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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-03-10 - AGENDA REPORTS - OAK TREE AMENDO Agenda Item: 2 CITY OF SANTA CLARITA .` AGENDA REPORT PUBLIC HEARINGS CITY MANAGER APPROVAL: DATE: March 10, 2026 SUBJECT: AMENDMENTS TO OAK TREE REGULATIONS DEPARTMENT: Administrative Services PRESENTER: Valerie Ferchaw RECOMMENDED ACTION City Council: 1. Conduct the public hearing. Determine that the Ordinance is exempt from further environmental review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301, 15303, 15304(e), 15305, and 15311 (categorical exemptions), and Section 15061(b)(3) (common-sense exemption). 2. Introduce an ordinance entitled: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, ADDING A NEW § 17.22.100 TO THE SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE DESIGNATING CERTAIN OAK TREE PERMITS AS MINISTERIAL AND AMENDING § 17.51.040 AS TO DEFINITIONS AND TO RECONCILE THE OAK TREE PERMITS REGULATIONS WITH MINISTERIAL PERMITTING," and pass to a second reading. BACKGROUND The City of Santa Clarita (City) periodically updates the Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC) to address newly identified administrative issues, improve clarity, and ensure that regulations remain effective, predictable, and implementable. As part of the ongoing administration of the City's Oak Tree Regulations (Regulation), City staff identified opportunities to refine the permit process for certain oak tree removal requests on existing single-family residential properties, while maintaining the City's longstanding commitment to oak preservation. Under the existing regulation, removal of an oak tree generally requires an oak tree permit pursuant to SCMC § 17.23.170 and § 17.51.040. Most removal requests are processed through a Page 1 Packet Pg. 16 O discretionary review process requiring preparation of an arborist report, payment of applicable fees, and compliance with mitigation requirements. Approval requires one or more discretionary findings under SCMC § 17.23.170(E), including findings related to tree condition, interference, reasonable use of the property, or lack of feasible alternatives. Through continued implementation of the Regulation and years of interaction with homeowners, City staff encountered recurring concerns related to personal safety, structural risk during high - wind events, property functionality, and homeowner insurance requirements when oak trees are located in close proximity to legally permitted structures. For single-family residents who live day in and day out within the potential fall radius of a large oak tree, this proximity can create ongoing and genuine concerns regarding the health, safety, and well-being of their families and domesticated animals, particularly during seasonal wind events or severe weather conditions. While these concerns vary by circumstance and do not necessarily reflect a hazardous determination under the existing code, City staff observed that many of these situations share a common physical condition: a qualifying structure located within the fall zone of an oak tree. The presence of a qualifying structure within an oak tree's fall zone can be determined through objective, location -based criteria. However, under the current Regulation, this condition does not independently qualify for exemption; and, therefore, requires discretionary review and associated findings, even when eligibility factors are measurable and fact -based. In response, City staff evaluated potential code amendments and developed a narrowly tailored proposal to establish a ministerial Class I oak tree permit applicable exclusively to property owners of existing single-family dwellings or accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The proposed amendments are intended to provide a predictable and objective permit pathway in defined residential circumstances, allowing homeowners to responsibly address proximity -related concerns while maintaining mitigation requirements and preserving the broader oak tree preservation framework. City staff presented these proposed amendments to the Planning Commission on January 20, 2026. The Planning Commission, in a 5-0 vote, adopted a resolution recommending the City Council adopt an ordinance and approve Master Case 25-160. The Planning Commission agenda report is available in the City Clerk's reading file. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The proposed updates would amend the SCMC as follows: Add new SCMC § 17.22.100 to establish a ministerial (Class I) oak tree permit applicable only to property owners of existing single-family dwellings or ADUs when a qualifying structure is located within the fall zone of an oak tree. • Provide that eligibility for the Class I permit is based on objective criteria and does not require the discretionary findings set forth in SCMC § 17.23.170(E). Page 2 Packet Pg. 17 O • Define "qualifying structures" as legal permanent structures intended for (1) human habitation; (2) regular recreational or practical use; (3) sheltering domesticated animals; or (4) utility -owned facilities or infrastructure. • Provide examples of qualifying structures, including single-family dwellings, garages, ADUs, swimming pools, pergolas, horse stalls, kennels, and similar permanent structures. • Clarify examples of non -qualifying structures, including trampolines, swing sets, portable sheds, recreational equipment, patio furniture, and landscaping features, to ensure consistent and objective application. • Provide that, for utility -owned facilities and infrastructure, a permit may be issued only upon substantial evidence that the oak tree will damage or interfere with such facilities or infrastructure. • Amend SCMC § 17.51.040 to update the definition of an "oak tree," including retention of the exclusion of scrub oak (Quercus dumosa) on properties occupied by a single- family residence. • Add a definition of "fall zone," defined as the area within a radius