Source: https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/PleasantHill/html/PleasantHill18/PleasantHill1820.html
Timestamp: 2019-02-21 06:23:05
Document Index: 299619952

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 2', '§ 18', '§ 65589', '§ 4', '§ 2', '§ 2', '§ 35', '§ 35', '§ 18', '§ 18', '§ 18', '§ 18', '§ 18', '§ 4', '§ 2', '§ 9', '§ 3', '§ 5', '§ 2', '§ 2', '§ 3', '§ 3', '§ 5', '§ 9', '§ 35', '§ 35', '§ 18', '§ 18', '§ 18', 'art 4', '§ 18', '§ 18', 'art 4', '§ 10', '§ 2', '§ 3', '§ 4', '§ 35', '§ 35', '§ 18', '§ 18', '§ 18', '§ 18', '§ 18', '§ 18', '§ 11', '§ 2', '§ 5', '§ 1', '§ 5', '§ 35', '§ 35', '§ 18', '§ 18', '§ 5', '§ 12', '§ 2', '§ 4', '§ 35', '§ 35', '§ 6', '§ 2', '§ 1', '§ 1', '§ 35', '§ 35', '§ 5', 'art 7', '§ 18', '§ 2', '§ 13', '§ 3', '§ 2', '§ 35', '§ 35', '§ 18', '§ 18', '§ 1267', '§ 1267', '§ 1568', '§ 50801', '§ 14', '§ 8', '§ 18', '§ 1597', '§ 9', '§ 2', '§ 14', '§ 35', '§ 35', '§ 18', '§ 14', '§ 5', '§ 10', '§ 18', '§ 35', '§ 35', '§ 7', '§ 8', '§ 14', '§ 18', '§ 2', '§ 35', '§ 35', '§ 18', '§ 2', '§ 35', '§ 35', '§ 2', '§ 35', '§ 35', '§ 1', '§ 35', '§ 35', '§ 2', 'art 2', '§ 1', 'art 5', '§ 35', '§ 35']

Chapter 18.20 R – RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
Part 2. Base District Regulations
R – RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
18.20.010 Specific purposes – Summary of residential districts.
18.20.020 Land use regulations for all residential districts.
18.20.030 Development regulations for all residential districts.
18.20.040 Additional development regulations corresponding to Schedule 18.20.030.
18.20.050 Accessory structures.
18.20.060 Inclusionary housing.
18.20.070 Home occupations.
18.20.075 Standards for certain use permits in residential districts.
18.20.080 Large family day care homes.
18.20.085 Special housing.
18.20.090 Manufactured homes.
18.20.095 Junior accessory dwelling units.
18.20.100 Accessory dwelling units.
18.20.110 Swimming pools and hot tubs.
18.20.120 Hillside properties.
18.20.130 Animals.
18.20.140 Container or storage unit.
18.20.145 Permanent basketball hoops.
18.20.150 Density bonus.
18.20.160 Review of plans.
A. Specific purposes. In addition to the general purposes listed in PHMC § 18.05.020, the specific purposes of residential districts are to:
1. Preserve, protect and enhance appropriately located areas for residential land use, consistent with the city-wide design guidelines, general plan and with standards of public health and safety.
2. Minimize the impacts of uses. Protect residents from the harmful effects of excessive noise, overcrowding, excessive traffic, insufficient parking and other adverse environmental effects.
3. Achieve design compatibility between new multifamily development and surrounding less intensive residential neighborhoods by establishing physical development standards and performance standards.
4. Ensure adequate provisions for sites, with reasonable access to public services, for appropriate public and semipublic land uses, including care facilities, needed to complement residential development or that require a residential environment. At the same time, protect the relatively quiet, primarily noncommercial, family atmosphere of neighborhoods.
5. Minimize the out-of-scale appearance of large homes, parking areas, and other development relative to their lot size and to other homes in a neighborhood.
6. Minimize transient occupancy (other than transitional housing), where occupants may have few or no bonds with the community, thereby diminishing the sense of community in a particular neighborhood.
7. Provide for certain care facilities to benefit disabled persons while ensuring that such uses do not create an institutional environment that would defeat the purpose of community-based care (either by overconcentration or by impacts of the use).
B. Summary of residential districts. Eleven residential districts are established to carry out these purposes:
1. R-20 and R-15 single-family residential districts. The R-20 and R-15 districts allow for low density single-family residential land use, at densities from 1.3 to 3 units per net acre subject to appropriate standards. In the R-20 district the minimum lot size is 20,000 square feet. In the R-15 district, the minimum lot size is 15,000 square feet.
2. R-10 and R-10A single-family residential districts. The R-10 and R-10A districts allow for medium density single-family residential land use at densities from 3.1 to 4.5 units per net acre, subject to appropriate standards. In the R-10 district the minimum lot size is 10,000 square feet. In the R-10A district, the average lot size is 10,000 square feet or more and the minimum lot size is 7,000 square feet.
3. R-7 and R-6 single-family residential districts. The R-7 and R-6 districts allow for high density single-family residential land use at densities from 4.6 to 7.3 units per net acre subject to appropriate standards. In the R-7 district the minimum lot size is 7,000 square feet. In the R-6 district, the minimum lot size is 6,000 square feet.
4. MRVL very low density multiple-family residential district. The MRVL district allows multiple-family residential uses, including duplexes, townhouses and attached or detached single-family homes on small lots; all with landscaped open space at a density between 7 and 11.9 units per acre.
5. MRL low density multiple-family residential district. The MRL district allows multiple-family residential uses including duplexes, townhouses, and single-family attached homes with zero lot line, mobile homes or cluster housing; all with landscaped open space at a density between 12 and 19.9 units per acre.
6. MRM medium density multiple-family residential district. The MRM district allows multiple-family residential uses including townhouses, mobile homes, condominiums or apartments at a density between 20 and 29.9 units per acre.
7. MRH high density multiple-family residential district. The MRH district allows for intensive multiple-family residential uses including townhouses, condominiums and apartments with a density range between 30 and 40 units per acre.
8. HPUD residential hillside planned unit development. The HPUD allows for limited residential development including townhouses, condominiums and single-family homes on parcels having an average slope of 15% or greater. (Reference: PHMC Chapter 18.35.)
9. PUD residential planned unit development. The PUD allows for a total number of dwelling units that does not fall below the minimum number or exceed the maximum number permitted by the general plan for the total area allocated to residential use. (See also Gov’t Code § 65589.5.) (Ord. 867 § 4, 2012; Ord. 856 § 2 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 796 § 2, 2005; Ord. 710 § 35-5.1, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.1)
In Schedule 18.20.020, the uses allowed for each residential zoning district are established by letter designations as follows:
The uses listed are based on the use classifications set forth in PHMC Chapter 18.15. Use classifications not listed are prohibited unless authorized by zoning administrator resolution under PHMC § 18.15.010. The “Additional Use Regulations” column includes specific limitations applicable to the use classification or refers to regulations located elsewhere in this title.
SCHEDULE 18.20.020
R AND MR DISTRICTS:
Accessory, junior, dwelling unit
See PHMC § 18.20.095.
See PHMC § 18.20.075.
Only on church or school sites. See PHMC § 18.20.085.B and C.
No more than 3 boarders or lodgers.
See PHMC § 18.20.050.
See L-7.
See L-2 and L-5.
Arts and crafts show outdoors
See L-2 and L-7.
See L-2 and L-6.
See L-5.
Religious or group assembly events
R and MR Districts: Limitations on Specific Use Classifications
Minimum site area of 10,000 square feet.
Minimum site area of one acre.
Minimum site area of three acres.
Not more than six occurrences during a calendar year. Each occurrence shall not exceed two consecutive days.
Not more than four occurrences during a calendar year. Each occurrence shall not exceed seven consecutive days.
Not more than six occurrences during a calendar year, for not more than 14 consecutive days per occurrence.
(Ord. 915 § 4, 2017; Ord. 910 § 2, 2017; Ord. 890 § 9, 2015; Ord. 874 § 3, 2013; Ord. 867 § 5, 2012; Ord. 865 § 2, 2012; Ord. 856 § 2 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 837 § 3, 2009; Ord. 796 § 3, 2005; Ord. 768 § 5, 2003; Ord. 727 §§ 9, 12, 1998; Ord. 710 § 35-5.2, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.2)
A. Schedule 18.20.030 prescribes development regulations for residential districts. The “Additional Development Regulations” column refers to PHMC § 18.20.040, additional development regulations, or to regulations located elsewhere in this chapter.
B. Supplemental regulations applicable to all development in R districts are in PHMC § 18.20.050 through § 18.20.140; they set forth requirements for accessory structures, affordable housing, home occupations, large family day care, second units, and swimming pools and hot tubs.
C. Regulations applicable to all zoning districts, included in Part 4, set forth requirements for:
3. Signs (PHMC Chapter 18.60); and
4. Nonconforming uses and structures (PHMC Chapter 18.65).
SCHEDULE 18.20.030
DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS FOR ALL RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
Additional Development Regulations (See PHMC § 18.20.040)
Minimum Site Area per Dwelling Unit (sq. ft.)
See PHMC §§ 18.20.050 through 18.20.140 and Part 4.
(Ord. 890 § 10, 2015; Ord. 856 § 2 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 844 § 3 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 796 § 4, 2005; Ord. 710 § 35-5.4, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.4)
A. Minimum site area for certain uses. The minimum site area shall be 10,000 square feet for the following use classifications: general day care, general residential care, and public or private schools.
B. Minimum required lot area. Minimum required lot area shall be “net” as defined in PHMC § 18.140.010; except, for minor subdivisions located within the R-6 through R-10 zone districts, comprised of not more than two parcels, the following exception may be approved by the zoning administrator and/or the planning commission when considering approval of the minor subdivision:
1. The area of any private driveway access easement required to meet minimum fire district standards, up to a maximum of 30% of the gross lot area, may be included in determining compliance with minimum lot area requirements; provided, that the decision-making authority on the minor subdivision finds that there is no other feasible method for the minor subdivision to comply with minimum fire district standards and also comply with minimum lot area requirements; and
2. The gross lot area of each parcel in the proposed minor subdivision complies with the lot area required by the general plan.
C. Corner or double-frontage lots. Double-frontage lots shall have a front yard on each frontage. Corner lots shall have a front yard on each frontage: the front side and the corner side yard (usually the longest frontage; see PHMC Chapter 18.140, definition of “yard types”). On a corner lot where the entry to the dwelling is on the corner side, this corner side may be used as the front yard; provided, that: (1) all other yard setbacks are in compliance with PHMC § 18.20.030; and (2) garages (attached or detached) with driveway access from the corner side property line are set back a minimum of 20 feet from the corner side property line. (See off-street parking and loading regulations, PHMC § 18.55.150.)
