HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-06-24 - AGENDA REPORTS - UDC ANNUAL AMEND (2)PUBLIC HEARING
DATE:
SUBJECT:
DEPARTMENT:
Agenda Item: I / 14�7
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
AGENDA REPORT -
City Manager Approval
Item to be presented by:
June 24, 2008
Patrick Leclair
AMENDMENTS TO THE MUNICIPAL CODE INCLUDING
ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS FOR THE HEALTH AND
SAFETY CODE (TITLE 9), UPDATES TO THE CITY'S
FLOODPLAIN ORDINANCE (TITLE 10), ADDITIONAL
DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR THE HIGHWAY CODE
(TITLE 13), AND ANNUAL AMENDMENTS TO THE UNIFIED
DEVELOPMENT CODE (TITL-E 16 AND 17)
Community Development
RECOMMENDED ACTION
City Council open the public hearing and continue to the July 8, 2008 Council meeting .
consideration of the following ordinances entitled:
1. "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA,
CALIFORNIA ADOPTING CHAPTER 9.60 OF TITLE 9 "PROHIBITION OF FIREWORKS"
OF THE SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE CONCERNING THE PROHIBITION OF
FIREWORKS";
2. "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA,
CALIFORNIA ADOPTING CHAPTER 9.70 OF TITLE 9 "EMERGENCY KEY ACCESS
SYSTEM" OF THE SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE REQUIRING STRUCTURES
AND MULTI -UNIT SECURED COMMUNITIES TO HAVE AN EMERGENCY KEY
SYSTEM INSTALLED ON THE PREMISES FOR FIRE SAFETY AND EMERGENCY
PURPOSES";
3. "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA,
CALIFORNIA AMENDING CHAPTER 10 OF THE SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE
UPDATING THE FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE AS A FLOOD DAMAGE
PREVENTION MEASURE AND ADOPTING A NEGATIVE DECLARATION";
4. "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA,
Continued To: ,3tdj, a $
CALIFORNIA AMENDING TITLE 13 OF THE SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE
MODIFYING DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL DRIVE APPROACHES
AND CONSTRUCTION ON NEW OR RECENTLY REHABILITATED ROADWAYS"; and
5. "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA,
CALIFORNIA APPROVING MASTER CASE 08-038, UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE
AMENDMENT 08-001, AMENDING TITLE 16 AND 17 (THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT
CODE) OF THE SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADOPTING A NEGATIVE
DECLARATION".
:• 1\W,
Staff conducts an annual review and update of the City's Unified Development Code (UDC),
Title 16 and 17 of the Municipal Code. Various sections of the UDC are amended to keep
consistent with new state requirements, keep current with development and planning trends, and
make modifications to clarify the intent of the UDC.
In addition, staff periodically prepares updates to the Municipal Code to keep consistent with
new legislation, clarify the intent of regulations, and address issues that are either unclear or need
to be addressed. At this time, staff has identified that additional amendments to the Municipal
Code are required and include the addition of regulations regarding the use of fireworks (Title 9),
the installation of emergency key access systems for multi -unit developments (Title 9), an update
to the Floodplain Ordinance (Title 10), the modification of regulations for work on roadways in
the City (Title 13), and the modification of standards for residential driveway widths (Title 13).
The Planning Commission is responsible for the enforcement of the General Plan and Unified
Development Code within the City. On May 20, 2008, the Planning Commission held a public
hearing to discuss the proposed changes to the Unified Development Code (Title 16 and 17).
However, the revisions to Title 9, 10, and 13 of the Municipal Code were not required to go
before the Planning Commission for review. These sections of the Municipal Code are
administered by other divisions within the City and are outside the authority of the Planning
Commission. The revisions to these sections of the Municipal Code are subject to the approval
of the City Council. Since each of the revisions to the Municipal Code were on a similar
schedule, staff combined all of the amendments under one agenda item to be reviewed by the
City Council. However, since an ordinance is limited to a single subject, each section of the
Municipal Code must be adopted by a separate ordinance. Copies of each ordinance are attached
to this report for the review of the City Council.
Due to the number and diversity of amendments proposed at this time, staff recommends that the
City Council open the public hearing on the proposed amendments to the Municipal Code and
continue the public hearing to the regularly scheduled City Council Meeting on July 8, 2008.
NOTICING AND PUBLIC COMMENT
On May 24, 2008, an 1/8th page legal notice was placed in The Signal newspaper fulfilling the
noticing requirements for the public hearing for the proposed amendments to the Municipal
Code. To date, staff has not received any comments regarding the proposed amendments.
TITLE 9 - FIREWORKS ORDINANCE
Background
Each year dozens of people are either injured or killed at the hands of both legal and illegal
fireworks. In addition to bodily injuries, millions of dollars in property and possessions are also
forfeited annually to fireworks related injuries. Our local Sheriffs Department receives multiple
complaints regarding use of fireworks in communities throughout Santa Clarita, especially
during the summer months. The Sheriff s Department spends many hours responding to
concerned community members, and proactively patrols when possible. Fireworks have and
continue to be an unnecessary added risk to the citizens and property of Santa Clarita,
particularly during the hot, dry summer months.