equal to the height of the tree measured from the edge of the root collar. The fall zone is distinct from the existing "protected zone," which continues to regulate construction and encroachment activities. The Class I ministerial permit would apply to all oak trees meeting the defined eligibility criteria, including heritage oak trees. The ministerial permit pathway would not apply to commercial development, multi -family residential development, subdivision activity, or development -related oak tree removals. All such requests would continue to be processed under the existing discretionary permit framework. The proposed amendments do not modify or expand the Regulation's existing emergency exemption provisions. MITIGATION Oak tree removal approved through the Class I ministerial permit would remain subject to mitigation requirements. Replacement trees must be planted on the same property from which they were removed unless no appropriate location for replanting exists. If on -site planting is not feasible, mitigation trees may be donated to the City or an in -lieu fee may be paid. The proposed updates to the Regulation establish a defined replacement schedule based on trunk diameter. For trees measuring: 4 to 8 inches in diameter: One 24-inch box native oak tree Page 3 Packet Pg. 18 O 8 to 12 inches in diameter: Two 24-inch box native oak trees 12 inches or greater in diameter: Three 24-inch box native oak trees In all cases, the total mitigation value for removal under a Class I permit shall not exceed $1,500, subject to annual adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). ANALYSIS Findings (SCMC § 17.06.130) Consistency with the General Plan — The amendments support General Plan objectives related to public safety, regulatory clarity, and predictable administration of City regulations. It would continue to promote oak tree preservation while establishing a defined and objective ministerial pathway for qualifying single-family residential properties. 2. Compliance with the SCMC — The amendments modify the SCMC itself and do not conflict with other provisions of the code. The proposal creates a new ministerial permit category without altering zoning classifications, densities, or development standards. Public Health, Safety, and Welfare — The proposed Class I permit provides an objective mechanism to address situations in which qualifying structures are located within the fall zone of an oak tree. This process allows residents to address concerns related to safety and property use while maintaining mitigation requirements. The permit applies to all qualifying oak trees, including heritage oak trees, and is limited to defined single-family residential circumstances, thereby preserving the public interest while improving administrative efficiency. 4. Physical Suitability — The project does not authorize development or physical improvements. Any future oak tree removal would remain subject to applicable mitigation requirements and enforcement provisions. ENVIRONMENTAL STATUS The updates have been reviewed pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Adoption of the amendments is exempt from further environmental review under CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301, 15303, 15304(e), 15305, and 15311, as the amendments establish rules and procedures governing limited circumstances involving existing development and minor land use activities. In addition, adoption of the amendments is exempt under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the common-sense exemption, because the amendments establish general policies and procedural regulations and do not authorize development or eliminate mitigation requirements. It can be Page 4 Packet Pg. 19 O seen with certainty that there is no possibility that adoption of the amendments may have a significant effect on the environment. PUBLIC NOTICING All notices required by law were completed, consisting of a legal advertisement published in The Signal newspaper on February 13, 2026. CONCLUSION The proposed amendments establish a clear and objective ministerial permit pathway for the removal of oak trees on existing single-family residential properties when a qualifying structure is located within the tree's fall zone. By defining eligibility criteria, establishing mitigation requirements, applying the permit to all qualifying oak trees including heritage oak trees, and preserving the broader discretionary framework for all other circumstances, the amendments provide a balanced and narrowly tailored refinement to the Oak Tree Regulations. ALTERNATIVE ACTION Other action as determined by the City Council. FISCAL IMPACT There is no fiscal impact. ATTACHMENTS Public Hearing Notice Ordinance Notice of Exemption Planning Commission Agenda Packet (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) Page 5 Packet Pg. 20 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING APPLICATION: Master Case 25-160: Oak Tree Ordinance Amendment 2.a PROJECT LOCATION: Citywide PROJECT APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The City of Santa Clarita (City) is proposing an amendment to the oak tree regulations contained in Chapter 17.51 of the Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC/Ordinance). The proposed amendment would add a new section establishing a Class I ministerial oak tree removal permit. This permit would only be available to single-family dwellings when a qualifying permanent structure, such as a home, garage, accessory dwelling unit, swimming pool, pergola, horse stall, kennel, or utility infrastructure, is located within the tree's fall zone. This eligibility applies to all protected oak trees, including heritage oak trees. The amendment would also clarify and refine the definition of protected "oak tree" to specify which native California oak species are governed by the Ordinance, clarify the definition of "fall zone," and establish specific on -site replacement requirements or capped in -lieu mitigation for trees removed under the new ministerial process. Oak trees that do not meet the criteria for the Class I ministerial process will continue to be subject to the existing requirements of the SCMC. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: On January 20, 2026, the Planning Commission voted 5-0 to adopt a resolution recommending the City Council approve Master Case 25-160, to amend the SCMC, to establish a Class I ministerial oak tree removal permit. Therefore, the City Council will conduct a public hearing on this matter on the following date: DATE: Tuesday, March 10, 2026 TIME: At or after 6:00 p.m. LOCATION: City Hall, Council Chambers 23920 Valencia Blvd., First Floor Santa Clarita, CA 91355 The City Council agenda can be found at www.santaclarita.gov/agendas by March 6, 2026. A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION has been prepared for the proposed Ordinance. The Ordinance is exempt from further review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines (14 Cal. Code of Regs. § 15000, et seq.) Section 15061(b)(3), the common-sense exemption. It can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the adoption of the Ordinance may have a significant effect on the environment because it establishes ministerial permitting procedures and general policy. Individual oak tree removal permits issued under the new process will remain subject to project -specific environmental review when required. If you wish to challenge the action taken on this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearings described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Santa Clarita at, or prior to, the public hearings. If you wish to have written comments included in the materials the City Council receives prior to the public hearing, those comments must be submitted to the City of Santa Clarita by Friday, February 27, 2026. For further information regarding this proposal, you may contact the City's Urban Forestry team. Phone: (661) 290-2200. Send written correspondence via email to urbanforestryksantaclarita.gov or by US mail to: 23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 140, Santa Clarita, CA 91355. Mary Cusick, MMC City Clerk Published: The Signal, February 17, 2026 1 Packet Pg. 21 2.b ORDINANCE NO. 26- AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, ADDING A NEW § 17.22.100 TO THE SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE DESIGNATING CERTAIN OAK TREE PERMITS AS MINISTERIAL AND AMENDING § 17.51.040 AS TO DEFINITIONS AND TO RECONCILE THE OAK TREE PERMITS REGULATIONS WITH MINISTERIAL PERMITTING THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1: A new § 17.22.100 is added to the Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC) to read as follows: "17.22.100 Oak Tree Permit — Class I Ministerial Process The Class I ministerial permit process applies to property owners of existing single- family dwellings or accessory dwelling units who seek to remove an oak tree that has a qualifying structure located within its fall zone. A qualifying structure constitutes a legal permanent structure that is (1) intended for human habitation; (2) regular recreational or practical use; (3) commonly utilized for sheltering domesticated animals; or (4) constitutes a utility -owned facility or infrastructure. Examples of qualifying structures include, without limitation, single-family dwelling units; garages; accessory dwelling units (ADUs); swimming pools; pergolas; horse stalls; kennels; or similar structures. Structures such as trampolines, swing sets, portable sheds, recreational equipment, patio furniture, and landscaping features, are not qualifying structures. For utility -owned facilities and infrastructure, a permit may be issued only upon substantial evidence that an oak tree will damage or interfere with such facilities or infrastructure." SECTION 2: SCMC § 17.51.040 is amended to read as follows: m "a. "Oak tree" means any oak tree of the genus Quercus and native to California including, without limitation, valley oak (Quercus lobata), California live oak (Quercus c agrifolia), canyon oak (Quercus chrysolepis), interior live oak (Quercus wislizenii) and scrub oak (Quercus dumosa), regardless of size. In the case of properties occupied by a single-family residence, scrub oak (Quercus dumosa) is excluded from this list. E A. "Fall Zone" means the area defined by a circle around the tree with a radius a equal to the tree height as measured from the edge of the tree's root collar. Q B. Conditions. Conditions may be imposed on the permit at the discretion of the approving authority, including, but not limited to, any of the following: (f) For Class I oak tree permits, replacement trees must be planted on the same property from which they were removed unless there is no appropriate place for planting. If an appropriate location for replanting does not exist, mitigation Page 1 of 4 Packet Pg. 22 2.b trees may be donated to the City following the replacement schedule below or their monetary value may be paid to the City to the satisfaction of the Director. For oak tree removal pursuant to a Class I oak tree permit, a permittee must either replace the oak tree or pay a fee based upon the calculations below. In all instances, the total mitigation value may not exceed $1,500, subject to annual adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), as determined by the Director. 1. For trees measuring 4 inches to 8 inches in diameter: One 24-inch-box native oak tree. 2. For trees measuring 8 inches to 12 inches in diameter: Two 24-inch-box native oak trees. 