Chapter 19.08
WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS
Sections:
19.08.050 Provisions for the review and certification of landscaping and irrigation.
19.08.060 Project information.
19.08.070 Planting plan requirements.
19.08.080 Irrigation design plan requirements.
19.08.090 Soil management plan requirements.
19.08.095 Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance requirements.
19.08.100 Grading design plan requirements.
19.08.110 Certificate of completion.
19.08.120 Cemeteries, parks and schools.
19.08.130 Water conservation requirements.
19.08.140 Coordination with water purveyors.
19.08.010 Short title.
This chapter shall be known as the “water efficient landscape requirements ordinance.” [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1269 § 2, 2010].
19.08.020 Purpose and intent.
It is the intent of the City Council of the City of Lake Elsinore in adopting the ordinance codified in this chapter to:
A. Promote the values and benefits of landscapes while recognizing the need to invest water and other resources as efficiently as possible;
B. Establish a structure for planning, designing, installing, maintaining, and managing water efficient landscapes in new construction and rehabilitated projects;
C. Reduce water demands from landscapes without a decline in landscape quality or quantity;
D. Retain flexibility and encourage creativity through appropriate design;
E. Establish provisions for water management practices and water waste prevention that eliminate water waste from overspray and/or runoff;
F. Use water efficiently without waste by setting a maximum applied water allowance (MAWA) as an upper limit for water use and reduce water use to the lowest practical amount;
G. Assure the attainment of water efficient landscape goals by requiring that landscapes not exceed a maximum water demand of 60 percent of its reference evapotranspiration (ETo) or any lower percentage as may be required; and
H. Achieve water conservation by raising the public awareness of the need to conserve water through education and motivation to embrace an effective water demand management program. [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1269 § 2, 2010].
19.08.030 Definitions.
The terms used in this chapter have the meaning set forth below:
“Applied water” means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape.
“Backflow prevention device” means a safety device used to prevent pollution or contamination of the water supply due to the reverse flow of water from the irrigation system.
“Certified irrigation designer” means a person certified to design irrigation systems by an accredited academic institution, a professional trade organization, or other program such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense irrigation designer certification program and Irrigation Association’s certified landscape irrigation designer program.
“Certified landscape irrigation auditor” means a person certified to perform landscape irrigation audits by an accredited academic institution, a professional trade organization, or other program such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense irrigation auditor certification program and Irrigation Association’s certified landscape irrigation auditor program.
“Check valve” or “anti-drain valve” means 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.
“Controller” means an automatic timing device used to remotely control valves to operate an irrigation system. A “smart irrigation controller” is a weather-based irrigation controller or a self-adjusting irrigation controller. A “weather-based controller” is a controller that uses evapotranspiration or weather data to determine when to irrigate. A “self-adjusting irrigation controller” is a controller that uses sensor data (i.e., soil moisture sensor).
“Conversion factor (0.62)” means the number that converts acre-inches per acre per year to gallons per square foot per year.
“Drip irrigation” means any nonspray 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.
“Ecological restoration project” means a project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.
“Effective precipitation” or “usable rainfall” (Eppt) means the portion of total precipitation which becomes available for plant growth.
“Emitter” means a drip irrigation emission device that delivers water slowly from the system to the soil.
“Established landscape” means the point at which plants in the landscape have developed significant root growth into the soil. Typically, most plants are established after one or two years of growth.
“Establishment period of the plants” means the first year after installing the plant in the landscape or the first two years if irrigation will be terminated after establishment. Typically, most plants are established after one or two years of growth.
“Estimated total water use” (ETWU) is estimated water use based upon the types of plant material used in your design (based upon WUCOLS classifications). This cannot exceed the MAWA.
“ET adjustment factor” (ETAF) means a factor of 0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas, 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. A combined plant mix with a site-wide average of 0.43 is the basis of the plant factor portion of this calculation. For purposes of the ETAF, the average irrigation efficiency is 0.75. The ETAF for new and existing (nonrehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0. The ETAF for existing, nonrehabilitated landscapes is 0.80.