According to the California State Fire Marshall's office, there were approximately 641 separate
incidents involving explosives and fireworks throughout the state in 2007. These accidents
accounted for an estimated $6.5 million in property and content losses along with two injuries
and a fatality. Nationally, fireworks harm hundreds of people every year primarily through the
use of firecrackers, rockets, and sparklers. Of these injuries, it is estimated that children 15 and
under account for 36 percent of those injured. Children and young adults under 20 account for
approximately 47 percent of injuries annually, representing a disproportional risk to the youngest
members of the community. There are countless instances where children have sustained severe
injuries and burns to their eyes, hands, head, and face.
Currently, a Citywide ban on use of fireworks is in effect, but beyond a citation there is no
deterrence to prevent the use of fireworks within the City. The proposed ordinance will authorize
the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department (LASD) to impose fines on violators. If the
proposed ordinance is adopted, violators would be fined five hundred dollars ($500) for the
initial offense and one thousand dollars ($1,000) for each additional infraction, as well as
confiscation and destruction of the fireworks by their local public safety agencies. These
penalties are typical for cities that have enacted a fireworks ban.
Exceptions to this proposed ordinance include: (1) the discharge of approved fireworks by
licensed pyrotechnicians at an event sponsored or approved by the City; (2) a public display of
fireworks provided there is a permit issued by the Los Angeles County Fire Department
authorizing possession, use, or discharge of the fireworks; (3) the use of fireworks for television,
film, theater, or movie production, provided there is a permit authorizing such possession, use, or
discharge issued by the Los Angeles County Fire Department; (4) flares and fuses used for
illumination or signal purposes by railroad, Sheriff s, California Highway Patrol, or other
transportation agencies, or by individuals using such flares or fuses in connection with
automobile accidents; and (5) the sale or use of blank cartridges for theatrical purposes, athletic
events, or military ceremonies.
The LASD has asked the City to implement this ordinance in hopes that the fines will deter the
use of fireworks, and future tragedies. If approved, the proposed ban on fireworks will further
demonstrate the City's commitment to the health and safety of its citizens. -
TITLE 9 - EMERGENCY KEY ACCESS SYSTEM
Background
Currently, the City does not require gated residential or commercial areas to install an emergency
key access system. However, a key access system on certain structures and gated communities
would aid the Los Angeles County Fire Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's
Department in gaining access to the structure or gated communities when responding to calls for
emergency service. With the installation of the universal key access system, if the need arises
where fire and/or sheriff officials must enter a building or a complex that is gated, officials will
not be required to break -down doors or windows to gain entry. Therefore, any possible property
damange will be eliminated.
If adopted, the following structures and communities shall be equipped with a key lock box or
key access switch at or near the main entrance that permits access to the location by both the fire
and law enforcement officials:
• Commercial or industrial structures protected by an automatic alarm system or automatic
suppression system, or such structures that are secured in a manner that restricts access
during an emergency;
• Multi -family residential structures that have restricted access through locked doors and
have a common corridor or corridors for access to the residences;
• Gated communities with single family residential structures, multi -family residential
structures, or both single-family and multi -family residential structures, with restricted
access through locked gates; and
• Governmental structures and nursing care facilities.
The Santa Clarita business community has been very supportive of the possible implementation
of a Emergency Key Access System; many of which have already begun to purchase the required
equipment.
If approved, the ordinance will require those responsible for such property to have an Emergency
Key Access System installed and operational in one year from the effective date of the ordinance.
The average cost for purchase and installation of the key system will be approximately $400
dollars per community. All gated communities, residential and commerical, within Santa Clarita
will be contacted by a deputy who will provide the necessary literature. as well as assist
communities to become compliant. Furthermore, outreach to the community will be done
through press releases, Santa Clarita Sheriffs website, brochures, and other media as needed.
TITLE 10 - FLOODPLAIN ORDINANCE MODIFICATIONS
The existing floodplain ordinance was adopted by Council in 1997. In December of 2006, the
Department of Water Resources (DWR) updated the State Model Floodplain Ordinance. The
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requires that the City keep current with the DWR
model ordinance. The City is proposing amendments to the floodplain ordinance (Title 10 of the
Municipal Code) to comply with State and Federal Law. The proposed amendments include a
variety of revisions that can be grouped into the following categories:
• Compliance with updated DWR State Model Floodplain Ordinance;
Add and clarify floodplain definitions;
Add language for Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage and Letter of Map
Revisions (LOMRs) requirements; and
Correct errors and omissions.
It is important to note that the changes proposed at this time will not have an impact on
properties within the City's current floodplains. The changes affect the regulations guiding
development for properties within the floodplain.
Staff has reviewed the amendments and has found them to be in substantial conformance with
State and Federal regulations. Attached is a copy of all of the proposed amendments (Exhibit "A"
of the attached ordinance). Within Exhibit "A", the amendments are indicated as follows:
Underlined sections indicate new wording to the Municipal Code.
Stfikethfough sections indicate sections to be removed from the Municipal Code.
CEQA Compliance
An Initial Study was prepared in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA). The Initial Study determined that all impacts related to the proposed modifications are
considered to be less than significant. Therefore, a Negative Declaration was prepared in
accordance with Section 15070 of CEQA. It should be noted that future development affecting a
floodway guided by the proposed amendments would be required to undergo environmental
review in compliance With CEQA.
TITLE 13 — HIGHWAY CODE MODIFICATIONS
Drive Approaches
The City has adopted standards for driveway widths for single family residences with two -car
garages and apartments with two -car garages. However, the Code is silent to single-family
residences and multi -family residences with three -car garages. Staff is proposing an amendment
to include standards to limit driveway widths for single-family and multi -family three -car
residential garages.
