Chapter 22.22
RS—SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL ZONES
Sections:
22.22.370 Specific and accessory uses.
22.22.600 Intensity standards.
22.22.700 Site development standards.
22.22.800 Environmental performance standards.
22.22.900 Precise plan approval.
22.22.100 Purpose.
The RS zones are intended to provide the best possible locations and development standards for single-family dwellings; assure adequate access to schools, parks, and other community service facilities; prohibit negative impacts from adjacent nonresidential uses; protect the residential character of each neighborhood; and otherwise encourage high quality architectural design, an excellent environment for family life and the preservation of residential property values. As used in this chapter, “RS single-family residential zones” means the RS-5000 zone and the RS-6500 zone. (Ord. 708 § 1, 1992: Ord. 344 § 5 (part), 1972)
22.22.200 Location.
RS zones shall be located in areas that provide adequate pedestrian access to elementary schools and are convenient to intermediate schools, secondary schools, shopping centers, and other neighborhood facilities. RS zones shall be located in areas of sufficient size both to promote viable neighborhood interaction and identity and to continually maintain a high quality residential environment despite any adjacent nonresidential uses. (Ord. 344 § 5 (part), 1972)
22.22.300 Permitted uses.
Premises in the RS zone may be used for the following permitted uses: One single-farnily dwelling unit per legally constituted lot. “Single-family dwelling unit” shall also include manufactured housing as provided in Section 22.22.700(20), manufactured and certified under the National Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 subject to a precise plan for development. “Single-family dwelling unit” shall not include second units as provided for in Section 65852.1 et seq. of the California Government Code. Nothing in this section shall be construed to permit mobile home parks in the RS zone. Garages and on-site vehicle storage areas shall not be used for the storage of goods and materials not associated with residential uses or a permitted home occupation. The use of garages and approved on-site vehicle storage areas for storage of goods and materials shall not be a basis for the issuance of a residential on-street parking permit. (Ord. 708 § 2, 1992: Ord. 615 § 2, 1983: Ord. 591 § 1, 1981: Ord. 344 § 5 (part), 1972)
22.22.370 Specific and accessory uses.
All specific and accessory uses applicable to this zone shall be authorized by and subject to the regulations set forth in Chapter 22.40, Specific Uses, of this code. Uses that may not be regulated in Chapter 22.40 but which are permitted in the single-family residential zones include:
(1) Garage sales: A maximum of two sales during any one-year period. Sales shall not exceed three consecutive days. (Ord. 866 § 5, 2003: Ord. 737 § 9, 1994: Ord. 708 § 3, 1992: Ord. 344 § 5 (part), 1972)
22.22.400 Conditional uses.
It is recognized that certain uses of property are customarily found in residential areas. The presence of these uses is intended primarily for the benefit of residents within, but not limited to, the general area of the permitted conditional use. The following uses may be permitted in the RS zones, if:
(A) In each case it is found that the indicated criteria and limitations are complied with;
(B) In each case it is found that the proposed use would be compatible to a residential neighborhood;
(C) A conditional use permit is obtained in the manner provided by this code.
(1) Churches, temples, and other places for religious services, and related activities not including rescue missions or temporary revival activities:
(a) Criteria:
(i) Location on an arterial and on the periphery of a residential neighborhood rather than an interior location surrounded by residential uses, and in areas that are undeveloped or underdeveloped or contain or are surrounded by nonconforming uses and/or structures which will eventually recycle to residential, the siting of a church shall be at one end of the area,
(ii) Primary vehicular access must be from an arterial street and a secondary access may be permitted from a collector street. Collector street is defined as a street at least sixty feet in width and connected directly to an arterial street,
(b) Limitations:
(i) The building and parking facilities must be designed for religious services and the use or conversion of a residential unit for religious services shall be prohibited;
(2) Schools; elementary, secondary, and private, including those located within a church development:
(a) Criteria:
(i) Pedestrian access from residential areas served,
(ii) Vehicular access from an arterial or collector street,
(iii) Adequate site area for separation and buffering of play areas from adjacent residential uses,
(iv) Facility shall be located in an area which will serve as a transition between residential and nonresidential uses;
(3) Child day care center:
(a) Criteria:
(i) Facility shall be located in an area which will serve as a transition between residential and nonresidential uses,
(ii) Large site with sufficient open space to provide separation of play areas from adjacent residences and buffering from traffic or other noise sources,
(iii) Vehicular access shall be from an arterial street unless it is found that such access is hazardous, then access may be provided from a collector street provided that residential traffic circulation shall not be adversely impacted;
(4) Public schools, parks, playgrounds, community centers, recreation buildings: Public hearing shall be held for the above and similar public uses in the same manner as required for a conditional use;
(5) Comparable uses determined according to the provisions of Section 22.20.100. (Ord. 859 § 1, 2002; Ord. 708 § 4, 1992: Ord. 663 § 1, 1987; Ord. 344 § 5 (part), 1972)
22.22.450 Temporary uses.
Any use of a temporary nature not involving construction of substantial or permanent improvements may be permitted for a period not to exceed six months if approved by the city manager, subject to appeal to the city council. Any such approval must be in writing and shall include:
(1) A finding that the use will not be detrimental to the community and to surrounding property;
(2) Conditions to insure that the purposes of this code are carried out including a definite time period for the removal of the use and the restoration of the property to its former condition and, if deemed necessary by the city manager, a bond to effect compliance with the conditions of the permit. (Ord. 344 § 5 (part), 1972)
22.22.600 Intensity standards.
On any parcel of land within the RS zone, the following intensity standards shall prevail:
(1) Dwelling units: There shall be not more than one dwelling unit for each lot;
(2) Building Coverage.
(a) Building coverage shall be no greater than forty percent of the lot area; provided, however, that the total may be increased to forty-five percent if the following criteria are met:
(i) If the lot is zoned RS-5000,
(ii) All existing provisions of Chapter 22.22 including, but not limited to, permitted uses, intensity standards and site development standards are met,
(b) Building coverage shall include eaves, roof extensions, balconies and other extensions from the building beyond thirty inches;
(3) The floor area ratio (FAR) for both RS-5000 and RS-6500 lots shall not exceed 0.70;
(4) The relationship between the first and second story exterior walls and architectural features, such as window design and location, exterior siding and trim materials, and colors shall be emphasized; and second story architectural relief and roof design features shall be required for the purpose of encouraging high quality design. (Ord. 868 § 4, 2003; Ord. 708 § 5, 1992: Ord. 551 § 2, 1978: Ord. 344 § 5 (part), 1972)