“Evapotranspiration rate” means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil and other surfaces and transpired by plants during a specified time.
“Flow rate” means 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” means any durable material (pervious and nonpervious).
“Homeowner-provided landscaping” means any landscaping either installed by a private individual for a single-family residence or installed by a licensed contractor hired by a homeowner. A homeowner, for the purposes of this chapter, is a person who occupies the dwelling he or she owns. This excludes speculative homes, which are not owner-occupied dwellings.
“Hydrozone” (HA) means a portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs. A hydrozone may be irrigated or nonirrigated.
“Infiltration rate” means 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” means species of plants not historically found in California that spread outside cultivated areas and can damage environmental or economic resources. Invasive species may be regulated by County agricultural agencies as noxious species. “Noxious” weeds means any weed designated by the Weed Control Act and identified on a regional district noxious weed control list. Lists of invasive plants are maintained at the California Invasive Plant Inventory and USDA invasive and noxious weeds database.
“Irrigation audit” means an in-depth evaluation of the performance of an irrigation system conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor. An irrigation audit includes, but is not limited to: inspection, system tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity or emission uniformity, reporting overspray or runoff that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule.
“Irrigation efficiency” (IE) means the measurement of the amount of water beneficially used divided by the amount of water applied. Irrigation efficiency is derived from measurements and estimates of irrigation system characteristics and management practices. The irrigation efficiency for purposes of this chapter are 0.75 for overhead spray devices and 0.81 for drip systems. Greater irrigation efficiency can be expected from well designed and maintained systems.
“Irrigation survey” means an evaluation of an irrigation system that is less detailed than an irrigation audit. An irrigation survey includes, but is not limited to: inspection, system test, and written recommendations to improve performance of the irrigation system.
“Irrigation water use analysis” means an analysis of water use data based on meter readings and billing data.
“Landscape architect” means a person who holds a license to practice landscape architecture pursuant to Business and Professions Code Section 5615.
“Landscape area” means all the planting areas, turf areas, and water features in a landscape design plan subject to the maximum applied water allowance calculation. The landscape area does not includes footprints of buildings or structures, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, decks, patios, gravel, or stone walks, other pervious or nonpervious hardscapes, and other nonirrigated areas designated for nondevelopment (e.g., open spaces and existing native vegetation).
“Landscape contractor” means a person licensed by the State of California to construct, maintain, repair, install, or subcontract the development of landscape systems.
“Landscape project” means the total area of landscape in a project as defined in “landscape area” for the purposes of this chapter.
“Lateral line” means the water delivery pipeline that supplies water to the emitters or sprinklers from the valve.
“Local agency” means a city or county, including charter city or charter county, that is responsible for adopting and implementing this chapter. The local agency is also responsible for the enforcement of this chapter, including, but not limited to, approval of a permit and plan check or design review of a project.
“Local water purveyor” means any entity, including a public agency, city, county, or private water company that provides retail water service.
“Low volume irrigation” means the application of irrigation water at low pressure through a system of tubing or lateral lines and low volume emitters such as drip, drip lines, and bubblers. Low volume irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply small volumes or water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.
“Main line” means the pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water sources to the valve or outlet.
“Mass grading” means the movement of earth by mechanical means to alter the gross topographic features (elevations, slopes, existing contours) to prepare a site for rough and/or precise grading and the construction of infrastructure, facilities and improvements.
“Maximum applied water allowance” (MAWA) means the upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area. It is based upon the area’s reference evapotranspiration, the ET adjustment factor, and the size of the landscape area. The estimated total water use shall not exceed the maximum applied water allowance. Special landscape areas, including recreation areas, areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants such as orchards and vegetable gardens, and areas irrigated with recycled water are subject to the MAWA with an ETAF not to exceed 1.0.
“Microclimate” means the climate of a small, specific area that may contrast with the climate of the overall landscape area due to factors such as wind, sun exposure, plant density, or proximity to reflective surfaces.
