it shall schedule a public hearing to be held on the matter in accordance with the procedures set forth in Section 19.96.090 for landmark alteration permits.
(Ord. 2780-05 § 1)

§ 19.96.100 Inventoried structures-Notice prior to demolition.

(a) 
Applicants for permits authorizing demolition of any structure listed within the latest edition of the city of Sunnyvale's Local Register of Heritage Resources shall show, prior to issuance of such a permit, that they have advertised such structure as being available for removal or relocation intact.
(b) 
A program of advertising shall be considered to meet the requirements of this section if it continues for sixty consecutive days, both: (1) as a display or classified advertisement of a character commensurate with the significance of the affected structure, published not less frequently than once each week during the sixty-day period within one or more Bay Area daily periodicals having substantial circulation within the South Peninsula area; and (2) as one or more signs on the affected premises, legible from the public right-of-way. Each such advertisement or sign shall indicate the Sunnyvale director of community development, or the director's designee, and the telephone number of such official, as a source of further information.
(c) 
The owner of any affected structure shall be entitled to make its availability contingent upon such reasonable conditions as are calculated to protect the owner, the city of Sunnyvale, and other interested parties from damage or loss of any nature, to protect the structure from excessive damage, and to permit the owner to select among competing relocation or removal proposals.
(d) 
At least sixty days prior to issuance of a permit authorizing demolition or relocation of any structure described in this section, the owner thereof shall provide written notice of proposed demolition or relocation plans to the Sunnyvale heritage preservation commission, in care of the director of community development.
(Prior zoning code § 19.80.095; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.96.110 Unsafe or dangerous conditions.

None of the provisions of this chapter shall be construed to prevent any measures of construction, alteration, removal, demolition or relocation necessary to correct the unsafe or dangerous condition of any structure, other feature, or part thereof, where such condition has been declared unsafe or dangerous by the building official or the chief of the department of public safety; provided, however, that when the structure is a landmark or is in a landmark district, and where the proposed measures have been declared necessary by such official to correct the condition, only such work as is necessary to correct the unsafe or dangerous condition may be performed pursuant to this section. The commission shall be informed of such work in advance whenever practicable.
(Prior zoning code § 19.80.100; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.96.120 Showing of hardship.

The commission may approve a landmark alteration permit or resource alteration permit to carry out construction, demolition, material change or relocation of a landmark or in a landmark district, or heritage resource, or in a heritage resource district, if the applicant presents facts clearly demonstrating to the satisfaction of the heritage preservation commission at a public hearing that failure to receive such approval will cause an immediate undue and substantial hardship. If hardship is found to exist under this section, the commission shall make a written finding to that effect, and shall also specify in writing the facts relied upon in making such finding.
(Prior zoning code § 19.80.110; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2780-05 § 1)

§ 19.96.130 Ordinary maintenance and repair.

Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent the ordinary maintenance or repair of any exterior architectural feature in or on any property covered by this chapter that does not involve a change in design, material or external appearance thereof, nor does this chapter prevent the construction, reconstruction, alteration, restoration, demolition or removal of any such feature when the building official certifies to the commission that such action is required for the public safety due to an unsafe or dangerous condition which cannot be rectified through the uses of the State Historical Building Code, as set forth in Section 18950 et seq., of the California Health and Safety Code as the same exists or may hereafter be amended.
(Prior zoning code § 19.80.120; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.96.140 Duty to keep in good repair.

The owner, occupant, or other person in actual charge of a landmark or an improvement, building or structure in a landmark district shall keep in good repair all of the exterior portions of such improvement, building or structure; all of the interior portions thereof when subject to control by reason of designation or permit; and all interior portions thereof whose maintenance is necessary to prevent deterioration and decay of any exterior architectural feature. It shall be the duty of the director of community development to enforce this section.
(Prior zoning code § 19.80.130; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.96.150 Actions.

Following the filing of an appeal of an action by the heritage preservation commission, the city council shall schedule a public hearing to be held no later than thirty days after the notice of appeal is filed, and shall render its decision within thirty days of the hearing date.
(Prior zoning code § 19.80.140; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.96.160 Enforcement and penalties.