22.22.700 Site development standards.
In addition to the development standards established under Chapter 22.70 of this code, the following standards shall apply to residential development in the RS zones:
(1) Street Frontage, Minimum. The street frontage of each lot shall be no less than:
(a) RS-5000: Fifty feet except that less than fifty feet of street frontage, to a minimum of forty feet in each instance, shall be permitted for lots with fifty percent of their frontage on a cul-de-sac turnaround, lots fronting a curvilinear street with a curve radius of less than one hundred feet, or where the director of community development determines that site characteristics would cause development hardships with a minimum street frontage of fifty feet,
(b) RS-6500: Sixty feet except that less than sixty feet of street frontage, to a minimum of forty feet in each instance, shall be permitted for lots with fifty percent of their frontage on a cul-de-sac turnaround, lots fronting a curvilinear street with a curve radius of less than one hundred feet, or where the director of community development determines that site characteristics would cause development hardships with a minimum street frontage of sixty feet;
(2) Lot Width, Average. The average lot width of each lot shall be no less than:
(a) RS-5000: Fifty feet,
(b) RS-6500: Sixty feet;
(3) Lot area, average: The average lot area of all lots in a subdivision shall be no less than:
(a) RS-5000: Five thousand square feet,
(b) RS-6500: Six thousand five hundred square feet;
(4) Lot area, minimum: The lot area of any lot in a subdivision shall be no less than:
(a) RS-5000: Five thousand square feet,
(b) RS-6500: Six thousand square feet; provided, that no more than twenty percent of the lots in a subdivision shall be less than six thousand five hundred square feet;
(5) Front Yard Setback, Minimum. There shall be a minimum front yard setback of twenty feet. However, if a lot is part of a subdivision, there shall be an average front yard setback of no less than twenty feet in both RS-6500 and RS-5000 zones with a permitted setback range of eighteen to twenty-five feet. Lots with a turn-in garage, lots with at least fifty percent of the front property line on a cul-de-sac turnaround or lots on a curvilinear street with a radius of less than one hundred feet may be permitted a front yard setback of fifteen feet. In no case shall a subdivision have all setbacks of twenty feet;
(6) Rear Yard Setback, Minimum. The rear yard setback of each lot shall be no less than ten feet; except, when the rear property line abuts a street, the setback of the second story shall be a minimum of twenty feet from the rear property line;
(7) Rear Yard Area, Minimum. Within the rear thirty feet of the lot, there shall be a minimum rear yard area of not less than twenty percent of the lot area. On lots over nine thousand square feet, a minimum of one thousand five hundred square feet of open space in the rear thirty feet of the lot shall be provided and the setback for structures in the rear thirty feet of the lot shall be a minimum of twenty feet and an average of no less than twenty-five feet;
(8) Side Yard Setback, Minimum.
(a) For a side yard between two residences, there shall be a minimum five-foot setback from the property line;
(b) For a side yard abutting a street, there shall be a minimum ten-foot setback for the first floor and a fifteen-foot setback for the second floor from the property line, except that an encroachment, such as a bay window or similar architectural feature deemed compatible in size and design with the residence by the director of community development, may be allowed if the encroachment is not more than twenty-four inches into the setback distance;
(9) Side Yard Setback, Zero. A building may be located on a side property line if the following conditions are met:
(a) The side yard setback from the opposite side of the lot shall be no less than ten feet,
(b) The first floor wall on the zero lot line side shall not have any windows and shall be at least a one-hour fire wall or as required by the building code, whichever is more restrictive, with soundproofing materials approved by the director of community development,
(c) Second story walls adjacent to zero lot line side shall be set back at least five feet,
(d) The second story wall adjacent to the zero lot line side shall only have windows with nontransparent fixed material or windows with a sill height of at least six feet if the window opens and/or has transparent material facing the abutting yard of an adjacent property,
(e) Unless buildings on adjacent property abut each other, the space separation between the buildings shall be no less than ten feet,
(f) No accessory structures such as patio covers or swimming pools shall be permitted within five feet of the wall of the property line,
(g) Covenants, conditions and restrictions which are first approved by the city shall be recorded as to each parcel authorizing and permitting the property owner to enter upon the adjacent property for purposes of repairing and maintaining the wall on the property line,
(h) The plan for development shall be agreed to by the owners involved, the agreement to be approved by the director of community development, and recorded as a covenant among the property owners and the city;
(10) Building Height. The building height shall be no greater than thirty-five feet;
(11) Architectural Features. Fireplaces, chimneys, eaves, cornices, and similar architectural features may project into the required yards provided that no such features shall cover more than ten percent of any front yard and that said features may not project:
(a) Within fifteen feet of the front property line,
(b) Within ten feet from the rear property line, wall or fence, whichever is closest,
(c) Within thirty inches from the side property line. Fireplaces that encroach into side yards that are five feet wide shall not be more than five feet wide and only one fireplace projection on that facade is allowed,
(d) Garden windows located on side yard facades shall be a maximum of five feet wide and shall project no more than eighteen inches into the setback area. The roof of the garden window shall be transparent;
(12) Storage. All storage areas must be screened or maintained in a manner that prevents the creation of any nuisance or otherwise detracts from the property value or residential character of the neighborhood;
(13) Floor Area. The gross floor area of any single-family dwelling shall be no less than one thousand two hundred fifty square feet, and the average gross floor area of all single-family dwellings in a subdivision shall be no less than one thousand four hundred fifty square feet. The average gross floor area shall be computed from all proposed dwellings within any approved tentative tract, or if such tentative tract is partially recorded, the average gross floor area shall be computed from all proposed dwellings within the partial recordation. No building permits or group of building permits shall be issued to a single applicant wherein the average gross floor area requirements, as stated herein, are not met, unless a previous building permit, or group of building permits within the same tract, when averaged with the permits requested meets the average gross floor area requirements of the one thousand four hundred fifty square feet;
(14) Walls and Fences.
(a) Definitions. As used in this subsection, the following definitions shall apply:
(i) A “wall” is an exterior vertical structure that serves one or more of the following functions:
(A) Delineates a boundary, such as the extent of a lot or parcel or the demarcation of the front yard area;
(B) Acts as a physical barrier to form an open-air enclosure;
(C) Provides privacy screening;
(D) Holds soil from slumping, sliding, or falling at a grade change, also known as a retaining wall.
(ii) A “block wall” is a type of wall constructed of masonry block. No building materials other than those necessary for interior reinforcement shall otherwise be used in the construction of a block wall. Block walls shall be constructed to be solid and opaque. All block walls shall be compatible with the color, style and usage of the property and shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development.
(iii) A “decorative fence” is a type of wall located within the front yard that is designed and constructed in a manner which allows objects on the other side to be clearly seen above the height of thirty inches. If constructed solely of decorative masonry block, up to a height of thirty inches, a decorative fence may be considered as a type of block wall. All decorative fences shall be compatible with the color, style and usage of the property and shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development.
(iv) A “decorative gate” is a gate or a movable frame or solid structure which swings, slides, or rolls, controlling ingress and egress through an opening in a fence or wall, located within the front yard. All decorative gates shall be compatible with the color, style and usage of the property and shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development.
(v) A “wall extension” is a type of wall installed on top of an existing block wall and that is constructed of masonry block, wrought iron, wood lattice, or vinyl lattice. Vinyl lattice wall extensions must simulate the appearance of wood and duplicate a wood grain texture. Wall extensions constructed of masonry block shall match the building materials and color used to construct the existing block wall. All wall extensions shall be compatible with the color, style and usage of the abutting property and shall require written approval from the director of community development prior to construction.
(vi) “Precision block” or “precision concrete block” is a type of concrete masonry block that is smooth-faced and straight-edged.
