Chapter 18.55
WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING
Sections:
18.55.02 Applicability and Exemptions.
18.55.05 Landscape Documentation Package.
18.55.08 Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet.
18.55.09 Soil Management Reports.
18.55.10 Landscape Design Plan.
18.55.11 Irrigation Design Plan.
18.55.13 Certification of Completion.
18.55.14 Irrigation Scheduling.
18.55.15 Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule.
18.55.16 Irrigation Audit, Irrigation Survey and Water Use Analysis.
18.55.17 Irrigation Efficiency.
18.55.20 Storm Management and Rainwater Retentions.
18.55.22 Environmental Review.
18.55.23 Wastewater Prevention.
Prior legislation: Ord. 673.
18.55.01 Intent and Purpose.
This chapter implements the California Department of Water Resources Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) as adopted by the California Water Commission. In the event of any conflict between this chapter and the latest version of the MWELO, the provisions of the State-adopted ordinance shall apply. The landscaping provisions contained in this chapter are provided to:
A. Establish the City of Norco landscape standards relating to the quality, quantity, and functional aspects of landscaping, while promoting conservation and the efficient use of water, prevention of erosion, protection from fire, and restoration of natural systems;
B. Help mitigate land use compatibility conflicts between different land uses;
C. Preserve natural vegetation and incorporate native plants, plant communities, and ecosystems into landscape design;
D. Protect the environment by increasing on-site infiltration, controlling soil erosion, and reducing runoff;
E. Protect wildlife habitat and foster biodiversity;
F. Reduce heat and glare generated by development;
G. Promote public health, safety and welfare by minimizing the impacts of all forms of physical and visual pollution, preserving the integrity of neighborhoods, and enhancing pedestrian and vehicular traffic safety;
H. Promote the conservation of potable and recycled water by encouraging the preservation of existing plant communities, encouraging the planting of natural or uncultivated areas, and encouraging the appropriate design, installation, maintenance, and management of landscape areas so that water demand can be decreased, runoff can be minimized, and flooding can be reduced without a decline in the quality or quantity of landscape areas;
I. Retain the land’s natural hydrological role within the Santa Ana Watershed and promote the infiltration of surface water into the groundwater in the Temescal and Chino Basins by reducing compaction, and incorporating organic matter that increases water retention;
J. Promote productive plant growth that leads to more carbon storage, oxygen production, and shade;
K. Conserve water by capturing and reusing rainwater and graywater wherever possible and selecting climate appropriate plants that need minimal supplemental water after establishment;
L. Promote and encourage the inclusion of low water use plants in landscape design plans;
M. Minimize the use of cool season turf;
N. Maximize the use of recycled water and other water conserving technology for appropriate applications;
O. Promote public education about water conservation and efficient water management;
P. Reduce or eliminate water waste; and
Q. Be at least as effective in conserving water as required pursuant to Government Code Section 65595.
If a discrepancy arises between this chapter and any other chapters of the City of Norco Municipal Code, the provisions requiring the most landscaping quantities and the stricter design criteria shall apply, unless otherwise determined by the Planning Director, Director of Public Works, the City Engineer, the Fire Chief or their designee. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.02 Applicability and Exemptions.
A. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all landscape projects that meet the following requirements:
1. New construction projects with an aggregate landscape area equal to or greater than 500 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review.
2. Rehabilitated landscape projects with an aggregate landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review.
3. Rehabilitated landscape projects with an aggregate landscape area of 2,500 square feet or less which require a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review may comply with the performance requirements of this chapter by either completing the landscape document package or conforming to the prescriptive measures contained in this chapter.
4. For projects using treated or untreated graywater or rainwater captured on site, any lot or parcel within the project that has less than 2,500 square feet of landscape and meets the lot or parcel’s water requirement (estimated total water use) entirely with treated or untreated graywater or through stored rainwater captured on site is subject only to Sections 18.55.19 and 18.55.20.
5. All landscape areas that were approved pursuant to the requirements of this subsection (A) and were installed after December 1, 2015, are subject to programs/audits by the City to ensure the applied water does not exceed the approved maximum applied water allowance (MAWA).
6. Existing residential properties shall comply with minimum landscape requirements and the minimum on-site landscape planting requirements in Section 18.55.16.
7. All rehabilitated landscape areas that are one acre or more and were installed before December 1, 2015, are limited to preparing the water efficient landscape worksheet for existing landscape areas.
8. The use of artificial turf is permitted within the City of Norco. Any installation of artificial turf shall comply with Section 18.55.10.
9. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all new or rehabilitated development projects.
B. The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to:
1. Registered local, State, or Federal historical sites;
2. Ecological restoration projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system; and
3. Botanical gardens and arboretums open to the public. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.03 Definitions.
The terms used in this chapter have the meaning set forth below:
“Active use turf” means natural or synthetic turf that is installed for sports parks and fields, golf courses, or other playing surfaces and passive recreation areas.
“Applied water” means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape.
“Automatic irrigation controller” means a timing device used to remotely control valves that operate an irrigation system. Automatic irrigation controllers are able to self-adjust and schedule irrigation events using either evapotranspiration (weather-based) or soil moisture data.