Repair/Maintenance of City Roadways
The City has experienced substantial growth in recent years including extensive additions and
improvements to the City's roadways. This has resulted in encroachments into newly
constructed or rehabilitated roads for the installation and replacement of new utilities and
additional infrastructure. These repairs leave the City's roadways with a series of patches that are
unsightly, roadways that are uneven and/or rough, and substantially shortens the useful life of the
City's roadways. Staff is proposing amendments to Title 13 of the Municipal Code -to limit
construction and encroachments within new or recently rehabilitated roadways. In addition, staff
is proposing enhanced paving and patching requirements to ensure proper repair and function of
the roadways. In addition, the proposed amendments, including patching/repair requirements,
would limit aesthetic impacts should construction be required within new or recently
rehabilitated roadways.
TITLE 16 AND 17 - UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENTS
On May 20, 2008, the Planning Commission conducted a public hearing on the proposed
amendments to the Unified Development Code (UDC). The amendments considered by the
Planning Commission include a variety of revisions that can be grouped into the following four
(4) major categories:
1. To ensure consistency with State law;
2. To reflect new trends in planning and development;
3. To make the UDC more user friendly; and
4. To provide clarification or consistency.
The Planning Commission voted 3-2 to approve the UDC amendments as proposed by staff. The
Planning Commission reviewed the amendments and has found them to be in substantial
conformance with the General Plan, City, and State regulations. Attached is a copy of all of the
proposed amendments (Exhibit "A" of the attached ordinance). Within Exhibit "A", the
amendments are indicated as follows:
Underlined sections indicate new or relocated wording in the UDC.
Str-ike4weugh sections indicate sections to be removed from the UDC.
The following is a summary of the proposed amendments in the left-hand column and the
category of the change in the right-hand column:
Proposed UDC Amendment
Category of Proposed
Amendment
7.01 Administration — Clarification to the appeal process provide Clarification
,as added for instances when an appellant withdraws their
17.03 Permits and Applications
1. The application process for Development Agreements
was modified to be consistent with similar entitlements.
2. The Specific Plan entitlement application process was
relocated from Section 17.16.030 to Section 17.03 of
the UDC. In addition, findings were revised to be
consistent with State law.
3. Findings for Master Plans were incorporated in this
section. Previously this section referred to the
Conditional Use Permit findings.
4. Findings were created for Adjustments. Previously
Variances and Adjustments used the same findings.
5. A Temporary Use Permit for temporary uses up to five
years was created.
5. A list of uses subject to a Home Occupation Permit was
created.
7. The Ridgeline Alteration Permit process was clarified
and relocated from Section 17.16.055 to Section 17.03
1. Provide Consistency
2. Make the UDC more user
friendly and ensure consistency
with State law
3. Provide Clarification and Make
the UDC more user friendly
4. Provide Clarification
5. Make the UDC more user
friendly
6. Provide Clarification and Make
the UDC more user friendly
7. Provide Clarification and Make
the UDC more user friendly
of the UDC.
8. The Oak Tree Permit process was relocated from
8. Provide Clarification and Make
Section 17.17.090 to Section 17.03 of the UDC.
the UDC more user friendly
17.05 Pre -Existing Legal Uses and Structures
1. Parking requirements for new uses and construction in
1. Provide Clarification and Make
pre-existing shopping centers was clarified.
the UDC more user friendly
2. The interpretation of pre-existing setbacks for
2. Provide Clarification and Make
residential uses was clarified.
the UDC more user friendly
17.07 Definitions — Definitions were created or modified for
"Barnyard animal", "Co -location", "Licensed bed", "Open
Provide Clarification
Space" and "Small Wind Energy Systems".
17.12 Use Type Classifications — Use Type Classifications
Provide Clarification, Ensure
and/or definitions for use types were created or modified for
consistency with State law, Reflect
Wine Bars, Call Centers, Materials Recovery Facilities,
new trends in planning and
Small Wind Energy Systems, and Zoos.
development, and Make the UDC
more user friendly
17.13 Permitted Use Chart — Permitted status was created
Provide Clarification, Reflect new
or modified for Call Centers, Contractor's Yards, Wireless
trends in planning and
Communications Facilities, Wine Bars, Small Wind Energy
development, and Ensure
Systems, and Zoos.
consistency with State law
17.15 Property Development Standards — The prohibition
of vehicles and recreational vehicles as residences was
Provide Clarification and Reflect
clarified in residential and commercial zones. In addition,
patio setbacks and trash collection areas were clarified for
residential zones.
17.16.055 RP — Ridgeline Preservation Overlay Zone —
Additional language added to clarify the 1,000 -foot buffer
Provide Clarification
on either side of a protected ridgeline.
17.17 Special Uses and Standards — Specific Development
Ensure consistency with State law
Standards were created for Small Wind Energy Systems
and reflect new trends in planning
consistent with State regulations.
and development
17.18 Parking Standards
1. Design standards for driveways and drive approaches
1. Provide Clarification
were established.
2. Parking standards were established for Call Centers.
2. Provide Clarification
3. The permit process for shared parking applications was
3. Provide Clarification
clarified.
17.19 Sign Regulations — A new definition for "Corporate
Flag" was established and the definition for "Sign Area"
Provide Clarification
as clarified.
