Chapter 20.16 GENERAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS

1. Required yards shall be measured as the minimum horizontal distance from the property line of the site or street line parallel thereto on the site; provided, that where a street plan has been adopted by the City Council, site area and required yards shall be measured from the plan line, and no provision of this Title shall be construed to permit a structure or use to extend beyond such line; provided further, that where a site abuts on a street having only a portion of its required width dedicated or reserved for street purposes, site area and required yards shall be measured from a line drawn on the boundary of the additional width required for street purposes abutting the site.

2. On a lot that is not rectangular or approximately rectangular in shape, required yard areas shall be measured in a manner prescribed by the planning commission.

3. On a flag lot with an average width that exceeds its average depth, the longer dimension may be considered the depth for purposes of measuring front, side and rear yards.

4. Front yard setbacks for interior lots fronting on a cul-de-sac, which are not generally rectangular in shape, shall be a line parallel with the curve of the cul-de-sac. The two lines that are tangent to the curved front yard setback shall be considered the side property lines and all other property lines shall be considered rear property lines.

B. Front yard requirements and exceptions.

1. On a lot situated between lots improved with buildings, the minimum front yard may be the average depth of the front yards on the improved sites adjoining the sidelines of the site.

2. Where a lot is not situated between lots improved with buildings but where lots comprising 40 percent of the frontage on a block are improved with buildings, the minimum front yard may be the average of the existing front yard depths on the block.

3. Where the elevation of a lot at the front property line is five feet or more above or below the established street elevation at the edge of the existing or proposed pavement, or where a lot has an average natural slope of 20 percent or more measured from the existing or proposed pavement to the rear line of the required front yard, a garage or carport may be constructed not less than 15 feet from the edge of the existing or proposed pavement; provided, that in no case shall a garage or carport have a front yard of less than three feet. Where the front yard setback to a garage measures less than 18 feet, the garage shall be provided with an automatic pull-up door opener.

C. Side yards abutting front or rear entrances of dwellings.

Where dwellings are arranged so that their front or rear entrances abut on a side yard, the required side yard abutting the front entrances shall be increased by two feet. The required side yard abutting the rear entrances shall be increased by one foot.

D. Increased side yard opposite living room windows.

On lots containing two or more dwelling units, where a legally required window or windows of a living room faces an interior side yard, the width of the side yard within 20 feet of the centerline of the window shall be not less than 20 percent of the width of the site, provided that a width of less than 12 feet shall not be permitted and a width of more than 18 feet shall not be required. Such side yard shall be provided at and above the floor level of the first story containing a legally required living room window.

E. Vision clearance, corner lots.

On corner lots, within a triangular area formed by the street property lines and a line connecting points on the street property lines 30 feet from the street intersection, no fence, wall, hedge, or other obstruction, except the natural grade of a site, shall exceed a height of 30 inches above established grade at the edge of the existing or proposed pavement, provided that trees pruned up to eight feet above street grade shall be permitted.

F. Width, corner lots.

The minimum width of corner lots in an R or ORM district shall be 20 percent greater than the minimum width for the district as otherwise provided.

G. Building setbacks adjoining a freeway or railroad.

No lot adjacent to a freeway or railroad right-of-way shall be allowed to have buildings constructed within 130 feet of said right-of-way until noise mitigation is provided along with project development as approved by the planning director such that the sound level standards are not exceeded for that zoning district as set forth in Chapter 9.32 HMC. (Ord. 1012 § 2 (Exh. B § 1), 2004; Ord. 1010 § 4 (Exh. A § 8), 2003; Ord. 971 § 2 (Exh. A § 4), 2001; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1805), 1998.)

20.16.010 Projections into required yards

Except as otherwise provided in this Title, projections from exterior building walls of main structures into required yards shall be permitted as follows.

A. Uncovered patios, decks, and similar elements having a height of not more than 18 inches above natural or finished grade, whichever is more restrictive, shall be exempt from these provisions and shall be permitted anywhere in a side or rear setback.

B. Eaves, cornices, bay windows, utility closets, fireplace chimneys, and similar projections may extend up to two feet into any required front, rear or side structures.

C. Porches, decks, balconies, exterior stairs, landings, and similar structures may extend up to five feet into any required front or rear yard and up to two feet into any required side yard, provided such structures are open on three sides, except for low walls or railings up to 42 inches in height above the finished floor.

D. Notwithstanding subsection (C) of this section, uncovered porches, decks, balconies, exterior stairs, landings, and similar structures may encroach up to 75 percent into a required side or rear yard, provided the structure has a finished floor elevation of no more than 30 inches in height above natural or finished grade, whichever is more restrictive.

A structure with a finished floor of more than 30 inches in height above natural or finished grade that encroaches into a required side or rear yard may be approved, provided the planning and building director finds that the structure design would be compatible with the character and pattern of other structures on the site and within the surrounding neighborhood, and that the structure would not be injurious to the privacy, views or access to sunlight of adjacent neighbors, or create a visual intrusion on the public right-of-way.

E. Notwithstanding subsection (C) of this section, covered patios, porches, decks, balconies, exterior stairs, and similar structures may extend into a required rear yard, provided the structure is at least 10 feet from the rear property line and the planning and building director finds that the structure’s design is compatible with the character and pattern of other structures on the site and within the surrounding neighborhood, and that it would not be injurious to the privacy, views or access to sunlight of adjacent neighbors, or create a visual intrusion on the public right-of-way. (Ord. 1074 § 1, 2009; Ord. 1012 § 2 (Exh. C § 1810), 2004; Ord. 956 § 2 (Att. A § 1810(b)), 1999; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1810), 1998.)

20.16.015 Required court between walls with legally required windows on same lot

A. Where two exterior walls of the same or separate structures on the same lot, one or both of which contain a legally required window of a habitable room, are directly opposite one another, a court shall be provided between such walls with a minimum size as indicated below. A wall shall be deemed to be directly opposite another wall whenever a line drawn perpendicularly in a horizontal plane from the wall on the same story within 15 feet in either direction from the center of the legally required window, intersects the other wall. The required court shall be provided at and above the floor level of the first story containing the legally required window for not less than 15 feet in both directions from the centerline of the window. The required minimum size of the court shall be calculated on the basis of the height of the walls above floor level.

B. Where there is a legally required window of a habitable room in two directly opposite walls, the required dimension of the court between the walls shall be 150 percent of the average height of the two walls, provided that the maximum separation shall not exceed 60 feet. Where there is a legally required window of a habitable room in one of two directly opposite walls, the required size of the court between the walls shall be the height of the wall without the legally required window, with a minimum distance of 12 feet and a maximum distance of 40 feet. (Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1815), 1998.)

Article II Accessory Structures

Accessory structures are governed by the following requirements.

20.16.020 Minimum setbacks

A. Minimum Front Yard and Street Side Yard Setbacks. Accessory structures shall not be located within the front yard or street side yard of a corner lot required for the primary structure, except that arbors, arches and similar structures are permitted within these areas, provided they are located at a walkway, and provided that they do not exceed eight feet in height, five feet in width along the frontage and three feet in depth. The maximum number of such structures shall not exceed two per street frontage and in no case shall exceed three such structures per lot.

B. Minimum Interior Side Yard Setbacks.

O District: 15 feet

R-1-40,000, R-1-20,000, R-1-12,500 and GMU Districts: Six feet

R-1-6,000, DR, RM, MP and ORM Districts: Three feet

R-1-3,500 District: None

MU District: None, unless the lot is adjacent to an R District, in which case a minimum side yard of 10 feet shall be provided and maintained.

I District: None, unless the lot is adjacent to an R District, in which case a minimum side yard of 10 feet shall be provided and maintained.

C. Minimum Rear Yard Setbacks.

O District: 15 feet

R-1-40,000, R-1-20,000, R-1-12,500 and GMU Districts: Six feet

R-1-6,000, DR, RM, MP and ORM Districts: Three feet

R-1-3,500 District: None

CS District: 10 feet

MU District: None, unless the lot is adjacent to an R District, in which case a minimum side yard of 10 feet shall be provided and maintained.

I District: None, unless the lot is adjacent to an R District, in which case a minimum side yard of 10 feet shall be provided and maintained.

D. Notwithstanding the above, no accessory structure used for human habitation, and no swimming pool, or structure containing machinery or other fixed equipment capable of creating noise audible outside of the structure, shall be located closer than five feet to a side or rear property line and shall not exceed the sound level standards as set forth in Chapter 9.32 HMC.

E. Notwithstanding the above, on reversed corner lots, an accessory structure shall not be located closer to the rear property line than the required side yard on the adjoining key lot.

F. Notwithstanding the above, detached covered parking setbacks shall be governed by HMC 20.16.170(D). (Ord. 1187 § 3, 2019; Ord. 1012 § 2 (Exh. B § 1, Exh. C § 1), 2004; Ord. 1010 § 3 (Exh. A § 9), 2003; Ord. 1003 § 2 (Exh. A § 17), 2003; Ord. 971 § 2 (Att. A § 5), 2001; Ord. 964 § 2 (Att. A § 1820), 2000; Ord. 956 § 2 (Att. A § 1820(d)(2)), 1999; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1820), 1998.)

20.16.025 Maximum yard coverage

In the aggregate, no more than 500 square feet or 10 percent of the combined area of the primary structure’s required side and rear yards, whichever is greater, shall be covered by accessory structures, except that up to 400 square feet of detached garage may be located in the required side and rear yard and not count toward the aggregate accessory structure area; provided, that the lot contains no other feasible location for the garage. On reversed corner lots, an accessory structure shall not be located closer to the rear property line than the required side yard on the adjoining key lot. (Ord. 1012 § 2 (Exh. C § 1), 2004; Ord. 964 § 2 (Att. A § 1820), 2000; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1820), 1998.)

20.16.030 Maximum height

A. Accessory structures shall not exceed a height of 12 feet above finished grade, as measured according to HMC 20.16.060.

B. Notwithstanding the above, the planning and building director may allow heights of accessory structures to extend to a maximum of 18 feet when the following findings can be made in writing:

1. The additional height is necessary to allow architectural integrity and harmony between the accessory structure and the main structure.

2. An accessory structure height of 18 feet will not result in adverse conditions to adjoining properties nor will it prove injurious to public health or safety.

3. All other requirements of the Land Use Code and Building Code have been or will be met. (Ord. 1003 § 2 (Exh. A § 18), 2003; Ord. 956 § 2 (Att. A § 1820(d)(2)), 1999; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1820(d)), 1998.)

20.16.035 Storage containers prohibited

Metal cargo, freight or van box type containers, trailers and other similar structures that were constructed and used primarily for commercial or industrial storage, transport or shipping are not permitted in residential, commercial and mixed use zoning districts. (Ord. 971 § 2 (Exh. A § 6), 2001.)