(vii) “Decorative masonry block” is a type of masonry block of high decorative quality or texture. Approved examples of decorative masonry block include: brick, slump block, or split-faced block. Precision concrete block may be used if finished with stucco, decorative stone veneer, or other decorative finish as approved by the director of community development in a color compatible with the residence. Comparable materials of high aesthetic quality or decorative texture that are compatible with the color, style, and usage of the property may be used upon review by and approval of the director of community development.
(viii) A “perimeter wall” is a type of wall located on or within six inches of a property line used to demarcate the extent of a lot or the boundaries of a subdivision.
(ix) A “block wall return” is a type of block wall that is located adjacent to the front yard in a manner that connects a side perimeter wall to the exterior wall of a residence and/or creates a physical barrier to enclose and delineate the side yard from the front yard.
(b) Planning Approval Requirement. The construction of all walls, as defined in this section, shall require written approval from the director of community development prior to construction.
(c) Building Permit Requirement. Any construction of a new or replacement wall, including block walls and decorative fences, greater than the height of thirty inches shall require the issuance of a building permit from the department of community development prior to construction.
(d) Requirements for Walls and Decorative Fences Within or Adjacent to the Front Yard. Only block walls and/or decorative fences may be constructed within the front yard, pursuant to the following restrictions:
(i) Materials.
(A) Block Walls. Within the front yard and/or visible from a public right-of-way, a perimeter wall of an interior lot located along or centered on a side property line may be provided as a block wall. A block wall return may also be provided adjacent to the front yard. All new block walls within the front yard that are visible from the public right-of-way shall consist of decorative masonry block, shall be compatible with the color, style and usage of the property, and shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development.
(B) Decorative Fences. Approved materials to construct a front yard decorative fence include wood, wrought iron, vinyl, decorative masonry block, a combination of decorative masonry block and wrought iron, or a combination of masonry block and vinyl. Vinyl used for a decorative fence must simulate the appearance of wood and duplicate a wood grain texture. Decorative fences shall be designed and constructed in a manner which allows objects on the other side to be clearly seen above the height of thirty inches.
Decorative fences consisting of a combination of decorative masonry block and wrought iron or vinyl must be provided above the height of thirty inches with open material, such as wrought iron, vinyl, or other material as approved by the director of community development; except pilasters measuring a maximum of five feet in height, of a cross section of no more than twelve inches by twelve inches and separated by a minimum distance of eight feet, may be permitted only when used to support a decorative fence.
Decorative fences located within the front yard shall be compatible with the color, style and usage of the property and shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development.
(C) Decorative Gates. Approved materials to construct a decorative gate include wood, wrought iron, or vinyl. Vinyl used for a decorative gate must simulate the appearance of wood and duplicate a wood grain texture. Gates are prohibited from swinging out into the public right-of-way.
(ii) Height/Setbacks.
(A) No wall located in the front yard within five feet from the front property line shall exceed a height of thirty inches, including any extensions or decorative elements, as measured from the top of the adjacent street curb.
(B) For corner residential lots, decorative fences, planters or walls located along the arc of the corner shall not exceed eighteen inches in height as measured from the top of the adjacent street curb if said wall is located within five feet of said arc. The director of community development may approve, in cases where the grade of the area of the front yard around the wall is high, a retaining wall in excess of eighteen inches in height but with a maximum of thirty inches.
(C) Decorative fences located within the front yard may be constructed up to a maximum of five feet in height if said decorative fence is set back at least five feet from the front property line. This height restriction shall apply to the portion of a decorative fence located along a side property line that extends into and is located within the front yard but not within five feet of the front property line.
(D) A maximum of six feet in height shall apply for block wall returns and any decorative gates that are incorporated as part of a block wall return located adjacent to the front yard.
(iii) Screening. All decorative fences or gates visible from a street or public right-of-way and that abut the side or rear yard shall incorporate effective and decorative screening materials, such as solid or expanded sheets of metal, vinyl, or wood, or louvers made of metal, vinyl, or wood painted to match said fence or gate, and complement the subject residence. Vinyl used as a screening material for a decorative fence or gate must simulate the appearance of wood and duplicate a wood grain texture. Fiberglass shall be prohibited as a screening material.
(e) Requirements for Perimeter Walls of an Interior Lot within a Residential Subdivision. Only block walls may be constructed as perimeter walls along side and rear property lines of an interior lot within a residential subdivision, pursuant to the following restrictions:
(i) Materials.
(A) A perimeter wall located along the side or rear property line of an interior lot shall consist of masonry block, shall be compatible with the color, style and usage of the property, and shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development.
(ii) Height.
(A) A perimeter wall located along the side or rear property line of an interior lot shall measure a minimum of six feet in height, as measured from the highest ground level on either side of the wall, and/or a maximum of eight feet in height, as measured from the lowest ground level on either side of the wall.
(B) A wall extension may only be permitted within the perimeter of a residential subdivision and shall not cause the aggregate height of the wall and extension to exceed eight feet in height.
(iii) Screening. All decorative fences or gates visible from a street or public right-of-way shall incorporate effective and decorative screening materials, such as solid or expanded sheets of metal, vinyl, or wood, or louvers made of metal, vinyl, or wood painted to match said fence or gate, and complement the subject residence. Vinyl used as a screening material for a decorative fence or gate must simulate the appearance of wood and duplicate a wood grain texture. Fiberglass shall be prohibited as a screening material.
(f) Requirements for Walls along the Perimeter of a Residential Subdivision Abutting Another Single-Family Residential Subdivision. Requirements relating to materials, height, and screening for walls along the perimeter of a residential subdivision abutting another single-family residential subdivision shall be the same as those same requirements for perimeter walls of an interior lot within a residential subdivision.
(g) Requirements for Walls along the Perimeter of a Residential Subdivision Abutting an Arterial Street. Only block walls may be constructed along the perimeter of a residential subdivision, pursuant to the following restrictions:
(i) Materials.
(A) New Walls. All new walls along the perimeter of a new residential subdivision shall be constructed of decorative masonry block in a manner approved by the director of community development.
(B) Replacement Walls. All replacement walls along the perimeter of an existing residential subdivision shall be constructed of decorative masonry block in a manner approved by the director of community development; provided, that the replacement wall is consistent in appearance along the entire perimeter of the subdivision adjacent to an arterial street. If only a portion of the wall along the perimeter of an existing residential subdivision is replaced, then the replaced portion shall be constructed of masonry block that matches the remaining existing wall, subject to the approval of the director of community development.
(ii) Height.
(A) New Walls. All new block walls located along the perimeter of a residential subdivision shall measure a minimum of six feet and six inches in height and a maximum of eight feet in height, as measured from the ground level of the adjacent public right-of-way or sidewalk. A height above eight feet but no greater than ten feet may be permitted under unique circumstances, where the increased height would be beneficial to the general health, safety and welfare of the general public, and shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development.
(B) Replacement Walls. All replacement walls along the perimeter of an existing residential subdivision shall be subject to the same minimum and maximum height standards as new walls; provided, that the replacement wall is consistent in appearance along the entire perimeter of the subdivision adjacent to an arterial street. If only a portion of the wall along the perimeter of an existing residential subdivision is replaced, then the replaced portion shall have a height that matches the remaining existing wall, subject to the approval of the director of community development.