“Mulch” means any organic material such as leaves, bark, straw, compost, or inorganic mineral materials such as rocks, gravel, and decomposed granite left loose and applied to the soil surface for the beneficial purposes of reducing evaporation, suppressing weeds, moderating soil temperature, and preventing soil erosion.
“New construction” means, for the purposes of this chapter, a new building with a landscape or other new landscape, such as a park, playground, or greenbelt without an associated building.
“Operating pressure” means the pressure at which the parts of an irrigation system are designed by the manufacturer to operate.
“Overhead sprinkler irrigation systems” means systems that deliver water through the air (e.g., spray heads and rotors).
“Overspray” means the irrigation water which is delivered beyond the target area.
“Permit” means an authorizing document issued by local agencies for new construction or rehabilitated landscapes.
“Pervious” means any surface or material that allows the passage of water through the material and into the underlying soil.
“Plant factor” or “plant water use factor” (PF) is a factor that, when multiplied by ETo, estimates the amount of water needed by plants. For purposes of this chapter, the plant factor for moderate water use plants range from 0.4 to 0.6, for low water use plants range from 0.1 to 0.3, and very low water use plants are less than 0.1. Plant factors cited in this chapter are derived from the Department of Water Resources 2014 publication, “Water Use Classification of Landscape Species.”
“Precipitation rate” means the rate of application of water measured in inches per hour.
“Project applicant” means the individual or entity submitting a landscape documentation package to request a permit, plan check, or design review from the local agency. A project applicant may be the property owner or his or her designee.
“Rain sensor” or “rain sensing shutoff device” means a component which automatically suspends an irrigation event when it rains.
“Recreational area” means areas dedicated to active play such as parks, sports fields, and golf courses where turf provides a playing surface.
“Recycled water,” “reclaimed water,” or “treated sewage effluent water” means treated or recycled waste water of a quality suitable for nonpotable uses such as landscape irrigation and water features. This water is not intended for human consumption.
“Reference evapotranspiration” or “ETo” means a standard measurement of environmental parameters which affect the water use of plants. ETo is expressed in inches per day, month, or year, and is an estimate of the evapotranspiration of a large field of four- to seven-inch tall, cool-season grass that is well watered. Reference evapotranspiration is used as the basis of determining the maximum applied water allowances so that regional differences in climate can be accommodated. Refer to the CIMIS Reference Evapotranspiration Zones Map, Department of Water Resources, 1999.
“Rehabilitated landscape” means any re-landscaping project that requires a permit, plan check, or design review.
“Runoff” means water which is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to which it is applied and flows from the landscape area. For example, runoff may result from water that is applied at too great a rate (application rate exceeds infiltration rate) or when there is a slope.
“Soil moisture sensing device” or “soil moisture sensor” means a device that measures the amount of water in the soil. The device may also suspend or initiate an irrigation event.
“Soil texture” means the classification of soil based on its percentage of sand, silt, and clay.
“Special landscaped area” (SLA) means an area of the landscape dedicated solely to edible plants, areas irrigated with recycled water, water features using recycled water, and areas dedicated to active play such as parks, sports fields, golf courses, and where turf provides a playing surface.
“Sprinkler head” means a device which delivers water through a nozzle.
“Static water pressure” means the pipeline or municipal water supply pressure when water is not flowing.
“Station” means an area served by one valve or by a set of valves that operate simultaneously.
“Swing joint” means an irrigation component that provides a flexible, leak-free connection between the emission device and lateral pipeline to allow movement in any direction and to prevent equipment damage.
“Turf” means a ground cover surface of mowed grass. Annual blue grass, Kentucky blue grass, perennial rye grass, red fescue, and tall fescue are cool-season grasses. Bermuda grass, Kikuyu grass, seashore paspalum, St. Augustine grass, Zoysia grass, and Buffalo grass are warm-season grasses.
“Valve” means a device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation system.
“Water conserving plant species” means a plant species identified as having a low plant factor.
“Watering window” means the time of day irrigation is allowed.
“WUCOLS” means the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species published by the University of California Cooperative Extension and the Department of Water Resources (2014 or most current WUCOLS version). [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1269 § 2, 2010].