D. Building height and required yards. Except as provided below, the width of a required interior side or rear yard adjoining a building wall exceeding 25 feet in height, excluding any portion of a roof, shall be increased five feet over the basic requirement.
BUILDING HEIGHT AND REQUIRED YARDS
E. Zero-side yard development. A structure constructed in conformance with the standards for zero-side yard development in effect immediately before this chapter was adopted shall not be considered a nonconforming structure subject to PHMC Chapter 18.65; provided, that an exterior addition or enlargement shall require a use permit issued by the zoning administrator, and no addition or enlargement shall increase the existing floor area by more than 10% nor increase the lot coverage to more than 50%.
F. Open space. Total usable open space on a site having three or more dwelling units shall be at least 200 square feet per dwelling unit. This requirement shall be met by providing private open space, shared open space, or a combination of the two.
1. Private open space. To satisfy the open space requirement, private open space must be on a patio or balcony, within which a horizontal rectangle has no dimension less than six feet.
2. Shared open space. To satisfy the open space requirement, shared open space must be provided by interior side yards, patios and terraces, each designed so that a horizontal rectangle inscribed within it has no dimension less than 10 feet. The open space must be open to the sky, and may not include driveways or parking areas, or area required for front or corner side yards.
G. Park land dedication. Each residential unit is subject to the park land dedication requirements of the Pleasant Hill subdivision ordinance (PHMC Title 17).
H. Planting areas. In addition to the minimum percentage of the site to be landscaped, listed in the schedule, the following requirements apply:
1. Yards adjoining streets. All visible portions of a required yard adjoining a street that are not used for driveways or walks shall be landscaped. In R (single-family) districts, a minimum of 50% of the required front yard shall be maintained as landscaped area. Recreational vehicles, utility trailers, unmounted camper tops, boats, cars, trucks, motorcycles, or other vehicles shall not be parked or stored within a required landscaped area. Landscaped area shall consist of plantings, lawn, mulch, decorative bark or gravel, approved decorative landscape features and other decorative pervious surfaces subject to the approval of the zoning administrator.
2. Interior yards. In the MRVL, MRL, MRM and MRH districts, at least 50% of each required interior side yard and rear yard shall be landscaped having a minimum width of 7.5 feet adjoining a side or rear property line. The width of a required landscaped area may be reduced to three feet in one side or rear yard adjoining a driveway or patio, and a nonresidential accessory structure may occupy a portion of the landscaped area in a rear yard.
3. Notwithstanding subsection H.2 of this section, a continuous landscaped area having a minimum width of five feet shall be provided along interior property lines when an MRVL, MRL, MRM or MRH district adjoins an R district.
I. Fences and walls. The maximum height of any fence or wall (including a retaining wall) is six feet within required interior side and rear yards, and three feet within required front and corner side yards, unless otherwise specified below. For single-family residences on corner lots, a five-foot setback from the corner side property line is required for a wall or fence over three feet in height. (See also subsection C of this section.) Height is measured pursuant to PHMC § 18.145.050.B.
1. Key lots. Where a corner lot abuts a key lot, a triangular area, 12 feet on each side, must remain unfenced.
2. Rear property line exceptions. On a lot with a rear lot line abutting a public trail, canal, East Bay Municipal Utility District right-of-way or public street, the maximum rear yard fence height is eight feet.
3. Fences with retaining walls. The height is measured as the combined height of a retaining wall, fence, wall or screen (not to exceed a maximum height of six feet measured from the higher side of the adjacent grade). A retaining wall is not included in the measurement if it is located so that its horizontal distance from the fence is equal to or greater than the height of the retaining wall. Height is measured pursuant to PHMC § 18.145.050.B.
4. Sight distance. All fences are subject to the visibility requirements of PHMC § 18.50.100.
5. Prohibited fences. High voltage electrical fences, razor wire, barbed wire, and other materials which pose a safety hazard are strictly prohibited.
J. Setbacks from Vehicular Easements. Minimum required yard setbacks shall be provided and measured from vehicular easement boundaries in the same manner that such setbacks are provided and measured from a public right-of-way. (Ord. 890 § 11, 2015; Ord. 856 § 2 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 796 § 5, 2005; Ord. 745 § 1, 2000; Ord. 727 §§ 5, 13, 1998; Ord. 710 § 35-5.5, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.5)
The following regulations apply to accessory structures in R districts:
A. On parcels zoned R-6, R-7, R-10, R-10A and comparable PUDs:
1. The total floor area of each accessory structure more than four feet in height shall not exceed 500 square feet. The maximum cumulative total for all accessory structures on the property shall not exceed 600 square feet, except detached accessory dwelling units may be up to 1,200 square feet; however, when a detached accessory structure or detached accessory dwelling unit exceeds the cumulative total, no existing or new square footage for other accessory structures is allowed.
2. The height of an accessory structure shall not exceed 12 feet for a flat roof and 14 feet for a pitched roof:
a. The height measurement is taken to the highest point of the structure.
b. Roof decks and railings, windscreens or similar rooftop structures are prohibited on accessory structures.
c. Shed roof structures shall be sited with the high point of the structure located away from the nearest property line.
3. The side and rear yard setbacks from property line shall be:
a. Structure less than or equal to 18 inches in height: none required.
b. Structure between 18 inches and eight feet in height: three feet.
c. Structure greater than eight feet in height: three feet plus an additional setback equal to the height that the accessory structure is above eight feet, but not to exceed the applicable minimum required side yard setback for that district.
4. Accessory structures shall be reviewed for substantial conformance with city-wide design guidelines.
B. On parcels zoned R-15, R-20 and comparable PUDs:
1. The total floor area of each accessory structure more than four feet in height shall not exceed 600 square feet. The maximum cumulative total for all accessory structures on the property shall not exceed 800 square feet, except detached accessory dwelling units may be up to 1,200 square feet; however, when a detached accessory structure or detached accessory dwelling unit exceeds the cumulative total, no existing or new square footage for other accessory structures is allowed.
2. The accessory structure shall comply with subsections A.2 through A.4 of this section.
C. On multifamily residential zoned parcels and comparable PUDs:
D. In all other zoning districts:
E. Arbors and trellises shall not be counted in determining accessory structure compliance with the floor area limitations specified in subsections A through D of this section, provided they have no solid, covered walls and do not have a solid, covered roof.
F. Any accessory structure in a creek setback area shall comply with PHMC § 18.50.150.D.
G. An accessory structure in a required front or corner side yard shall not exceed three feet in height except that arbors are allowed within the required front or corner side yard, subject to the following standards:
1. Substantial compliance with city-wide design guidelines;
2. Not located in the public right-of-way;
3. Not more than eight feet in height from existing grade;
4. Not more than 15 square feet of covered area; and
5. Subject to compliance with PHMC § 18.50.100, Sight obstructions at intersections and driveways. (Ord. 915 § 5, 2017; Ord. 890 § 12, 2015; Ord. 856 § 2 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 844 § 4, 2010; Ord. 710 § 35-5.6, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.6(a))
The following supplemental requirements are intended to implement the housing element of the general plan by providing housing for households with low and very low incomes in R districts.
A. Requirement. Each housing development of five or more dwelling units shall include one of the following:
1. At least 10% of the dwelling units as inclusionary units for occupancy by low-income households; or
2. At least 5% of the dwelling units as inclusionary units for occupancy by very low-income households; or
3. At least 25% of the dwelling units for qualifying senior residents as defined in California Civil Code sections 51.2 and 51.3; or
4. At least 20% of the dwelling units accessory dwelling units.
B. Design standards and construction timing.
1. Location and design. Inclusionary units shall be dispersed throughout the project. The developer shall construct the inclusionary units in a manner which is representative of the project as a whole, with comparable types of units, bedroom mix, and exterior appearance. From the street, the inclusionary units must not be distinguishable from other units in the project. The average number of bedrooms for all inclusionary units in a project must equal the average number of bedrooms for all other units in the project, up to a limit of 3.0 bedrooms per unit. The number of bathrooms per bedroom must equal the proportion of bathrooms in the market-rate units. Inclusionary units may be smaller in aggregate size and have different interior finishes and features than market-rate units so long as the interior features are durable, of good quality and consistent with contemporary standards for new housing.
2. Timing of construction. The developer shall construct the inclusionary units concurrently with other units, unless the conditions of approval provide otherwise, or unless the city and developer agree in writing to an alternative schedule for development.
C. Duration of restrictions. The developer shall assure the affordability of the inclusionary units by a deed restriction, with 55 or more years for for-sale housing and rental housing.
D. Resale and rental restriction agreement. Before approval of a final map (for a subdivision) or issuance of a building permit (for a project not involving a subdivision), the developer shall enter into a resale and rental restriction agreement in a form approved by the city attorney in consultation with the city’s housing coordinator. The agreement shall be recorded concurrently with the final map and shall include:
1. The number of inclusionary dwelling units by type, location and number of bedrooms and bathrooms.
2. Standards for maximum qualifying incomes and maximum sales prices or rents.
3. Applicable certification procedures, including the party responsible for certifying rents and sales prices, and the process that will be used to annually certify incomes of tenants and purchasers.
4. Resale controls and deed restrictions that are binding on the property upon sale or transfer.
5. A liquidated damages provision making a developer or successor who violates these affordable housing restrictions subject to a $750.00 fine per month per unit from the date of original noncompliance.
E. Security. When a developer intends to construct the inclusionary units, he or she must provide security to satisfy this requirement before approval of any final map (for a subdivision) or before a building permit is issued (if there is not a subdivision). The security shall be appropriate to the intended method of compliance, including one or more of the following:
1. A deed restriction on specific lots totaling the correct percent of the reserved residential lots on the map, and a bond to cover the cost of constructing homes on those lots which are affordable to low- or very low-income households;
2. A bond to cover the housing in-lieu fee (see subsection G of this section);
3. A written agreement, with financial security, to provide accessory dwelling units or off-site construction; or
4. Other appropriate security approved in writing by the city attorney.
F. Off-site alternatives. As a complete or partial alternative to the provision of on-site inclusionary units pursuant to this section, the developer may propose a plan for providing affordable units that would otherwise be required to be provided on the project site at either:
1. An off-site location within the city by acquiring existing unrestricted single-family or multifamily units located within the city and rehabilitating those dwelling units. At least four rehabilitated dwelling units shall be provided for each inclusionary unit required. These units shall comply with all provisions of subsections C and D of this section; or
2. An off-site location within the city, in conjunction with a third party nonprofit affordable housing provider, by constructing, or funding the construction of, the equivalent number of required affordable units off site subject to city council approval of an off-site affordable housing agreement. The city may allow off-site construction if the proposal meets all of the following conditions:
a. Financing or a viable financing plan, which may include public funding, shall be in place for the off-site affordable units;
b. Construction of the off-site affordable units must be completed, or provision of funding by the developer for construction of the affordable units must be provided, as specified in a phasing/financing plan subject to city council approval;
c. The third party nonprofit affordable housing developer shall enter into an affordable housing covenant with the city to ensure that the affordable housing units shall meet all applicable requirements of the city’s inclusionary housing ordinance; and
d. The units shall be in compliance with provisions of subsections C and D of this section.