20.16.036 Accessory structure design

All accessory structures shall be reviewed for consistency with the Citywide Design Guidelines. (Ord. 1172 § 2, 2018.)

Article III Fences, Walls and Hedges

Fences, walls and hedges are governed by the following requirements:

20.16.040 Height measurement

The height of a fence, wall or hedge is measured vertically from the natural or approved finished grade to the top of the fence, wall or hedge, immediately above. Where the fence, wall or hedge is located within three feet of a retaining wall, embankment or other grade separation facing a street or adjoining property, the measurement is from the base of the retaining wall, embankment or other grade separation. (Ord. 1012 § 2 (Exh. B § 1), 2004.)

20.16.045 Maximum height of fences and walls

A. The maximum height of fences and walls allowed within required yards shall not exceed the following:

1. Required front yard within all zoning districts except R-1-20,000 and R-1-40,000 Districts: Four feet, except as further restricted for vision clearance per HMC 20.16.005(E). For corridor (i.e., flag) lots, this subsection shall apply to the portion of the access corridor (a.k.a. “flag”) that adjoins the required front yard of the adjoining lot(s).

2. Required front yard in R-1-20,000 and R-1-40,000 Districts: Six feet, except as restricted for vision clearance under HMC 20.16.005(E); and provided further, that the location and design of the fence complies with all of the following requirements:

a. The street frontage of the lot is not developed with a sidewalk nor is it designated by the General Plan for sidewalk development.

b. The fence is located 10 feet or more behind the property line fronting the street or the edge of the road, whichever is closer.

c. The fence is transparent, as defined in Chapter 20.28 HMC, Article IX.

Otherwise, walls or fences with opaque siding material (e.g., solid boards) exceeding four feet in height are not allowed within a required yard fronting a street.

3. Required rear yard and interior side yard: Six feet plus two feet of additional 50 percent open lattice.

4. Required side yard fronting a street: Six feet if located 15 feet or more behind the front wall of the main building. Otherwise, the maximum height of a fence or wall located within a side yard fronting a street shall not exceed four feet, except as further restricted for vision clearance under HMC 20.16.005(E).

B. The maximum height of fences and walls allowed outside of required yards shall not exceed 12 feet. (Ord. 1231 § 13, 2023; Ord. 1090 § 4 (Exh. B § 1825), 2009; Ord. 1012 § 2 (Exh. B § 1), 2004; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1825), 1998.)

20.16.050 Maximum height of hedges and other screening vegetation

A. Within required front yards: Four feet, except as further restricted for vision clearance under 20.16.005(E). For corridor (i.e., flag) lots, this subsection shall apply to the portion of the access corridor (a.k.a. “flag”) that adjoins the required front yard of the adjoining lot(s).

B. Within required side yard fronting a street: Six feet if located 15 feet or more behind the front wall of the main building. Otherwise, the maximum height of a hedge and other screening vegetation located within a side yard fronting a street shall not exceed four feet, except as further restricted for vision clearance per HMC 20.16.005(E). (Ord. 1012 § 2 (Exh. B § 1), 2004; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1825), 1998.)

20.16.055 Fences, walls and hedges exceeding allowed height

Fences, walls, hedges and other screening vegetation may exceed the maximum height allowed by HMC 20.16.045 and 20.16.050 under the following circumstances:

A. The planning and building director determines that a grade separation exists such that a property owner is denied private use of a lot; or

B. A building permit is required for fences exceeding seven feet in height. (Ord. 1231 § 14, 2023; Ord. 1012 § 2 (Exh. B § 1), 2004; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1825), 1998.)

Article IV Building Height

20.16.060 Measurement

The height of a structure shall be measured vertically from the average elevation of the natural grade of the ground covered by the structure to the mean (average) height between eaves and ridges for a hip, gable, or gambrel roof. For flat-roofed buildings, the measurement shall be taken at the highest point of the structure and, for a mansard-roofed structure, to the deck line of a mansard roof. (Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1830), 1998.)

20.16.065 Height exceptions

Chimneys, cupolas, flagpoles, monuments, storage tanks, water tanks and similar structures and appurtenances may be permitted in excess of height limits; provided, that a conditional use permit is first obtained. Notwithstanding, minor antennas and major and minor telecommunication facilities are governed by HMC 20.20.080. (Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1835), 1998.)

Article V Outdoor Storage and Uses

The following regulations shall govern outdoor storage, display of merchandise and outdoor activities in commercial and industrial districts. (Ord. 1090 § 4 (Exh. B § 1875), 2009; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1875), 1998.)

20.16.070 Refuse and recycling storage areas

A. Except as exempted by the planning and building director, a refuse storage area shall be screened on all sides by a six-foot solid wood fence or masonry wall, or located within a building.

B. Refuse and recycling storage areas shall be provided prior to occupancy for all multi-family (three units or greater), commercial and industrial uses.

C. Precise locations, dimensions, and general design parameters for refuse and recycling storage areas shall be in accord with standard City specifications.

D. The planning and building director may waive screening requirements for refuse storage areas when said area is not visible from a public street or from any residential district. Solid waste refuse areas shall contain sufficient room for storage of materials to be recycled. (Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1870), 1998.)

20.16.075 Prohibited outdoor storage and display areas

Outdoor storage and display shall not occur within required parking or landscaped areas or on public sidewalks. Private sidewalks or pathways shall maintain a clear walkway of at least four and one-half feet. (Ord. 1090 § 4 (Exh. B § 1875), 2009; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1875), 1998.)

20.16.080 Outdoor eating establishments

Sidewalk cafes and outdoor eating establishments may be permitted with the approval of both the planning director and public works director in the PR and CD districts when it can be found that all applicable building codes are met and that public rights-of-way will not be obstructed. (Ord. 1090 § 4 (Exh. B § 1875), 2009; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1875), 1998.)

20.16.085 Temporary displays and sales

Temporary displays and related temporary outdoor retail sales may be allowed on a limited basis with the written approval of the planning and building director, including but not limited to Christmas tree sales, pumpkin sales, sidewalk sales and other special events of a similar nature. (Ord. 1090 § 4 (Exh. B § 1875), 2009; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1875), 1998.)

20.16.090 Screening requirements

A. Except for the following uses, outdoor storage and display areas shall be screened from view by a solid fence or wall as required by HMC 20.16.110:

1. Plant nurseries and garden supply shops; provided, that outdoor storage and display is limited to plant materials and outdoor furniture only.

2. Vehicle sales and service; provided, that outdoor storage and display shall be limited to vehicles and equipment offered for sale.

3. Lumber yards, building material supply stores and equipment rental yards.

4. Farmers’ markets.

5. Automotive service stations.

6. Outdoor eating establishments.

7. Bus depots.

8. Utility substations.

9. Other similar uses which customarily and ordinarily display goods and material out of doors, as approved by the planning and building director.

B. The height of any merchandise, materials, and equipment stored and displayed shall not exceed the height of the screening fence or wall.

C. Exterior mechanical equipment placed on the roof of commercial and industrial buildings, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning, chip blowers and similar equipment, shall be fully screened from public view. Appropriate screening methods shall include use of complementary view-obscuring screening structures and recessing such equipment into equipment wells. (Ord. 1090 § 4 (Exh. B § 1875), 2009; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1875), 1998.)

Article VI Landscaping and Screening

20.16.095 General landscaping standards

The following regulations govern the location and treatment of landscaped areas:

A. All visible portions of a required yard adjoining a public or private street shall be planted or landscaped with trees, shrubs, or groundcover, or may be treated with ornamental gravel, crushed rock or similar landscape material. Driveways and walkways may be constructed within these areas.

B. The scale and nature of landscape material shall be appropriate for the size of the site and proposed structure. Large-scale buildings shall be complemented with large-scale landscaping as appropriate.

C. Landscaped areas shall be maintained in a neat and weed-free fashion and shall be provided with a permanent underground irrigation system equipped with an automatic irrigation timer or controller. (Ord. 1090 § 4 (Exh. B § 1880), 2009; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1880), 1998.)

20.16.100 Parking lot landscaping

Parking lots located in office, commercial, and industrial zoning districts shall be landscaped in accordance with the following standards:

A. A minimum of 12 percent of a vehicle accommodation area shall be landscaped. A vehicle accommodation area shall include the area of a lot used by vehicles for access, circulation, parking, loading and unloading areas; it does not include space provided for display purposes or enclosed vehicle storage areas.

B. A landscaped planter with a minimum width of five feet shall be provided adjacent to any public or private street wherever parking or circulation is generally located adjacent to such rights-of-way. The planter area shall be credited towards the minimum landscaped area required for the site as set forth in the above provision.

C. A minimum of one tree shall be provided for every 10 parking spaces not located on the perimeter of the parking area and shall be located so as to provide visual relief to long rows of parked vehicles. Canopy-type trees should be used to provide a relatively consistent tree cover that will shade vehicles and pavement. Trees shall also be provided at appropriate intervals between perimeter parking spaces.

D. Landscaped areas are to be distributed throughout the entire vehicle parking and circulation area as evenly as possible and as required by the planning and building director. In larger parking areas (two or more maneuvering aisles) interior landscaping shall be provided to additionally screen parking areas and to visually separate the parking area into smaller spaces.

E. A vision triangle shall be reserved at all driveways as a public safety feature. Within this area, no vegetation shall exceed a height of three feet, except for trees that are pruned and maintained so as not to block the visibility of vehicles entering and exiting sites. The design and extent of the vision triangle shall be approved by the planning and building director.

F. Where parking areas abut or overhang landscaped planters, the landscaping shall be protected by a curb not less than six inches high, concrete bumpers or an alternative material approved by the planning and building director. (Ord. 1090 § 4 (Exh. B § 1880), 2009; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1880), 1998.)

20.16.105 Water-efficient landscaping

A. Purpose. The following regulations shall govern the efficient use of water for landscaped areas. Section 2 of Article X of the California Constitution specifies that the right to use water is limited to the amount reasonably required for the beneficial use to be served and the right does not and shall not extend to waste or unreasonable method of use. These water-efficient landscape standards protect local water supplies through the implementation of a whole systems approach to design, construction, installation and maintenance of the landscape resulting in water-conserving, climate-appropriate landscapes, improved water quality and the minimization of natural resource inputs.

B. Definitions. The following terms as used in this section shall have the following meanings:

Backflow prevention device. An approved device installed to City standards that will prevent backflow or back-siphonage into the City’s potable water system.

Booster pump. A pump used where the normal water system pressure is low and needs to be increased.

Check valve. A valve located under a sprinkler head or other location in the irrigation system to hold water in the system to prevent drainage from sprinkler heads when the sprinkler is off.