In addition to the regulations of this chapter, other chapters of the code and other provisions of law which govern the approval or disapproval of applications for permits or licenses covered by this chapter, the director of community development shall have the authority to implement the enforcement thereof by any of the following means:
(a) 
Serving notice requiring the removal of any violation of this chapter upon the owner, agent, occupant or tenant of the improvement, building, structure or land.
(b) 
Calling upon the city attorney to institute any necessary legal proceedings to enforce the provisions of this chapter, and the city attorney is hereby authorized to institute any legal actions toward that end.
(c) 
Calling upon the director of public safety and authorized agents to assist in the enforcement of this chapter.
(d) 
In addition to any of the foregoing remedies, the city attorney may maintain an action for injunctive relief to restrain or enjoin or to cause the correction or removal of any violation of this chapter, or for an injunction in appropriate cases.
(Prior zoning code § 19.80.150; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to identify and prescribe general procedures and requirements for the filing, processing and consideration of planning related actions and permit applications. These provisions shall be used in conjunction with requirements or procedures unique to a specific process or permit type which are found in the chapter concerning that specific process or permit.
(Prior zoning code § 19.51.010; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.015 Existing permits.

On property for which a use permit or special development permit has been issued prior to the adoption of regulations stated in this title, the director of community development may determine the appropriate permit and procedure for an owner's application for a modification to an existing permit, such that it is in accordance with current permit requirements, procedures for similar proposals, and prior decisions.
(Ord. 2920-10 § 6)

§ 19.98.020 Applications.

(a) 
Consideration of a permit or process is initiated by the filing of an application signed by the owner of the land to which the permit or process would be applicable. The application shall be filed with the director of community development on forms furnished for this purpose. The application shall be accompanied by the required fee, plans, elevations and other supporting data set forth in this section, or determined necessary by the director of community development.
(b) 
Design review and miscellaneous plan permit applications shall include:
(1) 
Written explanation of project;
(2) 
Site Plan. All site plans shall show street and sidewalk locations (if applicable) in addition to property lines. The director of community development may require site plans with certified site elevation data;
(3) 
Architectural elevations of all sides of all buildings indicating exterior materials and colors. Where appropriate, a color and material board may be required. The director of community development may require a streetscape view showing the proposed home and one adjacent home on each side;
(4) 
Landscaping and irrigation plans for projects that include construction of a new single-family or duplex dwelling unit, or any modification or installation of new landscaping that falls within the thresholds stated in Chapter 19.37. The plans shall meet the information requirements determined by the director of community development to comply with the standards set forth in Chapter 19.37;
(5) 
Floor plans of all buildings.
(c) 
Variance, use permit and special development permit filings shall include:
(1) 
Written explanation of project;
(2) 
Site plan;
(3) 
Architectural elevations of all sides of all buildings indicating exterior materials and colors. A color and material board is required.
(d) 
Tree removal permits shall be filed at least ten working days prior to the proposed date of tree removal and shall include:
(1) 
The number, location(s), size(s), quality, species and variety of tree(s) to be removed;
(2) 
A written explanation about why the tree(s) must be removed;
(3) 
A time schedule for the proposed work.
(e) 
Heritage resources and heritage resource district designation filings shall include:
(1) 