The city may require that completion of off-site affordable units be secured as provided in subsection E of this section.
G. In-lieu fees.
1. Approval criteria. In extraordinary circumstances, the approving body may authorize the payment of a fee in lieu of providing the inclusionary units required under subsection A of this section as follows: (a) for projects of nine units or less; (b) for any fractional unit in projects of 10 or more units; or (c) if the developer demonstrates, in connection with the first approval for the development (tentative subdivision map, or development plan if no subdivision is involved), that specific characteristics of the development site make the site unsuitable for households at the required income levels. Whenever the approving body authorizes the payment of an in-lieu fee, the in-lieu fee determination shall be automatically referred to the city council or redevelopment agency, as appropriate, for review and approval.
2. Calculation of fee. The in-lieu fee shall be established annually by resolution of the city council in an amount sufficient to represent a reasonable portion of the gap between the affordable sales price (at the low income level of affordability) and the market-rate sales price for single-family housing.
In order to determine the in-lieu fee, the following amounts shall be calculated: (a) a developer’s cost to construct a dwelling less the affordable sales price (the “developer’s difference”) and (b) the market-rate purchase price less the affordable sales price (the “market-rate difference”). The in-lieu fee shall be based upon the average of the developer difference and the market-rate difference for each of the following home sizes: a 1,200 square foot, two-bedroom home; an 1,800 square foot, three-bedroom home; and a 2,200 square foot, four-bedroom home. The in-lieu fee can be expressed as follows:
Developer Difference
Market-Rate Difference
The following guidelines apply to the calculation of the in-lieu fee:
a. The developer cost to construct the dwelling is the dwelling square footage times a per foot average amount that it costs to construct a dwelling in the city. The per foot cost to construct the dwelling shall be determined annually as set forth in Exhibit D of the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance In-Lieu Fee Study dated September 15, 2004.
b. The affordable sales price is based on income limits published by the State of California Housing and Community Development Department, adjusted for number of bedrooms in the dwelling (see Health and Safety Code section 50052.5).
c. The market-rate purchase price is based on a survey of current sale prices of similar sized units in the Pleasant Hill area in the real estate section of the Contra Costa Times newspaper at the time the fees are established.
d. For any annual period for which the city council does not review the fee, up to a maximum of three years in a row, the fee amount may be adjusted by the city manager based upon the percentage change in the Building Valuation Data published by the International Code Council from the previous year.
3. Time of payment. The in-lieu fee shall be paid prior to the issuance of a building permit or as otherwise provided in the conditions of approval.
4. Use of fees. The city will deposit all housing in-lieu fees in an affordable housing fee fund. The city will use the fees, and all interest earned on the account, only for the following uses: mortgage subsidies and down payment assistance; site acquisition; banking of land for use in the development of affordable housing; rental subsidies; construction financing; issuance of bonds; providing predevelopment funds; providing rehabilitation funds to preserve existing affordable housing stock; providing loan security; and any other assistance that will serve to increase or maintain the supply of affordable housing in the city.
5. Refunds. The city may refund an in-lieu fee if: a building permit or zoning use permit expires and no extension is granted; no construction or use occurs; and the applicant applies for a refund within one year after the expiration of the building or zoning use permit. The refund must be authorized by city council resolution.
6. Fees not subject to Mitigation Fee Act. The city council finds that this in-lieu fee is not a fee subject to the Mitigation Fee Act (Government Code section 66000 and following) because these fees are an alternative to requiring that inclusionary units be included within the development rather than a fee required of all developers. Payment of the fee is at the request of the developer, with the city’s consent.
H. Redevelopment projects. The city council or redevelopment agency may approve a reduction or waiver of the requirements of this section for projects located within a redevelopment project area which: (1) are the subject of a disposition and development agreement, owner participation agreement, acquisition agreement, or other contractual arrangement with the redevelopment agency, and (2) are receiving assistance from the redevelopment agency, such as relocation of occupants, acquisition and disposition of land for site assemblage, use of eminent domain, write-down of land costs, fee waivers, or other forms of direct agency assistance. Any developer requesting such a reduction or waiver must submit a pro forma and such other financial analysis sufficient to support a determination that the reduction or waiver is necessary to ensure the economic feasibility of the redevelopment project. (Ord. 915 § 6, 2017; Ord. 906 §§ 2 – 4, 2016; Ord. 800 § 1, 2005; Ord. 791 § 1, 2004; Ord. 710 § 35-5.6, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.6(b))
The following supplemental regulations shall apply to home occupations. Restrictions upon home occupations are an accommodation between the values fostered by the preservation of areas for residential living, and the liberty to conduct private, nonintrusive economic activity in one’s home. The standards set forth in this section are intended to guide the review of home occupation applications and to encourage the accommodation of those values when deciding to grant or deny home occupation permits.
A. Permit required. In order to engage in a home occupation a person must first obtain a home occupation permit from the zoning administrator. The existence of any of the following shall create a presumption that there is a home occupation for which a permit is required:
1. Personal services conducted for pay on the premises;
2. The maintenance on the premises of an inventory of materials used in producing a commercial product;
3. The regular advertising of the residential address;
4. A residential address is designated as the business location on the business license application (see business licenses, PHMC § 5.05.040); or
5. Rooms are rented to more than one boarder or lodger.
B. Duties of the zoning administrator. Upon receipt of a complete application for a home occupation permit, the zoning administrator may issue a home occupation permit. The permit may be issued without a hearing only if the applicant will not store significant product inventory or materials related to the occupation at the site; the occupation will generate little or no pedestrian or vehicular traffic; and the occupation will involve the provision of a service at a location other than the applicant’s home (e.g., gardening, housekeeping, etc.), or will be limited to the drafting and mailing of written documents (e.g., bookkeeping, typing services, etc.). In all other cases, the zoning administrator shall hold a public hearing under subsection F of this section and determine, based upon substantial evidence, whether the proposed occupation would be in compliance with the standards specified in subsection C of this section and/or whether any exceptions to those standards should be approved under subsection F of this section. The zoning administrator shall issue a home occupation permit if he or she finds that: (1) the home occupation will conform to the standards specified in subsection C of this section, or (2) an exception to the standards as provided for in subsection F of this section can be approved.
C. Standards. A home occupation shall comply with the following standards and conditions, unless granted an exception as noted in subsection F of this section:
1. The home occupation is conducted entirely within the dwelling unit unless otherwise allowed under subsection F of this section;
2. There are no retail sales or personal service uses provided to customers at the premises;
3. There is no more than one vehicle used primarily in connection with the home occupation;
4. There is no on-site sign associated with the home occupation or its products or services, nor signage on or within any vehicle owned or leased by the operator of the home occupation listing the street address of the home occupation or indicating the existence of the home occupation on site;
5. There is no storage on the premises within public view of materials, products, equipment, fuel or other substances not commonly associated in kind or amount with residential use;
6. The street address of the home occupation is not listed in the telephone book, newspaper, Internet site, or other published advertising media or flyers;
7. The home occupation does not generate traffic in excess of that which is normally associated with residential use and requires no additional parking space;
8. The home occupation does not require reconstruction or alteration of the exterior of the dwelling unit;
9. The home occupation does not cause smoke, dust, light, odor, noise or other emissions which would otherwise interfere with the residential use of the zone;
10. The home occupation does not generate quantities or types of refuse or trash which would be abnormal for residential pick-up and collection services;
11. The home occupation does not involve more than one nonresident employee or volunteer on site at any time;
12. The applicant timely obtains a city business license; and
13. The home occupation does not involve any illegal conduct including, but not limited to, operation of a business without a business license, or result in any other encroachment upon the values served by residential use restrictions including, but not limited to, the deterioration of the physical appearance of the property, or have any other substantial detrimental impact upon adjacent residents.
D. Prohibited activities. Home occupations may not include:
1. Activities that involve use of loud power equipment, or otherwise create excessive noise, which interferes with the surrounding residential use;
2. Activities that generate exhaust or other air pollutants or emissions;
3. Activities which involve the raising or slaughtering of animals;
4. On-premises vehicle repair; or
5. Activities that involve engaging in the business of firearm sales. Any entity or person engaged in the business of firearm sales pursuant to a home occupation permit in effect as of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this section shall be exempt from this subsection and the locational restrictions for firearm sales in PHMC Chapter 18.25 (except as to ammunition sales) if the home occupation use is limited solely to those activities that were both permitted by terms of the permit issued before the effective date of the ordinance codified in this section and legally engaged in by the entity or person at the home-based location before the effective date of the ordinance codified in this section. Any such entity or person may continue firearm sales at its existing home-based location pursuant to any valid permits and licenses so long as the operator remains fully licensed by all agencies (including, without limitation, obtaining and maintaining the permit required by PHMC Chapter 9.35), and has not sold, transferred or assigned operation of the business after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this section to any other entity.
1. Cottage food operation. Under Government Code section 51035, and notwithstanding the home occupation standards in subsection C of this section, the zoning administrator shall approve a home occupation permit for a proposed cottage food operation which meets the following standards:
a. Meets the definitions of “cottage food operation” and “cottage food products” in Health and Safety Code section 113758;
b. Has a valid registration, permit or license from the Contra Costa County health department, issued pursuant to Health and Safety Code section 114365, that specifies the same person, location, type of food sales and distribution activity specified in the application for the home occupation permit;
c. Complies with the requirements of the Health and Saf. Code applicable to cottage food operations (including, without limitation, Chapter 11.5 (commencing with section 114365) of Part 7 of Division 104 of the Health and Safety Code).
F. Exceptions to standards for all other home occupations. If an application, other than a cottage food operation, deviates from the standards listed in subsection C of this section or requires an opportunity for public input (in the opinion of the zoning administrator), the zoning administrator shall provide notice of the application under PHMC Chapter 18.80 and shall conduct a public hearing before taking action on the application. The zoning administrator, at his or her discretion, may refer a home occupation permit application directly to the planning commission. The zoning administrator or planning commission may impose reasonable conditions on the home occupation permit to ensure compliance with the standards of this section and/or to ensure the home occupation will not have an adverse effect on the neighborhood.
An exception to the standards may be approved if the decision-maker finds that conditions of approval and/or applicant-proposed operational restrictions placed on the home occupation will ensure that the home occupation will not have an adverse effect on the neighborhood.
G. Lapse of approval. A home occupation permit lapses one year after its date of approval, or at an alternative time specified as a condition of approval, unless the home occupation is established.
Once established, a home occupation permit automatically lapses if there is a discontinuance of the exercise of the home occupation for six consecutive months or more.