17.21-17.28 Grading — Minor modifications to the grading
portion of the UDC to clarify the permit process,
provide Clarification
exemptions, and development standards for - grading
permits in the City.
The following provides a discussion of new state regulations that are the subject of UDC
amendments as well as topics addressed during the May 20, 2008, Planning Commission hearing
on this item.
Compliance with State Law
Homeless Shelters:
SB2 (Government Code Section 65582, 65583, and 65589.05 Chapter 614, Statutes of 2007) was
passed by the California Senate to strengthen the requirement for jurisdictions to identify zones
where emergency shelters will be allowed by right without the additional requirement of a
Conditional Use Permit (CUP). Staff prepared amendments to the Unified Development Code
(UDC) to address the requirements of SB 2 for consideration by the Planning Commission. The
Planning Commission voted to recommend the approval of the proposed modifications as a result
of SB 2. However, after further review of State law, it has been determined that the regulations
are better addressed as part of the General Plan Housing Element. Therefore, the proposed
modifications to the UDC resulting from SB 2 have been removed from Council consideration at
this time. As a part of the One Valley, One Vision (OVOV) General Plan, staff is preparing an
update to the City's Housing Element. The proposed amendments to the UDC addressing SB 2
requirements will be brought to the Planning Commission and City Council following the
Council's adoption of the Housing Element update anticipated for early 2009.
Small Wind Energy ystems:
The California Government Code Section 65892.13 regulates the establishment of Small Wind
Energy Systems. Provisions exist for local jurisdictions to' establish standards provided that they
do not exceed the requirements of the Government Code. The proposed amendments to the UDC
incorporate the requirements of the Government Code for parcels over one acre in size including
setbacks, height, and noise generation. The Government Code is currently silent to the
establishment of Small Wind Energy Systems on parcels of less than one acre in size. The
proposed amendments would include standards within the City consistent with State law
addressing maximum system tower heights ranging from 65 to 80 feet in height along with
setbacks from property lines equal to the height of the tower. At this time, the amendment has
been drafted to prohibit Small Wind Energy Systems on parcels of less than one acre in size.
During the public comment portion of the May 20, 2008, Planning Commission meeting, a
member of the public expressed concern that the proposed amendment would prohibit the
installation of wind energy systems on parcels less than one acre in size. As a part of the City's
Green Team effort, staff is researching information regarding wind energy systems and the new
technologies and alternative energy systems that are available. Staff will consider modifications
to the UDC as a part of the Green Team report. Any revisions to the UDC will be addressed at
that time. However, given the height, setback, and aesthetic concerns created by wind energy
systems, the proposed modifications to the UDC prohibit wind energy systems on parcels less
than one acre in size until additional research can be completed.
On June 5, 2008, staff met with a member of the public who spoke during the public comment
period of the Planning Commission meeting regarding wind energy. At the June 5th meeting, a
number of issues were discussed including the various alternative energy systems available to the
public including wind energy systems, the rebates available through Southern California Edison,
development of wind energy systems on parcels less than one acre in size, and the benefits and
constraints to wind energy systems verses other alternative energy systems. Staff will continue to
research and discuss these issues to identify additional development standards to consider as a
part of the Green Team effort.
To Provide Clarity or Consistency
Open Space Definition:
The City has a strong commitment to the preservation of open space, as well as to the creation of
active and passive recreational amenities throughout the City. Currently, the UDC identifies a
zoning category of Open Space (OS), along with specific development requirements for the use
of land with the OS zone. However, through the development process, there is often open space
and/or recreational facilities that are constructed and/or preserved as a part of a subdivision or
development entitlement. Open space uses may include undisturbed natural land, passive or
active recreational facilities, trails, and/or neighborhood parks maintained by a Homeowners
Association. Typically, these open space areas do not necessitate a Zone Change and General
Plan Amendment to change the zoning designation to OS because they are an ancillary use to the
project entitlement. UDC Amendment 08-001 proposes the addition of a definition for "Open
Space" to clarify the intent and use of open space as a land use. No modification to the OS
zoning category or any of the development standards within the OS zone are proposed at this
time.
Oak Tree Permit Process:
The proposed amendments include relocating various sections within the UDC. The permit
process for the Oak Tree Permit is proposed for relocation from the Specific Development
Requirements section (Section 17.17) to the Permits and Applications section (Section 17.03) of
the UDC. The relocation of the permit process will locate all permit processes under one section
of the UDC, making the UDC more user friendly. No additional changes to the Oak Tree
ordinance are proposed at this time.
Development Agreement Process:
The proposed amendments include a revision to the processing of a request for approval of a
Development Agreement (DA). Currently, the City Council is the final approving authority for a
DA, with the Planning Commission acting as a recommending body for approval of such a
request. However, should the Planning Commission choose to deny a request for a DA, the
decision of the Planning Commission is final and an applicant would need to appeal the denial of
the Planning Commission to the City Council should they intend on pursuing approval of the
DA. Generally, an application for a DA is accompanied by additional entitlements that require
approval of the City Council such as a Zone Change, General Plan Amendment, Master Plan, or
Specific Plan. Given that applications for a DA are generally accompanied by these additional
entitlements requiring Council approval, the proposed modification to the UDC would make the
Planning Commission determination a recommendation to the Council whether for approval or
denial of an application for a DA.