Description detailing the proposed heritage resource's special aesthetic, cultural, architectural, or engineering interest or value of a historic nature;
(2) 
Sketches, drawings, photographs, or other descriptive material;
(3) 
Statement of condition of structure.
(f) 
For any business-sponsored child care center in any industrial zoning district, and for any use in a POA combining district serving sensitive populations as defined in Section 19.12.200, the following additional application requirements and procedures shall be met:
(1) 
If the use is proposed within a multi-tenant building, the applicant shall obtain an agreement providing for the limitation of hazardous material users on the same site, which agreement shall be recorded between the property owner, applicant, and city.
(2) 
The applicant shall acknowledge in writing that it is locating in an industrial area that may result in higher levels of noise, traffic, and exposure to hazardous materials than would normally be encountered in non-industrial areas.
(3) 
The applicant shall adopt and submit for the approval of city a safety plan designed to protect sensitive populations in the event of a nearby release of hazardous materials.
(g) 
For automobile service stations that sell groceries, the applicant shall obtain a miscellaneous plan permit to provide for review of the design and layout of the proposed facilities and parking requirements, to include the following information:
(1) 
Interior floor plan, to ensure employees can see their surroundings and people (including the police) can see into the market;
(2) 
Show location of payment area inside the mini-mart to allow easy visibility to the pumps and access points onto the property;
(3) 
Lighting plan to ensure a well-lit store;
(4) 
Hours of operation. It may be prudent to require a mini-mart to close at night and allow the gas sales to continue from an outside payment window;
(5) 
Site plan showing all surrounding buildings, parking and uses, which also shows escape routes from the mini-mart to surrounding areas;
(6) 
The number of employees on site at each shift;
(7) 
Description of cash control procedures;
(8) 
A store security and crime prevention program.
(h) 
For automobile service stations that sell beer and wine pursuant to state license, the applicant shall submit an application including all of the information in subsection (g), and shall obtain a use permit or special development permit and the director of community development shall make all of the following findings:
(1) 
The proposed site must be five hundred feet from a use selling off-site sales of alcohol, unless findings can be made that the additional sales:
(A) 
Will not adversely affect the peace, health, safety, morals or welfare of the persons residing or working in the surrounding areas; and
(B) 
Will not impair the value of property of other persons located in the vicinity of the area; and
(C) 
Will not be detrimental to public health, safety or welfare;
(D) 
The proposed site will not exceed a concentration of more than four businesses with off-site sales of alcohol within a one thousand-foot radius, unless the findings in subsection (h)(1) above can be made.
(2) 
The proposed site shall not be located closer than five hundred feet from any child care center, public park, social service agency, residential care facility, residential service facility or public school, unless the findings in subsection (h)(1) can be made.
(i) 
For automobile service stations that sell beer and wine, the applicant shall adhere to the following conditions of approval:
(1) 
No beer or wine shall be displayed within five feet of the cash register or front door unless it is in a permanently-fixed cooler;
(2) 
No advertisement of alcoholic beverages shall be displayed at motor fuel islands; and
(3) 
Employees on duty between the hours of ten p.m. and two a.m. who sell beer or wine shall be at least twenty-one years old.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.050, 19.20.060, 19.50.050, 19.52.020(c), 19.52.040, 19.52.050, 19.52.070, 19.54.030, 19.54.010, 19.56.030, 19.57.030(a), (d)(1)—(3), 19.72.050(a), 19.80.070(b)(1)—(5), 19.80.090(c)(1)—(5), 19.81.080(b)— (d); Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2649-00 § 15; Ord. 2802-06 § 7; Ord. 2808-06 § 12; Ord. 2848-07 § 8; Ord. 2908-09 § 6; Ord. 2918-10 § 5; Ord. 2987-12 § 10; Ord. 3033-13 § 3; Ord. 3065-15 § 9)