H. Transferability. The validity of a home occupation permit shall not be affected by a change in home ownership or residency, provided the new owner or resident applies to the zoning administrator for a transfer within six months from the time the previous owner/resident ends his or her business. No notice or public hearing is required for a transfer.
I. Changes to permit. A request for a change in the home occupation permit or a change to a condition of approval requires a new application. Any amendment or change in a condition of approval to an existing home occupation permit shall be reviewed and approved by the final decision-maker that originally approved the home occupation permit.
J. Revocation. A home occupation exercised in violation of this section or a condition of approval may be revoked, as provided in PHMC § 18.135.040.
K. Resubmittal of application. Following denial of a home occupation permit, no new application for the same, or substantially the same, home occupation shall be accepted within one year of the date of denial, unless the denial was made without prejudice. (Ord. 895 § 2, 2016; Ord. 890 § 13, 2015; Ord. 881 § 3, 2014; Ord. 856 § 2 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 710 § 35-5.6, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.6(c))
When a use permit is required in a single-family or multifamily residential zoning district (see Schedule 18.20.020) for a care facility, group residential, or single-occupancy unit, the general standards specified below shall apply:
A. Pre-application review. A person applying for a use permit in a residential district, when the permit involves converting an existing building, shall submit, together with the use permit application, a letter or other written comments indicating that the facility is capable of meeting applicable code requirements, from the city building division, the fire marshal, and any other agencies as determined by city staff.
B. Licensing and compliance. Facilities shall operate in accordance with state and federal law and established industry standards.
1. Licensed facilities. A facility required to have a state license shall maintain that license and operate in compliance with it.
2. Unlicensed facilities. To ensure that unlicensed residential care facilities are operating in a manner that is consistent with state and federal law and established industry standards, the following standards apply:
a. No violation of state licensing requirements. If the facility is not required to be licensed by the state, the owners, managers, operators and residents shall not provide any services on site which would require licensure under California law.
b. Certification. If certification by a state or federal agency specific to the type of facility is required, the facility shall receive and maintain that certification.
c. Owner and operator information. The applicant shall provide a list of the addresses of all similar facilities in the state operated by the owner, operator or any affiliated organization within the past five years, and shall certify under penalty of perjury that none of the facilities have been found to be operating in violation of state or local law.
C. Location, parking and loading. In a single-family zoning district (or PUD district planned for single-family residential use):
1. The facility shall be located where there is reasonable access to services, including public transportation;
2. There may be off-site or shared parking only on property which is immediately adjacent to the proposed use, and subject to PHMC § 18.55.040; and
3. Loading areas, if required, shall be screened from the view of other residences.
D. Operations. The owner, operator or manager shall operate the facility in a manner that does not disrupt the neighborhood or interfere with the residential characteristics of the neighborhood regarding noise, loitering, traffic and deliveries, parking, or littering. The operator shall provide to the city (on an ongoing basis) a name and 24-hour contact telephone number applicable for the person responsible for the facility.
Each facility shall comply with the following operations requirements:
1. Residents per room. There shall be no more than two residents per bedroom in a single-family residence that has been converted to another residential use as specified in this section. The hearing body has the discretion to set a lower occupancy limit based on evidence as to what is appropriate to the site, including characteristics of the structure, whether there will be an impact on traffic and parking, and whether the public health, safety, peace, comfort or welfare of persons residing in the facility or adjacent to it will be impacted.
2. Staff on duty. If the proposed use has seven residents or more, the operator shall have qualified staff on duty at the facility at all times.
3. Substance testing. If the facility is designed for alcohol or drug rehabilitation, the operator shall arrange for ongoing, random alcohol and illegal substance testing of the residents by a qualified, independent third party.
4. Good neighbor policy. The operator shall develop, post prominently and enforce a good neighbor policy. The policy shall include:
a. Designation of an on-site staff member who will be available to respond to any community concerns regarding the facility or residents. If the city receives a complaint involving the facility or residents, the designated staff member shall attempt to resolve the issue within a reasonable time frame.
b. Prohibition of lewd or abusive speech or behavior, or profanity, by staff or clients if audible to neighboring residents.
c. Compliance with city noise regulations, and prohibition of amplified sound outdoors.
d. Maintaining a log of each violation of the good neighbor policy and making this log available for review by city staff at any time. The log shall include the date and time of the violation, description, name of violator and resolution.
5. Management plan. The operator shall submit a management plan with the use permit application subject to review and approval by the city. The management plan must address management and operation of the facility, safety and security of residents, and building maintenance and staffing, including whether an on-site manager will be present.
E. No overconcentration. If a care facility (or any part of it) is classified as one of the following, it shall be no closer to a similar facility than the distance shown:
Minimum distance from another such facility
Care facility, large licensed (See Care facility, large, licensed; Health facility, at PHMC § 18.15.020):
• Intermediate care facility for the developmentally disabled – nursing. (Health and Saf. Code §§ 1267.8, 1267.9)
• Congregate living health facility. (Health and Saf. Code §§ 1267.8, 1267.9)
Residential care facility, but not applicable to a foster family home, residential care facility for the elderly, or transitional care facility.
(Health and Saf. Code § 1568.0831(a)(5))
(Health and Saf. Code § 50801(e))
(Ord. 890 § 14, 2015; Ord. 867 § 8, 2012)
The following standards apply to the operation of large family day care homes serving nine to 14 persons. (Reference: PHMC § 18.15.030. See also Health and Saf. Code § 1597.46.)
The operation of a large family day care home is permitted in a residential zoning district subject to compliance with these standards. The zoning administrator will work with an operator to evaluate the suitability of a location, and shall issue a nondiscretionary zoning permit for a use that meets these standards.
1. Concentration. The large family day care home is not within 300 feet of any other such licensed facility.
2. Parking and traffic. Adequate parking shall be provided for employees of the large family day care home and for pick-up and drop-off of children at the home in accordance with the following standards:
a. In addition to the off-street parking spaces required for the residential zone, one additional off-street parking space shall be provided for every six children; and
b. Adequate space shall be available for the safe pick-up and delivery of children to the day care home. This space shall be off street, but can be in the driveway or off-street parking area.
3. Conditions of approval. The permit shall include the following conditions of approval:
a. The proposal shall adhere to all State of California Department of Social Services requirements for large family day care centers.
b. The structure shall comply with standards established by the State Fire Marshal under Health and Safety Code sections 1597.46(d) and (e).
B. Appeals. At least 10 days before a decision is made on an application for a zoning permit for a large family day care home, the zoning administrator shall give notice of the proposed use by mail or delivery to all owners (shown on the last equalized assessment roll) owning property within a 100-foot radius of the exterior boundaries of the proposed use. The applicant or other affected person may appeal the decision, pursuant to PHMC Chapter 18.130. (Ord. 867 § 9, 2012; Ord. 856 § 2 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 727 § 14, 1998; Ord. 710 § 35-5.6, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.6(d))
A. Single-room occupancy. Single-room occupancy (“SRO”) units are subject to the standards listed below. The purpose of this subsection is to provide opportunities for the development of permanent, affordable housing for small households and for people with special needs in proximity to transit and services, and to establish standards for these small units.
1. Location. An SRO facility may be proposed and approved in the multifamily, retail business and professional and administrative office zoning districts.
2. Project review and approval. A proposed SRO requires design review approval in compliance with PHMC Chapter 18.115 and a use permit pursuant to PHMC Chapter 18.95.
3. Development standards.
a. Single-room occupancy facilities.
i. Density. The maximum potential number of single-room occupancy units allowable within a building shall be determined based on compliance with applicable zoning ordinance development standards (e.g., height, floor area ratio, setbacks, lot coverage, parking, open space, etc.).
ii. Common area. Four square feet of common area per living unit shall be provided, with at least 200 square feet in area of interior common space, excluding janitorial storage, laundry facilities and common hallways.
iii. Laundry facilities. Laundry facilities must be provided in a separate room at the ratio of one washer and one dryer for every 20 units or fractional number thereof, with at least one washer and dryer per floor.
iv. Cleaning supply room. A cleaning supply room or utility closet with a wash tub with hot and cold running water shall be provided on each floor of the SRO facility.
b. Single-room occupancy units.
i. Unit size. An SRO unit shall have a minimum size of 150 square feet and a maximum size of 400 square feet. The average SRO unit size within an SRO facility shall not exceed 275 square feet.
ii. Occupancy. An SRO unit shall accommodate a maximum of two persons.
iii. Bathroom. An SRO unit is not required to, but may, contain partial or full bathroom facilities. A partial bathroom facility shall have at least a toilet and sink; a full facility shall have a toilet, sink and bathtub, shower or bathtub/shower combination. If a full bathroom facility is not provided, common bathroom facilities shall be provided in accordance with the California Building Code for congregate residences with at least one full bathroom per floor.
iv. Kitchen. An SRO unit is not required to, but may, contain partial or full kitchen facilities. A full kitchen includes a sink, a refrigerator and a stove, range top or oven. A partial kitchen is missing at least one of these appliances. If a full kitchen is not provided, common kitchen facilities shall be provided with at least one full kitchen per floor.
v. Closet. Each SRO unit shall have a separate closet.
vi. Interior access. Individual SRO units shall not have separate external entryways.
vii. Code compliance. SRO units shall comply with all requirements of the California Building Code and all other applicable codes.
4. Accessibility. All SRO units shall comply with all applicable accessibility and adaptability requirements. All common areas shall be fully accessible.
a. Facility management. An SRO facility with seven or more residents shall provide on-site management and an on-site management office.
b. Management plan. A management plan shall be submitted with the development application for an SRO facility and shall be subject to review and approval by the city. The management plan must address management and operation of the facility, rental procedures, safety and security of residents and building maintenance and staffing, including whether an on-site manager will be present.
6. Parking. Off-street parking and secure bicycle parking shall be provided as required by PHMC Chapter 18.55, Parking.
7. Tenancy. Tenancy of SRO units shall be for at least 30 or more days.
8. Existing structures. An existing structure may be converted to an SRO facility, consistent with the provisions of this subsection.
B. Emergency homeless shelter management standards. Each emergency homeless shelter shall comply with the following management standards:
1. Management plan. The operator of an emergency homeless shelter shall be qualified to operate the facility and shall prepare and submit a management plan in consultation with the zoning administrator prior to commencement of facility operations that includes the following: adequate security measures to protect shelter residents and surrounding uses; a description of services provided to assist residents with obtaining permanent shelter and income; a description of the screening process for prospective residents to ensure compatibility with services provided at or through the shelter; hours of operation for the facility; provisions to ensure that the area surrounding the facility is maintained free of litter or debris; a program for providing staff training to meet the needs of shelter residents; a program for providing community outreach regarding the construction and operation of the facility; and a description of any support services provided on site (support services shall be for the on-site residents only and shall be limited to services provided within the building only).