3. For trees measuring 12 inches or more in diameter: Three 24-inch-box native oak trees." SECTION 3: ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT. This Ordinance was reviewed pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Adopting this Ordinance is exempt from further environmental review because it establishes rules and procedures for the operation of existing facilities; minor temporary use of land; minor alterations in land use; new construction of small structures; and minor structures accessory to existing commercial facilities. The Ordinance, therefore, is categorically exempt from further CEQA review under CEQA Guidelines §§ 15301; 15303, 15304(e); 15305; and 15311. Further, adopting the ordinance is also exempt from review under CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines § 15061(b)(3) because the ordinance is for general policies and procedure -making. It can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the Ordinance may have a significant effect on the environment. Individual projects utilizing these regulations will each be separately subject to an environmental assessment. SECTION 4: CONSTRUCTION. This Ordinance must be broadly construed to achieve the purposes stated in this Ordinance. It is the City Council's intent that the provisions of this Ordinance be interpreted or implemented by the City and others in a manner that facilitates the c purposes set forth in this Ordinance. r SECTION 5: ENFORCEABILITY. Repeal of any provision of the SCMC does not affect any penalty, forfeiture, or liability incurred before, or preclude prosecution and imposition of penalties for any violation occurring before this Ordinance's effective date. Any such repealed a part will remain in full force and effect for sustaining action or prosecuting violations occurring Q before the effective date of this Ordinance. SECTION 6: RELIANCE ON RECORD. Each and every one of the findings and determinations in this Ordinance is based on the competent and substantial evidence, both oral and written, contained in the entire record relating to the project. The findings and determinations constitute the independent findings and determinations of the City Council in all respects and are fully and completely supported by substantial evidence in the record as a whole. Page 2 of 4 Packet Pg. 23 2.b SECTION 7: LIMITATIONS. The City Council's analysis and evaluation of the project is based on the best information currently available. It is inevitable that in evaluating a project, absolute and perfect knowledge of all possible aspects of the project will not exist. One of the major limitations on analysis of the project is the City Council's lack of knowledge of future events. In all instances, best efforts have been made to form accurate assumptions. Somewhat related to this are limitations on the City's ability to solve what are in effect regional, state, and national problems and issues. The City must work within the political framework within which it exists and with the limitations inherent in that framework. SECTION 8: SUMMARIES OF INFORMATION. All summaries of information in the findings, which precede this section, are based on the substantial evidence in the record. The absence of any particular fact from any such summary is not an indication that a particular finding is not based in part on that fact. SECTION 9: SEVERABILITY. If any part of this Ordinance or its application is deemed invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the City Council intends that such invalidity will not affect the effectiveness of the remaining provisions or applications and, to this end, the provisions of this Ordinance are severable. SECTION 10: RECORDING. The City Clerk, or her duly appointed deputy, is directed to certify the passage and adoption of this Ordinance; cause it to be entered into the City of Santa Clarita's book of original ordinances; make a note of the passage and adoption in the records of this meeting; and, within 15 days after the passage and adoption of this Ordinance, cause it to be published or posted in accordance with California law. SECTION 11: ELECTRONIC SIGNATURES. This Ordinance may be executed with electronic signatures in accordance with Government Code § 16.5. Such electronic signatures will be treated in all respects as having the same effect as an original signature. SECTION 12: EXECUTION. The Mayor, or presiding officer, is hereby authorized to affix his signature to this Ordinance signifying its adoption by the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita, and the City Clerk, or duly appointed deputy, is directed to attest thereto. c �a L SECTION 13: EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance becomes effective on the 30th day r following its passage and adoption. E r r a Page 3 of 4 Packet Pg. 24 2.b PASSED AND ADOPTED this day of , 2026. MAYOR ATTEST: CITY CLERK DATE: STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss. CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ) I, Mary Cusick, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 26- was regularly introduced and placed upon its first reading at a regular meeting of the City Council on the day of 2026. That thereafter, said ordinance was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council on the day of 2026, by the following vote, to wit: AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: m c NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: c =a L ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: r c m AND I FURTHER CERTIFY that the foregoing is the original of Ordinance No. 26- and was published in The Signal newspaper in accordance with State Law (G.C. 40806). a r a CITY CLERK Page 4 of 4 Packet Pg. 25 2.c NOTICE OF EXEMPTION TO: FROM: [X] Los Angeles County Clerk City of Santa Clarita Business Filings and Registration Community Development P.O. Box 1208 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite #140 ,.