§ 19.98.030 Fees.

(a) 
Payment of a fee established by resolution of the city council shall be made at the time of application filing.
(b) 
The fees for city review of tree surveys, replanting and protection plans for sites which are undergoing development or modification shall be included in the fee for the discretionary permit for which the applicant has applied.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.12.060, 19.50.040, 19.51.020(c), 19.52.040, 19.54.040, 19.56.030; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.040 Public notice.

(a) 
Minimum Requirements and Applicability. The requirements in this section are considered a minimum and may be expanded or modified by the specific requirements of an application pursuant to this title and by policies adopted by resolution by the city council or as determined by the director.
(b) 
Failure to Receive Notice. Failure to comply with procedures shall not affect the validity of the person or body holding the public hearing or making the decision to proceed with the hearing or decision.
(c) 
Notice Content. All public notices shall contain the location of the subject property or area, either by text or diagram, a general description of the proposed project or action, the decision-maker, and the scheduled time, date and place of each public hearing required by this title. If the notice is for an application for which the director of community development is the decision maker and no public hearing is required, the notice shall state the application is available for review and comment for fourteen days following the date on the notice.
(d) 
Public Notice Prior to Decision. Table 19.98.040 (Public Notice) establishes the methods of which public notice shall be provided before a decision is made on an application in accordance with this title, including appeals, and the minimum number of days public notice shall be provided before the decision date. When required by Table 19.98.040, public notice shall be provided as follows:
(1) 
Mailing. The notice shall be delivered by mail to the following:
(A) 
Applicant and Owner. The applicant and owners of the subject property or area;
(B) 
Owners Within Three Hundred Feet. Owners of property within three hundred feet of the subject property or area. This distance shall be measured from all points along the lot lines of the site. If only a portion of a lot is located within the measured distance, the entire lot is considered to be within the required mailing distance;
(C) 
Interested Parties. Any person or group, including neighborhood associations, who has filed a written request for notice regarding the specific application or of projects in the area; and
(D) 
Appellant. The appellant for an appealed decision.
(E) 
Alternative Method for Large Mailings. If the number of owners to whom notice shall be mailed is greater than one thousand, the director may provide notice by placing a display advertisement in at least one newspaper of general circulation in the city.
(2) 
On-Site Posting. The notice shall be posted at a conspicuous location on each frontage of the subject site. No person shall alter, deface, remove or affect the visibility of the posted notice. The applicant shall ensure the notice remains posted during the entire noticing period and remove the notice no later than five days after the hearing date or decision date referenced on the sign, or date the application has been withdrawn.
(3) 
Bulletin. The notice shall be posted on the public notice bulletin board at city hall.
(4) 
Newspaper. The notice shall be published at least once in a newspaper of general circulation in the city.
Table 19.98.040
Public Notice
In the table, the words and symbols are defined as follows:
"Yes" = Required
"-" = Not required
Decision Procedure
Mailing
On-Site Posting
Bulletin
Newspaper
Minimum Days before Decision
Director Decision with Public Notice and No Hearing
Yes
Yes
-
-
14 days or per CEQA
Public Hearing for Site-Specific Application
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
10 days or per CEQA
Public Hearing on Legislative Action (such as a zoning text amendment)
-
-
Yes
Yes
10 days or per CEQA
Public Hearing for Appealed Decision
Yes
-
Yes
-
10 days
Public Hearing for Appeal of Incompleteness Determination
-
-
Yes
-
3 days
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.12.100, 19.12.110, 19.51.020(d)(1)—(2), 19.52.025(g)(1)—(2), 19.54.050, 19.54.080, 19.57.030(b), 19.60.010, 19.60.011(a)(1)—(3), 19.72.050(e), 19.80.070(c), 19.80.090(e)—(j), 19.81.180; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2649-00 § 16; Ord. 2650-00 § 9; Ord. 2802-06 § 13; Ord. 2887-08 § 13; Ord. 2905-09 § 18; Ord. 2907-09 § 14; Ord. 2908-09 § 7; Ord. 2966-11 § 21; Ord. 2987-12 § 11; Ord. 3004-13 § 9; Ord. 3031-13 § 4; Ord. 3033-13 § 4; Ord. 3043-14 § 13; Ord. 3176-21 § 8)

§ 19.98.050 Continuance of public hearing.

The director of community development, heritage preservation commission, planning commission or city council, at the time and place set for a required public hearing, may continue a public hearing from time to time when it is determined that such a continuance, to a date and time certain, would not be detrimental to the public interest. Published or posted notice of the time and place of the continued public hearing is not required.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.12.120, 19.20.070(c), 19.44.030(c)(1)—(2), 19.60.011(b), 19.60.020; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.060 Failure to act-Director of community development-Planning commission-City council.

Failure of the director of community development to act within forty days of a determination that a project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act, or of the planning commission to act within forty days of the date of adoption of a negative declaration, or within such extended period of time as may be mutually agreed upon by the applicant and the director of community development or planning commission, shall be deemed a denial of the requested permit and for purposes of appeal shall be deemed an action. The director of community development shall send notice of such denial to the applicant postage prepaid, however, failure to send such notice shall not effect the denial or extend any period of time within which an appeal may be taken.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.090, 19.52.025(h), 19.52.080, 19.52.100, 19.54.070, 19.56.050, 19.56.072, 19.57.030(e), 19.80.070 (d)—(i); Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2987-12 § 12)

§ 19.98.070 Appeals and calls for review.