“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.
“Certificate of completion” means the document required under Section 18.55.13.
“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 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.
“Compost” means the safe and stable product of controlled biologic decomposition of organic materials that is beneficial to plant growth.
“Conversion factor (0.62)” means the number that converts acre-inches per acre per year to gallons per square foot per year.
“Distribution uniformity” means the measure of the uniformity of irrigation water over a defined area.
“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. Native habitat mitigation areas and trees may need three to five years for establishment.
“Estimated total water use (ETWU)” means the total water used for the landscape as described in Section 18.55.08.
“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. The ETAF for new and existing (nonrehabilitated) Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0. The ETAF for existing nonrehabilitated landscapes is 0.8.
“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.
“Flow sensor” means an inline device installed at the supply point of the irrigation system that produces a repeatable signal proportional to flow rate. Flow sensors must be connected to an automatic irrigation controller, or flow monitor capable of receiving flow signals and operating master valves. This combination flow sensor/controller may also function as a landscape water meter or submeter.
“Friable” means a soil condition that is easily crumbled or loosely compacted down to a minimum depth per planting material requirements, whereby the root structure of newly planted material will be allowed to spread unimpeded.
“Fuel modification plan guidelines” means guidelines from a local fire authority to assist residents and businesses that are developing land or building structures in a fire hazard severity zone.
“Graywater” means untreated wastewater that has not been contaminated by any toilet discharge, has not been affected by infectious, contaminated, or unhealthy bodily wastes, and does not present a threat from contamination by unhealthful processing, manufacturing, or operating wastes. “Graywater” includes, but is not limited to, wastewater from bathtubs, showers, bathroom washbasins, clothes washing machines, and laundry tubs, but does not include wastewater from kitchen sinks or dishwashers. Health and Safety Code Section 17922.12.
“Hardscapes” means any durable material (pervious and nonpervious).
“Hydrozone” means a portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs and rooting depth. 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. 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. The audit must be conducted in a manner consistent with the Irrigation Association’s Landscape Irrigation Auditor Certification program or other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency “WaterSense” labeled auditing program.
“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.
“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 in the State of California 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 include 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 documentation package” means the documents required under Section 18.55.05.
“Landscape project” means total area of landscape in a project as defined in “landscape area” for the purposes of this chapter.
“Landscape water meter” means an inline device installed at the irrigation supply point that measures the flow of water into the irrigation system and is connected to a totalizer to record water use.
“Lateral line” means the water delivery pipeline that supplies water to the emitters or sprinklers from the valve.
“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 of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.
“Main line” means the pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water source to the valve or outlet.
“Master shut-off valve” is an automatic valve installed at the irrigation supply point which controls water flow into the irrigation system. When this valve is closed water will not be supplied to the irrigation system. A master valve will greatly reduce any water loss due to a leaky station valve.
“Maximum applied water allowance (MAWA)” means the upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area as specified in Section 18.55.08. 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. MAWA = (ETo) (0.62) [(ETAF x LA) + ((1-ETAF) x SLA)].
“Median” is an area between opposing lanes of traffic that may be unplanted or planted with trees, shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses.
“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, or 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.
“Nonpervious” means any surface or material that does not allow for the passage of water through the material and into the underlying soil.
“Nonresidential landscape” means landscapes in commercial, institutional, industrial and public settings that may have areas designated for recreation or public assembly. It also includes portions of common areas of common interest developments with designated recreational areas.
“Operating pressure” means the pressure at which the parts of an irrigation system are designed by the manufacturer to operate.
“Overhead sprinkler irrigation systems” or “overhead spray 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.
“Parkway” means the area between a sidewalk and the curb or traffic lane. It may be planted or unplanted, and with or without pedestrian egress.
“Permit” means an authorizing document issued by the City of Norco 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” is a factor, when multiplied by ETo, estimates the amount of water needed by plants. For purposes of this chapter, the plant factor range for very low water use plants is 0 to 0.1, the plant factor range for low water use plants is 0.1 to 0.3, the plant factor range for moderate water use plants is 0.4 to 0.6, and the plant factor range for high water use plants is 0.7 to 1.0. Plant factors cited in this chapter are derived from the publication “Water Use Classification of Landscape Species.” Plant factors may also be obtained from horticultural researchers from academic institutions or professional associations as approved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR).
“Project applicant” means the individual or entity submitting a landscape documentation package required under Section 18.55.05, to request a permit, plan check, or design review from the City of Norco. A project applicant may be the property owner or his or her designee.
“Rain sensor” or “rain sensing shut-off device” means a component which automatically suspends an irrigation event when it rains.
“Record drawing” or “as-builts” means a set of reproducible drawings which show significant changes in the work made during construction and which are usually based on drawings marked up in the field and other data furnished by the contractor.
“Recreational area” means areas, excluding private single-family residential areas, designated for active play, recreation or public assembly in parks, sports fields, picnic grounds, amphitheaters or golf course tees, fairways, roughs, surrounds and greens.