•�.rx�1 Norwalk, CA 90650 Santa Clarita, CA 91355 [ ] Office of Planning and Research 1400 Tenth Street, Room 121 Sacramento, CA 95814 DATE: March 25, 2026 PROJECT NAME: Master Case 25-160; including Unified Development Code Amendment 25-001 PROJECT LOCATION: Citywide PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Establishment of a class I ministerial oak tree permit for single family residential properties This is to advise that the [ ] Director of Community Development [ ] Planning Commission [X] City Council of the City of Santa Clarita has approved the above project on March 24, 2026. Review of the project by the Department of Community Development found that the project is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act. EXEMPT STATUS: California Environmental Quality Act under Article 19 Section 15061(b)(3), the project is exempt under the common-sense exemption. A common-sense exemption applies when update relates solely to procedure and definitions and does not authorize any development activity. Person or agency carrying out the project: City of Santa Clarita Planning Division This is to certify that the Notice of Exemption with comments/responses and record of project approval is available for public review at: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite #140 Santa Clarita, California 91355 (661) 286-4080 Contact Person/Title: Andrew Adams, Special Districts Manager Signature: S:ACDA!PLANNING DIVISION\CURRENTV12025\MC25-160 (Oak Tree Ordinance Special Districts) Packet Pg. 26 O Agenda Item: 2 CITY OF SANTA CLARITA PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA REPORT PUBLIC HEARINGS PLANNING MANAGER APPROVAL: ~ DATE: January 20, 2026 SUBJECT: OAK TREE ORDINANCE AMENDMENT (MASTER CASE 25-160) APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita LOCATION: Citywide CASE PLANNER: Valerie Ferchaw RECOMMENDED ACTION Planning Commission 1. Open the public hearing to take testimonial and written evidence; 2. Based upon substantial evidence in the record, determine that the project is exempt from additional environmental review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the common-sense exemption; and 3. Adopt Resolution P26-01 recommending the City Council approve Master Case 25-160 by adopting an ordinance amending the Santa Clarita Municipal Code by adding § 17.22.100 and amending § 17.51.040 to designate certain oak tree permits as ministerial. REQUEST The City of Santa Clarita (City) proposes to amend the Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC) to establish a ministerial Class I oak tree permit for specific conditions applicable to single-family residential properties, and to update related definitions to maintain consistency within the oak tree protection regulations. BACKGROUND The City's Oak Tree Ordinance (Ordinance) is intended to preserve, protect, and responsibly Page 1 Packet Pg. 10 O manage oak resources throughout the City. As currently administered, the Ordinance provides two primary paths for removal of an oak tree on a single-family residential property: removal due to emergent circumstances or removal through a discretionary permit process that requires a report from a qualified arborist, payment of associated fees, mitigation through replacement planting or an in -lieu fee, and Planning Commission approval when a heritage oak tree is involved. Over time, and through ongoing administration of the Ordinance, City staff have received feedback from property owners and identified recurring concerns related to oak trees with legally established homes or similar structures located within their fall zone. These concerns have included safety, maintenance, and functional conflicts, as well as instances in which property owners have expressed difficulties renewing homeowner insurance policies due to the presence of oak trees in close proximity to structures. Such situations are typically straightforward, fact -based, and well suited for an objective, ministerial review. In response, City staff evaluated a range of potential paths forward, considered input from affected property owners, and developed a proposal for a fall zone ministerial permit. This supplemental permit path allows limited, clearly defined circumstances to be processed ministerially without diminishing the City's longstanding commitment to oak preservation, while promoting safety, timeliness, and reasonable property rights for single-family residential property owners. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The proposed Ordinance: • Adds anew SCMC § 17.22.100 establishing a ministerial, Class I, oak tree permit for property owners of single-family dwellings or accessory dwelling units when a qualifying structure is located within the fall zone of an oak tree. • Defines qualifying structures to include legally permitted structures intended for human habitation, regular recreational or practical use, the sheltering of domesticated animals, or utility -owned facilities/infrastructure. • Clarifies examples of qualifying and non -qualifying structures. • Amends § 17.51.040 to update the definition of an "oak tree" and to clarify the definition of "fall zone" for consistency with the new ministerial process. The amendment is narrow in scope and procedural in nature. It maintains all existing protections for oak trees while creating a predictable, objective process where the grounds for removal are based on verifiable physical conditions. Importantly, this update affords single-family property owners greater flexibility and freedom to address oak trees that pose proximity -based constraints, while preserving strong, meaningful protections for oak resources. The Ordinance balances individual property rights with responsible environmental stewardship. ANALYSIS Page 2 Packet Pg. 11 O Findings (SCMC §17.06.130): 1. Consistency with the General Plan. The amendment supports General Plan objectives related to clarity, predictability, and public safety. It maintains oak protection policies while improving the administration of the code through a streamlined process. 2. Compliance with the SCMC. The update amends the code itself and does not conflict with other provisions. No density, zoning, or development standards are altered. 3. Public health, safety, and welfare. Allowing ministerial review where a qualifying structure is located within the fall zone of an oak tree ensures timely resolution of safety or property -damage concerns while preserving the City's ability to regulate oak removal in all other contexts. 