The purpose of the open space (OS) zone and provisions of this chapter is the delineation of wildlands, wildlife and wildlife habitat. Restoration and protection of such areas provides valuable resources for the community, and surrounding communities, through conservation and integrated use. The OS zone standards shall endeavor to continuously provide appropriate access to open space areas while minimizing visitor impact on preserve resources, and avoiding conflicts between various activities.

Extremely limited development and disturbance of natural features within designated OS areas will be permitted, and only in the interest of public use, safety, or welfare shall such modifications occur.

(Ord. 2694 § 2 (part), 1996)

The OS zone shall be applied to areas in which wildlands, wildlife and natural ecosystems are to be protected or conserved. Such areas may be modified to accommodate low impact recreational activities. Alterations to existing land forms and topography shall be limited.

(Ord. 2694 § 2 (part), 1996)

Land shall be essentially unimproved and devoted, used or utilized for the preservation of natural resources, plant and animal life, and low impact recreational uses. The following uses shall be permissible in the OS zone, specifically when deemed necessary for public safety, welfare or interest:

A.

Water facilities, reservoirs, flood control facilities, debris basins, and any use common and appurtenant to the containment, control, storage or distribution of water;

B.

Electrical transmission substations, communications equipment, microwave radio and telephone transmission facilities necessary for the operation of public utility functions and/or easements thereto;

C.

Fire control measures, including vegetation clearance and management, where necessary to ensure public safety and welfare.

(Ord. 2694 § 2 (part), 1996)

The following uses shall be prohibited within the OS zone:

A.

Residential uses, other than property caretaker units;

B.

Commercial uses (except unmanned wireless telecommunication facilities, subject to the development standards contained within Chapter 18.47);

C.

Industrial uses.

(Ord. 2694 § 2 (part), 1996)

(Ord. No. 2949, § 1, 2-23-10)