(a) 
Authorization to Appeal. Unless otherwise modified or limited by specific provisions of this title, or otherwise required by state law, decisions may be appealed as follows:
(1) 
Appeal of Director Decision to Planning Commission. Any person aggrieved by a final decision of the director of community development may appeal the decision to the planning commission.
(2) 
Appeal of Commission Decision to City Council. Any person aggrieved by a final decision of the heritage preservation commission, arts commission, or planning commission may appeal the decision to the city council, unless the decision of the commission is made final pursuant to a specific provision of this title.
(3) 
Members of the Planning Commission and City Council. City councilmembers and planning commissioners may call up a decision for review pursuant to subsection (e), and may not appeal a decision unless they are the applicant on the project.
(4) 
Appeals may be filed by more than one person.
(b) 
Timing and Filing of Appeal. An appeal shall be initiated as follows:
(1) 
Appeal Period. Any appeal shall be filed by 5:00 p.m. of the fifteenth day following the decision being appealed. A meeting which extends past midnight is considered to occur on the day it began. When the appeal period ends on a weekend or holiday, the time limits shall be extended to the next working day.
(2) 
Filing Requirements. An appeal shall be submitted in writing, and shall be accompanied by the required fee, as set by resolution of the city council, and shall state the decision appealed from, the facts and basis for the appeal, and the relief or action sought. Appeals of decisions by the director of community development to the planning commission shall be filed with the community development department. Appeals to the city council shall be filed with the city clerk.
(c) 
Appeal Stays Action. The timely filing of an appeal shall automatically stay the operative effect of the action, permit, decision or determination from which the appeal has been taken until a final decision is rendered on the appeal.
(d) 
Withdrawal of Appeal. An appellant may submit a written request to withdraw their appeal any time before the scheduled hearing for the appeal, in which case the appeal shall not move forward and the decision that was the subject of the appeal shall be the final decision.
(e) 
Call for Review. Decisions may be called up for review to the next higher decision-making body as follows:
(1) 
City Council Requests. Any two councilmembers may request city council review of any decision appealable to the city council, as prescribed in this title.
(2) 
Planning Commission Requests. Any one planning commissioner may request planning commission review of a final decision made by the director of community development after holding a public hearing, if the decision is appealable to the planning commission, as prescribed in this title.
(3) 
Timing and Filing of Call for Review. To initiate a review, written requests shall be filed prior to the end of the appeal period prescribed in subsection (b). Councilmembers shall file their requests with the city manager; planning commissioners shall file their requests with the director of community development. No reasons shall be stated in the written request for review and no appeal fee shall be required. If councilmembers or planning commissioners call for a review of a decision as provided in this section, there is a presumption that the reason for the review is that the action is of significant importance to the community. No inference of bias shall be made or implied due to such a request for review being filed by a decision-maker.
(4) 
Procedures and Decisions. Upon receiving a request for city council review of a decision from at least two councilmembers within the designated timeframe, the item shall be placed on the next appropriate agenda, as determined by the city manager. Upon receiving a request for review from at least one planning commissioner within the designated timeframe, the item shall be placed on the next appropriate agenda, as determined by the director of community development. Any matter called up for review pursuant to this section shall be heard in the same manner as an appeal as prescribed in subsection (f).
(5) 
Call for Review Stays Action. The timely filing of a call for review shall automatically stay the operative effect of the action, permit, decision or determination from which the call has been made until a final decision is rendered on the matter.
(f) 
Procedures and Decisions. The procedure for the public hearing on the appeal or call for review shall be conducted as follows:
(1) 
Public Notice. Public notice of the appeal hearing shall be provided as prescribed in Section 19.98.040 (Public notice).
(2) 
Scope of Hearing. Consideration of appeals and calls for review shall be de novo. The reviewing body is not bound by the decision that has been appealed or limited to the issues raised on appeal by the appellant.
(3) 
Decision of Review Body. After the hearing, the reviewing body shall affirm, modify, or reverse the original decision based on the evidence and findings.
(g) 
Effective Date of Decision. A decision by the city council or planning commission regarding an appeal or review becomes final on the date of the decision.
(Ord. 3050-14 § 11)

§ 19.98.075 Appeals of incompleteness determinations.