19.08.040 Applicability.
This chapter shall apply to all of the following landscape projects:
A. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes for public agency projects and private development projects requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review.
B. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes which are developer-installed in single-family and multifamily projects requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review.
C. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes which are homeowner-provided and/or homeowner-hired in single-family and multifamily residential projects when a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review is required.
D. Rehabilitated landscapes which are homeowner-provided and/or homeowner-hired for existing single-family residences shall be limited to compliance with the provisions of LEMC 19.08.070, 19.08.080 and 19.08.130.
E. New and rehabilitated cemeteries, parks and schools.
F. In the event covenants, conditions and restrictions are required by the City of Lake Elsinore for any permit issued in accordance with the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code, a condition shall be incorporated into any project approval prohibiting the use of water-intensive landscaping and requiring the use of low water use landscaping pursuant to the provisions of this chapter in connection with common area/open space landscaping. Additionally, such a condition shall also require the covenants, conditions and restrictions to incorporate provisions concerning landscape irrigation system management and maintenance consistent with this chapter. This chapter shall not be construed as requiring landscaping of common areas or open space that is intended to remain natural. Covenants, conditions, and restrictions shall not prohibit use of low water use plants or the replacement of turf with less water intensive plant species.
G. The following are exempt from the provisions of this chapter:
1. Registered local, state or federal historical sites;
2. Ecological restoration projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system and have an establishment period of less than three years;
3. Mined-land reclamation projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system; and
4. Botanical gardens and arboretums open to the public. [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1269 § 2, 2010].
19.08.050 Provisions for the review and certification of landscaping and irrigation.
A. An applicant proposing any new or rehabilitated landscape subject to this chapter shall prepare and submit an application to the Community Development Director or designee, for review and approval, documentation including, but not limited to, the following:
1. Project information conforming to LEMC 19.08.060;
2. Planting plan conforming to LEMC 19.08.070;
3. Irrigation design plan conforming to LEMC 19.08.080;
4. Soil management plan conforming to LEMC 19.08.090; and
5. Grading design plan conforming to LEMC 19.08.100.
B. The planting plan and irrigation plan shall be reviewed to ensure that all components of the plans adhere to the requirements of this chapter. No certificate of occupancy or other final City approval shall be issued until the City reviews and approves the landscape and irrigation plans and the landscape and irrigation are installed in accordance with the approved plans and inspected for completion and consistency with approved plan by City staff. A copy of the approved landscape and irrigation plans and conditions of approval shall be provided to the property owner or site manager along with any other information normally forwarded to the property owner or site manager. [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1269 § 2, 2010].
19.08.060 Project information.
The applicant shall complete and submit to the Community Development Director or designee a project information sheet containing, at a minimum, the following information:
A. The date that the project information sheet is submitted.
B. The applicant’s name and the applicant’s contact information.
C. The project owner and the project owner’s contact information.
D. The project address including parcel and lot numbers.
E. Total landscape area (square feet).
F. Project type (e.g., new, rehabilitated, public, private).
G. Water supply (e.g., potable, well, recycled). Use of recycled water is encouraged.
H. The water purveyor name and date that information was attained.
I. Applicant signature and date with statement, “I agree to comply with the requirements of Chapter 19.08 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code, as amended from time to time, and to submit a complete Landscape Documentation Package.” [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1269 § 2, 2010].
19.08.070 Planting plan requirements.
A. The “Riverside County Guide to California Friendly Landscaping” (“County Landscaping Guide”), Western Municipal Water District’s Water-wise 140, or any other plant list that promotes the use of water efficient or California native plant materials is hereby incorporated by reference to assist with developing water efficient landscapes. Planting plans shall be, to the extent feasible, consistent with the County Landscaping Guide or, upon adoption, the City of Lake Elsinore Landscape Design Guidelines (“City Landscape Guide”). Upon adoption of the City Landscape Guide, planting plans shall be, to the extent feasible, consistent with the City Landscape Guide.