Compost. The decayed remains of organic matter that has rotted into a natural fertilizer.

Ecological restoration project. A project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.

Effective precipitation. The portion of total precipitation that becomes available for plant growth and that is used by the plants.

Emitter. A drip irrigation fittings emission device that delivers water slowly from the system to the soil.

Estimated total water use. The total irrigation water projected to be used for a project’s irrigated landscape area in gallons per day. The estimated total water use shall not exceed the project’s maximum applied water allowance.

Evapotranspiration (ET) adjustment factor. A factor of 0.7 that, when applied to reference evapotranspiration, adjusts for plant factors and irrigation efficiency, two major influences upon the amount of water that needs to be applied to the landscape.

Evapotranspiration rate. The quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil and other surfaces and transpired by plants during a specific specified time.

Flow rate. The rate at which water flows through pipes, valves and emission devices, measured in gallons per minute, gallons per hour, or cubic feet per second.

Hardscapes. Any durable material (pervious and non-pervious).

Head-to-head coverage. Full coverage from one sprinkler head to the next.

High-flow sensor. A device for sensing the rate of fluid flow.

High-water-use plants. Turf, annuals, container plantings, and other plants recognized as high-water-use by the California Department of Water Resources 2000 publication, Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS), as it currently exists or may be amended in the future.

Hydrozone. A portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs that are served by a valve or set of valves with the same schedule.

Hydrozone table. A table that identifies each hydrozone, the plant types in the hydrozone, the plant factor from the California Department of Water Resources 2000 publication, Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS), and the area in square feet that is included in the hydrozone.

Infiltration rate. The rate of water entry into the soil expressed as a depth of water per unit of time (e.g., inches per hour).

Invasive plant species. Species of plants not historically found in California and/or that spread outside cultivated areas and can damage environmental or economic resources as determined by the California Invasive Plant Council.

Irrigation efficiency (IE). The measurement of the amount of water beneficially used divided by the amount of water applied. Irrigation efficiency is derived from measurements and estimates of irrigation system characteristics and management practices. The minimum average irrigation efficiency for purposes of the water-efficient landscape requirements is 0.75 for overhead irrigation and 0.81 for drip irrigation.

Irrigation meter. A separate meter that measures the amount of water used for items such as lawns, washing exterior surfaces, washing vehicles, filling pools, etc.

Isolation valves. Irrigation valves used to isolate a portion of the piping system.

Landscaped area. The entire parcel less the building footprint, driveways, and nonirrigated portions of parking lots, hardscapes such as decks and patios, and other nonporous areas. Water features are included in the calculation of the landscaped area. Areas dedicated to edible plants, such as orchards or vegetable gardens, are not included. The landscaped area does not include footprints of buildings or structures, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, decks, patios, gravel or stone walks, other pervious or impervious hardscapes, and other non-irrigated areas designated for nondevelopment (e.g., open spaces and existing native vegetation).

Low-water-use plants. “Mediterranean region” and native trees, shrubs and groundcovers such as rosemary, juniper, most native oaks, and other plants recognized as low-water-use by the California Department of Water Resources 2000 publication, Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS), as it currently exists or may be amended in the future.

Maximum applied water allowance (MAWA). The upper limit of the annual applied water allowed for a project’s established landscaping, based upon the city’s reference evapotranspiration, the evapotranspiration (ET) adjustment factor and the size of the landscaped area.

Microclimate. The climate of a small, specific area that may contrast with the climate of the overall landscaped area due to factors such as wind, sun exposure, plant density or proximity to reflective surfaces.

Mined land reclamation projects. Any surface mining operation with a reclamation plan approved in accordance with the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975.

Moderate-water-use plants. Ornamental trees, shrubs, ground covers, and perennials and other plants recognized as moderate-water-use by the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species document, as it currently exists or may be amended in the future.

Mulch. Any organic material such as leaves, bark, straw, compost or other inorganic mineral materials such as rocks, gravel, and decomposed granite left loose and applied to the soil surface for the beneficial purposes of reducing evaporation, suppressing weeds, moderating soil temperature and preventing soil erosion.

Operating pressure. The pressure when water is flowing through the irrigation system.

Overhead irrigation. Those systems that deliver water through the air (e.g., pop-ups, impulse sprinklers, spray heads, rotors, micro-sprays).

Overspray. The irrigation water which is delivered beyond the landscaped target area, wetting pavements, walks, structures, or other non-landscaped areas.

Pervious. Any surface or material that allows the passage of water through the material and into the underlying soil.

Plant factor. A factor that, when multiplied by the reference evapotranspiration (ETo), estimates the amount of water used by needed plants. Plant factors are derived from the Department of Water Resources 2000 publication, Water Use Classification of Landscape Species.

Point of connection. The point at which an irrigation system taps into the main water supply line.

Point source irrigation. Any non-spray low volume irrigation system utilizing emission devices with a flow rate measured in gallons per hour. Low volume irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.

Precipitation rate. The rate of application of water measured in inches per hour.

Pressure regulator. A valve that automatically reduces the pressure in a pipe.

Rain sensor. A system component that automatically shuts off and suspends the irrigation system when it rains.

Recycled water. Tertiary treated water that results from the treatment of wastewater is suitable for direct beneficial use, and conforms to the definition of disinfected tertiary recycled water in accordance with state law.

Reference evapotranspiration (ETo). A standard measurement of environmental parameters that affect the water use of plants and is an estimate of the evapotranspiration of a large field of four- to seven-inch tall, cool-season grass that is well watered.

Runoff. Water which is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to which it is applied and flows from the landscape area.

Soils laboratory report. The analysis of a soil sample to determine nutrient content, composition and other characteristics, including contaminants.

Sprinkler head. A device that delivers water to the landscape through a spray nozzle.

Static water pressure. The pipeline or municipal water supply pressure when water is not flowing.

Station. An area served by one valve or by a set of valves that operate simultaneously.

Submeter. A separate meter that is located on the private side of the water system and is plumbed to measure only the water that flows through the irrigation system. This meter is to be used by the property owner to monitor irrigation water use and will not be read by the City.

Swing joint. An irrigation component that provides a flexible, leak-free connection between the emission device and the lateral pipeline to allow movement in any direction and to prevent equipment damage.

Valve. A device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation system.

Valve manifold. A one-piece manifold for use in a sprinkler valve assembly that includes an intake pipe having a water inlet and a plurality of ports adapted for fluid connection to inlets.

Very-low-water use plant. Refers to plants with a plant factor rating from 0 to 0.1.

Water feature. A design element where open water performs an aesthetic or recreational function. Water features include ponds, lakes, waterfalls, fountains, artificial streams, spas and swimming pools (where water is artificially supplied). The surface area of water features is included in the high-water-use hydrozone of the landscape area.

Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS). A document published by the University of California Cooperative Extension, the Department of Water Resources and the Bureau of Reclamation, 2000, as may be amended.

Weather-based or sensor-based irrigation control technology. An irrigation system that uses local weather and landscape conditions to tailor irrigation schedules to actual conditions on the site or historical weather data.

C. Applicability. These requirements apply to the following projects:

1. New residential, commercial, office, industrial, public or quasi-public construction that requires design review and/or a building or grading permit.

2. Additions or remodels to existing residential, commercial, office, industrial, public or quasi-public development that require design review and/or a building or grading permit and that have associated new or replaced landscaped areas equal to or exceeding 2,500 square feet of contractor-installed landscaping.

3. Additions or remodels to existing residential, commercial, office, industrial, public or quasi-public development that require design review and/or a building or grading permit and that have associated new or replaced landscaped areas equal to or exceeding 5,000 square feet of property owner-installed landscaping.

4. Where the regulations contained in this section conflict with or are otherwise less restrictive than provided in the State’s Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, as contained in the California Code of Regulations, Title 23, the State’s model ordinance shall apply.

D. Exemptions. These requirements shall not apply to the following projects:

1. Registered local, state or federal historical landscape areas.

2. Ecological restoration or mined-land reclamation projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system.

3. Plant collections as part of botanical gardens and arboretums open to the public.

4. New accessory dwelling units.

5. Accessory structures.

E. Required plans. For projects subject to this section, the following plans shall be submitted:

1. Landscape design plan. A landscape design plan shall be submitted that includes the following:

a. Soil amendments, mulching and soil conditioning.

i. A minimum of eight inches of non-mechanically compacted soil shall be available for water absorption and root growth in planted areas.

ii. Compost or natural fertilizer incorporated into the soil to a minimum depth of eight inches at a minimum rate of six cubic yards per 1,000 square feet or per specific amendment recommendations from a soils laboratory report, except within the driplines of trees that are to be preserved.

iii. A minimum three-inch layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except in turf areas, creeping or rooting groundcovers or direct seeding applications.

b. Plants.

i. Selected plants shall not cause the project’s estimated total water use to exceed the project’s maximum applied water allowance.

ii. Plants with similar water use needs shall be grouped together in distinct hydrozones, and where irrigation is required the distinct hydrozones shall be irrigated with separate valves.

iii. Low- and moderate-water-use plants can be mixed, but the entire hydrozone will be classified as moderate-water-use for maximum applied water allowance calculations.

iv. High-water-use plants shall not be mixed with low- or moderate-water-use plants.

v. All non-turf plants shall be selected, spaced and planted appropriately based upon their adaptability to the climatic, geologic, and topographic conditions of the project site.

vi. Turf shall not be planted on slopes exceeding 15 percent, planting areas 10 feet wide or less, and in street medians, traffic islands, planter strips or bulb-outs of any size.

vii. Invasive plants as listed by the California Invasive Plant Council are prohibited.

c. Water features.

i. Recirculating water systems shall be used for water features.

ii. Recycled water shall be used when available on site.

2. Irrigation design plan. An irrigation design plan shall be submitted that is designed and installed to meet irrigation efficiency criteria as described in the maximum applied water allowance and in accordance with the following:

a. A dedicated irrigation meter or submeter must be installed and specified.

b. Irrigation systems with meters one and one-half inches or greater require a high-flow sensor that can detect high-flow conditions and have the capabilities to shut off the system.

c. Isolation valves shall be installed at the point of connection and before each valve or valve manifold.

d. Weather-based or other sensor-based self-adjusting irrigation controllers are required.

e. Rain sensors shall be installed for each irrigation controller.

f. Pressure regulation and/or booster pumps shall be installed so that all components of the irrigation system operate at the manufacturer’s recommended optimal pressure.

g. The irrigation system shall be designed to prevent runoff or overspray onto nontargeted areas.

h. Point source irrigation is required where plant height at maturity will affect the uniformity of an overhead system and any areas less than 10 feet in width in any direction.

i. A minimum 24-inch setback of overhead irrigation is required where turf is directly adjacent to a continuous hardscape that flows into the curb and gutter.

j. Slopes steeper than 15 percent shall be irrigated with point source or other low-volume irrigation technology.

k. A single valve shall not irrigate hydrozones that mix high-water-use plants with moderate- or low-water-use plants.

l. Trees shall be placed on separate valves where feasible to facilitate the appropriate irrigation of trees and allow flexibility in times of drought if some irrigation zones must be shut off and tree irrigation is still allowed.

m. Sprinkler heads, rotors and other emission devices on a valve shall have matched precipitation rates.

n. Head-to-head coverage is required unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer’s specifications.

o. Swing joints or other riser protection components are required on all risers.

p. Check valves shall be installed to prevent low-head drainage.