(a) 
An applicant for a development project that is subject to Section 65920 et seq. of the California Government Code (known as the Permit Streamlining Act) may appeal a determination that the zoning application is incomplete.
(b) 
The appeal shall be in writing and shall state the facts and basis for the appeal, and the relief or action sought, and shall be accompanied by the required fee.
(c) 
The appeal shall be filed with the community development department by five p.m. of the fifteenth day after the applicant is notified of the determination that the application is incomplete.
(d) 
The appeal shall be heard by the Planning Commission no later than sixty days after the filing of the appeal.
(e) 
After receiving an appeal from the determination that the application is incomplete, and following a public hearing, the planning commission, whose decision is final, by the affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members, shall determine whether the application is complete or incomplete. In order to determine that an application is incomplete, the planning commission must make all of the following findings:
(1) 
The item or items identified as incomplete by the city were included in the city's submittal requirement checklist.
(2) 
The city provided the applicant with a notice of the incomplete item or items within thirty calendar days after the city received the applicant's application.
(3) 
The notice specified those parts of the application that were incomplete and indicated the manner in which they could be made complete, including a list and thorough description of the specific information needed to complete the application.
(4) 
The applicant resubmitted the application.
(5) 
The materials provided by the applicant with the resubmitted application did not include information identified and described in the notice of incompleteness.
(f) 
The city shall provide the applicant a written notice of the planning commission's decision following the hearing and before the expiration of the sixty day period for hearing the appeal.
(Ord. 3176-21 § 9)

§ 19.98.090 Conditions of approval.

(a) 
The director of community development, planning commission or city council may approve any permit, or approve the same upon such conditions in addition to those expressly provided in applicable provisions of this code, as it finds desirable in the public interest.
(b) 
For appurtenant, temporary, hazardous materials storage or emergency container uses conditions may include those determined to be reasonably necessary in connection with the hours of operation, visual screening, cleanup of the location or premises, use of lights or lighting or other means of illumination, or operation of any loudspeaker or sound amplification or any other aspect of the project, in order to prevent the creation of any nuisance or annoyance to the occupants of or commercial visitors to adjacent buildings or premises or any public nuisances.
(c) 
In addition to any other conditions imposed, the director of community development may require the posting of a cash security in an amount sufficient to guarantee the removal of any fixtures, equipment or stands and the cleanup of the location or premises immediately upon the expiration of any temporary use.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.32.070(d)(1)—(e), 19.52.030(g); Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2966-11 § 23)

§ 19.98.100 Revisions or modifications.

Except as otherwise specified in conditions of approval, major changes to an approved project must be reviewed by the original approving authority through the applicable application process.
(Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.110 Expiration.

A permit shall expire and become null and void in the event that the permit has not been exercised:
(a) 
Within two years after the date such permit was approved by the final review authority except that miscellaneous plan permits and tree removal permits shall expire after one year.
(b) 
If the use is discontinued for more than one year.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.140, 19.51.040, 19.52.025(i), 19.52.130, 19.54.090, 19.56.090, 19.72.050(d), 19.80.142; Ord. 2623-99 § 1; Ord. 2808-06 § 9)

§ 19.98.120 Extension.

Reasonable extensions of time not exceeding one year may be approved by the director of community development by miscellaneous plan permit if it is determined that there have been no changes of circumstances or that no substantive changes have been made to the application since the permit was approved. Extensions are only valid if approved before the pending expiration date, and are measured from that date. An extension may be approved for any time length up to a maximum of one year. Additional extensions may be approved, provided that the total of all extensions shall not exceed one year from the date of the expiration of the original approval, except that the director of community development may approve an additional one-year extension (for a total of two years) of such permit, and the planning commission, after a public hearing thereon, may approve subsequent one-year extensions of miscellaneous plan permits issued for:
(a) 
A mobile or motor home in any nonresidential zoning district or in conjunction with a church in any zoning district for demonstrated security purposes.
(b) 
Portable offices used for nonresidential purposes in industrial and office zoning districts.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.145, 19.51.035(c), 19.52.135, 19.54.095, 19.56.095, 19.80.143; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.130 Revocation.

A permit may be revoked by the city council, after a public hearing thereon, by an affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members, when the city council finds a violation of or noncompliance with the conditions of approval of such permit.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.150, 19.52.025(i), 19.52.140, 19.56.100; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.140 Violations.

(a) 
Any person violating or permitting the violation of or who fails to comply with the terms and conditions of a permit approved pursuant to this title shall be guilty of an infraction, and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable as set forth in Chapter 1.04 of this code.
(b) 
The remedy provided for in this section is in addition to and does not supersede or limit any and all other remedies, civil or criminal.
(Prior zoning code §§ 19.20.160, 19.46.070, 19.51.050, 19.52.012(i), 19.52.150, 19.54.100, 19.56.120, 19.80.145; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.150 Certificate of use and occupancy required-Exceptions.