“Recycled water” or “reclaimed water” means treated or recycled wastewater of a quality suitable for 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 as represented in Appendix A attached to the ordinance codified in this chapter, 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.
“Rehabilitated landscape” means any relandscaping project that requires a permit, plan check, or design review and the modified landscape area is equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet.
“Residential landscape” means landscapes surrounding single or multifamily homes.
“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 landscape area” means an area of the landscape dedicated solely to edible plants, recreational areas, areas irrigated with recycled water, or water features using recycled water.
“Sprinkler head” or “spray 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.
“Submeter” means a metering device to measure water applied to the landscape that is installed after the primary utility water meter.
“Turf” means a groundcover surface of mowed grass. Annual bluegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, Perennial ryegrass, Red fescue, and Tall fescue are cool-season grasses. Bermudagrass, Kikuyugrass, Seashore Paspalum, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, 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 very low or low plant factor.
“Water feature” means 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).
“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. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.04 General Provisions.
A. Each landscaped area shall be located, designed and material selected such that at any time, including at maturity, it maximizes summer shade and winter solar gain and does not, interfere with visibility, access, building integrity, or utility infrastructure.
B. Each landscaped area shall be designed to minimize disruption to existing mature landscaping that is in good, healthy condition, and every effort shall be made to retain and incorporate said landscaping into the overall landscape theme.
C. Each landscaped area shall include a combination of materials compatible with the shape, topography and soil conditions of the site, as well as the architectural characteristics of the structure(s) on the site.
D. Each landscaped area shall use native and appropriate nonnative plants adapted to site conditions, climate, and design intent to support biodiversity, reduced pesticide use, and water conservation, with particular avoidance of the use of invasive plant species defined by the California Invasive Plant Council.
E. Each landscaped area shall be designed with an efficient irrigation system that waters only targeted areas when needed in relation to soil and climatic conditions.
F. Each landscaped area shall be installed in accordance with approved landscape and irrigation plans.
G. Each landscaped area shall be regularly maintained following installation to reach and retain a healthy, established growing condition. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.05 Landscape Documentation Package.
Prior to the installation of landscaping and irrigation systems as required by this chapter, a landscape documentation package shall be submitted to the City of Norco for review and approval. The landscape documentation package shall be prepared by, and bear the seal of, a landscape architect registered with the State of California, and shall include the following six elements:
A. Project Information.
1. Date.
2. Project applicant.
3. Project address (if available, parcel and/or lot number(s)).
4. Total landscape area (square feet).
5. Project type (e.g., new, rehabilitated, public, private, cemetery, homeowner-installed).
6. Water supply type (e.g., potable, recycled, well) and identify the City of Norco if the applicant is not served by a private well.
7. Checklist of all documents in landscape documentation package.
8. Project contacts to include contact information for the project applicant and property owner.
9. Applicant signature and date with statement, “I agree to comply with the requirements of the City of Norco water efficient landscape ordinance and submit a complete Landscape Documentation Package”;
B. Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet.
1. Hydrozone information table.
2. Water Budget Calculations.
a. Maximum applied water allowance (MAWA).
b. Estimated total water use (ETWU);
C. Soil management report;
D. Landscape design plan;
E. Irrigation design plan; and
F. Grading design plan.
Modifications to approved water efficient landscape calculations, certified landscape design plans and/or certified irrigation design plan shall be reviewed and approved by the City of Norco Planning Department and Engineering Division prior to installation of said landscaping or irrigation system. All modifications will require recertification.
When a project is being developed that includes unimproved private yards or open spaces to be landscaped or otherwise completed by the buyer of the lot, the landscape documentation package shall be prepared with assumptions as to the ultimate improvement of these areas such that the water efficient landscape calculations consider all outdoor water use of the project.
The CC&Rs, or other binding document provided to buyer at time of sale (if the project does not have CC&Rs), shall include sufficient parameters such that the private yard or open space improvements are completed consistent with the estimated water usage. The information provided to the buyer shall include, at a minimum, sample landscape and irrigation plans with plant and material pallets. It is recommended that multiple designs be developed with a menu of options from which the buyer could develop a design consistent with the water efficient landscape calculation assumptions. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.08 Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet.
A. Water efficient landscape calculations shall be prepared by and bear the signature of a professional appropriately licensed in the State of California to provide professional landscape design services; the signature shall be accompanied by a date and the following statement: “I have complied with the City of Norco Landscape Ordinance in preparing the water efficient landscape calculations.”
B. A project applicant shall complete the water efficient landscape worksheet which contains information on the plant factor, irrigation method, irrigation efficiency, and area associated with each hydrozone. Calculations are then made to show that the evapotranspiration adjustment factor (ETAF) for the landscape project does not exceed a factor of 0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas, exclusive of special landscape areas. The ETAF for a landscape project is based on the plant factors and irrigation methods selected. The maximum applied water allowance is calculated based on the maximum ETAF allowed (0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas) and expressed as annual gallons required. The estimated total water use (ETWU) is calculated based on the plants used and irrigation method selected for the landscape design. ETWU must be below the MAWA.