(C) No wall extensions are permitted along the perimeter of a residential subdivision adjacent to an arterial street.
(h) Requirements for Walls Abutting Zones Other Than Single-Family Residential Zones.
(i) Material.
(A) Block walls along the side or rear property lines shall consist of masonry block, shall be compatible with the color, style and usage of the property, and shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development.
(ii) Height.
(A) A block wall of at least eight feet, but no more than ten feet, in height from the highest ground level on either side of the wall shall be constructed on a side or rear yard property line when a home located on property zoned single-family residential abuts property that is zoned multifamily residential, commercial or industrial.
(B) No wall extensions are permitted along the side or rear property lines of properties that abut zones other than single-family residential zones.
(i) Chain Link Fences and Chain Link Gates.
(i) No chain link fence or chain link gate shall be permitted except for legally permitted construction activities approved by the director of community development;
(15) Parking, Off-Street.
(a) Definitions. As used in this subsection, the following definition shall apply:
(i) “New single-family residential construction” shall mean new construction of a single-family residential structure or the complete demolition and reconstruction of an existing single-family residential structure and building foundation.
(b) Garage Requirements.
(i) Parking Spaces Required.
(A) A minimum of two parking spaces within a completely enclosed garage shall be provided for each single-family dwelling.
(B) A minimum of three parking spaces within a completely enclosed garage shall be provided for new single-family residential construction greater than or equal to three thousand five hundred square feet, excluding the enclosed garage.
(C) A minimum of three parking spaces within a completely enclosed garage shall be provided for single-family residential additions or modifications to an existing single-family dwelling, resulting in a residential dwelling greater than or equal to three thousand seven hundred fifty square feet, excluding the enclosed garage.
(ii) Enclosed Garage Dimensions.
(A) The interior dimensions of an enclosed garage containing two parking spaces shall be no less than twenty feet in width and twenty-two feet in depth;
(B) The interior dimensions of an enclosed garage containing three parking spaces shall be no less than thirty feet in width and twenty-two feet in depth.
(iii) Garages shall remain free and clear of any permanent structures, including, but not limited to, walls, utility equipment and storage facilities, that preclude the parking of vehicles.
(iv) The major repair of any vehicle must be conducted within the confines of a garage area and be screened from public view.
(v) Windows visible from the street and installed on the exterior walls of garages shall be the fixed type and shall be provided with obscured glass. The style, design and color of the window frames shall match the other windows found on the subject residence and shall be subject to the approval of the department of community development.
(c) Driveway Requirements.
(i) There shall be a concrete driveway having a minimum length of twenty feet in front of the garage entrance within the property boundaries. The driveway shall be set back at least three feet from the closest side property line and the maximum width of the driveway shall not exceed twenty-five feet for a two-car garage or thirty-five feet for a three-car garage. The driveway apron or curb cut for a two-car garage may not be increased or widened to the equal width of a three-car garage apron unless the existing garage has been legally converted into a three-car garage. There shall be only one driveway and one curb cut or apron permitted per residential lot.
(d) Tandem Parking. There shall be no tandem parking within enclosed garages.
(16) Landscaping.
(a) Definitions. As used in this subsection, the following definitions shall apply:
(i) A “hedge” is a grouping and/or massing of plant material, including but not limited to shrubs or bushes, which are maintained in a manner that obscures visibility.
(ii) A “landscape screen” is any form or combination of hedges, planters, rock features and other landscape amenities determined by the department of community development to obscure visibility.
(b) Planning Approval Requirement. The installation of landscaping, as defined by Section 20.30.470 and including drought-tolerant plant material or synthetic turf, located within the front yard area, shall require approval from the department of community development prior to installation. In order to ensure substantial compliance with the spirit, intent, and provisions of this section, and to ensure the highest quality aesthetic standards related to landscape plant materials within the front yard area, a professionally prepared landscape plan shall be submitted to the department of community development for planning approval prior to installation. The professionally prepared landscape plan shall be consistent with the design principles and landscape recommendations, as provided in the Residential Front Yard Landscape Design Manual.
(c) Landscaping Requirements. Open areas visible from the street which are not approved driveways or parking areas shall be landscaped and maintained with a suitable ground cover in order to ensure that the appearance of the property will not create a public nuisance or be a detriment to the value of surrounding properties.
(i) Coverage.
(A) A minimum of forty percent of the front yard area shall be landscaped.
(B) A minimum of eighteen inches of organic plant material shall be required between the driveway and the pedestrian entry walkway.
(ii) Setbacks.
(A) For corner residential lots, the maximum height of hedges and landscape screens within ten feet of the property line at the sidewalk shall not exceed a height of thirty inches, as measured from the top of the adjacent street curb. The maximum height of thirty inches shall include any form or combination of hedges and landscape screens.
(B) For other residential lots, there shall be a setback of ten feet from the front property line and ten feet from the edge of both sides of the driveway. The height of hedges and landscape screens located in the rectangular area that is intersected by both of these areas shall not exceed a height of thirty inches as measured from the top of the adjacent street curb. The maximum height of thirty inches shall include any form or combination of hedges and landscape screens.
(iii) Decorative Features.
(A) Decorative fountains and ponds constructed in the front yard shall be subject to the approval of the department of community development.
(d) Drought-Tolerant Landscaping.
(i) Organic Plant Material. Drought-tolerant organic plant material shall be permitted. Organic plant material shall comprise a minimum of eighty percent of the front yard landscape area described in subsection (16)(c)(i)(A) of this section.
(ii) Non-organic Material. Non-organic material may be permitted up to a maximum of twenty percent of the required minimum front yard landscape area described in subsection (16)(c)(i)(A) of this section. The use of non-organic material in residential front yards may include a combination of the following: decomposed aggregate, gravel, and/or rock.
(iii) Parkway Landscaping. The use of decomposed aggregate, gravel, rock, and/or other non-organic material within a parkway shall be prohibited. Only organic plant material shall be permitted within the parkway area.
(e) Synthetic Turf.
(i) Definitions. As used in this subsection, the following definitions shall apply:
(A) “Synthetic turf” is synthetic or artificial non-organic material that simulates the appearance of organic sod, grass, or lawn ground cover. Synthetic turf shall not mean painted natural organic grass or sod.
(B) “Face weight” is defined as the weight in ounces of synthetic turf fibers found in one square yard of synthetic turf.
(ii) Coverage.
(A) Notwithstanding subsection (16)(d) of this section, synthetic turf shall be permitted on a maximum of seventy-five percent of the required front yard landscape area described in subsection (16)(c)(i)(A) of this section. The remaining twenty-five percent of the front yard landscape area shall be comprised of organic plant material.
(B) Synthetic turf shall not be permitted within a parkway area. Only organic plant material shall be permitted within the parkway area.
(iii) Materials. The installation of synthetic turf in a front yard landscape area must simulate the appearance of natural organic ground cover materials and shall meet the following material requirements:
(A) Type. Synthetic turf shall be cut pile infill with parallel long slit blades. Long slit blades shall be manufactured from polyethylene or polypropylene. Synthetic turf shall have a maximum spacing between tufting rows of no more than three-eighths inch and shall have a tear grab strength of a minimum of two hundred pounds. The use of synthetic turf shall comply with all federal and state standards related to lead and heavy metal content. The use of indoor or outdoor plastic or nylon carpeting is prohibited.