4. Physical suitability. No physical development is proposed. Future removal requests will continue to be reviewed for biological conditions and mitigation as required. ENVIRONMENTAL The project is exempt from additional environmental review under CEQA Guidelines §15061(b)(3), the common-sense exemption, because it can be seen with certainty that the ordinance has no potential to result in a significant effect on the environment. The update relates solely to procedure and definitions and does not authorize any development activity. NOTICING All notices required by law were completed, which consisted of a one -eighth page legal advertisement in The Signal newspaper on December 31, 2025. As of the writing of this staff report, no correspondence regarding this project has been received from the community. CONCLUSION The proposed ordinance provides a clear, objective framework for ministerial review of certain oak tree permit requests involving single-family residential properties where qualifying structures are located within the fall zone of an oak tree. It grants homeowners greater flexibility in addressing proximity -based constraints while maintaining the City's long-standing preservation standards for oak resources. This balanced approach upholds property rights, supports public safety, and preserves the integrity of the City's oak woodlands. Staff recommends that the Planning Commission adopt Resolution P26-01 recommending City Council approval of Master Case 25-160. ATTACHMENTS Page 3 Packet Pg. 12 O Resolution P26-01 Exhibit A Public Hearing Notice Page 4 Packet Pg. 13 2.a RESOLUTION P26-01 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ADOPT AN ORDINANCE APPROVING MASTER CASE 25-160, CONSISTING OF AN AMENDMENT TO SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE ADDING SECTION 17.22.100 AND AMENDING SECTION 17.51.040 DESIGNATING CERTAIN OAK TREE PERMITS AS MINISTERIAL THE PLANNING COMMISSION DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. FINDINGS OF FACT FOR MASTER CASE 25-160. The Planning Commission makes the following findings of fact: A. Title 17 of the Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC) is periodically updated to reflect evolving policies, practices, and regulatory needs. The proposed amendment represents a focused update to the Oak Tree regulations within SCMC Title 17; B. The proposed amendments are attached to Resolution P26-01 as Exhibit A; C. The project was duly noticed in accordance with SCMC requirements, including a one - eighth page advertisement published in The Signal on December 29, 2025; D. The Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on January 20, 2026, at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, California; and E. The Planning Commission considered all evidence presented at the hearing, including the staff report, oral testimony, and other materials submitted into the record. SECTION 2. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF MASTER CASE 25-160. Based upon the foregoing facts and findings, the Planning Commission finds as follows: A. A Notice of Exemption for this project was prepared in compliance with the CEQA; B. The project is exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the common sense exemption. The activity is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA; C. The documents and other materials that constitute the record of proceedings upon which the decision of the Planning Commission is based is the Master Case 25-160 project file and that this project file is located within the Community Development Department and is in the custody of the Director of Community Development; and Page 1 of 5 Packet Pg. 14 2.a D. Based upon the findings set forth above, the Planning Commission recommends that the City Council find the Notice of Exemption for this project was prepared in compliance with CEQA. SECTION 3. GENERAL FINDINGS FOR MASTER CASE 25-160. Based on the foregoing facts and findings for Master Case 25-160, the Planning Commission determines as follows: A. That the proposal is consistent with the General Plan; The amendment provides single-family permittees with a ministerial permit option while maintaining protection of oak trees by clarifying the definition of protected oak trees, establishing a consistent methodology for determining fall zone, and reaffirming applicable mitigation standards, thereby promoting consistent application of the regulations while balancing oak tree preservation with private property rights. B. The proposal is allowed within the applicable underlying zone and complies with all other applicable provisions of the SCMC,- The proposed ordinance amends only the Oak Tree regulations in SCMC Chapter 17.51 and does not affect other zoning or land use regulations. C. The proposal will not endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to the public convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare, or be materially detrimental or injurious to the improvements, persons, property, or uses in the vicinity and zone in which the property is located; and Nothing contained in the proposed amendments would endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to the public. The amendments provide clear permitting standards, clarify the definition of protected oak trees and the fall zone used for permit evaluation, maintain mitigation requirements, and ensure continued preservation of oak trees. D. The proposal is physically suitable for the site. The factors related to the proposal's physical suitability for the site shall include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. The design, location, shape, size, and operating characteristics are suitable for the proposed use; 2. The highways or streets that provide access to the site are ofsuffcient width and are improved as necessary to carry the kind and quantity of traffic such proposal would generate; and 3. Public protection services (e.g. Fire