2. Length of stay. No individual or family shall reside in an emergency homeless shelter for more than 180 consecutive days. A minimum of 60 days shall be required between stays. The operator of the emergency homeless shelter shall maintain adequate documentation to demonstrate compliance with this provision.
3. Hours of operation. An operational emergency homeless shelter shall remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
4. Proximity to public transit and services. An emergency homeless shelter shall be located near public transportation, supportive services and commercial services to meet the daily needs of shelter residents. If necessary, an emergency homeless shelter shall ensure a means of transportation for shelter residents to travel to and from case management appointments if scheduled off site.
5. Noise/nuisances. All activities associated with an emergency homeless shelter shall be conducted entirely within the building. Noise shall be limited so as not to create an adverse impact on surrounding uses. No loudspeakers or amplified sound shall be placed within, or project outside of, the emergency homeless shelter.
6. Off-street parking. An emergency homeless shelter shall comply with all applicable provisions of PHMC Chapter 18.55 (Off-Street Parking and Loading Regulations). On-site parking for emergency homeless shelters allowed by right within the LI zone district shall be a minimum of one space per 750 square feet of gross floor area plus one space for every two employees. In addition, if a facility vehicle is maintained on site, one additional on-site parking space for this vehicle shall be provided. Parking for emergency homeless shelters in other zone districts shall be as specified by the use permit based on review of the operational characteristics of the proposed use.
7. On-site management. An on-site staff person shall be designated as a neighborhood liaison to respond to, and address, any questions or concerns from surrounding residents regarding facility operations. “Good behavior” and “good neighbor” policies shall be described in the management plan and shall be implemented and enforced at all times by on-site management. Such policies shall include, but not be limited to, prohibition of use or possession of controlled substances by residents; rules concerning the use or possession of alcohol; curfew; prohibition of loitering; and any other provisions necessary to ensure compatibility with surrounding uses. Clients shall be screened for compatibility with shelter resources and for compliance with applicable state and federal laws. Individuals who do not meet the screening criteria shall not be accepted into the facility.
On-site management, including employees, partners, directors, officers or managers, shall be screened prior to issuance of certificate of occupancy to confirm that they have no history of a previously failed emergency shelter (or similar facility) due to the fault of the operator, and have not been convicted of any of the following offenses within the prior five years:
a. A crime requiring registration under Penal Code section 290;
b. A violation of Penal Code sections 311.2 and 311.4 through 311.7;
c. Violation of Penal Code sections 313.1 through 313.5;
d. Violation of Penal Code section 647(a), (b), or (d);
e. Violation of Penal Code section 315, 316, or 318;
f. A felony crime involving the use of force or violence on another; or
g. The maintenance of a nuisance in connection with the same or similar business operation.
The police department shall also conduct a background investigation on all applicants.
8. On-site security. Security measures shall be sufficient to protect clients and neighbors. On-site security shall be provided during the hours when the emergency homeless shelter is in operation and at all times when clients are present on site.
In the event that at least five external, verified complaints concerning unlawful activities at the facility have been received over a 30-day period by the police department, the facility shall be required to provide additional on-site security staff to the satisfaction of the chief of police and the zoning administrator.
9. External lighting. The emergency homeless shelter shall provide external lighting in accordance with the requirements contained in PHMC § 18.55.140.B to maintain a safe and secure environment. Exterior lighting shall be shielded and directed towards the ground and away from surrounding properties.
10. City, county and state requirements. An emergency homeless shelter shall obtain and maintain in good standing required licenses, permits, and approvals from city, county and state agencies or departments and demonstrate compliance with applicable building and fire codes. An emergency homeless shelter shall comply with all county and state health and safety requirements for food, medical and other supportive services provided on site.
11. Number of beds. An individual emergency homeless shelter shall have no more than 50 beds.
12. Entrance lobby/intake area. The intake area of an emergency homeless shelter shall be a minimum of 100 square feet, located entirely within the building. The entrance to the intake area shall not be located directly facing a public street. Hours of client intake shall be posted. Clients shall not be allowed to form a queue outside the facility.
13. Location. There shall be no less than 300 feet between emergency homeless shelters in any zone district.
14. Smoking ordinance. Emergency homeless shelters shall comply with the provisions of PHMC Chapter 9.45 (smoking ordinance).
15. Design review. New construction and/or exterior alterations to an existing site or building are subject to administrative design review by the zoning administrator to ensure substantial conformance with the city’s design guidelines.
16. Additional requirements. Each emergency homeless shelter shall provide:
a. Lockers or closets for personal property adequate for the number of clients.
b. Clothes washing station(s) or machine(s) adequate for the number of clients.
C. Emergency homeless shelter fees. Prior to issuance of a building permit for any emergency homeless shelter, any fees or exactions authorized by law, that are applicable to residential development, and that are determined by the city to be essential to provide necessary public services and facilities for the emergency homeless shelter, shall be paid by the operator of the emergency shelter to the city and/or to other applicable public agencies. In the event that the operation of the facility results in a need for additional police and public safety services or resources to ensure the public health, safety and welfare of the community, the operator may be required to reimburse the city for any documented costs incurred for providing such additional services and/or resources. (Ord. 890 § 14, 2015; Ord. 874 § 5, 2013; Ord. 867 § 10, 2012)
The following supplemental regulations are to provide opportunities for the placement of manufactured homes in R districts and to ensure that such manufactured homes are designed and located so as to be harmonious within the context of the surrounding houses and neighborhood.
A. General requirements. A manufactured home may be used for residential purposes if it has been approved by the architectural review commission, and has been granted a certificate of compatibility by the zoning administrator, and is located in an R district. A manufactured home may also be used for temporary uses, subject to the requirements of a temporary use permit issued under PHMC Chapter 18.100.
B. Requirements for certificate of compatibility. The zoning administrator shall issue a certificate of compatibility if the manufactured home meets the design and locational criteria of this subsection. The certificate is valid for two years and may be renewed for subsequent periods of two years if the location and design criteria of this section are met. More specifically, the location and design of a manufactured home shall comply with the following criteria in order to protect neighborhood integrity, provide for harmonious relationship between a manufactured home and surrounding uses, and minimize problems that could occur as a result of locating a manufactured home on a residential lot.
1. Location criteria. Manufactured homes are not allowed:
a. On substandard lots that do not meet the dimensional standards of PHMC § 18.20.030;
b. As a second or additional unit on an already developed lot; or
c. On a lot with an average slope of more than 10%, or on any portion of a lot where the slope exceeds 15%.
2. Design criteria. A manufactured home shall be compatible in design and appearance with residential structures in the vicinity and shall meet the following standards:
a. It must be built on a permanent foundation approved by the chief building official;
b. It must have been constructed after June 15, 1976, and must be certified under the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974;
c. The unit’s skirting must extend to the finished grade;
d. Exterior siding must be compatible with adjacent residential structures, and shiny or metallic finishes are prohibited;
e. The roof must be of concrete or asphalt tile, shakes or shingles complying with the most recent edition of the adopted building codes under PHMC Title 14;
f. The roof must have eaves or overhangs of not less than one foot;
g. The floor must be no higher than 20 inches above the exterior finished grade; and
h. Required covered parking shall be compatible with the manufactured home design and with other buildings in the area.
C. Cancellation of state registration. Whenever a manufactured home is installed on a permanent foundation, any registration of the manufactured home with the State of California shall be canceled, pursuant to state laws and regulations. Before any occupancy certificate may be issued for use of such a manufactured home, the owner shall provide to the chief building official satisfactory evidence showing that the state registration of the manufactured home has been, or will be, with certainty, canceled; or, if the manufactured home is new and has never been registered with the state, the owner shall provide the chief building official with a statement to that effect from the dealer selling the home. (Amended during 2005 recodification; Ord. 710 § 35-5.6, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.6(e))
The purpose of this section is to provide reasonable regulations for the development of junior accessory dwelling units in certain areas and on lots developed or proposed to be developed with single-family residential dwellings. Such junior accessory dwelling units are allowed because they contribute needed housing to the community’s housing stock and promote housing opportunities for the persons wishing to reside in the city of Pleasant Hill. In addition, the regulations in this section are intended to promote the goals and policies of the city’s general plan and comply with requirements codified in the state planning and zoning law related to accessory and second dwelling units in single-family residential areas including California Government Code section 65852.22.
In addition, a junior accessory dwelling unit (A) shall not be considered a separate or new dwelling unit for the purposes of any fire or life protection ordinance or regulation. This section shall not be construed to prohibit fire and life protection requirements within a single-family residence that contains a junior accessory dwelling unit so long as the ordinance or regulation applies uniformly to all single-family residences within the zone regardless of whether the single-family residence includes a junior accessory dwelling unit or not and (B) shall not be considered a separate or new dwelling unit for the purposes of providing service for water, sewer, or power, including a connection fee.
A. Locations allowed. Junior accessory dwelling units shall be permitted in any single-family residential zone.
1. Application. An application for junior accessory dwelling unit shall be submitted to the zoning administrator on a form and with information and materials, as adopted by the zoning administrator.
2. Fees. The zoning administrator may collect a fee for processing the application as approved by resolution or ordinance of the city council.
a. The zoning administrator will review and approve complete applications for a junior accessory dwelling unit permit that comply with subsection C of this section (Development standards). The junior accessory dwelling unit permit application shall be considered ministerially without any discretionary review or a hearing.
b. The zoning administrator will approve or disapprove of an application for a junior accessory dwelling unit permit within 120 days after receiving the complete application.
1. Development on lot. Only one accessory or junior accessory dwelling unit per single-family residential lot shall be allowed and the unit must be:
a. Constructed within the existing walls of the single-family residence structure; and
b. Include an existing bedroom.
2. Occupancy. The property owner must occupy either the primary or junior accessory dwelling unit. Owner-occupancy shall not be required if the owner is a governmental agency, land trust or housing organization. The junior accessory dwelling unit may be rented only for terms longer than 30 days.
3. Building and construction.
a. A junior accessory dwelling unit must include a separate entrance from the main entrance to the structure, with an interior entry to the main living area. A junior accessory dwelling unit may include a second interior doorway for sound attenuation.
b. A junior accessory dwelling unit may include separate sanitation facilities, or may share sanitation facilities with the existing structure.
c. A junior accessory dwelling unit must include an efficiency kitchen, which includes all of the following:
i. A sink with a maximum waste line diameter of one and one-half inches;
ii. A cooking facility with appliances that do not require electrical services greater than 120 volts, or natural or propane gas;
iii. A food preparation counter of reasonable size in relation to the size of the junior accessory dwelling unit;
iv. Storage cabinets of reasonable size in relation to the size of the junior accessory dwelling unit.
d. The junior accessory unit shall meet the requirements of the building code, as adopted and amended by PHMC Chapter 14.05, provided the unit shall not be considered a separate or new dwelling unit for the purposes of any fire or life protection regulation.