F. Review process. The following documentation shall be presented to the planning and building director or his/her designee for a landscape design plan and irrigation design plan associated with a project for which design review and/or a grading or building permit is required. Landscape planting design and conceptual irrigation design plans shall be designed by and include the signature of a licensed landscape architect, certified irrigation designer, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized to design a landscape plan and irrigation system.

1. Project requiring design review. The following documentation shall be presented for projects requiring design review:

a. Calculation of the project’s maximum applied water allowance.

b. A landscape planting design plan that accurately and clearly identifies and depicts:

i. New and existing trees, shrubs, groundcovers, turf, and any other planting areas, including any existing landscaping that is to be retained.

ii. Plants by botanical name and common name.

iii. Plant sizes and quantities.

iv. Property lines, new and existing building footprints, streets, driveways, sidewalks, and other hardscape features.

v. Pools, fountains, and similar water features.

c. A conceptual irrigation design plan or statement that describes irrigation methods and design actions that will be employed to meet the irrigation specifications of this section.

2. Project requiring a grading or building permit. The following documentation shall be presented for projects requiring a grading or building permit:

a. Calculation of the project’s maximum applied water allowance.

b. A landscape planting design plan that accurately and clearly identifies and depicts:

i. New and existing trees, shrubs, groundcovers, turf, and any other planting areas, including any existing landscaping that is to be retained.

ii. Plants by botanical name and common name.

iii. Plant sizes and quantities.

iv. Property lines, new and existing building footprints, streets, driveways, sidewalks, and other hardscape features.

v. Pools, fountains, and similar water features.

c. An irrigation design plan drawn at the same scale as the planting plan that:

i. Accurately and clearly identifies and depicts the irrigation system point of connection.

ii. Accurately and clearly identifies and depicts irrigation system components, e.g., controller, pipe, remote-control valves, sprinklers and other application devices, rain shut-off device, check valves, pressure regulating devices, backflow prevention devices.

iii. Includes a hydrozone table.

d. Where slopes exceed 10 percent, a grading plan drawn at the same scale as the planting design plan that accurately and clearly identifies:

i. Existing and finished grades.

ii. Drainage patterns.

iii. Pad elevations.

iv. Spot elevations.

v. Storm water retention improvements.

vi. The grading plan shall include the following statement: “I have complied with the criteria of the ordinance and applied them accordingly for the efficient use of water in the grading design plan” and shall bear the signature of a licensed professional.

G. Approval process. A landscape planting design plan and irrigation design plan prepared in compliance with the submittal requirements provided in this section shall be determined to be complete and shall be approved provided the plans do not exceed the project’s maximum applied water allowance and are in compliance with the General Plan, Land Use Code and Citywide Design Guidelines. The planning and building director’s or his/her designee’s authority to approve these plans is limited to those projects that are not otherwise subject to review by the planning commission or City Council.

H. Certification of completion. Upon installation and completion of the landscaping and irrigation system, and prior to issuance of a final building or grading permit, the property owner or his/her designee shall submit a certificate of completion that certifies that the system has been installed in accordance with the project’s approved landscape and irrigation design plans and the recommendations of the project’s soil management report, if any, have been implemented. The certificate of completion shall be signed by a licensed landscape architect, certified irrigation designer, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized by the planning and building director or his/her designee to design and inspect a landscape plan and irrigation system.

The certificate of completion shall be accompanied by an irrigation audit that contains the following:

1. Operating pressure of the irrigation system.

2. Distribution uniformity of overhead irrigation.

3. Precipitation rate of overhead irrigation.

4. Report of any overspray or broken irrigation equipment.

5. Irrigation schedule including:

a. Plant establishment irrigation schedule.

b. Regular irrigation schedule by month based on plant type, root depth, soil type, slope factor and shade factor, and that specifies irrigation interval (days per week), irrigation runtimes, number of start times per irrigation day, gallons per minute for each valve, precipitation rate, distribution uniformity and monthly estimated water use calculations.

6. An irrigation maintenance schedule timeline shall be attached to the certificate of completion that includes:

a. Routine inspections.

b. Adjustment and repairs to the irrigation system, aerating and dethatching turf areas, replenishing mulch, fertilizing, pruning and weeding.

I. Permit extensions. An extension of the building or grading permit to complete the landscape planting design plan and irrigation design plan and/or temporary occupancy may be approved by the building official upon written request subject to City receipt of cash security for the complete cost of the improvements, including administrative fees. This security will be returned to the applicant, except for any administrative fees, upon completion of the work.

J. Modifications to requirements.

1. The planning and building director or his/her designee will consider and may allow the substitution of design alternatives and innovation which may equally reduce water consumption for any of these requirements.

2. The planning and building director or his/her designee will accept documentation methods, water allowance determination, and landscape and irrigation design requirements of the State of California Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance in lieu of the submittal requirements provided in this section where it can be demonstrated that the State procedure will more effectively address the design requirements of the project.

K. Fees. A fee may be established by City Council resolution to offset the cost of implementing the water efficient landscape regulations.

L. Appeals. The applicant or any affected person may appeal the final decision of the planning and building director or his/her designee by filing an appeal in writing to the planning commission within 10 City working days of the date of the decision. A decision by the planning commission may be appealed by filing an appeal in writing to the City Council within 10 City working days of the decision. (Ord. 1241 § 5, 2024; Ord. 1172 § 2, 2018; Ord. 1159 § 10, 2016; Ord. 1091 § 1, 2000.)

20.16.110 Screening standards

A. Where a lot in an office, commercial or industrial zoning district adjoins a residential district, a solid wall or fence, vine-covered fence, or compact evergreen fence shall be located adjoining the property line except in required front yards. These provisions shall not apply to the site of a dwelling adjoining another dwelling.

B. The following uses shall be screened by a solid wall or fence, vine-covered fence, or compact evergreen hedge not less than six feet in height (with solid gates where necessary) and not located within a required front yard:

1. In office, commercial and industrial zoning districts, a use not conducted entirely within a completely enclosed structure if on a lot directly adjacent to or across a street or alley from a residential district.

2. In office, commercial and industrial zoning districts, a use not conducted entirely within a completely enclosed structure, if on a lot directly across a street or alley from an office, commercial or industrial district, and if found by the planning commission to be unsightly.

C. Where a parking or loading area in an office or residential zoning district adjoins a street, or where a parking and loading area is located directly adjacent to or across a street or alley from a residential district, a solid wall or fence, vine-covered fence, or compact hedge not less than four feet in height shall be located along the property line. (Ord. 1090 § 2 (Exh. B § 1880), 2009; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 1880), 1998.)

Article VII Property Maintenance Standards

The following standards shall govern the maintenance of private property:

20.16.115 Purpose

The purpose of these regulations is to provide standards for the maintenance of private property within the city in a manner that protects the public health, safety and general welfare of the entire community by preserving the appearance and condition of private property. These regulations address conditions that degrade the appearance of property and detract from the quality of life for residents and visitors in the city. In adopting this article, it is the intent of the City Council to encourage and promote property maintenance standards throughout the City in a manner that protects public health, safety and welfare of the community by preventing interference with the comfortable enjoyment of life or property. Nothing in this article shall be construed to prevent or supersede the ability to pursue enforcement of remedies for private nuisance conditions. (Ord. 1078 § 2 (§ 18135), 2009.)

20.16.120 Prohibited property conditions

A. It shall be unlawful for any person owning, leasing, occupying or having charge or possession of any property in the city to maintain or permit such property to be maintained in a manner that degrades the appearance of surrounding property or obstructs or causes damage to the public right-of-way to a level of magnitude as to be injurious to the public health, safety and welfare.

B. The following conditions are determined to degrade the appearance of surrounding properties and such conditions are hereby declared to be a public nuisance, subject to abatement by the City of Healdsburg:

1. Accumulation of garbage, debris, rubbish or trash in any yard visible from the public right-of-way or where such accumulation constitutes a health or fire hazard.

2. Stagnant water conducive to the breeding or harboring of mosquitoes or other insects in swimming pools, spas or any other structures capable of holding water.

3. Storage visible from a public right-of-way of any of the following:

a. Abandoned, inoperative, wrecked or dismantled trailers, boats, campers or motor vehicles of any kind, except when a motor vehicle is stored in a garage or other building or otherwise stored consistent with the exceptions provided below.

b. Broken or discarded household furnishings, fixtures, appliances, boxes or cartons or similar materials.

c. Discarded, wrecked or inoperable machinery or tools.

d. Salvage materials, scrap metal or construction materials, including but not limited to dirt, sand, gravel, concrete, tile, rocks, bricks and similar materials, except when associated with ongoing excavation, construction or demolition operations on the same property or when associated with ongoing construction, agricultural or landscaping activities on the site.

4. Garbage containers regularly stored or kept on private property in a manner that is visible from the public right-of-way or otherwise creates a public nuisance because of its location.

5. Garbage, debris, rubbish or trash that is infested with animals or rodents.

6. Conditions which, due to their accessibility to the public right-of-way, are hazardous or dangerous, including but not limited to the following:

a. Abandoned wells.

b. Hazardous or unprotected pools, pits, ponds or excavations.

c. Driveways or sidewalks that hinder free access to public sidewalks or other public facilities. (Ord. 1078 § 2 (§ 18135), 2009.)

20.16.125 Prohibited parking conditions

In addition to all other regulations set forth in the City’s Municipal Code or otherwise provided by law, parking of vehicles on private property in the following manner is prohibited:

A. Parking or storing of trucks of more than two-ton capacity, semi-trailers, equipment or machinery on residential property, except in the following circumstances:

1. Trucks of more than two-ton capacity are parked or stored for 72 hours or less and are for use by persons residing on the same property.

2. Trucks of more than two-ton capacity, equipment or machinery are associated with ongoing excavation, construction or demolition operations on the property where stored.

3. Trucks of more than two-ton capacity, equipment or machinery are associated with ongoing agricultural or landscaping activities on the property where stored.

B. Parking or storing of any passenger vehicle on residential property within a required front yard or street side yard setback of a corner lot where such areas are not paved or otherwise surfaced to allow parking or storing, including but not limited to on lawns and other landscaped areas.