1. In calculating the maximum applied water allowance (MAWA) and estimated total water use, a project applicant shall use the ETo values from the Reference Evapotranspiration Table 18.55.08.A.
2. ETAF for new and existing (nonrehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0.
|
JAN |
FEB |
MAR |
APR |
MAY |
JUN |
JUL |
AUG |
SEP |
OCT |
NOV |
DEC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
0.07 |
0.1 |
0.12 |
0.16 |
0.18 |
0.2 |
0.21 |
0.19 |
0.19 |
0.14 |
0.09 |
0.07 |
|
The values in this table were derived from: 1) California Irrigation Management Information System (CIMIS), 2) Measurements are for the City of Norco. |
|||||||||||
C. Water budget calculations shall adhere to the following requirements:
1. The plant factor used shall be from WUCOLS or from horticultural researchers with academic institutions or professional associations as approved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR). The plant factor ranges from 0 to 0.1 for very low water using plants, 0.1 to 0.3 for low water use plants, from 0.4 to 0.6 for moderate water use plants, and from 0.7 to 1.0 for high water use plants.
2. All water features shall be included in the high water use hydrozone and temporarily irrigated areas shall be included in the low water use hydrozone.
3. All special landscape areas shall be identified and their water use calculated.
D. A licensed landscape professional shall calculate the estimated applied water use (EAWU) for the total landscaped area to determine the total annual irrigation water need of the project as required to keep plants in a healthy state. The EAWU shall be calculated using the formula and methodology established in Exhibit B attached to the ordinance codified in this chapter. A separate worksheet shall be prepared for each point of connection. Seasonal calculations can be aggregated for an annual total.
1. The EAWU shall be calculated using a reference evapotranspiration rate (ETo) in accordance with Table 18.55.08.A.
2. The EAWU shall be calculated using a landscape coefficient according to protocols defined in detail in the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS). The species factor shall be determined for each hydrozone based on the highest-water-use plant species within the zone.
a. The area of a special landscaped area or water feature shall be defined as a high water use hydrozone with a species factor of 1.0 unless a landscape coefficient according to protocols defined in detail in the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS) is available.
b. A temporarily irrigated hydrozone area, such as an area of highly droughttolerant native plants that are not intended to be irrigated after they are fully established, shall be defined as a very low water use hydrozone with a species factor of 0.1.
3. The EAWU shall be calculated using an irrigation efficiency assumption by head type in accordance with Table 18.55.08.B. Other values may be used when supported by manufacturer’s specifications or landscape professional’s calculations when derived from measurements and estimates of irrigation system characteristics and management practices.
|
Head Type |
Efficiency |
|---|---|
|
Spray head |
60% |
|
Pop-up stream rotator heads |
75% |
|
Stream rotor heads |
75% |
|
Micro-spray |
75% |
|
Bubbler |
80% |
|
Drip emitter |
85% |
|
Subsurface irrigation |
90% |
E. The EAWU for the total landscaped area shall not exceed the MAWA. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.09 Soil Management Reports.
In order to reduce runoff and encourage healthy plant growth, a soil management report shall be completed by the project applicant, or his/her designee, as follows:
A. Soil sampling shall be conducted in accordance with laboratory protocol, including protocols regarding adequate sampling depth for the intended plants. Soil samples will be submitted to a laboratory for analysis and recommendations.
B. The soil analysis shall include:
1. Soil texture;
2. Infiltration rate determined by laboratory test or soil texture infiltration rate table;
3. pH;
4. Total soluble salts;
5. Sodium;
6. Percent organic matter; and
7. Recommendations to ensure landscaped areas are designed to drain to promote healthy plant growth and to prevent excessive erosion and runoff.
C. In projects with multiple landscape installations (i.e., production home developments) a soil sampling rate of one in seven lots or approximately 15 percent will satisfy this requirement. Large landscape projects shall sample at a rate equivalent to one in seven lots.
D. The project applicant, or his/her designee, shall comply with one of the following:
1. If significant mass grading is not planned, the soil analysis report shall be submitted to the local agency as part of the landscape documentation package; or
2. If significant mass grading is planned, the soil analysis report shall be submitted to the local agency as part of the certificate of completion.
E. The soil analysis report shall be made available, in a timely manner, to the professionals preparing the landscape design plans and irrigation design plans to make any necessary adjustments to the design plans.
F. Information and recommendations from the agricultural suitability report shall be incorporated into the certified landscape and irrigation design plans.
G. The project applicant, or his/her designee, shall submit documentation verifying implementation of soil analysis report recommendations to the City of Norco with the certificate of completion. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.10 Landscape Design Plan.
For the efficient use of water, a landscape area shall be carefully designed and planned specifically for the intended project. A landscape design plan shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package with the following design criteria:
A. Plant Material.
1. Any plant may be selected for the landscape, providing the estimated total water use in the landscape area does not exceed the maximum applied water allowance (MAWA). Methods to achieve water efficiency shall include one or more of the following:
a. Protection and preservation of native species and natural vegetation;
b. Selection of water-conserving plant, tree and turf species, especially local native plants;
c. Selection of plants based on local climate suitability, disease and pest resistance;
d. Selection of trees based on applicable local tree ordinances or tree shading guidelines, and size at maturity as appropriate for the planting area;
e. Selection of plants from local and regional landscape program plant lists; and
f. Selection of plants from local fuel modification plan guidelines.