Requiring an applicant to appeal one entitlement requires not only additional cost to the
applicant, but also requires additional public hearing notification, sign posting, and a separate
staff report that would not be necessary if all of the requested entitlements were to be scheduled
for City Council consideration as one package. The proposed amendment would simplify this
process and avoid confusion when DAs are processed in conjunction with other entitlements.
During the May 20th Planning Commission meeting, there was discussion among the
Commissioners as to whether this section of the UDC should be amended. The City Attorney
and Planning Manager explained that the revision was proposed to simplify a process and that it
would not change the ultimate approval authority held by the City Council.
After a brief discussion among the Commissioners, the Planning Commission voted 3-2 to
support the amendments as proposed by staff.
CEQA Compliance
An Initial ,Study was prepared in accordance. with the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA). The Initial Study determined that all impacts related to the proposed modifications are
considered to be less than significant. Therefore, a Negative Declaration was prepared in
accordance with Section 15070 of CEQA. It should be noted that future development guided by
the proposed modifications to the UDC would be required to undergo environmental review in
compliance with CEQA.
ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Other direction as determined by the City Council.
FISCAL IMPACT
1. Title 9 - Fireworks Ordinance: All fines collected by the City or LASD as penalties for
violating this ordinance will be placed in the General Fund to cover the cost of enforcing this
ordinance.
2. Title 9 - Emergency Key Access System Ordinance: All minimal costs for purchase,
installation and maintenance of the Emergency Key System shall be carried out by the
responsible party as defined in the ordinance (i.e. person charged with the responsibility for
occupancy, building, business owner, or Homeowners' Association Board of Directors).
3. Title 10 - Floodplain Ordinance: No fiscal impact is anticipated as a result of the proposed
modifications to the Floodplain Ordinance.
4. Title 13 - Highway Code Ordinance: No fiscal impact is anticipated as a result of the proposed
modifications to the Highway Code.
5. Title 16 and 17 - Unified Development Code Ordinance: No fiscal impact is anticipated as a
result of the proposed modifications to the Unified Development Code.
ATTACHMENTS
Ordinance - Fireworks Ordinance
Ordinance - Emergency Key Access System Ordinance
Ordinance - Floodplain Ordinance
Floodplain Ordinance Exhibit "A"
Floodplain Ordinance Mitigated Negative Declaration
Ordinance - Highway Code Ordinance
Ordinance - Unified Development Code Ordinance
Unified Development Code Ordinance Exhibit "A"
UDC Ordinance Mitigated Negative Declaration
CITY OV SANTA CLARITA
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN:
A Public Hearing will be held before the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita in the
City Hall Council Chambers, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, 1St Floor, Santa Clarita,
California, on the 24th day of June, 2008, at or after 6:00 p.m. to consider the approval of
amendments to various sections of the City's Municipal Code including:
• Title 9 — Including the addition of regulations for the use of fireworks within the
City and the installation of lock boxes for emergency access;
• Title 10 — Including an update of the City's Floodplain Ordinance;
• Title 13 — Including modifications to restrictions on new roadways and
modifications to widths for residential driveways; and
• Title 16 and 17 — Including Master Case 08-038 (Unified Development Code
Amendment 08-001) for the annual amendments to the City's Unified
Development Code. 8
Two separate DRAFT NEGATIVE DECLARATIONS have been prepared for this
project: one for the proposed amendments to Title 10 of the Municipal Code and one for
the proposed amendments to Title 16 and 17 (the Unified Development Code) of the
Municipal code. Both documents are available for a public review period, during which
the City of Santa Clarita Community Development Department will receive comments,
beginning at 12:00 p.m. on May 24, 2008 and ending at 12:00 p.m. on June 24, 2008.
During the public review period a copy of both of the draft negative declarations and all
supporting documents will be located at the Planning Division public counter located in
the City Hall Building at 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 302, Santa Clarita, CA 91355.
A copy of both of the draft negative declarations (without all supporting documents) will
be posted at the Los Angeles County Library, Valencia Branch during the public review
period noted above.
Proponents, opponents and any interested persons may appear and be heard on this matter
at that time. Further information may be obtained by contacting the Community
Development Department, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 302, Santa Clarita, CA
91355; (661) 255-4330, Patrick Leclair, Associate Planner.
If you wish to challenge this action in court, you may be limited to raising only those
issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in
written correspondence delivered to the City Council, at, or prior to, the public hearing.
Dated: May 24, 2008
Sharon L. Dawson, CMC
City Clerk
Publish Date: May 24, 2008
S \pbs\cuucnt\20081\08-038\08-038 CC Notice
NOTICE OF CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
CITY COUNCIL
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita, at its regular meeting
held June 24, 2008, continued a public hearing on
ITEM 16.
AMENDMENTS TO THE MUNICIPAL CODE INCLUDING ADDITIONAL
REGULATIONS FOR THE HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE (TITLE 9),
UPDATES TO THE CITY'S FLOODPLAIN ORDINANCE (TITLE 10),
ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR THE HIGHWAY CODE
(TITLE 13), AND ANNUAL AMENDMENTS TO THE UNIFIED
DEVELOPMENT CODE (TITLE 16 AND 17)
to July 8, 2008. The continued public hearing will be held at or after 6:00 p.m. in the Council
Chamber at 23920 Valencia Blvd., Santa Clarita, California.
Dated this 25th day of June, 2008.