4. Parking. No additional parking is required for a junior accessory dwelling unit.
5. Unit size. A junior accessory dwelling unit may be no more than 500 square feet in size.
6. Deed restrictions. Prior to issuance of a building permit for a junior accessory dwelling unit, a deed restriction shall be recorded against the title of the property in the county recorder’s office and a copy filed with the city of Pleasant Hill zoning administrator. Said deed restriction shall run with the land, and shall be binding upon any future owners, heirs, successors or assigns. The form of the deed restriction shall be provided by the city and shall provide that:
a. The junior accessory dwelling unit shall not be sold separately from the primary residence.
b. The unit is restricted to the approved size and attributes of this chapter.
c. The deed restrictions run with the land and may be enforced against future purchasers.
d. The deed restrictions may be removed if the owner eliminates the junior accessory dwelling unit.
e. The deed restrictions shall be enforced by the zoning administrator or his or her designee for the benefit of the city of Pleasant Hill. Failure of the property owner to comply with the deed restrictions may result in legal action against the property owner and the city shall be authorized to obtain any remedy available to it at law or equity, including but not limited to obtaining an injunction enjoining use of the accessory dwelling unit in violation of the recorded restrictions or abatement of the illegal unit. (Ord. 915 § 7, 2017)
The following supplemental regulations are intended to implement the general plan housing policy on accessory dwelling units, by allowing accessory dwelling units subject to approval of a zoning permit under PHMC Chapter 18.85 and compliance with the standards listed below, except for those accessory dwelling units which only require a building permit as provided in subsection H of this section. The accessory dwelling unit zoning permit application shall be considered ministerially without any discretionary review or a hearing and shall be approved or denied within 120 days after receipt of a complete application.
A. Design and development standards.
1. The lot is zoned for single-family or multifamily use and contains an existing single-family dwelling or a single-family dwelling will be constructed in conjunction with the accessory dwelling unit.
2. An accessory dwelling unit shall be within or attached to the primary structure with a common wall (providing a minimum five lineal feet of attachment), and shall not exceed 50 percent of the existing living area, with a maximum increase in floor area of 1,200 square feet, nor be less than 150 square feet in size. Alternatively, the accessory dwelling unit may be detached from the primary structure and shall not exceed 1,200 square feet, nor be less than 150 square feet in size.
3. An accessory dwelling unit shall comply with the development regulations in Schedule 18.20.030 (for attached accessory dwelling units) and PHMC 18.20.050 (for detached accessory dwelling units) including but not limited to the regulations for yards, building height, stories, lot coverage, and floor area ratio for the zoning district in which it is located, except as modified by this section.
4. No setback shall be required for an existing garage that is converted to an accessory dwelling unit, and a setback of no more than five feet from the side and rear lot lines shall be required for an accessory dwelling unit that is constructed above a garage.
5. An accessory dwelling unit shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family dwelling is situated.
6. The exterior design, building materials, colors, window style, and exterior finishes shall be substantially the same as those on the existing dwelling.
7. No passageway shall be required in conjunction with the construction of an accessory dwelling unit. Outside access to the accessory dwelling unit shall be located or screened so as not to be visible from the abutting street.
8. An accessory dwelling unit shall meet the requirements of the building code, as adopted and amended by PHMC Title 14, that apply to detached dwellings, as appropriate. Exception: An accessory dwelling unit is required to have fire sprinklers only if the primary residence is also required to have fire sprinklers.
9. The accessory dwelling unit shall obtain approval by the local health officer where a private sewage disposal system is being used, if required.
10. A new or separate utility connection directly between the accessory dwelling unit and the utility may be required. The connection may be subject to a connection fee or capacity charge that shall be proportionate to the burden of the proposed accessory dwelling unit, based upon either its size or the number of its plumbing fixtures, upon the water or sewer system. This fee or charge shall not exceed the reasonable cost of providing this service.
1. Except as provided in subsection B.2 of this section:
a. Accessory dwelling units must meet the following parking standards:
i. For accessory dwelling units with no separate bedrooms, one off-street parking space shall be provided per unit.
ii. For accessory dwelling units with at least one separate bedroom, one off-street parking space shall be provided per bedroom.
b. If parking is required:
i. The required parking spaces may be located on setback areas approved by the zoning administrator unless specific findings are made under subsection B.1.b.ii of this section.
ii. Parking arrangements in subsection B.1.b.i of this section may be prohibited if the zoning administrator makes specific findings that such parking arrangements are not feasible based upon specific site or regional topographical or fire or life safety conditions, or that such arrangements are not permitted anywhere in the jurisdiction.
iii. When a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an accessory dwelling unit, the replacement spaces may be located in any configuration on the same lot as the accessory dwelling unit, including, but not limited to, covered spaces or uncovered spaces.
2. Parking standards shall not be imposed on an accessory dwelling unit in any of the following circumstances:
a. The accessory dwelling unit is located within one-half mile of public transit (public transit is defined as a transit stop or station).
c. The accessory dwelling unit is part of the existing primary residence or an existing accessory structure.
d. When on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the accessory dwelling unit.
C. Nonconforming units. If the existing primary dwelling unit is a legally nonconforming unit, an accessory dwelling unit may be constructed only if the nonconformity is not expanded and the accessory dwelling unit meets all current applicable zoning and building standards.
D. No subdivision. No subdivision of land or air rights are authorized that would result in the accessory dwelling unit being located on a separate lot. The accessory dwelling unit shall not be intended for sale separate from the primary dwelling.
E. Occupancy. The owner of a parcel containing an accessory dwelling unit shall occupy either the primary or the accessory dwelling unit. The city shall require recordation of a deed restriction providing for this restriction before issuance of the certificate of occupancy. The accessory dwelling unit may be rented only for terms longer than 30 days.
F. Preexisting units. An accessory dwelling unit constructed or converted without a building permit before adoption of the city’s accessory dwelling unit regulations (effective October 1983) must obtain a building or code compliance permit and zoning permit to legalize the use.
G. One unit. There shall not be more than one accessory or junior accessory dwelling unit on any parcel.
H. Exception. An accessory dwelling unit is exempt from the requirements of this section and may proceed with a building permit if the unit meets all the requirements of subsection H.1 of this section:
1. The accessory dwelling unit:
a. Is one accessory dwelling unit per single-family lot located within a single-family residential zone;
b. Is contained within the existing space of a single-family residence or accessory structure;
c. Has independent exterior access from the existing residence; and
2. If requirements of subsection H.1 of this section are met, then the applicant:
a. Is required to install fire sprinklers in the accessory dwelling unit if the primary residence is also required to have fire sprinklers;
b. Is not required to install a new or separate utility connection directly between the accessory dwelling unit and the utility, or to be charged a related connection fee or capacity charge;
c. Shall record a deed restriction as provided in subsection E of this section and obtain a building permit as required by PHMC Title 14.
I. Effect. An accessory dwelling unit that conforms to this section shall:
1. Be deemed an accessory use or an accessory building and not be considered to exceed the allowable density for the lot upon which it is located;
2. Be deemed a residential use that is consistent with the general plan and the zoning designations for the lot;
3. Not be considered in the application of any ordinance, policy, or program to limit residential growth; and
4. Not be considered a new residential use for the purposes of calculating connection fees or capacity charges for utilities, including water and sewer service. (Ord. 915 § 8, 2017)
A. Swimming pools and hot tubs shall be fenced as required by the California Building Code, as amended by PHMC § 14.05.040.B.
B. In-ground swimming pools and hot tubs shall be set back a minimum of three feet from the exterior edge of the pool or hot tub to property lines and structures.
C. Above-ground swimming pools and hot tubs are subject to the setback requirements specified in PHMC § 18.20.050, Accessory structures. (Ord. 856 § 2 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 710 § 35-5.6, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.6(g))
An applicant for development of a parcel with an average slope of 15% or greater shall apply for rezoning to HPUD in accordance with PHMC Chapter 18.35, unless already subdivided to its maximum density, and any development on the parcel must comply with PHMC §§ 18.35.040.B, D and E and 18.35.050. (Ord. 856 § 2 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 710 § 35-5.6, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.6(h))
A. Large animals. The keeping of large animals on a site of at least one acre is permitted with no more than two large animals per acre. Any barn, stable or other structure used to house large animals shall be located at least 100 feet from the boundary line of a street or public road and at least 50 feet from a side, front or rear property line.
B. Domestic and small animals. Domestic and small animals kept as pets are permitted, except no more than three mature dogs and no more than five mature cats, hens, rabbits, or similar-sized animals may be kept, harbored, possessed, or maintained on any residential parcel. Farm animals including roosters, geese, turkeys, pigs, goats and sheep are not permitted. (Ord. 856 § 2 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 710 § 35-5.6, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.6(i))
A container or storage unit is allowed for up to 10 calendar days, or for a longer period if there is a grading or building permit for construction on the site and a zoning permit has been issued for the container or storage unit. (Ord. 757 § 1, 2001; Ord. 710 § 35-5.6, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.6(j))
A basketball hoop with a permanent foundation is allowed within any yard, within residential zoning districts, provided it is set back a minimum of five feet from any property line, is not located within any intersection sight obstruction, and it is no higher than 15 feet above existing grade. A zoning permit is required prior to installation of any basketball hoop. (Ord. 903 § 2, 2016)
A. Authority. The ordinance codified in this chapter is adopted under the authority of California Government Code sections 65915 and 65915.5.
B. Density bonus.
1. When an applicant seeks a density bonus for a housing development within, or for the donation of land for housing within, the jurisdiction of the city, the city shall provide the applicant with incentives or concessions for the production of housing units and child care facilities as prescribed in this section.
2. a. The city shall grant one density bonus, the amount of which shall be as specified in subsection B.6 of this section, and incentives or concessions, as described in subsection B.4 of this section, when an applicant for a housing development seeks and agrees to construct a housing development, excluding any units permitted by the density bonus awarded pursuant to this section, that will contain at least any one of the following:
i. Ten percent of the total units of a housing development for lower-income households, as defined in California Health and Safety Code section 50079.5.
ii. Five percent of the total units of a housing development for very low-income households, as defined in California Health and Safety Code section 50105.
iii. A senior citizen housing development, as defined in California Civil Code sections 51.3 and 51.12, or a mobile home park that limits residency based on age requirements for housing for older persons pursuant to California Civil Code section 798.76 or 799.5.
iv. Ten percent of the total dwelling units in a common interest development as defined in California Civil Code section 4100 for persons and families of moderate income, as defined in California Health and Safety Code section 50093; provided, that all units in the development are offered to the public for purchase.
b. For purposes of calculating the amount of the density bonus pursuant to subsection B.6 of this section, an applicant who requests a density bonus pursuant to this subsection shall elect whether the bonus shall be awarded on the basis of subsection B.2.a.i, ii, iii, or iv of this section.
c. For the purposes of this section, “total units” or “total dwelling units” does not include units added by a density bonus awarded pursuant to this section or any local law granting a greater density bonus.