2. Each hydrozone shall have plant materials with similar water use, with the exception of hydrozones with plants of mixed water use.
3. Plants shall be selected and planted appropriately based upon their adaptability to the climatic, geologic, and topographical conditions of the project site. Methods to achieve water efficiency shall include one or more of the following:
a. Use the Sunset Western Climate Zone System which takes into account temperature, humidity, elevation, terrain, latitude, and varying degrees of continental and marine influence on local climate;
b. Recognize the horticultural attributes of plants (i.e., mature plant size, invasive surface roots) to minimize damage to property or infrastructure (e.g., buildings, sidewalks, power lines); allow for adequate soil volume for healthy root growth; and
c. Consider the solar orientation for plant placement to maximize summer shade and winter solar gain.
4. Turf is not allowed on slopes greater than 25 percent where the toe of the slope is adjacent to an impermeable hardscape and where 25 percent means one foot of vertical elevation change for every four feet of horizontal length (rise divided by run x 100 = slope percent).
5. High water use plants, characterized by a plant factor of 0.7 to 1.0, are prohibited in street medians.
6. A landscape design plan for projects in fire-prone areas shall address fire safety and prevention. A defensible space or zone around a building or structure is required per Public Resources Code Sections 4291(a) and (b). Avoid fire-prone plant materials and highly flammable mulches. Refer to the local fuel modification plan guidelines.
7. The use of invasive plant species, such as those listed by the California Invasive Plant Council, is strongly discouraged.
8. The architectural guidelines of a common interest development, which includes community apartment projects, condominiums, planned developments, and stock cooperatives, shall not prohibit or include conditions that have the effect of prohibiting the use of low water use plants as a group.
B. Water Features.
1. Recirculating water systems shall be used for water features.
2. Where available, recycled water shall be used as a source for decorative water features.
3. Surface area of a water feature shall be included in the high water use hydrozone area of the water budget calculation.
4. Pool and spa covers are highly recommended.
C. Soil Preparation, Mulch and Amendments.
1. Prior to the planting of any materials, compacted soils shall be transformed to a friable condition. On engineered slopes, only amended planting holes need meet this requirement.
2. Soil amendments shall be incorporated according to recommendations of the soil report and what is appropriate for the plants selected.
3. For landscape installations, compost at a rate of a minimum of four cubic yards per 1,000 square feet of permeable area shall be incorporated to a depth of six inches into the soil. Soils with greater than six percent organic matter in the top six inches of soil are exempt from adding compost and tilling.
4. 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 where mulch is contraindicated. To provide habitat for beneficial insects and other wildlife, up to five percent of the landscape area may be left without mulch. Designated insect habitat must be included in the landscape design plan as such.
5. Stabilizing mulching products shall be used on slopes that meet current engineering standards.
6. The mulching portion of the seed/mulch slurry in hydro-seeded applications shall meet the mulching requirement.
7. Organic mulch materials made from recycled or post-consumer waste shall take precedence over inorganic materials or virgin forest products unless the recycled post-consumer organic products are not locally available. Organic mulches are not required where prohibited by local fuel modification plan guidelines or other applicable local ordinances.
D. Turf. Turf shall not be treated as a fill-in material, but rather as a planned element of the landscape. The use of turf grass is only recommended in active use areas where it provides a playing surface. Groundcovers and drought tolerant grasses that require less water are recommended in nonactive areas. Turf for nonactive use shall be limited to 25 percent of the landscaped area or as otherwise restricted by the MAWA. Turf shall not be permitted in landscaped areas with a slope percentage greater than 25 percent. Where turf is utilized, it shall be separated from other landscape areas by a border, mow strip, or other material as approved by the Planning Director or his/her designee.
E. The landscape design plan, at a minimum, shall:
1. Delineate and label each hydrozone by number, letter, or other method;
2. Identify each hydrozone as low, moderate, high water, or mixed water use. Temporarily irrigated areas of the landscape shall be included in the low water use hydrozone for the water budget calculation;
3. Identify recreational areas;
4. Identify areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants;
5. Identify areas irrigated with recycled water;
6. Identify type of mulch and application depth;
7. Identify soil amendments, type, and quantity;
8. Identify type and surface area of water features;
9. Identify hardscapes (pervious and nonpervious);
10. Identify location, installation details, and 24-hour retention or infiltration capacity of any applicable stormwater best management practices that encourage on-site retention and infiltration of stormwater. Project applicants shall refer to the City of Norco or Regional Water Quality Control Board for information on any applicable stormwater technical requirements. Stormwater best management practices are encouraged in the landscape design plans;
11. Identify any applicable rain harvesting or catchment technologies and their 24-hour retention or infiltration capacity;
12. Indicate proposed drainage patterns, proposed topography of site with a separate identification of areas to be compacted, and location of retaining or nonretaining walls and the grading plan and wall plan submitted for the project shall be provided;
13. Identify any applicable graywater discharge piping, system components and area(s) of distribution;
14. Contain the following statement: “I have complied with the City of Norco Landscape Ordinance and applied the efficient use of water in the landscape design plan.”