SHARON L. DAWSON, MMC
CITY CLERK
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) SS. AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
SHARON L. DAWSON, being first duly sworn, deposes and says that she is the duly
appointed and qualified City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita and that on June 25, 2008, she caused
the above notice to be posted at the door of the Council Chamber located at 23920 Valencia Blvd.,
Santa Clarita, California.
SHARON L. DAWSON, MMC
CITY CLERK
Santa Clarita, California
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA ADOPTING
CHAPTER 9.60 OF TITLE 9 "PROHIBITION OF
FIREWORKS," OF THE SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL
CODE CONCERNING THE PROHIBITION OF
FIREWORKS
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA DOES HEREBY
ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. FINDINGS. The City Council finds that:
(a) The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has discovered that the
improper use of illegal fireworks has led to the injury of several individuals, including children.
(b) The California State Fire Marshal declares that the use of illegal fireworks has
resulted in a number of fire incidents leading to a large dollar -amount in property loss.
The use of fireworks poses a threat to public safety and welfare along with a significant
diversion of Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and Los Angeles County Fire Department
resources from protecting the community.
(d) Much of the terrain within the City is particularly susceptible to fire danger at
certain times of the year.
(e) For all of these reasons, the provisions of this chapter are essential to protect the
public health, safety and welfare. (Ord. 94-8,6/14/94)
SECTION 2. ADOPTION OF CHAPTER 9.60. Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the City of
Santa Clarita Municipal Code is adopted to read as follows:
"CHAPTER 9. 60
PROHIBITION OF FIREWORKS
Section 9.60.010
Purpose and intent.
Section 9.60.020
Definitions.
Section 9.60.030
Fireworks within City limits.
Section 9.60.040
Exceptions to fireworks within City limits.
Section 9.60.050
Penalties.
Section 9.60.060
Disposition of fines.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY'OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA,
DOES HEREBY ORDAIN:
Section 9.60.010. Purpose and intent.
The purposes of this chapter include protection of the public health, safety, and general welfare
and a reduction in the number of fire incidents.
Section 9.60.020. Definitions.
"Fireworks" means and includes:
(c) Any combustible or explosive composition or any substance or combination of
substances or articles prepared for the purpose of producing visible, thermal, or audible effects by
combustion, explosion, deflagration or detonation, whether manufactured, homemade, or
improvised.
(d) Fireworks classified by the State Fire Marshal as "dangerous fireworks" and as
"safe and sane fireworks" pursuant to Health and Safety Code Sections 12505 and 12529, as
amended.
(e) Any pyrotechnic device for which the State Fire Marshal requires a license to
manufacture, sell, transport, or operate.
(f) Firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, fountains, cherry bombs,
sparklers, chasers, snakes, or other fireworks of like or similar construction and any fireworks
containing any explosive or flammable compound or substance.
Section 9.60.030. Fireworks within City limits.
(a) Except as otherwise provided, it is unlawful for any person to handle, give away,
sell, offer for sale, solicit the sale of, manufacture, possess, purchase, use, ignite, explode, fire, or
otherwise discharge any "fireworks" within the City of Santa Clarita or to aid or abet any of the
above with respect to "fireworks" as defined.
(b) Any property owner or person in control of property who allows a person to sell,
use, discharge, or posses fireworks, or provide fireworks to a minor, on the property owned by
such a person or under such person's control shall be in violation of this ordinance, regardless of
such person's intent, knowledge or negligence, such violation being hereby expressly declared a
strict liability offense.
Section 9.60.040. Exceptions to fireworks within City limits. i
(a) This prohibition does not apply to the discharge of approved fireworks by a
licensed pyrotechnician at an event sponsored or approved by the city.
(b) A public display of fireworks provided there is a permit authorizing such
possession, use, or discharge issued by the Los Angeles County Fire Department and such
person, organization, or company is in possession of a valid pyrotechnic operator's license issued
2
by the Office of the State Fire Marshal and done so in accordance with California Fire Code.
(c) The use of fireworks for television, film, theater, or movie production, provided
there is a permit authorizing such possession, use, or discharge issued by the Los Angeles County
Fire Department and such person, organization, or company is in possession of a valid
pyrotechnic operators license issued by the Office of the State Fire Marshal and done so in
accordance with California Fire Code.
(d) Flares or fuses used for illumination or signal purposes by railroad, Sheriff's,
California Highway Patrol or other transportation agencies, or by individuals using such flares or
fuses in connection with automobile accidents.
(e) The sale or use of blank cartridges for theatrical purposes, athletic events, or
military ceremonials.
Section 9.60.050. Penalties.
(a) Any violation of this provisions of this section which'is found to be an infraction
shall be punishable by a fine of $500 for the first offense and $1000 for any subsequent offenses.
(b) In addition to any and all fines or other punishment for non-compliance with this
ordinance, fireworks within the limits of the City of Santa Clarita are subject to confiscation and
destruction by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and the Los Angeles County Fire
Department.
Section 9.60.060. Disposition of fines.
All fines collected by the City or Sheriff as penalties for violating this ordinance will be placed in
the General Fund to cover the cost of enforcing this ordinance.
SECTION 3. SEVERABILITY. If any one or more of the terms, provisions or sections of
this Ordinance shall to any extent by judged invalid, unenforceable and/or voidable for any
reason whatsoever by a court of competent jurisdictions, then each and all of the remaining
terms, provisions and sections of this Ordinance shall not be affected thereby and shall be valid
and enforceable.