3. a. An applicant shall agree to, and the city shall ensure, the continued affordability of all very low and low-income rental units that qualified the applicant for the award of the density bonus for 55 years or a longer period of time if required by the construction or mortgage financing assistance program, mortgage insurance program, or rental subsidy program. Rents for the lower-income density bonus units shall be set at an affordable rent as defined in California Health and Safety Code section 50053.
b. An applicant shall agree to, and the city shall ensure that, the initial occupant of all for-sale units that qualified the applicant for the award of the density bonus are persons and families of very low, low, or moderate income, as required, and that the units are offered at an affordable housing cost, as that cost is defined in California Health and Safety Code section 50052.5. The city shall enforce an equity sharing agreement, unless it is in conflict with the requirements of another public funding source or law. The following apply to the equity sharing agreement:
i. Upon resale, the seller of the unit shall retain the value of any improvements, the down payment, and the seller’s proportionate share of appreciation. The city shall recapture any initial subsidy, as defined in subsection B.3.b.ii of this section, and its proportionate share of appreciation, as defined in subsection B.3.b.iii of this section, which amount shall be used within five years for any of the purposes described in California Health and Safety Code section 33334.2(e) that promote home ownership.
ii. For purposes of this subsection, the city’s initial subsidy shall be equal to the fair market value of the home at the time of initial sale minus the initial sale price to the moderate-income household, plus the amount of any down payment assistance or mortgage assistance. If upon resale the market value is lower than the initial market value, then the value at the time of the resale shall be used as the initial market value.
iii. For purposes of this subsection, the city’s proportionate share of appreciation shall be equal to the ratio of the city’s initial subsidy to the fair market value of the home at the time of initial sale.
c. i. An applicant shall be ineligible for a density bonus or any other incentives or concessions under this section if the housing development is proposed on any property that includes a parcel or parcels on which rental dwelling units are or, if the dwelling units have been vacated or demolished in the five-year period preceding the application, have been subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts rents to levels affordable to persons and families of lower or very low income; subject to any other form of rent or price control through the city’s valid exercise of its police power; or occupied by lower- or very low-income households, unless the proposed housing development replaces those units, and either of the following applies:
A. The proposed housing development, inclusive of the units replaced pursuant to this subsection, contains affordable units at the percentages set forth in subsection B.2 of this section.
B. Each unit in the development, exclusive of a manager’s unit or units, is affordable to, and occupied by, either a lower- or very low-income household.
ii. For the purposes of this subsection, “replace” shall mean either of the following:
A. If any dwelling units described in subsection B.3.c.i of this section are occupied on the date of application, the proposed housing development shall provide at least the same number of units of equivalent size or type, or both, to be made available at affordable rent or affordable housing cost to, and occupied by, persons and families in the same or lower-income category as those households in occupancy. For unoccupied dwelling units described in subsection B.3.c.i of this section in a development with occupied units, the proposed housing development shall provide units of equivalent size or type, or both, to be made available at affordable rent or affordable housing cost to, and occupied by, persons and families in the same or lower-income category in the same proportion of affordability as the occupied units. All replacement calculations resulting in fractional units shall be rounded up to the next whole number. If the replacement units will be rental dwelling units, these units shall be subject to a recorded affordability restriction for at least 55 years. If the proposed development is for-sale units, the units replaced shall be subject to subsection B.3.b of this section.
B. If all dwelling units described in subsection B.3.c.i of this section have been vacated or demolished within the five-year period preceding the application, the proposed housing development shall provide at least the same number of units of equivalent size or type, or both, as existed at the high point of those units in the five-year period preceding the application to be made available at affordable rent or affordable housing cost to, and occupied by, persons and families in the same or lower-income category as those persons and families in occupancy at that time, if known. If the incomes of the persons and families in occupancy at the high point is not known, then one-half of the required units shall be made available at affordable rent or affordable housing cost to, and occupied by, very low-income persons and families and one-half of the required units shall be made available for rent at affordable housing costs to, and occupied by, low-income persons and families. All replacement calculations resulting in fractional units shall be rounded up to the next whole number. If the replacement units will be rental dwelling units, these units shall be subject to a recorded affordability restriction for at least 55 years. If the proposed development is for-sale units, the units replaced shall be subject to subsection B.3.b of this section.
iii. Subsection B.3.c of this section does not apply to an applicant seeking a density bonus for a proposed housing development if his or her application was submitted to, or processed by, the city before January 1, 2015.
4. a. An applicant for a density bonus pursuant to subsection B.2 of this section may submit to the city a proposal for the specific incentives or concessions that the applicant requests pursuant to this section, and may request a meeting with the city. The city shall grant the concession or incentive requested by the applicant unless the city makes a written finding, based upon substantial evidence, of any of the following:
i. The concession or incentive is not required in order to provide for affordable housing costs, as defined in California Health and Safety Code section 50052.5, or for rents for the targeted units to be set as specified in subsection B.3 of this section.
ii. The concession or incentive would have a specific adverse impact, as defined in California Government Code section 65589.5(d)(2), upon public health and safety or the physical environment or on any real property that is listed in the California Register of Historical Resources and for which there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific adverse impact without rendering the development unaffordable to low- and moderate-income households.
iii. The concession or incentive would be contrary to state or federal law.
b. The applicant shall receive the following number of incentives or concessions:
i. One incentive or concession for projects that include at least 10% of the total units for lower-income households, at least 5% for very low-income households, or at least 10% for persons and families of moderate income in a common interest development.
ii. Two incentives or concessions for projects that include at least 20% of the total units for lower-income households, at least 10% for very low-income households, or at least 20% for persons and families of moderate income in a common interest development.
iii. Three incentives or concessions for projects that include at least 30% of the total units for lower-income households, at least 15% for very low-income households, or at least 30% for persons and families of moderate income in a common interest development.
c. The applicant may initiate judicial proceedings if the city refuses to grant a requested density bonus, incentive, or concession. If a court finds that the refusal to grant a requested density bonus, incentive, or concession is in violation of this section, the court shall award the plaintiff reasonable attorney’s fees and costs of suit. Nothing in this subsection shall be interpreted to require the city to grant an incentive or concession that has a specific, adverse impact, as defined in California Government Code section 65589.5(d)(2), upon health, safety, or the physical environment, and for which there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific adverse impact. Nothing in this subsection shall be interpreted to require the city to grant an incentive or concession that would have an adverse impact on any real property that is listed in the California Register of Historical Resources. The city shall establish procedures for carrying out this section that shall include legislative body approval of the means of compliance with this section.
5. a. In no case may the city apply any development standard that will have the effect of physically precluding the construction of a development meeting the criteria of subsection B.2 of this section at the densities or with the concessions or incentives permitted by this section. An applicant may submit to the city a proposal for the waiver or reduction of development standards that will have the effect of physically precluding the construction of a development meeting the criteria of subsection B.2 of this section at the densities or with the concessions or incentives permitted under this section, and may request a meeting with the city. If a court finds that the refusal to grant a waiver or reduction of development standards is in violation of this section, the court shall award the plaintiff reasonable attorney’s fees and costs of suit. Nothing in this subsection shall be interpreted to require the city to waive or reduce development standards if the waiver or reduction would have a specific, adverse impact, as defined in Government Code section 65589.5(d)(2), upon health, safety, or the physical environment, and for which there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific adverse impact. Nothing in this subsection shall be interpreted to require the city to waive or reduce development standards that would have an adverse impact on any real property that is listed in the California Register of Historical Resources, or to grant any waiver or reduction that would be contrary to state or federal law.
b. A proposal for the waiver or reduction of development standards pursuant to this subsection shall neither reduce nor increase the number of incentives or concessions to which the applicant is entitled pursuant to subsection B.4 of this section.
6. Density bonus defined. For the purposes of this section, “density bonus” means a density increase over the otherwise maximum allowable residential density as of the date of application by the applicant to the city. The applicant may elect to accept a lesser percentage of density bonus. The amount of density bonus to which the applicant is entitled shall vary according to the amount by which the percentage of affordable housing units exceeds the percentage established in subsection B.2 of this section.
a. For housing developments meeting the criteria of subsection B.2.a.i of this section, the density bonus shall be calculated as follows:
b. For housing developments meeting the criteria of subsection B.2.a.ii of this section, the density bonus shall be calculated as follows:
c. For housing developments meeting the criteria of subsection B.2.a.iii of this section, the density bonus shall be 20% of the number of senior housing units.
d. For housing developments meeting the criteria of subsection B.2.a.iv of this section, the density bonus shall be calculated as follows:
Percentage Moderate-Income Units (10 – 20)
Percentage Moderate-Income Units (21 – 31)
Percentage Moderate-Income Units (32 – 40)
e. All density calculations resulting in fractional units shall be rounded up to the next whole number. The granting of a density bonus shall not be interpreted, in and of itself, to require a general plan amendment, zoning change, or other discretionary approval.
7. Land donations.
a. When an applicant for a tentative subdivision map, parcel map, or other residential development approval donates land to the city in accordance with this subsection, the applicant shall be entitled to a 15% increase above the otherwise maximum allowable residential density for the entire development, as follows:
Percentage Very Low-Income Units (10 – 20)
Percentage Very Low-Income Units (21 – 30)
b. This increase shall be in addition to any increase in density mandated by subsection B.2 of this section, up to a maximum combined mandated density increase of 35% if an applicant seeks an increase pursuant to both this subsection and subsection B.2 of this section. All density calculations resulting in fractional units shall be rounded up to the next whole number. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to enlarge or diminish the authority of the city to require a developer to donate land as a condition of development. An applicant shall be eligible for the increased density bonus described in this subsection if all of the following conditions are met:
i. The applicant donates and transfers the land no later than the date of approval of the final subdivision map, parcel map, or residential development application.
ii. The developable acreage and zoning classification of the land being transferred are sufficient to permit construction of units affordable to very low-income households in an amount not less than 10% of the number of residential units of the proposed development.
iii. The transferred land is at least one acre in size or of sufficient size to permit development of at least 40 units, has the appropriate general plan designation, is appropriately zoned with appropriate development standards for development at the density described in California Government Code section 65583.2(c)(3), and is or will be served by adequate public facilities and infrastructure.
iv. The transferred land shall have all of the permits and approvals, other than building permits, necessary for the development of the very low-income housing units on the transferred land, not later than the date of approval of the final subdivision map, parcel map, or residential development application, except that the city may subject the proposed development to subsequent design review to the extent authorized by California Government Code section 65583.2(i) if the design is not reviewed by the city prior to the time of transfer.
v. The transferred land and the affordable units shall be subject to a deed restriction ensuring continued affordability of the units consistent with subsections B.3.a and b of this section, which shall be recorded on the property at the time of the transfer.
vi. The land is transferred to the city or to a housing developer approved by the city. The city may require the applicant to identify and transfer the land to the developer.
vii. The transferred land shall be within the boundary of the proposed development or, if the city agrees, within one-quarter mile of the boundary of the proposed development.