protection, Sheriprotection, etc) are readily available. The proposed amendments do not include the development of any specific site and would amend the SCMC in general. The amendments are minor and do not change the scope or Page 2 of 5 Packet Pg. 15 2.a goals of the various planning documents or the City's General Plan. No development is proposed or would be approved by the amendments, and any future development that may occur under the revised amendments would require development review and environmental analysis at the time the projects are submitted. The City currently receives adequate service from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. The project area is likewise served by all applicable utilities. Nothing in the proposed amendments would increase the need for fire or police protection services or increase demand for utilities. SECTION 4. ADDITIONAL FINDINGS FOR UDC25-001. Based upon the foregoing facts and findings for Master Case 25-160, including UDC25-001, the Planning Commission recommends the City Council find as follows: A. The amendments are consistent with the adjacent area, if applicable; The proposed amendments would apply to properties throughout the City and are consistent with the principles of the General Plan. No new development is included with the proposed amendments. B. The amendments are consistent with the principles of the General Plan; The proposed amendments would not alter the General Plan Land Use Map or Zoning Map, nor would the proposed amendments change development densities or population projections for the City. The proposed amendments revise certain code sections to improve processes, clarify standards, and ensure the code is consistent. Specifically, the proposed amendments would implement the following objective of the General Plan: Policy LU 4.1.5: Provide a clear and consistent planning and permitting process to encourage new development that conforms to the General Plan. The proposed amendments are consistent with the objective listed above because they streamline existing processes for residential projects. The proposed amendments support the character of the City's neighborhoods and allow for new development opportunities by providing clear review process while still maintaining existing oak tree protections. C. Approval ofthe amendments will be in the interest ofpublic safety, convenience, and general welfare; The proposed amendments would support the public health, convenience, safety, and general welfare of the community, and are in conformity with good zoning practice because the proposed amendments would simplify planning processes and clarify standards for ease of use. D. The amendment is consistent with other applicable provisions of this code; and. Page 3 of 5 Packet Pg. 16 2.a The amendments provide single-family property owners with flexibility and freedom in property management while ensuring ongoing oak tree protection E. Is necessary to implement the General Plan and/or that the public convenience, the general welfare or good zoning practice justifies such action; The amendments clarify existing oak tree definitions and mitigation standards without expanding the scope of regulated activity, thereby improving administrative efficiency while maintaining the City's long-standing oak tree preservation goals. SECTION 5. DETERMINATION, APPROVALS. The Planning Commission recommends the City Council takes the following actions: A. Adopt the ordinance set forth in attached Exhibit "A," which is incorporated by reference, amending SCMC § 17.51.040 to add a Class I ministerial permit process for single-family property owners, clarify the definition of protected oak trees, establish a consistent definition of fall zone, and reaffirm mitigation standards, providing property owners flexibility while maintaining ongoing protection and preservation of oak trees. SECTION 6. RELIANCE ON RECORD. Each and every one of the findings and determinations in this Resolution are based on the competent and substantial evidence, both oral and written, contained in the entire record relating to the project. The findings and determinations constitute the independent findings and determinations of the Planning Commission in all respects and are fully and completely supported by substantial evidence in the record as a whole. SECTION 7. SUMMARIES OF INFORMATION. All summaries of information in the findings, which precede this section, are based on the substantial evidence in the record. The absence of any particular fact from any such summary is not an indication that a particular finding is not based in part on that fact. SECTION 8. NOTICE. The Secretary is directed to provide a copy of this Resolution to the Planning Commission and any other person requesting a copy. SECTION 9. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Resolution becomes effective immediately upon adoption and memorializes the Planning Commission's final decision made on January 20, 2026. Page 4 of 5 Packet Pg. 17 2.a PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 20th day of January, 2026. LISA EICHMAN, CHAIRPERSON PLANNING COMMISSION ATTEST: RACHEL CLARK, SECRETARY PLANNING COMMISSION STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss. CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ) I, Rachel Clark, Planning Commission Secretary of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly adopted by the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Clarita at a regular meeting thereof, held on the 201h day of January, 2026, by the following vote of the Planning Commission: AYES: COMMISSIONERS: NOES: COMMISSIONERS: ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: PLANNING COMMISSION SECRETARY Page 5 of 5 Packet Pg. 18 2.b EXHIBIT A SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE (SCMC) — PROPOSED AMENDMENTS "17.22.100 Oak Tree Permit — Class I Ministerial Process The Class I ministerial permit process applies to property owners of existing single- family dwellings or accessory