(B) Infill. Synthetic turf shall contain an infill material of clean silica sand or zeolite material that is brushed into the synthetic turf to keep blades upright and achieve an organic ground cover appearance. Rubber infill shall be prohibited.
(C) Density. Pile height shall be a minimum of one and three fourths inches long and a maximum of two and one-half inches long, and shall also have a face weight of at least fifty.
(D) Color. Synthetic turf blades shall contain at least two shades of green and shall contain a beige or tan thatch layer.
(E) Durability. Synthetic turf shall be resistant to staining, weather, insects, rot, mildew and fungus growth, and shall be non-allergenic, non-toxic, and flame resistant.
(F) Warranty. Synthetic turf materials shall have an eight year minimum manufacturer warranty.
(iv) Installation. Synthetic turf shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer specifications. The use and installation of synthetic turf in front yard landscape areas shall be subject to the following installation requirements:
(A) Be affixed to a permeable triple layer primary backing with tuft bind strength of at least eight pounds. The backing shall allow water to percolate through the synthetic turf at a drain rate of at least thirty inches per hour.
(B) Be installed over at least three inches of firmly compacted aggregate base that provides adequate drainage.
(C) Seams shall not be visible and shall be fastened in a manner that ensures that seams are firm, tight, and permanent. All seams and edges shall be permanently anchored and shall be nailed, sewn, or glued with the grain pointing in a single direction.
(D) Existing irrigation systems, including piping and sprinkler heads, that are no longer necessary, shall be capped or removed, and shall not be visible from the street.
(E) Reasonable efforts shall be made to protect existing trees and tree roots from damage during installation. Measures shall be taken on an on-going basis to ensure the long-term health of organic plant material located in proximity to synthetic turf.
(v) Maintenance. Synthetic turf shall be maintained in an attractive and clean condition pursuant to Chapter 6.20 of this code and shall not contain holes, tears, stains, discoloration, seam separations, lifted surfaces, heat degradation, or excessive wear. Failure to maintain synthetic turf in accordance with the provisions of this section shall constitute a violation of the property maintenance provisions set forth in Chapter 6.20, and shall be declared a public nuisance.
(17) Swimming Pools and Pool Equipment.
1. Except as hereinafter provided, all reference to swimming pools shall include in-ground and above-ground pools and spas, including portable spas, jacuzzis and other such devices.
2. The swimming pool may encroach into a portion of the front yard, and may encroach into or be entirely located within the side yard; provided, that the director of community development and/or the planning commission find, in accordance with the provisions of this section, that the configuration of the residential lot, the location of the residence thereon, the relationship of the lot to the contiguous properties, and adjacent land uses will permit the construction of the swimming pool in the side or front yard while insuring that the swimming pool will be compatible with, and not detrimental to, the use of these surrounding properties. In order to determine that the swimming pool shall be compatible, the property owner shall comply with the following:
(a) In any instance where a swimming pool is to be constructed entirely in the rear yard, encroaches not more than twenty-five percent into the side yard, or is located entirely or in part in a side yard abutting a street or a land use other than residential, an application for such approval shall be filed with, reviewed and approved by the director of community development in accordance with the provisions of Section 23.90.300 of this code.
(b) Except as provided in subsection (2)(a) above, in any instance where a swimming pool encroaches more than twenty-five percent into the side yard or into any portion of the front yard, an application for such approval shall be filed with, reviewed and approved by the Cerritos planning commission in accordance with the provisions of Section 23.90.400 of this code.
3. All swimming pools constructed in the city shall comply with the following conditions:
(a) There shall be a minimum setback distance of fifteen feet between the water line of the swimming pool and any adjacent residential structure. However, said setback may be reduced to a minimum of ten feet; provided, that:
(i) The swimming pool is located in the rear yard; and
(ii) The rear property line of the lot on which the pool is to be located abuts the side property line(s) of residential lot(s).
(b) Any swimming pool which encroaches twenty-five percent or more into the side yard, or any swimming pool which complies with the provisions of subsection (c) hereinafter and which encroaches into the front yard, shall have a minimum setback distance of thirty-four feet between the water line of the swimming pool and the front property line or ten feet forward of the front facade of the residential structure furthermost from the front property line, whichever is greater.
(c) Swimming pools may be permitted to encroach beyond the front facade of the residential structure furthermost from the front property line and into the front yard provided that:
(i) The lot fronts on a cul-de-sac and has fifty percent of its street frontage along said cul-de-sac turnaround, or on a street curve which has less than a one hundred foot radius; or
(ii) The side of the lot on which the pool is to be located abuts a street or property which has a land use other than residential, or abuts the rear property line(s) of residential lot(s).
In no instance shall the swimming pool be entirely located in the front yard.
(d) There shall be a minimum setback of three feet between the water line and any property line, fence, block wall, or pool equipment. In addition, pool accessory equipment such as slides, diving boards and the like shall not be located in the front yard, closer than three feet to any rear or side property line, nor closer than forty feet from the front property line.
(e) Pool heating and filtering equipment shall include all pumps, motors, blowers and similar devices and shall be approved by the director of community development and/or the planning commission; provided, that the equipment shall:
(i) Be set back a minimum of fifteen feet from any adjacent residence;
(ii) Be set back a minimum of forty feet from the front property line;
(iii) Not be located within the front yard; and
(iv) Not be higher than one foot below the height of the block wall(s) or solid fence(s) around the pool area.
In addition, the director of community development and/or the planning commission, in reviewing the location of such equipment, may require that it be located along the rear property line and/or require the installation of sound attenuation materials including, but not limited to, solid covers, landscaped buffers and/or a ventilated enclosure if he or they determine that sound emanating from the equipment may interfere with the use of adjacent residences.
(f) The swimming pool shall be enclosed with a minimum six-foot fence or wall with self-latching gates. If any portion of the swimming pool or the accessory equipment or heating and filtering equipment encroaches into any portion of the side or front yard, as provided hereinabove, then there shall be constructed on the property a decorative solid fence or block wall which shall be compatible with the surrounding fences or walls and harmonious with the architectural design of the residential structure and area, and shall be first approved as to location and design by the director of community development;
(18) Patios, Patio Covers, Patio Enclosures and Solariums. Patio, patio covers, patio enclosures, and solariums are intended for outdoor recreation and living purposes and are not to be used for storage or as a habitable room.
(a) Patios.
(i) Patios shall be restricted to rear and side yards;
(ii) Paved patio surfaces, including wood decking, may extend to a side or rear property line providing that the surface remain at least six feet below the top of the property line wall or no more than twelve inches higher than existing grade, whichever is more restrictive;
(b) Patio Structures.
(i) Open Lattice Patio Structure.