SECTION 4. NON -EXCLUSIVITY., Nothing in this Ordinance shall limit or preclude the
enforcement of other applicable laws.
SECTION 5. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after
its enactment in accord with California law.
SECTION 6. PUBLISHING. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage of this Ordinance
and shall cause the same to be published as required by law.
3
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this�1 day ofuI. , 2008.
MAYOR
ATTEST:
CITY CLERK
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
I, Sharon L. Dawson, CMC, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that
the foregoing Ordinance No. 08M2 was regularly introduced and placed upon its first reading
at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 24th day of _3, 2008. That thereafter, said
Ordinance was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 8th day
of Uy, 2008, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
AND I FURTHER CERTIFY that the foregoing is the original of Ordinance No. *****
and was published in The Signal newspaper in accordance with State Law (G.C. 40806).
CITY CLERK
4
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
CERTIFICATION OF
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE
I, Sharon L. Dawson, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that this is a true
and correct copy of the original Ordinance No. 08M, adopted by the City Council of the City
of Santa Clarita, CA ony,, 2008, which is now on file in my office.
Witness my hand and seal of the City of Santa Clarita, California, this day of
, 20 .
Sharon L. Dawson, CMC
City Clerk
By
Susan Caputo
Deputy City Clerk
E
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA ADOPTING
CHAPTER 9.70 OF TITLE 9 "EMERGENCY KEY ACCESS
SYSTEM" OF THE SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE
REQUIRING STRUCTURES AND MULTI -UNIT SECURED
COMMUNITIES TO HAVE AN EMERGENCY KEY
SYSTEM INSTALLED ON THE PREMISES FOR FIRE
SAFETY AND EMERGENCY PURPOSES
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA DOES HEREBY
ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. FINDINGS. The City Council finds that:
(a) The health, safety, and welfare of the Citizens of the City of Santa Clarita are
promoted by requiring certain structures and communities to have a key access system installed
on the exterior of the structure or gated community to aid the Los Angeles County Fire
Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department - Santa Clarita Valley Station in
gaining access to the structure or gated communities when responding to calls for emergency
service.
(b) The key access system is being adopted nationally and will operate on a master
key basis that will expedite entry into a structure or gated community during an emergency.
The key access system will eliminate forced entries into structures or gated communities
thereby avoiding costly and time-consuming efforts in gaining access to locked structures and
gated communities during an emergency.
(d) The City of Santa Clarita is authorized to pass this Ordinance pursuant to its
police power and its home rule power.
(e) For all of these reasons, the provisions of this chapter are essential to protect the
public health, safety and welfare. (Ord. 94-8,6/14/94)
SECTION 2. ADOPTION OF CHAPTER 9.70. Chapter 9.70 of Title 9 of the City of
Santa Clarita Municipal Code is adopted to read as follows:
"CHAPTER 9.70
EMERGENCY KEY ACCESS SYSTEM
Section 9.70.010 Purpose and intent.
Section 9.70.020 Definitions.
Section 9.70.030 Emergency key (e -key) system.
Section 9.70.040 New and existing structures and communities.
Section 9.70.050 Penalties.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA,
DOES HEREBY ORDAIN:
Section 9.70.010. Purpose and intent.
The purposes of this chapter include protection of the public health, safety, and general welfare
by ensuring quick public safety access to properties in times of emergency.
Section 9.70.020. Definitions.
(c) "Responsible party" means the person(s) charged with the responsibility for
occupancy, building, business owner, or Homeowners' Association Board of Directors.
(d) "Key access system" means a UL "Listed" box or key panel, size and style
approved by the Fire Chief and Chief of Police, that meets the requirements and uses the same
security key code adopted by the Fire Department and Sheriff s Department, respectively.
(e) "Security padlock" means a padlock approved by the Fire Chief and Chief of
Police that utilizes the approved security key code adopted by the Fire Department and Sheriffs
Department respectively.
Section 9.70.030. Emergency key (e -key) system.
The following structures and communities shall be equipped with a key lock box or key access
switch at or near the main entrance or such other location required by the fire chief or Sheriff s
Unit Commander that permits access to the location by both the fire and law enforcement
personnel:
(a) Commercial or industrial structures protected by an automatic alarm system or
automatic suppression system, or such structures that are secured in a manner that restricts access
during an emergency;
(b) Multi -family residential structures that have restricted access through locked
doors and have a common corridor for access to the living units;
(c) Multi -family gated communities that have restricted access through locked gates
and have a common corridor or corridors for access to the residences;
(d) Gated communities with single family residential structures, multi -family
residential structures, or both single family and multi -family residential structures, with restricted
access through locked gates;
(e) Governmental structures and nursing care facilities.
2
Section 9.70.040. New and Existing Structures and Communities.
(a) All newly constructed structures and communities subject to this section shall
have the Emergency Key System installed and operational prior to the issuesance of an
occupancy permit. All structures and communities in existence on the effective date for this
section and subject to this section shall have one year from the effective date of this section to
have an Emergency Key System installed and operational.
(b) The Fire Chief and Chief of Police shall designate the type of key lock system(s)
to be implemented within the City and shall have the authority to require all applicable structures
and multi -family communities to use the designated system.