15. The plan must bear the signature of a licensed landscape architect, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized to design a landscape. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.11 Irrigation Design Plan.
This section applies to landscaped areas requiring permanent irrigation, not areas that require temporary irrigation solely for the plant establishment period. For the efficient use of water, an irrigation system shall meet all the requirements listed in this section and the manufacturer’s recommendations. The irrigation system and its related components shall be planned and designed to allow for proper installation, management, and maintenance. An irrigation design plan meeting the following design criteria shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package:
A. System.
1. Landscape water meters are defined as either a dedicated water service meter or private submeter, and shall be installed for all nonresidential irrigated landscapes of 1,000 square feet but not more than 5,000 square feet and residential irrigated landscapes of 5,000 square feet or greater. A landscape water meter may be either:
a. A customer service meter dedicated to landscape use provided by the local water purveyor; or
b. A privately owned meter or submeter.
2. Automatic irrigation controllers utilizing either evapotranspiration or soil moisture sensor data utilizing nonvolatile memory shall be required for irrigation scheduling in all irrigation systems.
3. If the water pressure is below or exceeds the recommended pressure of the specified irrigation devices, the installation of a pressure regulating device is required to ensure that the dynamic pressure at each emission device is within the manufacturer’s recommended pressure range for optimal performance.
a. If the static pressure is above or below the required dynamic pressure of the irrigation system, pressure-regulating devices such as inline pressure regulators, booster pumps, or other devices shall be installed to meet the required dynamic pressure of the irrigation system.
b. Static water pressure, dynamic or operating pressure, and flow reading of the water supply shall be measured at the point of connection. 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 installation.
c. Sensors (rain, freeze, wind, etc.), either integral or auxiliary, that suspend or alter irrigation operation during unfavorable weather conditions shall be required on all irrigation systems, as appropriate for local climatic conditions. Irrigation should be avoided during windy or freezing weather or during rain.
d. Manual shut-off valves (such as a gate valve, ball valve, or butterfly 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 (such as a main line break) or routine repair.
e. Backflow prevention devices shall be required to protect the water supply from contamination by the irrigation system. A project applicant shall refer to the applicable local agency code (i.e., public health) for additional backflow prevention requirements.
f. Flow sensors that detect high flow conditions created by system damage or malfunction are required for all nonresidential landscapes and residential landscapes of 5,000 square feet or larger.
g. Master shut-off valves are required on all projects except landscapes that make use of technologies that allow for the individual control of sprinklers that are individually pressurized in a system equipped with low pressure shut down features.
h. The irrigation system shall be designed to prevent runoff, low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where irrigation water flows onto nontargeted areas, such as adjacent property, nonirrigated areas, hardscapes, roadways, or structures.
i. Relevant information from the soil management plan, such as soil type and infiltration rate, shall be utilized when designing irrigation systems.
j. The design of the irrigation system shall conform to the hydrozones of the landscape design plan.
k. The irrigation system must be designed and installed to meet, at a minimum, the irrigation efficiency criteria as described in Section 18.55.08 regarding the maximum applied water allowance.
l. All irrigation emission devices must meet the requirements set in the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard, American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers’/International Code Council’s (ASABE/ICC) 802-2014 “Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard.” All sprinkler heads installed in the landscape must document a distribution uniformity low quarter of 0.65 or higher using the protocol defined in ASABE/ICC 802-2014.
m. It is highly recommended that the project applicant or local agency request from the City of Norco peak water operating demands (on the water supply system) or water restrictions that may impact the effectiveness of the irrigation system.
n. In mulched planting areas, the use of low volume irrigation is required to maximize water infiltration into the root zone.
o. Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall have matched precipitation rates, unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer’s recommendations.
p. Swing joints or other riser-protection components are required on all risers subject to damage that are adjacent to hardscapes or in high traffic areas of turfgrass.
q. Check valves or anti-drain valves are required on all sprinkler heads where low point drainage could occur.
r. Areas less than 10 feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or other means that produces no runoff or overspray.
s. 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:
i. The landscape area is adjacent to permeable surfacing and no runoff occurs; or
ii. The adjacent nonpermeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain entirely to landscaping; or
iii. The irrigation designer specifies an alternative design or technology, as part of the landscape documentation package and clearly demonstrates strict adherence to irrigation system design criteria in this section. Prevention of overspray and runoff must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.
t. Areas with a slope percentage greater than 25 percent shall be irrigated with equipment that has a precipitation rate of 0.75 inches or less per hour as specified by the manufacturer. An exception to the precipitation rate may be granted by the Planning Director or City Engineer for an area which is less than five feet high and 12 feet long if it can be shown that the equipment meets the intent of this chapter.