B. Plant types shall be grouped together in regard to their water, soil, sun, and shade requirements and in relationship to buildings. Plants with different water needs shall be irrigated separately. Plants, or planting areas, with the following classifications shall be grouped accordingly, consistent with the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS): moderate, low and very low. Deviation from these groupings shall not be permitted.
C. Invasive species of plants, such as those indicated in the Riverside County Guide to California Friendly Landscapes and the California Invasive Plant Council, shall be avoided especially near parks, buffers, greenbelts, water bodies, and open spaces because of their potential to cause harm to environmentally sensitive areas.
D. All exposed surfaces of nonturf areas within the developed landscape area shall be mulched with a minimum three-inch layer of material, except in areas with ground cover planted from flats where mulch depth shall be one and one-half inches.
E. Stabilizing erosion control products shall be used on slopes.
F. Turf Areas.
1. Backyard turf areas shall be used in response to functional needs and in compliance with the water budget.
2. Front yards and parkways shall consist of no turf and only have moderate to very low trees, plants, shrubs and ground covers.
G. Recycled water shall be used where available as the source for irrigation and decorative water features.
H. Planting plans shall identify and site the following:
1. New trees, existing trees (designated to be either protected or removed), shrubs, ground covers, and turf areas within the proposed landscape area;
2. Designation of hydrozones;
3. Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA).
a. MAWA means the upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area. It is based upon the area’s reference evapotranspiration (ET) adjustment factor and the size of the landscape area.
b. Planting plans for single-family residential, multifamily residential, commercial, industrial and institutional projects shall be prepared using the following water budget formulas in order to determine the maximum applied water allowance:
MAWA (in gallons) = (ETo) (0.62) [(ETAF x LA)] where:
MAWA = Maximum applied water allowance (gallons per year).
ETo = Reference evapotranspiration (inches per year).
0.62 = Conversion factor (to gallons).
ETAF = ET adjustment factor (0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas).
LA = Landscape area (square feet).
c. Planting plans for single-family residential, multifamily residential, commercial, industrial and institutional projects with special landscape areas shall be prepared using the following water budget formulas in order to determine the maximum applied water allowance:
MAWA (in gallons) = (ETo) (0.62) [(ETAF x LA) + ((1 - ETAF) x SLA)] where:
MAWA = Maximum applied water allowance.
ETo = Reference evapotranspiration (inches per year).
0.62 = Conversion factor (to gallons).
ETAF = ET adjustment factor (0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas) (ETAF for new and existing SLAs not to exceed 1.0).
LA = Landscape area including SLA (square feet).
SLA = Special landscape area (square feet).
d. For the purposes of determining the maximum applied water allowance (MAWA), irrigation efficiency is assumed to be 0.75 for overhead sprays and 0.81 for drip. Irrigation systems shall be designed, maintained, and managed to meet or exceed an irrigation efficiency of 0.75 for overhead sprays and 0.81 for drip.
4. Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU).
a. ETWU is estimated water use based upon the types of plant material used in your design (based upon WUCOLS classifications).
b. For single-family residential, multifamily residential, commercial, industrial and institutional projects, ETWU for a given hydrozone is calculated as follows:
ETWU (in gallons) = (ETo) (0.62) (PF / IE) (HA) where:
ETWU = Estimated total water use.
ETo = Reference evapotranspiration (inches per year).
0.62 = Conversion factor.
PF = Plant factor from WUCOLS.
HA = Hydrozone area in square feet.
IE = Irrigation efficiency (0.75 for overhead sprays and 0.81 for drip).
c. For single-family residential, multifamily residential, commercial, industrial and institutional projects with special landscape areas, ETWU for a given hydrozone is calculated as follows:
ETWU (in gallons) = (ETo) (0.62) [(PF / IE) (HA) + (1 x SLA)] where:
ETWU = Estimated total water use.
ETo = Reference evapotranspiration (inches per year).
0.62 = Conversion factor.
PF = Plant factor from WUCOLS.
HA = Hydrozone area (square feet).
IE = Irrigation efficiency (average of 0.75 for overhead sprays and 0.81 for drip).