C. Parking or storing of any recreational vehicle, trailer, camper or boat on residential property within a required front yard or street-side yard setback of a corner lot.

D. Parking or storing of any motor vehicle, including a recreational vehicle, trailer, camper or boat, on any vacant property. (Ord. 1078 § 2 (§ 18135), 2009.)

20.16.130 Exceptions

Nothing contained in these regulations shall be construed to apply to:

A. Stored vehicles, or parts of vehicles, located within areas that are properly zoned, as defined in the Land Use Code.

B. Stored vehicles that are screened by natural objects, plantings, fences or other appropriate means so as not to be visible from the public right-of-way.

C. Use of standard containers or dumpsters for the temporary containment of garbage, debris, rubbish or trash placed at the street or in other approved locations for pickup by the City’s licensed refuse hauler and/or other commercial disposal service operating in conformance with City codes and regulations.

D. Use of standard containers or dumpsters for the temporary containment of garbage, debris, rubbish or trash placed in an approved trash enclosure or placed behind the front wall plane of a building located on the same property.

E. Firewood stacked in a side or rear yard for use on the premises. (Ord. 1078 § 2 (§ 18135), 2009.)

20.16.135 Enforcement

A violation of any provision of this article shall constitute a public nuisance and, as such, may be subject to code enforcement procedures in accordance with Chapter 1.12 HMC. (Ord. 1078 § 2 (§ 18135), 2009.)

Article VIII Off-Street Parking and Loading

20.16.140 Purpose

In order to alleviate and to prevent traffic congestion and the shortage of curb space, off-street parking and loading facilities shall be provided incidental to new land uses and major alterations and enlargements of existing uses. The number of parking and loading spaces prescribed in this article or to be prescribed by the planning commission shall be based on land use. Off-street parking and loading areas shall be laid out in a manner that will ensure their usefulness, protect the public safety, and, where appropriate, insulate surrounding uses from parking impacts. (Ord. 1106 § 2 (Exh. A § 1900), 2011.)

20.16.145 Basic requirements

A. At the time of initial occupancy, major alteration, or enlargement of a site or use, or of completion of construction of a structure or of major alteration or enlargement of a structure, there shall be provided off-street parking spaces and loading berths in accord with this article. For the purpose of this section, “major alteration” or “enlargement” shall mean a change of use or an addition which would increase the number of parking spaces or loading berths required by 10 percent or more of the total number required.

B. No existing use of land or structure shall be deemed to be nonconforming solely because of the lack of off-street parking facilities prescribed in this article; provided, that facilities being used for off-street parking existing as of September 2, 1998, shall not be reduced.

C. If a use existing as of September 2, 1998, does not meet the parking requirements set forth in this article converts or changes to a use substantially the same as the previous use in terms of parking characteristics (as determined by the planning and building director), the new use shall not be required to increase the amount of off-street parking to comply with this article. (Ord. 1106 § 2 (Exh. A § 1905), 2011.)

20.16.150 Number of required vehicular parking spaces

A. General requirements.

1. Off-street parking spaces shall be provided based on the gross floor areas set forth in Table 17, except as provided in subsection (B) of this section.

2. If, in the application of the requirements of this article, a fractional number is obtained, one parking space shall be provided for a fraction of one-half or more, and no parking space shall be required for a fraction of less than one-half space.

3. For a use not specified in Table 17, the same number of off-street parking spaces shall be provided as required for the most similar specified use.

Table 17 Required number of vehicular parking spaces
Land Use	Parking Requirement
Residential uses
Single-family dwellings and other types of ownership dwellings	2 spaces per unit, 1 of which is located in a garage or carport
Day care - large family	3 spaces, no more than one of which may be provided in a garage or carport. These may include spaces already provided to fulfill residential parking requirements. Parking may be on street if contiguous to property.
Homeless shelters	1 space per residential family, .35 spaces per bed plus 1 space per maximum number of staff on site
Multi-family dwellings, rental and ownership	1 uncovered guest space per 3 units
Multi-family rental dwellings	1.5 spaces per unit, 1 of which is located in a garage or carport
Residential care, general	1 space per 2 beds
Trailer and mobile home parks	1 space per unit, plus 1 guest space per 3 units
Commercial uses
Banks	1 space per 200 sq. ft. of gross floor area
Commercial service establishments, including repair shops	1 space per 600 sq. ft. of gross floor area, except for floor area devoted to storage and truck loading
Food stores	1 space per 200 sq. ft. of gross floor area
Health clubs, spas, dance studios, gymnastic schools/studios	1 space per 300 sq. ft. of gross floor area
Hotels, motels, boarding houses, residential visitor lodging, overnight stay units for spas, private residential clubs	1 space for each guest room or for 2 beds, whichever is greater, plus 1 space for each 2 employees or owner/occupants
Neighborhood convenience retail stores	1 space per 150 sq. ft. of gross floor area
Offices - administrative, business and professional	1 space per 300 sq. ft. of gross floor area
Offices - medical and dental	1 space per 200 sq. ft. of gross floor area, or 5 spaces per doctor, whichever is greater
Personal services	1 space per 300 sq. ft. of gross floor area, except for floor area devoted to storage and truck loading
Personal storage facilities	1 space per 10,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area, plus 2 covered spaces for onsite caretaker quarters, if required
Restaurants and other eating establishments having drive-in, drive-up or walk-up service as a primary use	1 space per 100 sq. ft. of gross floor area, including outdoor seating area. Credit may be granted for drive-through based on 1 space for each 24 linear feet of painted drive-through lane to a maximum of 4 spaces
Restaurants, bars, and other establishments for the sale and on-site consumption of food and beverages	1 space per 3 seats
Retail, general and retail, secondhand	1 space per 300 sq. ft. of gross floor area, except for floor area devoted to storage and truck loading
Retail warehouses and retail stores principally handling bulky merchandise such as furniture, major household appliances, hardware sales and machinery	1 space per 600 sq. ft. of gross floor area, except for floor area devoted to storage and truck loading
Service stations	1 space for each 250 sq. ft. of floor area, plus 3 spaces for each service bay.
Industrial uses
Manufacturing plants and other industrial uses in an enclosed building	1 space per 500 sq. ft. of gross floor area, or 1 space per employee on the largest shift, whichever is greater
Warehouse and storage uses	1 space per 1000 sq. ft. of gross floor area up to 10,000 sq. ft., plus 1 space per 2,500 sq. ft. above 10,000 sq. ft.
Wholesale automotive and truck supply stores, with retail sales comprising no more than 25 percent of the floor area	1 space per 500 sq. ft. of gross floor area
Places of public assembly and institutional uses
Auditoriums, churches, private clubs, lodges, halls, community centers, mortuaries, sports areas and stadia, theaters, and other places of public assembly	1 space per 4 fixed seats or 1 space per 40 sq. ft. of floor area for usable seating if seats not fixed, plus 1 space per 2 employees
Bowling alleys	5 spaces per lane
Bus depots, railroad stations and yards, airports and heliports and other transportation terminal facilities	1 space per 2 employees on largest shift, plus additional spaces as may be required by planning commission
Cemeteries, columbariums, crematories	1 space per 2 employees, plus additional spaces as may be required by planning commission
Hospitals, sanitariums, nursing homes	1 space per 3 beds, plus 1 space per 3 employees on largest shift, plus 1 space per staff doctor
Libraries, museums, art galleries	1 space per 600 sq. ft. of gross floor area, plus 1 space per 2 employees
Nightclubs	1 space per 50 sq. ft. of gross floor area used for dancing
Post offices	1 space per 1,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area, plus 1 space per 2 employees on largest shift
Public buildings and grounds	1 space per 2 employees, plus additional spaces as may be required by planning commission
Public utility structures and installations	1 space per 2 employees on largest shift, plus additional spaces as may be required by planning commission
Educational Facilities
Business, professional, trade, art, craft, music and dancing schools and colleges	1 space for each employee plus 1 space for each student on the premises at one time
Schools and colleges, including private kindergartens, elementary and high schools and limited/general day care facilities	1 space for each employee, including all staff members and 1 space for each 3 students in grade 10 and above

B. Vehicular Parking Exceptions.

1. Covered Parking. The planning commission may waive the requirement for covered parking for senior or affordable housing developments and mixed use residential and commercial or industrial projects if this will facilitate reduced costs or improve the design of the project.

2. Senior Housing. The planning commission may reduce the parking requirements for senior housing developments.

3. Shared Parking. The number of required parking spaces for multiple land uses on a site may be reduced by the planning and building director in the event it is determined that shared use of the same parking facilities can occur at differing times of the day and/or days of the week. Requests for shared parking reductions may be made to the planning and building department in writing and shall be accompanied by a shared parking analysis completed and signed by a registered traffic engineer indicating that no adverse effects would result from the shared use of parking spaces.

4. Parking In-Lieu Fee. Parking requirements for nonresidential, new construction (additional square footage) located within the area depicted here, as established by this section (Table 17) or as otherwise established by procedures under this Land Use Code, may be met by payment of a parking in-lieu fee as provided for in this section.

a. Existing nonresidential space shall be exempt from this section.

b. The parking in-lieu fee shall be a per-parking-space fee and is only applicable when a required parking space is not provided.

c. The amount per parking space for new construction (additional square footage) shall be as established in the City’s master fee schedule, as amended from time to time.

d. The parking in-lieu fee shall be paid prior to the issuance of building permits.

e. Funds collected by the City from parking in-lieu fee payments shall be deposited into a dedicated “parking and alternative transportation” deposit account and shall be used for parking and alternative transportation, including bicycle and pedestrian, improvements throughout the City.

f. Payment of the parking in-lieu fee shall be subject to the following:

i. In combination with the spaces provided on site, payment of the fee shall be considered full satisfaction of the off-street parking requirement, as determined by this section.

ii. The fee shall be nonrefundable, and payment of the fee does not carry any other guarantees, rights, or privileges to the payer.

iii. Payment of the fee does not represent an obligation of the City to provide parking spaces within any particular proximity to the project for which the payment was made or to make available parking spaces within any particular amount of time.

iv. Payment of the fee does not entitle the applicant, his or her tenants, or his or her clients to exclusive or private use of any public parking spaces. (Ord. 1219 § 2, 2022; Ord. 1149 § 1, 2015; Ord. 1139 § 1, 2014; Ord. 1106 § 2 (Exh. A § 1910), 2011.)

20.16.155 Dimensional standards for vehicular parking facilities

A. Parking space dimensions and required back up and maneuvering areas shall comply with the standards set forth in Table 18.