8. Housing developments that include child care facilities.
a. When an applicant proposes to construct a housing development that conforms to the requirements of subsection B of this section and includes a child care facility that will be located on the premises of, as part of, or adjacent to, the project, the city shall grant either of the following:
i. An additional density bonus that is an amount of square feet of residential space that is equal to or greater than the amount of square feet in the child care facility.
ii. An additional concession or incentive that contributes significantly to the economic feasibility of the construction of the child care facility.
b. The city shall require, as a condition of approving the housing development, that the following occur:
i. The child care facility shall remain in operation for a period of time that is as long as or longer than the period of time during which the density bonus units are required to remain affordable pursuant to subsection B.3 of this section.
ii. Of the children who attend the child care facility, the children of very low-income households, lower-income households, or families of moderate income shall equal a percentage that is equal to or greater than the percentage of dwelling units that are required for very low-income households, lower-income households, or families of moderate income pursuant to subsection B.2 of this section.
c. Notwithstanding any requirement of this subsection, the city shall not be required to provide a density bonus or concession for a child care facility if it finds, based upon substantial evidence, that the community has adequate child care facilities.
d. “Child care facility,” as used in this section, means a child day care facility other than a family day care home, including, but not limited to, infant centers, preschools, extended day care facilities, and school age child care centers.
9. Housing development defined. “Housing development,” as used in this section, means a development project for five or more residential units. For the purposes of this section, “housing development” also includes a subdivision or common interest development, as defined in California Civil Code section 4100, approved by the city and consists of residential units or unimproved residential lots and either a project to substantially rehabilitate and convert an existing commercial building to residential use or the substantial rehabilitation of an existing multifamily dwelling, as defined in California Government Code section 65863.4(d), where the result of the rehabilitation would be a net increase in available residential units. For the purpose of calculating a density bonus, the residential units shall be on contiguous sites that are the subject of one development application, but do not have to be based upon individual subdivision maps or parcels. The density bonus shall be permitted in geographic areas of the housing development other than the areas where the units for the lower-income households are located.
10. a. The granting of a concession or incentive shall not be interpreted, in and of itself, to require a general plan amendment, zoning change, or other discretionary approval.
b. Except as provided in subsections B.4 and 5 of this section, the granting of a density bonus shall not be interpreted to require the waiver of a local ordinance or provisions of a local ordinance unrelated to development standards.
11. Concessions and incentives defined. For the purposes of this section, “concession or incentive” means any of the following:
a. A reduction in site development standards or a modification of zoning code requirements or architectural design requirements that exceed the minimum building standards approved by the California Building Standards Commission as provided in Part 2.5 (commencing with section 18901) of Division 13 of the Health and Safety Code, including, but not limited to, a reduction in setback and square footage requirements and in the ratio of vehicular parking spaces that would otherwise be required that results in identifiable, financially sufficient, and actual cost reductions.
b. Approval of mixed-use zoning in conjunction with the housing project if commercial, office, industrial, or other land uses will reduce the cost of the housing development and if the commercial, office, industrial, or other land uses are compatible with the housing project and the existing or planned development in the area where the proposed housing project will be located.
c. Other regulatory incentives or concessions proposed by the developer or the city that result in identifiable, financially sufficient, and actual cost reductions.
12. Effect on direct financial incentives. Subsection B.11 of this section does not limit or require the provision of direct financial incentives for the housing development, including the provision of publicly owned land, by the city, or the waiver of fees or dedication requirements.
13. California Coastal Act. This section does not supersede or in any way alter or lessen the effect or application of the California Coastal Act of 1976 (Division 20 (commencing with section 30000) of the Public Resources Code).
14. City discretion in granting density bonus. If permitted by local ordinance, nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the city from granting a density bonus greater than what is described in this section for a development that meets the requirements of this section or from granting a proportionately lower density bonus than what is required by this section for developments that do not meet the requirements of this section.
15. Definitions. For purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:
a. “Development standard” includes a site or construction condition, including, but not limited to, a height limitation, a setback requirement, a floor area ratio, an on-site open-space requirement, or a parking ratio that applies to a residential development pursuant to any ordinance, general plan element, specific plan, or other local condition, law, policy, resolution, or regulation.
b. “Maximum allowable residential density” means the density allowed under the zoning ordinance and land use element of the general plan, or if a range of density is permitted, means the maximum allowable density for the specific zoning range and land use element of the general plan applicable to the project. Where the density allowed under the zoning ordinance is inconsistent with the density allowed under the land use element of the general plan, the general plan density shall prevail.
16. Vehicular parking ratio.
a. Except as provided in subsections B.16.b and c of this section, upon the request of the developer, the city shall not require a vehicular parking ratio, inclusive of handicapped and guest parking, of a development meeting the criteria of subsections B.2 and B.3 of this section, that exceeds the following ratios:
i. Zero to one bedroom: one on-site parking space.
ii. Two to three bedrooms: two on-site parking spaces.
iii. Four and more bedrooms: two and one-half parking spaces.
b. Notwithstanding subsection B.16.a of this section, if a development includes the maximum percentage of low- or very low-income units provided for in subsections B.6.a and b of this section and is located within one-half mile of a major transit stop, as defined in California Public Resources Code section 21155(b), and there is unobstructed access to the major transit stop from the development, then, upon the request of the developer, the city shall not impose a vehicular parking ratio, inclusive of handicapped and guest parking, that exceeds one-half space per bedroom. For purposes of this subsection, a development shall have unobstructed access to a major transit stop if a resident is able to access the major transit stop without encountering natural or constructed impediments.
c. Notwithstanding subsection B.16.a of this section, if a development consists solely of rental units, exclusive of a manager’s unit or units, with an affordable housing cost to lower-income families, as provided in California Health and Safety Code section 50052.5, then, upon the request of the developer, the city shall not impose a vehicular parking ratio, inclusive of handicapped and guest parking, that exceeds the following ratios:
i. If the development is located within one-half mile of a major transit stop, as defined in California Public Resources Code section 21155(b), and there is unobstructed access to the major transit stop from the development, the ratio shall not exceed one-half spaces per unit.
ii. If the development is a for-rent housing development for individuals who are 62 years of age or older that complies with California Civil Code sections 51.2 and 51.3, the ratio shall not exceed one-half space per unit. The development shall have either paratransit service or unobstructed access, within one-half mile, to fixed bus route service that operates at least eight times per day.
iii. If the development is a special needs housing development, as defined in California Health and Safety Code section 51312, the ratio shall not exceed three-tenths space per unit. The development shall have either paratransit service or unobstructed access, within one-half mile, to fixed bus route service that operates at least eight times per day.
d. If the total number of parking spaces required for a development is other than a whole number, the number shall be rounded up to the next whole number. For purposes of this subsection, a development may provide on-site parking through tandem parking or uncovered parking, but not through on-street parking.
e. This subsection B.16 shall apply to a development that meets the requirements of subsections B.2 and 3 of this section, but only at the request of the applicant. An applicant may request parking incentives or concessions beyond those provided in this subsection pursuant to subsection B.4 of this section.
f. This subsection does not preclude the city from reducing or eliminating a parking requirement for development projects of any type in any location.
g. Notwithstanding subsections B.16.b and c of this section, if a city, county, city and county, or an independent consultant has conducted an area-wide or jurisdiction-wide parking study in the last seven years, then the city may impose a higher vehicular parking ratio not to exceed the ratio described in subsection B.16.a of this section, based upon substantial evidence found in the parking study, that includes, but is not limited to, an analysis of parking availability, differing levels of transit access, walkability access to transit services, the potential for shared parking, the effect of parking requirements on the cost of market-rate and subsidized developments, and the lower rates of car ownership for low- and very low-income individuals, including seniors and special needs individuals. The city, county, or city and county shall pay the costs of any new study. The city shall make findings, based on a parking study completed in conformity with this subsection, supporting the need for the higher parking ratio.
C. Density bonuses for condominium conversions.
1. When an applicant for approval to convert apartments to a condominium project agrees to provide at least 33% of the total units of the proposed condominium project to persons and families of low or moderate income as defined in California Health and Safety Code section 50093, or 15% of the total units of the proposed condominium project to lower-income households as defined in California Health and Safety Code section 50079.5, and agrees to pay for the reasonably necessary administrative costs incurred by the city pursuant to this section, the city shall either (a) grant a density bonus or (b) provide other incentives of equivalent financial value. The city may place such reasonable conditions on the granting of a density bonus or other incentives of equivalent financial value as it finds appropriate, including, but not limited to, conditions which assure continued affordability of units to subsequent purchasers who are persons and families of low and moderate income or lower-income households.
2. For purposes of this subsection C, “density bonus” means an increase in units of 25% over the number of apartments, to be provided within the existing structure or structures proposed for conversion.
3. For purposes of this subsection C, “other incentives of equivalent financial value” shall not be construed to require the city to provide cash transfer payments or other monetary compensation but may include the reduction or waiver of requirements which the city might otherwise apply as conditions of conversion approval.
4. An applicant for approval to convert apartments to a condominium project may submit to the city a preliminary proposal pursuant to this section prior to the submittal of any formal requests for subdivision map approvals. The city shall, within 90 days of receipt of a written proposal, notify the applicant in writing of the manner in which it will comply with this section. The city shall establish procedures for carrying out this section, which shall include city council approval of the means of compliance with this section.
5. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require the city to approve a proposal to convert apartments to condominiums.
6. An applicant shall be ineligible for a density bonus or other incentives under this section if the apartments proposed for conversion constitute a housing development for which a density bonus or other incentives were provided under subsection B of this section.
7. An applicant shall be ineligible for a density bonus or any other incentives or concessions under this section if the condominium project is proposed on any property that includes a parcel or parcels on which rental dwelling units are or, if the dwelling units have been vacated or demolished in the five-year period preceding the application, have been subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts rents to levels affordable to persons and families of lower or very low income; subject to any other form of rent or price control through the city’s valid exercise of its police power; or occupied by lower or very low-income households, unless the proposed condominium project replaces those units, as defined in subsection B.3.c.ii of this section, and either of the following applies:
a. The proposed condominium project, inclusive of the units replaced pursuant to subsection B.3.c.ii of this section, contains affordable units at the percentages set forth in subsection C.1 of this section.
b. Each unit in the development, exclusive of a manager’s unit or units, is affordable to, and occupied by, either a lower or very low-income household.
8. Subsection C.7 of this section does not apply to an applicant seeking a density bonus for a proposed housing development if their application was submitted to, or processed by, the city before January 1, 2015. (Ord. 899 § 1, 2016)
All new residential construction, or modifications to multiple-family structures, require an architectural review permit (see Part 5). (Ord. 710 § 35-5.8, 1996; 1991 code § 35-5.8)