(A) An open lattice patio structure means an openwork structure attached to a residence that provides partial shelter from the weather elements;
(B) Open lattice patio structures and support posts shall have a setback of at least five feet from the side and rear property line;
(C) Open lattice patio structures may not cover more than forty percent of an RS-5000 side or rear yard or thirty-two percent of an RS-6500 side or rear yard;
(D) Wood, baked enamel aluminum and open lattice vinyl patio structures are permitted. Vinyl patio structures must be approved by an independent testing laboratory and installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications and all relevant California Building Codes. The manufacturer’s installation standards must be submitted prior to building permits being issued;
(E) Wood open lattice patio structures shall be painted or stained with a color that is compatible with the trim of the stucco of the residence;
(F) Corrugated polycarbonate may be used as a patio cover material on open lattice patio structures in accordance with the following requirements:
(1) Corrugated polycarbonate patio covers shall be constructed with the correct pitch to meet city building code requirements and shall only be permitted for use on open lattice patio structures located in the rear yard of a residence; however, fiberglass, steel or other corrugated patio cover materials are prohibited.
(2) The color of the corrugated polycarbonate patio cover material shall be compatible with the color of the residence and shall comply with the color palette standards set forth in Chapter 22.70.
(3) A continuous fascia board shall be installed around the perimeter of the open lattice patio structure to effectively screen the corrugated polycarbonate from view;
(ii) Solid Patio Structure.
(A) A solid patio structure means a roofed open area attached to the existing residence that provides complete shelter from the weather elements;
(B) Solid patio structures and support posts shall have a setback of at least five feet from the side and rear property line;
(C) Solid patio structures may not cover more than forty percent of an RS-5000 side or rear yard or thirty-two percent of an RS-6500 side or rear yard;
(D) Solid patio structures shall be constructed with roofing material to match the existing residence and shall have the correct pitch to meet city building code requirements. If the correct pitch cannot be met, the patio roof may be covered with hot mop and rock of a color which shall match the roof on the existing residence. A continuous fascia board shall be required around the perimeter of the solid patio structure to effectively screen the hot mop and rock roofing from view;
(iii) Freestanding gazebos, including gazebos over pools and spas, shall comply with the same standards as for patio structures;
(iv) All patio structures shall comply with city building code requirements;
(c) Patio Enclosures.
(i) All of the standards for patio covers in Section 22.22.700(18)(b) shall apply;
(ii) Patio enclosures shall be readily removable 0.125-inch maximum thickness plastic windows or insect screening with thirty-inch maximum kneewalls; enclosure walls shall be a minimum of five feet from side and rear property lines; however, if the rear or side property abuts a street, the patio enclosure must be at least ten feet from the rear or side property line, wall or fence, whichever is closest;
(iii) The patio enclosure shall be attached to the main wall of the building and no structural changes shall be made to the main building;
(iv) Any second story deck which is enclosed shall be considered an addition and included as part of the total floor area;
(d) Solariums.
(i) The location, setback, and lot coverage requirements for patio covers and patio enclosures shall be applicable for solariums;
(ii) The side panels shall be readily removable 0.125-inch maximum thickness plastic windows or insect screening with thirty-inch maximum kneewalls;
(iii) The straight slope portion of the roof shall be a minimum of .280-inch-thick laminated glass and the curved portion shall be a minimum of 0.125-inch thickness. Alternate materials may be used in place of the glass providing the materials are approved by the director of community development and comply with the city building code requirements;
(iv) Solariums shall meet the height, wind, and live load requirements of the building code for patio covers;
(v) The solarium shall be attached to a wall of the main building and no structural changes shall be made to the main building;
(19) Signs. Signs shall be permitted as provided in Chapter 22.48 of this code, including, but not limited to, one sign containing only a resident’s name and/or address on no more than one square foot of sign area.
(20) Manufactured Housing. In addition to the other requirements of this chapter, manufactured housing shall conform to the following provisions:
(a) Be attached to a permanent foundation system in compliance with all applicable building regulations;
(b) Be covered with an exterior material customarily used on conventional dwellings. The exterior covering material shall extend to the ground;
(c) Have a sloped roof surfaced with wood shake or tile;
(21) Radio and Television Antennas. Radio or television transmission or receiving facilities if installed shall conform to the provisions of Section 22.40.910;
(22) Mechanical and Electrical Equipment. Mechanical and electrical equipment, devices, or facilities which are ancillary to residential dwelling units including, but not limited to, air conditioning and filtration systems, attic ventilators, solar energy systems, and electric vehicle charging stations shall conform to the precise plan provisions established under Chapter 23.01. In case of conflict between these standards and the requirements established through covenants, conditions and restrictions of a residential area, the most restrictive standards shall apply.
(a) Air Conditioning and Filtration Systems.
(i) Units shall be prohibited from the roof and shall be located in the rear yard and/or side yards, if the original design of the structure was constructed to allow an area for said unit, and provided that in both cases that the units are not visible and/or audible from an adjacent property, structure, and/or street. The application for the approval of the installation of a unit on the roof of a structure shall be filed with, reviewed and approved by the Cerritos planning commission in accordance with the provisions of Section 23.90.400, except that written notification thereof shall be given in accordance with the provisions of Section 20.93.400.
(ii) No noise shall be generated which causes the maximum noise level at any point on the property lines surrounding the premises on which noise is produced to exceed the background (ambient noise) including traffic noise by five dB(A) measured at the same point, or fifty dB(A) whichever is greater.
(iii) Units shall be mounted on a concrete slab and/or platform determined to be structurally sound.
(iv) Units may be required to be screened to eliminate noise and/or visibility. In cases of screening, type and design of screen shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development.
(v) Units shall be placed in a location on the property where the least amount of noise is heard by adjacent properties.
(vi) Units shall have motors and controls to mitigate noise levels, and to conserve energy use.
(vii) Portable window and wall units may be permitted; provided, that they comply with the above set forth standards except condition (iii) shall be installed so that said feature blends with the architectural design of the house and is screened from view from an adjacent public street.
(b) Attic Ventilators.
(i) Units may be located within the attic portion of the structure and/or the roof of the structure.
(ii) Wind turbine units located on the roof shall be of the low profile type and located on that portion of the roof of the structure not visible from an abutting street where possible. The unit shall not exceed twenty-four inches in height and shall not extend above the highest point of the roof.
(iii) Low profile roof-mounted attic fans, and gable-end attic fans shall be permitted in lieu of a wind turbine and may be visible from an abutting street.
(iv) All units shall be painted with a color which is compatible with the color of the roof, and said colors shall be compatible with other residences in the neighborhood.
(c) Solar Energy Systems. The goals and objectives of the general plan encourage and promote an enhanced residential park-like environment through the implementation of the development and design standards of the development code. The general plan recognizes that there is also a need to encourage and promote an awareness in the community as to alternative means of conserving energy resources. The use of solar energy can be a cost-effective means of space heating and cooling and of water heating for domestic hot water and for heating swimming pools and spas. It is the intent of this section to regulate and provide for solar and alternative energy systems but not to impose unreasonable restrictions which significantly increase the cost or significantly decrease the efficiency of such systems. To ensure a process by which the goals and objectives of the community are balanced with the implementation of alternative ways to conserve energy resources, the following shall apply:
(i) To the greatest extent possible, all subdivisions shall be designed to promote passive or natural heating or cooling or other alternative energy systems. Lots and buildings shall be oriented with due consideration for local climate, parcel configuration, contours, costs and other design and improvement requirements contained within the Cerritos general plan and city development code.