Table 18 Minimum parking space and aisle dimensions
Parking Angle	Width (W)	Depth (D)	Length (L)	1-Way Drive (A)	2-Way Drive (A)
parallel	9'	--	22'	18.5'	20'
30°	9'	16'	18'	12'	20'
45°	9'	19'	18'	13'	20'
60°	9'	20'	18'	18'	20'
90°	9'	18'	18'	24'	26'

B. Increased Width. Parking spaces located adjacent to and parallel to a wall or other solid barrier shall have a minimum width of 11 feet. (Ord. 1106 § 2 (Exh. A § 1915), 2011.)

20.16.160 Accessible parking

All parking lots accessible to the public shall provide parking spaces designated for use by persons with disabilities, as required by other City requirements as well as state and federal law. Accessible spaces shall be included as part of the total number of parking spaces required for each land use as specified in HMC 20.16.150. (Ord. 1241 § 7, 2024; Ord. 1106 § 2 (Exh. A § 1920), 2011.)

20.16.165 Design criteria for vehicular parking

The following standards and criteria shall govern the design and improvement of off-street vehicular parking.

A. Access criteria to parking areas.

1. Parking areas in commercial, office, industrial, public and multi-family residential projects shall be provided with suitable maneuvering room so that all vehicles therein may enter an abutting street in a forward direction without backing onto a street.

2. If more than two parking spaces are located on a site, backing a vehicle across a property line abutting a street is prohibited.

3. Use of a required parking space shall not require more than two vehicle maneuverings, except for parallel parking spaces.

4. Parking spaces shall be located to preclude vehicular maneuvering or back up within 10 feet of a vehicular entrance to the property.

5. Except for single-family residences, duplexes and affordable housing projects, each parking space shall have unobstructed access from a street or alley or from an aisle or drive connecting with a street or an alley, nor shall the moving of one vehicle be required in order to gain access to a parking space.

6. Entrances from and exits to streets shall be provided at locations approved by the public works director.

B. On-site circulation criteria.

1. Parking and circulation shall be designed so that emergency and other public service vehicles can provide service without backing unreasonable distances or making other dangerous or hazardous turning movements.

2. Separate vehicular and pedestrian circulation systems should be provided within a parking area, where possible. Pedestrian linkages between uses in commercial developments should be emphasized, including distinct pedestrian access from parking areas in large commercial developments.

C. Parking lot surfacing.

1. Parking areas, aisles, and access drives shall be paved so as to provide a durable, dustless surface and shall be so graded and drained as to dispose of surface water without damage to private or public properties, streets or alleys.

2. All parking and loading areas shall be surfaced with a minimum thickness of two inches of asphalt concrete (Type A) over a minimum thickness of six inches of Class II aggregate base material or a minimum thickness of six inches of Portland cement concrete. Such surfacing shall be permanently maintained free of structural defects. Pervious paving may be used to reduce post-construction stormwater runoff where maintenance is guaranteed to ensure the long-term permeability of the paving.

3. Notwithstanding the above, parking lots with 10 or fewer required parking spaces, at the discretion of the planning and building director or planning commission, may make use of alternate overlay material such as pavers, chip-seal and rock material provided it is affixed with an underlying seal coat. However, within 10 feet of a sidewalk or roadway, the driveway shall meet the asphalt or concrete requirements of this subsection.

D. Bumper rails or guards are to be provided at locations prescribed by the public works director where needed for safety and to protect property.

E. Lighting of parking areas.

1. Parking areas designed to accommodate three or more vehicles in other than vehicle sales areas shall have lighting facilities capable of providing sufficient illumination at every point of the parking area.

2. Freestanding light fixtures shall be limited to a maximum height of 14 feet above finished grade.

3. All illumination, including security lighting, shall be arranged so as to reflect downward and away from the night sky, adjoining properties and rights-of-way.

F. Landscaping and screening.

1. Landscaping and screening for parking areas shall be installed as required in HMC 20.16.100.

2. Walls, dense landscaping and other opaque screens within parking areas shall have a maximum height of 30 inches to allow for maximum visibility.

G. Slope and drainage criteria.

1. Parking areas designed exclusively for parking and vehicle maneuvering shall be designed and improved with grades not to exceed a five percent slope.

2. Driveways used exclusively for ingress and egress or interior parking lot circulation shall be designed and improved with grades not to exceed a 10 percent slope.

3. All off-street parking and loading facilities shall be so designed that surface water will not drain over any sidewalk.

H. Marking of parking stalls.

1. All parking spaces shall be demarcated in a manner clearly showing the layout of the intended parking stalls. Such striping shall be maintained in a clear and visible manner.

2. All pavement markings shall be white, with the exception of handicapped parking markings.

I. No repair work or servicing of vehicles shall be conducted in a parking area. (Ord. 1106 § 2 (Exh. A § 1925), 2011.)

20.16.170 Location of vehicular parking

Required vehicular parking areas shall be located as follows:

A. Except as provided below, off-street parking facilities required by this article shall be located on the same site as the use for which the spaces are required, or on an adjoining site or a site separated by an alley from the use for which the spaces are required.

B. When off-street parking facilities are provided in compliance with the requirements of this article on a site other than the site on which the use to be served by the parking facilities is located, an indenture shall be recorded in the office of the County Recorder designating the off-street facility and the use to be served, with legal descriptions of all sites involved, and certifying that the off-street parking facility shall not be used for any other purpose unless the restriction is removed by a resolution of the City Council. An attested copy of the recorded indenture shall be filed with the planning and building director and building official. Upon submission of satisfactory evidence that other off-street parking facilities have been provided in compliance with the requirements of this article or that the use has ceased or been altered so as to no longer require the off-street parking facility, the Council may, by resolution, remove the restriction.

C. In the Downtown Commercial and Public Zoning Districts, a conditional use permit may be granted to permit off-street vehicular parking spaces to be separated if located within 300 feet of the use for which the spaces are required, measured by the shortest distance of pedestrian access.

D. Location in required residential yards.

1. In residential zoning districts, required off-street vehicular parking spaces shall not be located within a required front yard or within the street side yard of a corner lot.

2. On a corner side street, required parking spaces shall be located at least 20 feet distant from the back of the sidewalk, excepting covered parking, which may be located five feet from the back of the sidewalk. If no sidewalk exists, the front of the structure shall be located five feet or at least 20 feet from the edge of pavement.

3. In the Grove Street Mixed Use Zoning District, an accessory structure used as a garage or carport and accessed by a rear alley shall be located five feet or at least 20 feet from the edge of the alley pavement. (Ord. 1106 § 2 (Exh. A § 1930), 2011.)

20.16.175 Bicycle parking

A. Number of bicycle spaces required. The number of bicycle parking spaces required shall be a minimum of 20 percent of the automobile spaces required for multifamily, mixed use, commercial and industrial developments unless otherwise approved by the planning and building director.

B. Type of bicycle parking. The City shall require the installation of a certain percentage of bicycle parking (both bicycle locker and secured parking, covered and uncovered racks) depending on the type of land use. Unless otherwise specified on a case-by-case basis, the total bicycle spaces required should be a combination of enclosed bicycle parking, or secured parking and covered or uncovered bicycle racks. Mixed use and multifamily residential development shall require 60 percent bike lockers or other form of enclosed bicycle parking and 40 percent bicycle racks. The intent of this requirement is to provide secure parking at locations where employees, customers and residents will be parking for long periods of time, in particular adjacent to any areas close to public transportation. Required bicycle parking shall be located in highly visible locations.

C. Bike racks shall have at least two points of contact, allow for the locking of frame and at least one wheel with a U-lock, the rack’s highest point shall be at least 32 inches above the ground surface, made of high-quality material such as steel or stainless steel with tamper resistance hardware and a finish appropriate to the area. The final product is subject to review and approval by the planning and building director. (Ord. 1241 § 3, 2024; Ord. 1106 § 2 (Exh. A § 1935), 2011.)

20.16.180 Pedestrian and transit access

Project designs shall accommodate nearby transit and pedestrian uses and corridors. (Ord. 1106 § 2 (Exh. A § 1940), 2011.)

20.16.185 Off-street loading

A. Number of loading berths.

1. Off-street loading berths shall be provided as follows:

a. Commercial and industrial establishments including retail stores, eating and drinking establishments, personal service establishments, commercial service enterprises, warehouses, storage facilities, manufacturing plants and other industrial uses:

i. No berths for less than 4,000 square feet of gross floor area.

ii. One berth for 4,000 to 30,000 square feet of gross floor area.

iii. Two berths for 30,000 to 70,000 square feet of gross floor area.

iv. Three berths for 70,000 to 120,000 square feet of gross floor area.

v. One additional berth for each 100,000 square feet of additional floor area.

2. Public and private administrative, business and professional offices, hospitals, nursing homes, sanitariums, institutions, hotels and motels:

a. No berths for less than 10,000 square feet of gross floor area.

b. One berth for 10,001 to 100,000 square feet of gross floor area.

c. Two berths for 100,001 to 200,000 square feet of gross floor area.

d. Three berths for 200,001 square feet of gross floor area and greater.

3. Mortuaries: One berth for up to 500 square feet of gross floor area, plus one additional berth for each additional 10,000 square feet of gross floor area.

4. General day care facilities: One loading and unloading zone generally located near the front entrance of the facility.

5. Any other use that requires the recurring receipt or distribution of goods or equipment by truck: One berth plus the number of additional berths as prescribed by the planning commission.

6. If more than one use is located on a site, the number of off-street loading berths provided shall be equal to the sum of the loading requirements prescribed in this article for each use. If more than one use is located on a site and the gross floor area of each of the uses is less than the minimum for one loading berth, but the aggregate gross floor area is greater than the minimum for which loading berths are required, off-street loading berths shall be provided based on the aggregate gross floor area for all uses on the site.

7. If, in the application of the requirements of this section, a fractional number is obtained, one loading berth shall be provided for a fraction of one-half or more, and no loading berth shall be required for a fraction of less than one-half.

8. Off-street loading berths in addition to those prescribed above shall be provided if the planning commission finds that such additional berths are necessary to ensure that trucks will not be loaded, unloaded or stored on public streets. The commission finding shall be based on an investigation of the anticipated frequency of truck pick-ups and deliveries and of the truck storage requirements of the use for which off-street loading berths are required.

B. Design criteria for loading facilities.

All off-street loading facilities, whether provided in compliance with this article or not, shall conform to the provisions prescribed in Chapter 20.16 HMC, Article VI, Landscaping and Screening, and with the following standards:

1. Each loading berth shall not be less than 45 feet in length and 12 feet in width and shall have an overhead clearance of not less than 14 feet, except that for mortuaries, cemeteries, columbariums, and crematories, a loading berth used exclusively for hearses shall be not less than 24 feet in length and 10 feet in width and shall have an overhead clearance of not less than eight feet. Loading berths for general day care facilities may also be reduced in size to 24 feet in length and 10 feet in width.