B. Hydrozone.
1. Each valve shall irrigate a hydrozone with similar site, slope, sun exposure, soil conditions, and plant materials with similar water use.
2. Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall be selected based on what is appropriate for the plant type within that hydrozone.
3. Where feasible, trees shall be placed on separate valves from shrubs, groundcovers, and turf to facilitate the appropriate irrigation of trees. The mature size and extent of the root zone shall be considered when designing irrigation for the tree.
4. Individual hydrozones that mix plants of moderate and low water use, or moderate and high water use, may be allowed if:
a. Plant factor calculation is based on the proportions of the respective plant water uses and their plant factor; or
b. The plant factor of the higher water using plant is used for calculations.
c. Individual hydrozones that mix high and low water use plants shall not be permitted.
5. On the landscape design plan and irrigation design plan, hydrozone areas shall be designated by number, letter, or other designation. On the irrigation design plan, designate the areas irrigated by each valve, and assign a number to each valve.
C. The irrigation design plan, at a minimum, shall contain:
1. Location and size of separate water meters for landscape;
2. Location, type and size of all components of the irrigation system, including controllers, main and lateral lines, valves, sprinkler heads, moisture sensing devices, rain switches, quick couplers, pressure regulators, and backflow prevention devices;
a. Static water pressure at the point of connection to the public water supply;
b. Flow rate (gallons per minute), application rate (inches per hour), and design operating pressure (pressure per square inch) for each station;
D. Recycled water irrigation systems shall include the following statement: “I have complied with the City of Norco ordinance and applied them accordingly for the efficient use of water in the irrigation design plan,” and the signature of a licensed landscape architect, certified irrigation designer, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized to design an irrigation system. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.12 Grading Design Plan.
For the efficient use of water, grading of a project site shall be designed to minimize soil erosion, runoff, and water waste. A grading plan shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package. A comprehensive grading plan prepared by a civil engineer or other local agency will satisfy this requirement.
A. The project applicant shall submit a landscape grading plan that indicates finished configurations and elevations of the landscape area including:
1. Height of graded slopes;
2. Drainage patterns;
3. Pad elevations;
4. Finish grade; and
5. Stormwater retention improvements, if applicable.
B. To prevent excessive erosion and runoff, it is highly recommended that project applicants:
1. Grade so that all irrigation and normal rainfall remains within property lines and does not drain on to nonpermeable hardscapes;
2. Avoid disruption of natural drainage patterns and undisturbed soil; and
3. Avoid soil compaction in landscape areas.
C. The grading design plan shall contain the following statement: “I have complied with the City of Norco 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 as authorized by law. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.13 Certification of Completion.
Installation of the landscape and irrigation in accordance with approved plans shall be certified by the licensed landscape professional who prepared the certified landscape design plans and the licensed professional who prepared the certified irrigation design plans.
A. Landscape documentation package shall include the following six elements:
1. Project information sheet that contains:
a. Date;
b. Project name;
c. Project applicant name, telephone, and mailing address;
d. Project address and location; and
e. Property owner name, telephone, and mailing address.
B. Where there have been significant changes made in the field during construction, these “as-built” or record drawings shall be included with the certification:
1. A diagram of the irrigation plan showing hydrozones shall be kept with the irrigation controller for subsequent management purposes;
2. Irrigation scheduling parameters used to set the controller;
3. Landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule;
4. Irrigation audit report; and
5. Soil analysis report, if not submitted with landscape documentation package, and documentation verifying implementation of soil report recommendations.
C. The project applicant shall:
1. Submit the signed certificate of completion to the City of Norco for review;
2. Insure that copies of the approved certificate of completion are submitted to the City of Norco and property owner or his or her designee.
D. The City of Norco shall:
1. Receive the signed certificate of completion from the project applicant;
2. Approve or deny the certificate of completion. If the certificate of completion is denied, the local agency shall provide information to the project applicant regarding reapplication, appeal, or other assistance. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.14 Irrigation Scheduling.
For the efficient use of water, all irrigation schedules shall be developed, managed, and evaluated to utilize the minimum amount of water required to maintain plant health. Irrigation schedules shall meet the following criteria:
A. Irrigation scheduling shall be regulated by automatic irrigation controllers.
B. Overhead irrigation shall be scheduled between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. unless weather conditions prevent it. Operation of the irrigation system outside the normal watering window is allowed for auditing and system maintenance.
C. For implementation of the irrigation schedule, particular attention must be paid to irrigation run times, emission device, flow rate, and current reference evapotranspiration, so that applied water meets the estimated total water use. Total annual applied water shall be less than or equal to maximum applied water allowance (MAWA). Actual irrigation schedules shall be regulated by automatic irrigation controllers using current reference evapotranspiration data (e.g., CIMIS) or soil moisture sensor data.