SLA = Special landscape area (square feet).
d. Landscaping plans shall provide ETWU (in the same units as the MAWA) for each valve circuit in the irrigation hydrozone. The sum of all ETWU calculations shall not exceed the MAWA for the project.
e. The plant factor used shall be from the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS). The plant factor for moderate water use plants range from 0.4 to 0.6, low water use plants range from 0.1 to 0.3, and very low water use plants are less than 0.1.
f. All water features, such as fountains, shall be included in the water use calculations and shall be indicated as a high water use hydrozone. [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1269 § 2, 2010].
19.08.080 Irrigation design plan requirements.
A. Irrigation systems shall be designed, maintained, and managed to meet or exceed an average irrigation efficiency of 0.75 for overhead sprays and 0.81 for drip.
B. All irrigation systems shall be designed to prevent runoff, overspray, low-head drainage and other similar conditions where water flows off site on to adjacent property, nonirrigated areas, walk, roadways, or structures. Irrigation systems shall be designed, constructed, managed, and maintained to achieve as high an overall efficiency as possible. The irrigation system shall be designed to ensure that the dynamic pressure at each emission device is within the manufacturer’s recommended pressure range for optimal performance.
C. Landscaped areas shall be provided with a smart irrigation controller which automatically adjusts the frequency and/or duration of irrigation events in response to changing weather conditions. The irrigation controller shall be of a type that does not lose programming data in the event the primary power source is interrupted. The planting areas shall be grouped in relation to moisture control zones based on similarity of water requirements (i.e., turf separate from shrub and ground cover, full sun exposure areas separate from shade areas, top of slope separate from toe of slope). Additional water conservation technology (i.e., soil moisture sensors) may be required, where necessary, at the discretion of the City.
1. Water systems for common open space areas shall use nonpotable water, if approved facilities are made available by the water purveyor. Provisions for the conversion to a nonpotable water system shall be provided within the landscape plan. Water systems designed to utilize nonpotable water shall be designed to meet all applicable standards of the California Regional Water Quality Control Board, the Riverside County Health Department, and the water purveyor.
D. Separate valves shall be provided for separate water use planting areas, so that plants with similar water needs may be irrigated by the same irrigation valve. All installations shall rely on highly efficient state of the art irrigation systems to eliminate runoff and maximize irrigation efficiency.
E. Static water pressure, dynamic or operating pressure and flow reading of the water supply shall be measured. These pressure and flow measurements shall be conducted at the design stage. If the measurements are not available at the design stage, the measurements shall be conducted at the installation.
F. The capacity of the irrigation system shall not exceed:
1. The capacity required for peak water demand based on water budget calculations;
2. Meter capacity; or
3. Backflow preventer type and device capacity.
G. Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall have matched precipitation rates.
H. In mulched planting areas, the use of low volume irrigation is required to maximize water infiltration into the root zone.
I. Slopes greater than 25 percent shall not be irrigated with an irrigation system with a precipitation rate exceeding 0.75 inches per hour. This restriction may be modified if the landscape designer specifies an alternative design or technology, as part of the submittal, and clearly demonstrates no runoff or erosion will occur. Prevention of runoff and erosion must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.
J. Long-narrow or irregularly shaped areas including turf less than 10 feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or low volume irrigation technology.
K. Overhead irrigation shall not be permitted within 24 inches of any nonpermeable surface. Allowable irrigation within the setback from nonpermeable surfaces may include drip, drip line, or other low flow nonspray technology. The setback area may be planted or unplanted. The surfacing of the setback may be mulch, gravel, or other porous material. These restrictions may be modified if:
1. The landscape area is adjacent to permeable surfacing and no runoff occurs; or
2. The adjacent nonpermeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain entirely to landscaping; or
3. The irrigation designer specifies an alternative design or technology, as part of the submittal and clearly demonstrates strict adherence to the irrigation design plan requirements. Prevention of overspray and runoff must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.