dwelling units who seek to remove an oak tree that has a qualifying structure located within its fall zone. A qualifying structure constitutes a legal permanent structure that is (1) intended for human habitation; (2) regular recreational or practical use; (3) commonly utilized for sheltering domesticated animals; or (4) constitutes a utility -owned facility or infrastructure. Examples of qualifying structures include, without limitation, single-family dwelling units; garages; accessory dwelling units (ADUs); swimming pools; pergolas; horse stalls; kennels; or similar structures. Structures such as trampolines, swing sets, portable sheds, recreational equipment, patio furniture, and landscaping features, are not qualifying structures. For utility -owned facilities and infrastructure, a permit may be issued only upon substantial evidence that an oak tree will damage or interfere with such facilities or infrastructure." SECTION 2: SCMC § 17.51.040 is amended to read as follows: "a. "Oak tree" means any oak tree of the genus Quercus and native to California including, without limitation, valley oak (Quercus lobata), California live oak (Quercus agrifolia), canyon oak (Quercus chrysolepis), interior live oak (Quercus wislizenii) and scrub oak (Quercus dumosa), regardless of size. In the case of properties occupied by a single-family residence, scrub oak (Quercus dumosa) is excluded from this list. A. "Fall Zone" means the area defined by a circle around the tree with a radius equal to the tree height as measured from the edge of the tree's root collar. B. Conditions. Conditions may be imposed on the permit at the discretion of the approving authority, including, but not limited to, any of the following: (f) For Class I oak tree permits, replacement trees must be planted on the El same property from which they were removed unless there is no appropriate place for planting. If an appropriate location for replanting does not exist, mitigation w trees may be donated to the City following the replacement schedule below or their monetary value may be paid to the City to the satisfaction of the Director. E For oak tree removal pursuant to a Class I oak tree permit, a permittee must either U replace the oak tree or pay a fee based upon the calculations below. In all Q instances, the total mitigation value may not exceed $1,500, subject to annual adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), as determined by the Director. 1. For trees measuring 4 inches to 8 inches in diameter: One 24-inch-box native oak tree. Page 1 of 2 Packet Pg. 19 2.b 2. For trees measuring 8 inches to 12 inches in diameter: Two 24-inch-box native oak trees. For trees measuring 12 inches or more in diameter: Three 24-inch-box native oak trees." Page 2 of 2 ZI x w m E M U M Q Packet Pg. 20 2.c 5ANTA O � L9 yOFO i5 oeeeMBE�• APPLICATION CITY OF SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 302 Santa Clarita, CA 91355 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Master Case 25-160: Oak Tree Ordinance Amendment PROJECT LOCATION: Citywide PROJECT APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The City of Santa Clarita (City) is proposing an amendment to the oak tree regulations contained in Chapter 17.51 of the Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC/Ordinance). The proposed amendment would add a new section establishing a Class I ministerial oak tree removal permit. This permit would only be available to single-family dwellings in the Urban Residential and Neighborhood Urban zones when a qualifying permanent structure, such as a home, garage, accessory dwelling unit, swimming pool, pergola, horse stall, kennel, or utility infrastructure, is located within the tree's fall zone. This eligibility applies to all protected oak trees, including heritage oak trees. The amendment would also clarify and refine the definition of protected "oak tree" to specify which native California oak species are governed by the Ordinance, clarify the definition of "fall zone," and establish specific on -site replacement requirements or capped in -lieu mitigation for trees removed under the new ministerial process. Oak trees that do not meet the criteria for the Class I ministerial process will continue to be subject to the existing requirements of the SCMC. The Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on this matter on the following date: DATE: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 TIME: At or after 6:00 p.m. LOCATION: City Hall, Council Chambers 23920 Valencia Blvd., First Floor Santa Clarita, CA 91355 A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION has been prepared for the proposed ordinance. The ordinance is exempt from further review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines (14 Cal. Code of Regs. § 15000, et seq.) Section 15061(b)(3), the common-sense exemption. It can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the adoption of the Ordinance may have a significant effect on the environment because it establishes ministerial permitting procedures and general policy. Individual oak tree removal permits issued under the new process will remain subject to project -specific environmental review when required. If you wish to challenge the action taken on this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearings described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Santa Clarita at, or prior to, the public hearings. If you wish to have written comments included in the materials the Planning Commission receives prior to the public hearing, those comments must be submitted to the Community Development Department by Friday, January 9, 2026. For further information regarding this proposal, you may contact the City's Urban Forestry Department. Phone: (661) 290-2200. Send written correspondence via email to urban forestry@santaclarita.gov or by US mail to: 23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 140, Santa Clarita, CA 91355. Patrick Leclair Planning Manager Packet Pg. 21