(ii) Any person seeking to install a solar or other alternative energy system shall file an application for approval with the director of community development for review and approval in accordance with the provisions of Sections 15.04.060 and 23.90.300.
(iii) Development Standards. All solar or other alternative energy systems shall be subject to the following development standards:
(A) The system shall conform to all applicable provisions and requirements of the County of Los Angeles Building, Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing Codes, adopted by reference by the city of Cerritos in Chapters 15.04, 15.12, 15.16, and 15.20, respectively.
(B) The installation of any solar or alternative energy system shall be consistent with the design principles, requirements, and recommendations as provided in the Residential Solar Energy System Guidelines Manual, maintained by the department of community development.
(iv) All solar energy systems shall be installed only after approval by the director of community development and only after issuance of the necessary building permit and any and all other permits required by the city relating to the plumbing, electrical and mechanical characteristics of the system.
(v) Upon installation of a solar energy system, the applicant shall be responsible for obtaining authorization and approval to connect the solar energy system to the local utility provider’s electricity grid. Such approval will not be the responsibility of, nor provided by, the city of Cerritos.
(d) Electric Vehicle Charging Stations.
(i) Definitions. “Electric vehicle charging station” or “electric vehicle charging supply equipment” shall have the same meaning as stated in Section 15.12.060.
(ii) Planning Approval Requirement. Any person seeking to install an electric vehicle charging station shall file an application for approval with the department of community development for review and approval in accordance with the provisions of Sections 15.12.060 and 23.90.300.
(iii) Development Standards. All electric vehicle charging stations shall be subject to the development standards provided in Section 15.12.060.
(23) Roofing. Roofs shall be as specified in this code and as otherwise required by this section.
(a) Definitions. Unless otherwise specified herein, all definitions of roofing materials shall be as set forth in the most recent edition of the Los Angeles County Building Code adopted by the city in Chapter 15.04 of this code. A Class A rated fire-retardant system, as defined by the International Conference of Building Officials, shall include the following: products labeled as Class B shakes or shingles, installed according to Uniform Building Code Standards 15-3 and 15-4, over spaced or solid sheathing covered either with one layer of one-quarter-inch thick Dens Deck Roof Board or with one layer of seventy-two-pound mineral-surfaced cap sheet.
(i) Cement composition roofing shall mean a mixture of cement and fibrous material such as cellulose formed to simulate wood shake, clay tile or concrete tile in appearance, color and texture.
(ii) Color of all roofing materials shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development.
(iii) Heavy-butted asphalt shingle shall mean a dimensional thirty-year minimum warranty asphalt/fiberglass shingle that has a butt of a thickness equivalent to medium wood shake (approximately one-half inch).
(iv) Metal roofing shall mean a formed overglazed stone coated corrosive resistant material or a treated material coated on all sides with a moisture impervious material and shall be at least a twenty-six gauge (26 AWG) thickness metal which simulates wood shake, clay tile or concrete tile in color and appearance.
(v) Synthetic shake or synthetic tile roof material shall have the appearance, color and texture of wood shake, clay tile or concrete tile and shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development. As used in this section, synthetic shake or synthetic tile does not include asphalt shingle.
(vi) Wood shake shall have a butt thickness of at least one-half inch, warranted for at least thirty years and shall be installed as part of a Class A rated fire-retardant system, as defined and certified by the International Conference of Building Officials, as indicated in subsection (23)(a) of this section.
(vii) Fiberglass roofing materials shall be warranted for at least thirty years.
(b) New Construction. All new buildings shall have a Class A fire-retardant roof covering which shall be either clay tile or concrete tile or wood shake or wood shingle.
(c) Room Addition. Whenever a room addition is constructed which requires the replacement of less than forty percent of the total roof area, any new roofing materials shall match the remainder of the existing roof in color and type of material and shall conform to the permitted materials in this code; wood shakes and shingle used in replacing forty percent or less of the roof area shall be rated as a Class A system, as defined and certified by the International Conference of Building Officials, as indicated in subsection (23)(a) of this section. Otherwise the entire roof shall be replaced pursuant to the provisions of subsection (23)(d) of this section.
(d) Reroofing. When roofing materials are replaced on forty percent or more of the total roof area, the materials must be replaced for all buildings on the lot if the existing materials are not permitted or do not match the new material, in accordance with the following criteria:
(i) Asphalt shingle shall be replaced with a Class A rated fire-retardant wood shake or wood shingle, as defined and certified by the International Conference of Building Officials, and as indicated in subsection (23)(a) of this section; clay tile or concrete tile; synthetic shake or synthetic tile; cement composition tile or cement composition shake; metal roofing or heavy-butted asphalt shingle.
(ii) Built-up roofs may be replaced with a built-up roof or as provided in subparagraph (iii) of this subdivision.
(iii) Wood shake or wood shingle, clay tile or concrete tile or synthetic tile shall be replaced with a Class A rated fire-retardant wood shake or wood shingle, as defined and certified by the International Conference of Building Officials, and as indicated in subsection (23)(a) of this section; clay tile or concrete tile; synthetic shake or synthetic tile; cement composition tile or cement composition shake; metal roofing or heavy-butted asphalt shingle;
(24) Exterior Materials. Materials allowed for exterior siding and trim of residential structures include wood, brick, stone, glass, stucco, and vinyl;
(a) Vinyl siding may only replace existing wood clapboard or wood shingle siding, must duplicate a wood grain appearance and shall be compatible with the architectural features of the home and surrounding neighborhood. The location and building facade coverage of the siding shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development in order to ensure a high level of architectural design and compatibility with surrounding land uses.
(i) The original wood or shingle siding must be removed prior to installation.
(ii) The minimum siding thickness shall be no less than .040 inches.
(iii) Vinyl siding shall be installed according to the minimum standards set forth by Section 1404 of the California Building Code and Uniform Building Code Standards 14-2 in accordance with approved manufacturer’s instructions. The manufacturer’s installation standards must be submitted for review prior to building permits being issued;
(25) Skylights. Roof-mounted skylights shall be constructed of bronze or clear material which has a maximum dome height of six inches. The exterior skylight framing shall match the color of the roofing material;
(26) Mail Boxes.
(a) Definitions. As used in this subsection, the following definitions shall apply:
(i) A “wall-mounted mail box” is a mail box located on the facade of a residence.
(ii) A “freestanding mail box” is a mail box located in the public right-of-way for which the maintenance of the mail box is the responsibility of the property owner.
(iii) A “paired freestanding mail box” consists of two mail boxes located in the public right-of-way that are joined together by either a metal or wood structure. Each mail box is assigned to one property address or residence for which the maintenance of the mail box is the responsibility of the respective property owner.
(iv) A “residence” is a home, abode or place where an individual is actually living at a specific point in time.
(b) Requirements for Wall-Mounted Mail Boxes.
(i) Wall-mounted mail boxes shall be constructed of a rust-resistant material and shall include a locking device.
(ii) All wall-mounted mail boxes shall be compatible with the color, style, material and usage of the residence and residences located in the immediate neighborhood.
(c) Requirements for Freestanding Mail Boxes.