2. Sufficient room for turning and maneuvering vehicles shall be provided on the site, except that not more than one loading space per site may be located so as to necessitate backing a vehicle across a property line abutting a street.

3. Each loading berth shall have unobstructed access from a street or an alley or from an aisle or drive connecting with a street or alley.

4. Entrances from and exits to streets shall be provided at locations approved by the public works director.

5. The loading area, aisles, and access drives are to be paved so as to provide a durable, dustless surface and shall be so graded and drained as to dispose of surface water without damage to public or private properties, streets, or alleys.

6. Bumper rails or guards shall be provided at locations prescribed by the public works director where needed for safety or to protect property.

7. If the loading area is illuminated, lighting is to be directed away from abutting residential sites.

8. A loading area shall not occupy a required front, rear or side yard.

9. No repair work or servicing of vehicles shall be conducted in a loading area.

C. Location of loading facilities.

1. Off-street loading facilities prescribed by this article shall be located on the same site with the use for which the berths are required or on an adjoining site, unless alternative arrangements are approved by the planning and building director, pursuant to subsection (C)(2) of this section.

2. When off-street loading facilities are provided on a site other than the site on which the use to be served by the loading facilities is located, an indenture shall be recorded in the office of the County Recorder designating the off-street loading area facility and the use to be served, with legal descriptions of all sites involved, and certifying that the off-street loading facility shall not be used for any other purpose unless the restriction is removed by resolution of the City Council. An attested copy of the recorded indenture shall be filed with the planning and building director and building official. Upon submission of satisfactory evidence that other off-street loading facilities have been provided in compliance with the requirements of this article or that the use has ceased or has been altered so as to no longer require the off-street loading facility, the Council shall, by resolution, remove the restriction. (Ord. 1106 § 2 (Exh. A §§ 1945, 1950, 1955, 1960), 2011.)

Article IX Signs

20.16.190 Purpose

Regulations addressing the number, location, size, placement of signs and other similar provisions are included in order to maintain the attractiveness and orderliness of the community, promote the City’s appearance, and protect the public welfare and safety. (Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 2000), 1998.)

20.16.195 General provisions

Signs may be permitted in conformity with the following regulations:

A. All signs shall be subject to and consistent with Chapter 6 of the Citywide Design Guidelines.

B. All signs and displays shall be located on the same site as the use they identify or advertise, except subdivision directional signs and billboards, as provided for in this article.

C. In all districts except the CD, CS and PR districts, no blade sign shall project more than 36 inches over a public sidewalk, street or alley. Encroachment permits for such signs may be required from the Public Works Department.

D. There shall not be less than eight feet of clearance between the bottom of an overhanging sign and ground level, or as may be required by the Uniform Building Code, whichever is more restrictive.

E. A sign not attached to a building shall not exceed eight feet in height.

F. No sign shall be of such brightness or shall flash, scintillate, or move so as to create an annoying glare or hazardous condition.

G. Signs located within 100 feet of a residential zoning district shall not exceed 20 square feet in area.

H. An illuminated sign within 300 feet of a residential zoning district, measured along the radius of a 180-degree arc in front of a face of the sign, shall not flash, blink, move, or scintillate or be directly lighted, but may be indirectly lighted or may have semi-indirect or diffused lighting; provided, that the surface brightness shall not be greater than 100 foot-lamberts. This regulation shall not apply to a sign that is not visible from a residential zoning district.

I. All illuminated signs shall have an opaque background, allowing only lettering and logos to be illuminated to the degree that it does not become an annoying glare or hazardous condition as determined by the planning and building director.

J. Signs in the PD and RMP districts shall comply with the regulations prescribed in the applicable project policy statement.

K. No sign shall be erected at or near the intersection of any street in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision, or in any location where by reason of the position, shade, or color, it may interfere with, obstruct the view of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device, or which makes use of the words “stop,” “go,” “caution,” “look,” “danger,” or any other word, phrase, symbol, or character in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse vehicular traffic.

L. Signs or structures which are built in a distinctive or unusual manner so as to constitute insignias or trademarks, which are not measurable by the standards contained in the article for the measurement of conventional types of signs, shall be permitted only as special uses appurtenant to the property on which it is located under the provisions for design review. In no event shall such insignias or trademarks be of such size or luminosity, design or other feature so as to constitute a hazard to motor vehicle traffic, or so as to clash or conflict with other architectural features or improvements to the subject property and surrounding properties, in a manner or to a degree that would depreciate or threaten to depreciate surrounding or neighboring properties, or otherwise constitute a structure inconsistent with the general objectives of the Land Use Code.

M. Roof-mounted signs are prohibited.

N. Sign area is defined as the area of a sign being an integral part of a building, awning, canopy, or marquee as its background shall be the area within the shortest line drawn to include all of the letters, designs, and tubing which are a part of the largest cross-sectional area of the sign including the background and tubing but excluding supporting posts without attached lighting. Only one side of a two-faced sign shall be counted in determining the amount of sign area.

O. All signs attached to a vehicle for advertising purposes for the benefit of any business located in the City of Healdsburg shall have the area of the vehicle sign added to the area of existing or proposed signs located on the business premises, to calculate the total sign area allowed the business premises under this title. Vehicles with painted identification signs and used in the normal course of business shall not be subject to this section.

P. All signs, together with their supports, braces, and anchors, shall be properly maintained with respect to appearance, structural and electrical components, if any.

Q. Nonconforming signs are subject to the regulations prescribed in Chapter 20.28 HMC, Article I. (Ord. 1172 § 2, 2018; Ord. 971 § 2 (Exh. A §§ 10, 11), 2001; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A §§ 115, 2005, 2030, 2035, 2045, 2085), 1998.)

20.16.200 Exempt signs

The following types of signs are exempt from this article:

A. Signs used exclusively for the posting or display of an official notice by a public agency or official, or by a person giving legal notice, and signs erected or maintained by a public agency or official or required by law to be displayed by a public utility for directional, warning, or informational purposes.

B. One unlighted real estate sign, advertising the sale or lease of a parcel of property or structure located on the same site as the property or structure being advertised for sale or lease. Said sign shall not exceed a maximum area of eight square feet in any residential or office district and 20 square feet in any commercial or industrial district.

C. Signs directing and guiding traffic in parking facilities, including directional markings painted on pavement.

D. Public convenience and information signs, including location of public restrooms, phones, presence of historic markers and similar signs, not exceeding two square feet in total size.

E. Menu boards, not exceeding 24 square feet in area and five feet in height for drive-in, drive-through, or walk-up restaurants, limited to two menu boards per restaurant.

F. National and state flags, when appropriately displayed.

G. Numerical street addresses, including dwelling unit address and master directory signs that are required by the fire department.

H. Temporary signs located in the interior of a building or on the windows of said buildings or within an enclosed lobby or court of any building or group of buildings, where such signs are designed and located to be viewed exclusively by patrons of such use or uses.

I. One non-illuminated, temporary construction sign, not more than six square feet in area, on the site of a structure under construction.

J. Temporary signs posted by a community benefit group that are related to an event sponsored by such group and comply with the following:

1. The sponsored event will take place within the City limits or, if taking place outside the City limits, is sponsored by a community benefit group whose primary place of operations is located within the City limits or on City-owned property.

2. The sponsored event will be open to the general public.

3. The sign may not exceed 50 square feet in size.

4. The sign may not jeopardize the safety of pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

5. The sign shall be removed within 72 hours of the associated event. (Ord. 1111 § 1 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 1090 § 4 (Exh. B § 2010), 2009; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A §§ 2005, 2010, 2020), 1998.)

20.16.205 Temporary signs.

A. Definitions. The following definitions apply to the words or terms used in this section:

“Commercial message” shall mean any copy that directly or indirectly names, draws attention to, or advertises a business, product, good, service, or other commercial activity, or which proposes a commercial transaction.

“Commercial sign” shall mean a sign with a commercial message.

“Election period” shall mean the period commencing 90 days before any national, state, or local election in which City electors may vote up through the date of the election.

“Freestanding sign” shall mean a sign that is self-supporting in a fixed location and not attached to a building.

“Noncommercial message” shall mean any copy that communicates a message that is not a commercial message. A noncommercial message does not directly or indirectly name, draw attention to, or advertise a business, product, good, service, or other commercial activity, or propose a commercial transaction.

“Noncommercial sign” shall mean a sign with a noncommercial message.

“Temporary sign” shall mean a sign constructed of cloth, canvas, lightweight fabric, cardboard, wallboard, wood or other light materials, with or without frames, which is not intended for or suitable for long-term or permanent display, due to the materials used.

B. General Temporary Commercial Sign Regulations.

1. Temporary commercial signs may be erected in commercial, office, and industrial districts for a period not to exceed 30 days upon obtaining a temporary sign permit from the planning and building director. As part of the application, a plan showing the location of all proposed temporary commercial signs must be submitted to the planning and building department.

2. Temporary commercial signs shall have the same location, height and size restrictions as required for permanent signs in the zoning district within which the temporary commercial sign is to be located.

3. A sign permit for temporary commercial signs associated with a single location may allow for the posting of signs up to three times during a 12-month period.

C. General Temporary Freestanding Noncommercial Sign Regulations.

1. The following regulations apply at all times to temporary freestanding noncommercial signs in residential districts:

a. Number. Each parcel is permitted two temporary freestanding noncommercial signs at all times. Such signs are in addition to all other signage allowed in this article.

b. Area. A temporary freestanding noncommercial sign may not exceed six square feet in area per face and may be double-faced.

c. Height. A temporary freestanding noncommercial sign may not exceed four feet in height.

d. Location. Temporary freestanding noncommercial signs may be placed in the front yard or side yard of any property; provided, that the signs do not encroach into any public right-of-way.

e. Lighting. Temporary freestanding noncommercial signs may not be illuminated.

2. In commercial, office, and industrial districts, each parcel may at any time substitute a noncommercial message of any type for all or part of the commercial or noncommercial message on any sign allowed under this article. No permit is required to substitute a noncommercial message for any other message on a permitted sign, provided the sign structure is already approved or exempt from any permit requirement.

D. Election Period Temporary Freestanding Noncommercial Sign Regulations. During any election period, the following additional opportunities for temporary noncommercial signs are permitted subject to the following regulations:

1. Number.

a. In residential districts, each parcel is permitted up to six additional temporary freestanding noncommercial signs in addition to the two permitted at all times.

b. In commercial, office, and industrial districts, each parcel is permitted up to 50 square feet of sign area for temporary freestanding noncommercial signs (up to 100 square feet if the signs are double-faced).

2. Area. In residential districts, no temporary freestanding noncommercial sign may exceed six square feet in total area per face and may be double-faced.