No vacant land or building shall be occupied or used, nor shall any buildings hereafter erected, constructed, converted, vacated, or moved, be occupied or used until a certificate of use and occupancy shall have been issued by the building official; provided, however, that no certificate shall be required for agricultural or residential uses or for public utility transmission and distribution lines.
(Prior zoning code § 19.60.030; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.160 Certificate of use and occupancy-Issuance-Notice of deficiencies.

A certificate of use and occupancy shall be issued for buildings and uses which conform with the provisions of this title within three working days after written notice to the building official that the premises are ready for use and occupancy. In the event the director cannot find that the proposed use or building conforms with the provisions of this title, the building official shall give written notice to the applicant of the general deficiencies in such building or use.
(Prior zoning code § 19.60.040; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.180 Enforcement-Issuance of permits, licenses or approvals to comply.

It shall be the duty of the director of community development to enforce the provisions of this title. All officers, officials and employees of the city who are vested with the duty or authority to issue permits or licenses shall conform with the provisions of this title, and shall not issue any permit or license or approve any use or building which would be in conflict with this title. Any permit, license or approval issued in conflict with this title shall be null and void.
(Prior zoning code § 19.60.060; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.190 Examinations and surveys-Entry upon land.

In the performance and discharge of any responsibility imposed by this title, any official, officer or employee of the city may enter upon any land and make examinations and surveys; provided, however, that such entries, examinations and surveys do not interfere with the use of the land by those persons lawfully entitled to the possession thereof, and do not conflict with any applicable state or federal law.
(Prior zoning code § 19.12.130; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.200 Public nuisance defined-Abatement.

Any use or building set up, erected, constructed, converted, altered, added to, enlarged or caused to exist contrary to the provisions of this title shall and the same is hereby declared to be a public nuisance. The director of community development, upon order of the city council, shall immediately commence action or proceedings for the abatement and removal or enjoinment thereof in the manner provided by law. The director of community development shall take such other steps and apply to such courts as may have jurisdiction to approve such relief, as will abate and cause removal of such use or building and restrain and enjoin any person, firm or corporation from erecting, constructing, converting, altering, adding to, enlarging or causing to exist any use or building contrary to this title.
(Prior zoning code § 19.60.070; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.210 Interim ordinance-Urgency measure.

Without following the procedures otherwise required preliminary to the adoption or amendment of a special plan, precise zoning plan, or addition thereto, and if the council, planning commission, or the planning division of the department of community development is considering or studying, or intends to study within a reasonable time any specific plan, precise zoning plan, or amendment thereof, or addition thereto, and in order to protect the publ ic safety, health and welfare, the city council may adopt as an urgency measure an interim ordinance prohibiting any uses which may be in conflict with the contemplated specific plan, precise zoning plan or amendment or addition thereto. Such urgency measure shall require a two-thirds vote of the city council for adoption. Such interim ordinance shall be of no further force and effect one hundred eighty days from the date of adoption thereof; provided, however, that after notice pursuant to Section 19.98.040 and a public hearing, the city council by a two-thirds vote may extend such interim ordinance for one year. Not more than two such extensions may be adopted. When such interim ordinance has been adopted, every subsequent ordinance adopted pursuant to this section, covering the whole or a part of the same property, shall automatically terminate and be of no further force or effect upon the termination of the first such ordinance or any extension.
(Prior zoning code § 19.12.150; Ord. 2623-99 § 1)

§ 19.98.220 Exclusionary zoning.

When a use is not specifically listed as a primary or conditional use, it shall be assumed that such use is prohibited unless it is determined by the director of community development that the use is similar to and not more objectionable or intensive than the uses listed. Uses are permitted and conditions of use are established within each district in conformance with Section 19.98.090. Requests for determinations for specific uses shall be submitted to the department of community development in writing with a detailed description of the proposed use, its proposed location, and intended hours of operation. Additional information may be required by the director of community development in order to prepare the determination for individual uses. Any decision by the director of community development regarding a requested determination shall be in writing and shall be final.
(Ord. 2649-00 § 17)