(i) Freestanding mail boxes shall be constructed of a rust-resistant material and shall include a locking device.
(ii) Freestanding mail boxes shall be a maximum of forty-eight inches in height as measured from the top of the mail box to the finish grade, but shall not be less than twenty-five inches in height as measured from the bottom of the mail box to the finish grade.
(iii) Freestanding mail boxes shall be supported by either a metal or wood post painted to match or compliment the color of the mail box.
(iv) The base of the metal or wood post or area measuring four inches above the finish grade shall be constructed of concrete or protected by a wear-resistant material.
(v) All freestanding mail boxes shall be compatible with the color, style, material and usage of the residence and residences located in the immediate neighborhood and shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development.
(d) Requirements for Paired Freestanding Mail Boxes.
(i) Paired freestanding mail boxes shall be constructed of a rust-resistant material and shall include a locking device.
(ii) Paired freestanding mail boxes shall be a maximum of forty-eight inches in height as measured from the top of the mail box to the finish grade, but shall not be less than twenty-five inches in height as measured from the bottom of the mail box to the finish grade.
(iii) Paired freestanding mail boxes shall be supported by either a metal or wood structure painted to match or compliment the color of the mail box.
(iv) The base of the metal or wood post or area measuring four inches above the finish grade shall be constructed of concrete or protected by a resistant material.
(v) All paired freestanding mail boxes shall be consistent in color, style, material and usage and compatible with each residence and residences located in the immediate neighborhood and shall be subject to the approval of the director of community development;
(27) New Construction. Residential structures which will have more than fifty percent of the existing structure floor area, including garages, altered or demolished for the purpose of expanding the structure, will require a precise plan and approval by the planning commission. Residential structure additions and modifications which will increase the gross floor area by at least seventy percent of the existing gross floor area or nine hundred square feet, whichever is less, will require a precise plan and approval by the planning commission;
(28) Temporary Storage Containers.
(a) Definition. As used in this subsection, the following definition shall apply:
(i) A “temporary storage container” is any object which is placed in the front yard of a residence for a period of longer than seventy-two hours into which goods, including but not limited to furniture, tools, equipment, merchandise or similar items, are packed or placed in said object for secure, temporary storage.
(b) The use of temporary storage containers placed in the front yards of residential properties shall be prohibited and shall constitute a nuisance as that term is used in Chapter 6.20. (Ord. 1013 §§ 3, 4, 2017; Ord. 1007 § 2, 2016; Ord. 1003 §§ 3—8, 2016; Ord. 997 § 3, 2015; Ord. 995 § 1, 2015; Ord. 948 § 1, 2009; Ord. 921 § 2, 2007; Ord. 918 §§ 1, 2, 3, 2006; Ord. 914 § 1, 2006; Ord. 912 §§ 25, 26, 2006; Ord. 894 § 1, 2005; Ord. 891 § 1, 2005; Ord. 871 § 1, 2003; Ord. 870 §§ 1, 2, 3, 2003; Ord. 868 § 5, 2003; Ord. 859 §§ 2—14, 2002; Ord. 857 § 1, 2002; Ord. 826 §§ 1—6, 2001; Ord. 814 § 1, 2000; Ord. 813 § 1, 1999; Ord. 770 § 1 (part), 1996; Ord. 737 §§ 10, 11, 12, 13, 1994; Ord. 708 §§ 6—32, 1992; Ord. 667 § 1, 1988; Ord. 665 §§ 1, 2, 1987; Ord. 663 §§ 2, 3, 4, 1987; Ord. 628 § 2, 1984; Ord. 625 § 1, 1984; Ord. 614 § 1, 1983; Ord. 610 § 1, 1983; Ord. 594 § 1, 1981; Ord. 591 § 2, 1981; Ord. 581 § 1, 1981; Ord. 544 § 2 (part), 1977; Ord. 519 § 1 (part), 1976; Ord. 517 § 7,
Code reviser’s note: The text of this section continues on the next page.
1976; Ord. 504 § 2, 1975; Ord. 495 §§ 2, 3, 1975; Ord. 482 § 2, 1974; Ord. 428 § 3, 1973; Ord. 400 § 3, 1972; Ord. 344 § 5 (part), 1972)
22.22.800 Environmental performance standards.
The city environmental performance standards, established under Chapter 22.80 of this code and as amended from time to time, shall apply in the RS zones. (Ord. 344 § 5 (part), 1972)
22.22.900 Precise plan approval.
In order to ensure substantial compliance with the spirit, intent, and provisions of this code and to ensure the highest quality development standards, a precise plan of design shall be filed with the city for review by the director of community development. No building permit shall be issued unless and until the precise plan is approved by the planning commission, subject to appeal to the city council. The precise plan application shall include and contain all the standards and procedures required by the director of community development, and, in addition, shall include:
(1) The design and dimensions of all lots;
(2) A tabulation of the various dwelling types proposed showing the number of single-family dwellings per net acre, the gross floor area of each dwelling type, and the overall average gross floor area of the proposed dwellings;
(3) The location and dimensions of all proposed buildings and structures for each lot;
(4) The percentage of lot coverage of all buildings, including accessory buildings and garages, but excluding patios;
(5) The percentage of front yard coverage of any architectural features on a lot;
(6) The percentage of each rear yard area in relation to lot area as defined in Section 22.22.700 (7);
(7) The square foot area of any patio on a lot;
(8) The average front yard setback of the tract;
(9) The average square foot area of lots within the tract;
(10) The percentage of lots in an RS-6500 tract with less lot area than six thousand five hundred square feet;
(11) The average lot width of irregularly shaped lots;
(12) The design of tract entrances and sidewalks along arterial streets, buffer strips, and all proposed fencing;
(13) The location of school sites, park and recreational facilities, and other public and quasi-public facilities;
(14) Itemization of any exceptions to required development standards.
The precise plan shall be accompanied by elevations in sufficient detail to indicate the architectural features of all proposed dwelling types. Approval of a precise plan shall be conditioned, in part, upon approval of architectural quality and compatibility. If, upon review of elevations and other drawings, the planning commission or the city council determines that there is a question of architectural quality or compatibility, the planning commission or city council may elect to submit the precise plan to a design review committee composed of professionals in the fields of architecture, planning, and landscape architecture, such persons to be selected by the city council. A decision rendered by a design review committee shall be advisory to the planning commission and/or city council and shall in no way preempt their authority to make a determination regarding architectural quality or compatibility.
If the applicant contemplates the construction of single family dwellings in increments, he shall submit a proposed construction schedule designating the dwelling types to be constructed in each increment.
At the time the precise plan is considered, the planning commission may authorize minor variations to the development standards set forth herein in those instances where the modifications provide for more desirable development in keeping with the spirit and intent of this code.
After a precise plan has been approved by the planning commission, the director of community development may approve minor changes to the precise plan provided that, in his judgment and opinion, such changes do not substantively vary the previously approved precise plan and that these changes conform with the spirit and intent of this code. Any persons aggrieved by a decision of the director of community development may appeal the decision as provided in Chapter 20.95 of this code. (Ord. 770 § 1 (part), 1996; Ord. 344 § 5 (part), 1972)