3. Height.

a. In residential districts, a temporary freestanding noncommercial sign may not exceed four feet in height.

b. In commercial, office, and industrial districts, the bottom of a temporary freestanding noncommercial sign may not exceed four feet in height, and the top of the sign may not exceed 10 feet in height.

4. Location. Temporary freestanding noncommercial signs may be placed in the front yard or side yard of any property; provided, that the signs do not encroach into any public right-of-way.

5. Lighting. Temporary freestanding noncommercial signs may not be illuminated.

6. Duration. All additional temporary freestanding noncommercial signs allowed during an election period under this subsection must be removed within 15 days of the end of the applicable election period; otherwise, the signs may be summarily abated by the City in accordance with applicable law.

E. Subdivision Signs. Temporary subdivision signs that indicate the directions to, or advertise the location, existence, or sale of a subdivision or any home, lot, or part thereof are permitted in conformance with the following regulations:

1. One nonilluminated sign pertaining to a subdivision and not exceeding 24 square feet in area may be erected or displayed for each 10 acres contained in the subdivision. If a subdivision contains less than 10 acres, one sign may be displayed.

2. The total number of signs, other than model home signs and directional signs as permitted in this article, shall not exceed four.

3. One nonilluminated sign pertaining to a model home and not exceeding six square feet in area may be erected or displayed on the site for each model home in the subdivision.

4. A maximum of two nonilluminated directional signs, each not more than six square feet in area, may be erected or displayed for each 10 acres contained in a subdivision, and may be located off of the site of the subdivision. If a subdivision contains less than 10 acres, two such signs may be erected or displayed.

A sign permit shall be required for each temporary subdivision sign. A permit may be issued by the planning and building director at any time after recordation of the subdivision map and shall become void one year following the date on which the permit was issued. A sign shall then be removed, unless prior to the expiration of one year, renewal of the permit for a period of one year is approved by the planning commission. (Ord. 1176 § 2, 2018; Ord. 1111 § 1 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 1090 § 4 (Exh. B § 2015), 2009; Ord. 1039 §§ 1, 2, 3,

2006; Ord. 956 § 2 (Att. A §§ 2020, 2025), 1999; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A §§ 2015, 2020, 2025), 1998.)

20.16.210 Viticultural area signs.

Viticultural area signs may be allowed subject to the approval of a sign permit by the planning and building director after City Council approval of the location of the sign pole(s).

A. Location.

1. The City engineer and planning and building director shall advise the City Council about the appropriateness of the proposed viticultural area sign location.

2. Viticultural area signs shall be located only in the rights-of-way of Healdsburg Avenue, Dry Creek Road and Grove Street.

3. Viticultural area signs shall not cause a visual obstruction, as defined in the state’s outdoor advertising act or HMC 20.16.195 (General provisions) pertaining to signs.

B. Design.

1. Panels with winery names shall be placed on a six-inch by six-inch white post and painted white.

2. The maximum height of the sign post shall be 20 feet above road grade, including the header.

3. No more than 15 winery name panels shall be placed on a post. The panels shall not be more than one inch by six inches by 36 inches.

4. An oval header panel not more than one inch by 30 inches by 15 inches shall be located on top of a post, with the name “Healdsburg,” the name of the grape growing area and a grape logo. The header panel shall be similar in construction to the winery name panel.

C. Approval of all viticultural area signs shall be conditioned on maintenance of the sign by the applicants for the sign permit.

D. The sign post and panel signs may be removed by the City without notice, hearing or compensation.

E. A site license agreement for viticultural area signs may be required by the City engineer. (Ord. 1019 § 2 (Exh. A § 2027), 2004.)

20.16.212 Downtown directional wayfaring signs

A. Purpose. The Downtown Directional Wayfaring Sign Program is intended to enhance visitor awareness of downtown businesses and points of interest and provide general directions to their business location.

B. Program eligibility criteria. The following criteria shall be used to determine which businesses may participate in the Downtown Directional Wayfaring Sign Program:

1. The business identified on the sign plaque is likely to be of interest to and patronized by visitors to Healdsburg. The City Council shall designate, by resolution, a list of the types of businesses that may and may not participate in the program, based on these criteria.

2. The business must be located within the boundaries of the Downtown Commercial (CD), Service Commercial (SC) or Mixed Use (MU) Zoning Designations or be a destination of general interest outside the District to encourage exploration (e.g., historic points of interest, public facilities).

3. The City Council may allow exceptions to the above eligibility criteria through the adoption of a resolution where such exceptions are intended to promote the filling of blank spaces on underutilized sign faces, which shall be defined by the Council.

C. Number and location of sign plaques.

1. Sign plaques for an individual business may be approved for a maximum of two directional signposts.

2. A maximum of two sign plaques per business may be approved per signpost, with a maximum of four total sign plaques per business.

3. Reasonable effort shall be made to locate a business’s sign plaques on signposts that are located closest to the business.

D. Design criteria.

1. Each sign plaque shall be designed to prominently display the business name with a descriptive line identifying merchandise or services that is clearly subordinate to the business name.

2. Phone numbers and websites may not be included on sign plaques.

3. Each sign plaque shall include a directional arrow oriented towards the location of the business. The inclusion of an address is encouraged, especially when the business is not located on the same block as the sign.

4. Sign plaque dimensions and materials shall be consistent with standards determined by the planning and building department.

E. Application process.

1. Application for approval of a downtown directional wayfaring sign plaque may be made to the planning and building department on a form prescribed by the department, accompanied by a processing fee as required by resolution of the City Council and a color depiction of the sign.

2. Applicants shall be responsible for their sign plaque design, subject to the criteria established in this section.

3. Applications will be placed on a waiting list if no spaces are available at the requested location at the time of application.

F. Sign installation. Sign plaques shall be installed within 30 days of the City’s approval unless an extension is granted by the City at the request of the applicant. Failure to do so may result in the invalidation of the City’s approval.

G. Sign removal. Sign plaques associated with a defunct business shall be removed promptly following the close of the business. Failure to do so may result in their removal by the City. (Ord. 1241 § 2, 2024; Ord. 1117 § 1 (Exh. A), 2012.)

20.16.215 Permanent signs: O District, ORM District and residential districts

The following signs may be permitted in the Open Space District, the Office and Multi-Family Residential District and residential districts:

A. One nameplate affixed to the building, not directly lighted and not exceeding one square foot in area, on the site of a one-family or two-family dwelling in an R or ORM district.

B. One identification sign, not directly lighted and not exceeding six square feet in area, located on the site of a multi-family dwelling, multi-family complex, lodging house or residential visitor lodging in a residential district or the ORM District, or a permitted use in the O District.

C. One identification sign, not directly lighted and not exceeding 12 square feet in area on the site of a public building or grounds, a private institution, a church, a club or lodge, or a professional office, clinic, or laboratory. In addition, one monument sign not exceeding eight feet in height and 24 square feet in area for one side may be allowed. However, it shall not be internally illuminated. This sign shall be located no closer than five feet to the back of a sidewalk or public right-of-way, whichever is furthest.

D. In addition to an identification sign, one bulletin board, not directly lighted, and not exceeding 16 square feet in area, on the site of a church.

E. One non-illuminated sign not exceeding four square feet in area on the site of a parking lot.

F. Signs pertaining to a conditional use in the O District if authorized by the conditional use permit.

G. Signs pertaining to mobile home and travel trailer parks in accord with the provisions of HMC 20.08.260.

H. Mobile home parks may have one identification sign per park entrance, which may consist of one of the following:

1. A ground sign, not exceeding a height of 42 inches and a display area of 24 square feet.

2. A wall sign, which may be affixed to a screen wall, with a maximum area of 24 square feet. (Ord. 1090 § 4 (Exh. B § 2055), 2009; Ord. 971 § 2 (Exh. A § 2055), 2001; Ord. 956 § 2 (Att. A § 2055), 1999; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A §§ 2050, 2055), 1998.)

20.16.220 Permanent signs: MP District

The following signs may be permitted in the MP District:

A. One main identification sign per building, not exceeding an area of 20 square feet. The sign may be either a wall sign or a ground sign and may be non-illuminated or indirectly illuminated.

B. In addition to the sign permitted in subsection (A) of this section, one identification wall, canopy or awning sign shall be allowed per occupant or tenant of a multi-tenant building, not exceeding six square feet in area. (Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 2060), 1998.)

20.16.225 Permanent signs: GMU District

Signs for commercial and office uses may be permitted in the GMU District subject to the following regulations:

A. Signs shall be limited to five feet in height and 16 square feet in area.

B. Non-illuminated monument signs set back at least 10 feet from the street right-of-way are allowed.

C. Sandwich board signs are prohibited. (Ord. 1087 § 2 (Exh. A § 765(d)), 2009.)

20.16.230 Permanent signs: commercial and industrial districts

A. The maximum sign area identified in Table 19 may be permitted for buildings and uses in a commercial or industrial district, except as provided for the GMU District in HMC 20.16.225.

B. The maximum aggregate area of all sign faces shall be 200 feet.

C. Individual signs shall be subject to design review as prescribed in Chapter 20.28 HMC, Article IV to determine if the signs are compatible with the building or site on which the signs are proposed and with the surrounding neighborhood.

Table 19 Maximum sign area in commercial* and industrial districts
Maximum sign area
Per foot of width of building frontage, or front and street side elevations of building on corner lot, or,	Per foot of property line adjoining street, or,	Interior lot with frontage less than 50 feet
1 square foot	1/2 square foot	50 square feet

*except GMU District

(Ord. 1090 § 4 (Exh. B § 2065), 2009; Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A § 2065), 1998.)

20.16.235 Master sign programs

As an alternative to the sign provisions set forth in this article, property owners, developers and/or tenants may elect to prepare and submit a master sign program to the City. The planning and building director shall establish submittal requirements for master sign programs.

A. Master sign programs may only be submitted on parcels of two acres or greater and involving five or more uses or activities on the site.

B. The maximum sign area may increase by a factor of 30 percent over normal maximums, as set forth in this article. The height of monument or freestanding signs may not be increased.

C. Master sign programs may be approved by the planning commission when the following findings can be made:

1. Approval of a master sign program will not be detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare.

2. All signs to be constructed pursuant to the master sign program shall be in architectural harmony and scale with the development project for which the master sign program is proposed. (Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A §§ 2070, 2075), 1998.)

20.16.240 Design review

All signs with an area of 20 square feet or greater, all illuminated signs, all flashing, blinking, scintillating or moving signs, and all signs projecting above a roof, coping, parapet or ridgeline shall be subject to design review as prescribed in Chapter 20.28 HMC, Article IV. (Ord. 950 § 2 (Exh. A §2080), 1998.)