L. Overhead irrigation shall be limited to the hours between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
M. All irrigation systems shall be equipped with the following:
1. A smart irrigation controller as noted in subsection (C) of this section;
2. A rain sensing device to prevent irrigation during rainy weather;
3. Anti-drain check valves installed at strategic points to minimize or prevent low-head drainage;
4. A manual shut-off valve shall be required as close as possible to the point of connection of the water supply, to minimize water loss in case of an emergency or routine repair;
5. A mainline pressure regulator when the static water pressure is 15 percent above or below the recommended operating pressure of the irrigation system;
6. Backflow prevention devices; and
7. Riser protection components for all risers in high traffic areas.
N. Dedicated landscape water meters shall be required for all projects with a landscape area equal to or greater than 5,000 square feet. Single-family residences and properties used for the commercial production of agricultural crops or livestock are exempt from this provision. [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1269 § 2, 2010].
19.08.090 Soil management plan requirements.
A. After mass grading, the project applicant or designee shall:
1. Perform a preliminary site inspection;
2. Determine the appropriate level of soil sampling and sampling method needed to obtain representative soil sample(s);
3. Conduct a soil probe test to determine if the soil in the landscape area has sufficient depth to support the intended plants; and
4. Obtain appropriate soil sample(s).
B. The project applicant or designee shall submit soil sample(s) to laboratory for analysis and recommendation. The soil analysis shall include, to the extent applicable:
1. Soil texture;
2. Infiltration rate determined by laboratory test or soil texture infiltration rate tables;
3. pH;
4. Total soluble salts;
5. Sodium; and
6. Recommendations.
C. The project applicant or designee shall prepare documentation describing the following:
1. Soil type;
2. Identification of limiting soil characteristics; and
3. Identification of planned soil management actions to remediate limiting soil characteristics.
D. The project applicant or designee shall submit the soil analysis report and documentation verifying implementation of soil analysis report recommendations to the Director of Community Development or designee pursuant to the requirement of LEMC 19.08.110.
E. Incorporate compost at a rate of at least four cubic yards per 1,000 square feet to a depth of six inches into landscape areas (unless otherwise directed in site agronomic soils report).
F. In project with multiple landscape installations (i.e., production home developments), a soils sample rate of one in seven lots, or approximately 15 percent, will satisfy the agronomic soils report requirement. [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1269 § 2, 2010].
19.08.095 Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance requirements.
Property owners or their building or landscape designers, including anyone requiring a building or planning permit, plan check, or landscape design review from the City, who are constructing a new single-family, multifamily, public, institutional, or commercial project with a landscape area greater than 500 square feet, or rehabilitating an existing landscape with a total landscape area greater than 2,500 square feet, shall comply with the requirements of LEMC 8.16.400. [Ord. 1464 § 2, 2021; Ord. 1463 § 2, 2021].
19.08.100 Grading design plan requirements.
If applicable, the landscape documentation package shall include rough/precise grade elevation prepared for the project by a licensed civil engineer. [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1269 § 2, 2010].
19.08.110 Certificate of completion.
A. Certificate of Completion Requirements. Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy or final inspection for a project subject to this chapter, a certificate of completion shall be submitted to the City certifying that the landscaping has been completed in accordance with the approved planting and irrigation plans for the project. The certificate of completion shall be signed by a licensed landscape architect and certified irrigation auditor and shall include:
1. Date of the inspection; and
2. Project information including:
a. Project name;
b. Applicant’s name, telephone, and mailing address;
c. Project address and location;
d. Property owner name and mailing address; and
3. A statement that prior to backfilling, evidence that the party responsible for irrigation installation conducted a preliminary field inspection of the irrigation system; and
4. A statement that the landscape has been installed in conformance with the approved planting and irrigation plans; and
5. An irrigation audit report performed by a certified irrigation auditor after project installation; and
6. A statement that the smart irrigation controller has been set according to the irrigation schedule; and
7. A statement that the irrigation system has been adjusted to maximize irrigation efficiency and eliminate overspray and runoff; and
8. A statement confirming that a copy of the approved landscape documentation package, the irrigation schedule, and the maintenance schedule has been given to the property owner and local water purveyor; and
9. Verification that the maintenance schedule has been provided to the Director of Community Development or designee.
B. Irrigation Audits. At a minimum, all landscape irrigation audits shall comply with the Irrigation Association’s “Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor Training Manual” and shall be conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor. Any landscape irrigation auditor performing audits shall maintain a current certification.