D. Parameters used to set the automatic controller shall be developed and submitted for each of the following:
1. The plant establishment period;
2. The established landscape; and
3. Temporarily irrigated areas.
E. Each irrigation schedule shall consider for each station all of the following that apply:
1. Irrigation interval (days between irrigation);
2. Irrigation run times (hours or minutes per irrigation event to avoid runoff);
3. Number of cycle starts required for each irrigation event to avoid runoff;
4. Amount of applied water scheduled to be applied on a monthly basis;
5. Application rate setting;
6. Root depth setting;
7. Plant type setting;
8. Soil type;
9. Slope factor setting;
10. Shade factor setting; and
11. Irrigation uniformity or efficiency setting. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.15 Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule.
Landscape areas shall be maintained to ensure water use efficiency. A regular maintenance schedule shall be submitted with the certificate of completion.
A. Regular maintenance shall include, but not be limited to, routine inspection, auditing, adjustment and repair of the irrigation system and its components, aerating and dethatching turf areas, topdressing with compost, replenishing mulch, fertilizing, proper pruning, weeding, and removing obstructions to emission devices. Plants shall remain in a healthy growing condition or be replaced. Like-for-like replacements require no approval.
B. Repair of all irrigation equipment shall be done with the originally installed components or their equivalents or with components with greater efficiency.
C. A project applicant is encouraged to implement established landscape industry sustainable best practices for all landscape maintenance activities. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.16 Irrigation Audit, Irrigation Survey and Water Use Analysis.
All landscape irrigation audits shall be conducted by a City of Norco approved certified landscape irrigation auditor. Landscape audits shall not be conducted by the person who designed the landscape or installed the landscape.
A. In large projects or projects with multiple landscape installations (i.e., production home developments) an auditing rate of one in seven lots or approximately 15 percent will satisfy this requirement.
B. For new construction and rehabilitated landscape projects installed after December 1, 2015, as described in Section 18.55.02.
C. The project applicant shall submit an irrigation audit report with the certificate of completion to the City of Norco that may include, but is not limited to: inspection, system tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity, reporting overspray or runoff that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule, including configuring irrigation controllers with application rate, soil types, plant factors, slope, exposure and any other factors necessary for accurate programming. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.17 Irrigation Efficiency.
For the purpose of determining estimated total water use, average irrigation efficiency is assumed to be 0.75 for overhead spray devices and 0.81 for drip system devices. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.18 Recycled Water.
The installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall allow for the current and future use of recycled water. All recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and operated in accordance with all applicable City of Norco recycled water rules and regulations. Landscape areas using recycled water are considered special landscape areas. The ET adjustment factor for new and existing (nonrehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.19 Graywater Systems.
Graywater systems promote the efficient use of water and are encouraged to assist in on-site landscape irrigation. All graywater systems shall conform to the California Plumbing Code (Title 24, Part 5, Chapter 16) and any applicable City of Norco ordinance standards or State laws. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.20 Storm Management and Rainwater Retentions.
Stormwater management practices minimize runoff and increase infiltration which recharges groundwater and improves water quality. Implementing stormwater best management practices into the landscape and grading design plans to minimize runoff and to increase on-site rainwater retention and infiltration are encouraged.
A. Project applicants shall refer to the City of Norco standards or the Regional Water Quality Control Board for information on any applicable stormwater technical requirements.
B. All planted landscape areas are required to have friable soil to maximize water retention and infiltration.
C. It is strongly recommended that landscape areas be designed for capture and infiltration capacity that is sufficient to prevent runoff from impervious surfaces (i.e., roof and paved areas) from either: (1) the one-inch, 24-hour rain event or (2) the eighty-fifth percentile, 24-hour rain event, and/or additional capacity as required by any applicable City of Norco, regional, State or Federal regulation.
D. It is recommended that stormwater projects incorporate any of the following elements to improve on-site stormwater and dry weather runoff capture and use:
1. Grade impervious surfaces, such as driveways, during construction to drain to vegetated areas.
2. Minimize the area of impervious surfaces such as paved areas, roof and concrete driveways.
3. Incorporate pervious or porous surfaces (e.g., gravel, permeable pavers or blocks, pervious or porous concrete) that minimize runoff.
4. Direct runoff from paved surfaces and roof areas into planting beds or landscaped areas to maximize site water capture and reuse.
5. Incorporate rain gardens, cisterns, and other rain harvesting or catchment systems.
6. Incorporate infiltration beds, swales, basins and drywells to capture stormwater and dry weather runoff and increase percolation into the soil.
7. Consider constructed wetlands and ponds that retain water, equalize excess flow, and filter pollutants. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.21 Public Education.
Education is a critical component to promote the efficient use of water in landscapes. The use of appropriate principles of design, installation, management and maintenance that save water is encouraged regionally and in the community. Information shall be provided about designing, installing, managing, and maintaining water efficient landscapes. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.22 Environmental Review.
The City of Norco must comply with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), as appropriate. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)
18.55.23 Wastewater Prevention.
The City of Norco shall prevent water waste resulting from inefficient landscape irrigation by prohibiting runoff from leaving the target landscape due to low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where water flows onto adjacent property, nonirrigated areas, walks, roadways, parking lots, or structures.
A. Restrictions regarding overspray and runoff 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. (Ord. 1061 Sec. 1, 2020)