C. Inspections. The Director of Community Development or designee shall have the right to enter upon the project site at any time before, during and after installation of the landscaping, to conduct inspections for the purpose of enforcing this chapter. [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1269 § 2, 2010. Formerly 19.08.120].
19.08.120 Cemeteries, parks and schools.
Recognizing the special landscape management needs of new and rehabilitated cemeteries, parks and schools:
A. New cemeteries, parks and schools shall comply with the provisions of LEMC 19.08.050, 19.08.060, 19.08.070, 19.08.080, and 19.08.130 and use the following for MAWA and ETWU formulas:
Planting plans for new cemeteries, parks and school projects shall be prepared using the following water budget formulas in order to determine the maximum applied water allowance:
MAWA (in gallons) = (ETo) (0.62) [(ETAF x LA) + ((1 - ETAF) x SLA)] where:
MAWA = Maximum applied water allowance.
ETo = Reference evapotranspiration (inches per year).
0.62 = Conversion factor (to gallons).
ETAF = ET adjustment factor (0.55 for residential areas an 0.45 for nonresidential areas) (ETAF for new and existing SLAs not to exceed 1.0).
LA = Total landscape area including SLA (square feet).
SLA = Special landscape area (square feet).
For new cemeteries, parks and school projects; ETWU for a given hydrozone is calculated as follows:
ETWU (in gallons) = (ETo) (0.62) [((PF / IE) (HA) + (1 x SLA)] where:
ETWU = Estimated total water use.
ETo = Reference evapotranspiration (inches per year).
0.62 = Conversion factor.
PF = Plant factor from WUCOLS.
HA = Hydrozone area (square feet).
IE = Irrigation efficiency (0.75 for overhead sprays and 0.81 for drip).
SLA = Special landscape area (square feet).
B. Existing cemeteries shall comply with LEMC 19.08.130. [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016].
19.08.130 Water conservation requirements.
The following water conservation requirements are intended to avoid water waste, are effective at all times, and are permanent:
A. Limits on Watering Hours. Watering or irrigation of lawn, landscape or other vegetated area with potable water is prohibited between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on any day, except by use of a handheld bucket or similar container, a handheld hose equipped with a positive self-closing water shut-off nozzle or device, or for very short periods of time for the express purpose of adjusting or repairing an irrigation system. Overhead irrigation shall be limited to the hours of 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
B. No Excessive Water Flow or Runoff. Watering or irrigating of any lawn, landscape or other vegetated area in a manner that causes or allows excessive water flow or runoff onto an adjoining sidewalk, driveway, street, alley, gutter or ditch is prohibited.
C. No Washing Down Hard or Paved Surfaces. Washing down hard or paved surfaces, including but not limited to sidewalks, walkways, driveways, parking areas, tennis courts, patios or alleys, is prohibited except when necessary to alleviate safety or sanitary hazards, and then only by use of a handheld bucket or similar container, a handheld hose equipped with a positive self-closing water shut-off device, a low volume, high pressure cleaning machine equipped to recycle any water used, or a low volume high pressure water broom.
D. Obligation to Fix Leaks, Breaks or Malfunctions. Excessive use, loss or escape of water through breaks, leaks or other malfunctions in the water user’s plumbing or distribution system for any period of time after such escape of water should have reasonably been discovered and corrected, and in no event more than seven days, is prohibited. [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1269 § 2, 2010].
19.08.140 Coordination with water purveyors.
The City of Lake Elsinore will coordinate with local water purveyors to identify programs that enhance and encourage landscape water use efficiency such as:
A. Tiered water rate structure;
B. Allocation-based conservation water pricing structure;
C. A rate structure at least as effective as the above options;
D. Irrigation audits and/or irrigation surveys;
E. Penalties for water waste. [Ord. 1351 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1269 § 2, 2010].