(c) The Emergency Key Systems are designated as two separate key systems that
provide for both fire and law enforcement access and require the installation of two separate lock
boxes or keyed access panels at the location to provide emergency access.
(d) The Responsible Party of a structure or community required to have the
Emergency Key System shall, at all times, keep a key in the lock box that will allow for access
the structure or community.
(e) Governmental structures and multi -family gated communities that have restricted
access through locked gates which use a padlock device for securing any date or entrance may
opt to use the approved security padlock device or install a Key Access System as listed in
Section 9.
(f) All costs for the purchase, installation and maintenance of the Emergency Key
System shall be carried by the Responsible Party.
(g) The Fire Chief and Chief of Police shall be authorized to implement rules and
regulations for the use of the Emergency Key System.
Section 9.70.050. Penalties.
(a) Any Responsible Party, who owns, manages or operates a structure or community
subject to this section, in violation any of the provisions of this chapter shall be deemed guilty of
a misdemeanor, unless a designated public officer or employee issues a citation charging the
offense as an infraction.
(b) Each day such violation is committed or permitted to continue shall constitute a
separate offense.
SECTION 3. SEVERABILITY. If any one or more of the ferns, provisions or sections of
this Ordinance shall to any extent by judged invalid, unenforceable and/or voidable for any
reason whatsoever by ,a court of competent jurisdictions, then each and all of the remaining
terms, provisions and sections of this Ordinance shall not be affected thereby and shall be valid
and enforceable.
3
SECTION 4. NON -EXCLUSIVITY. Nothing in this Ordinance shall limit or preclude the
enforcement of other applicable laws.
SECTION 5. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after
its enactment in accord with California law. ,.
SECTION 6. PUBLISHING. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage of this Ordinance
and shall cause the same to be published as required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 8th day of M, 2008.
MAYOR
ATTEST:
CITY CLERK
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
I, Sharon L. Dawson, CMC, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that
the foregoing Ordinance No. 08 IFFI was regularly introduced and placed upon its first reading
at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 24th day of Vie, 2008. That thereafter, said
Ordinance was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 8th day
of . Vu %, , 2008, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
AND I FURTHER CERTIFY that the foregoing is the original of Ordinance No.
and was published in The Signal newspaper in accordance with State Law (G.C. 40806).
CITY CLERK
El
STATE OF, CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
CERTIFICATION OF
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE
I, Sharon L. Dawson, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that this is a true
and correct copy of the original Ordinance No. 08-M-51% adopted by the City Council of the City
of Santa Clarita, CA on M, 2008, which is now on file in my office.
Witness my hand and seal of the City of Santa Clarita, California, this day of
,20—.
Sharon L. Dawson, CMC
City Clerk
By
Susan Caputo
Deputy City Clerk
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA AMENDING CHAPTER 10 OF THE SANTA CLARITA
MUNICIPAL CODE UPDATING THE FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE AS A
FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION MEASURE AND ADOPTING A NEGATIVE
DECLARATION
WHEREAS, the 1968 National Flood Insurance Act was passed by Congress creating the
National Flood Insurance Program, which was designed to reduce future flood losses through
local floodplain management and to provide protection for property owners against potential
losses through flood insurance;
WHEREAS, as part of the agreement for making flood insurance available in the
community, the National Insurance Flood Program requires that the City adopt a floodplain
management ordinance containing certain minimum requirements intended to reduce future flood
losses;
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 88-19, which requires that all
construction within flood -prone areas designated as "A" Zone by the National Flood Insurance
Program, comply with Federal Floodplain Management Regulations as defined in Title 44, Code
of Federal Regulations, Section 60.3;
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 88-32, which was prepared by the
State and which is consistent with the Federal Regulations adopted in Ordinance No. 88-19 as a
measure to regulate development within the floodplain areas of the City;
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 97-11, which is consistent with the
Federal Regulations adopted in Ordinance No. 88-32 and the standards of the State Model
Floodplain Ordinance based on the Statutory Authorization, Findings of Fact and Purpose and
Methods;
WHEREAS, in December of 2006, the State Department of Water Resources updated the
State Model Floodplain Ordinance regulating development within the floodplain areas of the
City, and is requesting that the City adopt this ordinance as a replacement of the existing
Floodplain Management Ordinance;
WHEREAS, the ordinance was revised by City staff and is hereby submitted to Council
for adoption as the City Floodplain Management Ordinance;
WHEREAS, a Negative Declaration for this ordinance was prepared, noticed and
circulated for public review in compliance with the provisions of CEQA and the City's
Environmental Guidelines; and
i
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita conducted a duly noticed public
hearing on June 24, 2008, at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, CA 91355.
Notice of the time, place, and purpose of the aforementioned meeting was duly noticed in
accordance with Government Code 65090. At this meeting, the City Council considered the staff
report, staff presentation, and public testimony on the proposed modifications, introduced the
ordinance by the City Council to modify the Municipal Code and passed the ordinance to a
second reading on July 8, 2008.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, DOES
HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The proposed amendments to the Santa Clarita Municipal Code are
consistent with the City of Santa Clarita General Plan.
SECTION 2. The proposed amendments to the Santa Clarita Municipal Code identified
in Exhibit A are hereby adopted.
SECTION 3. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT FINDINGS. Based
upon the foregoing facts and findings in the Initial Study prepared for the project, the City
Council further finds, approves, and determines as follows:
a. An Initial Study and a Negative Declaration have been prepared for this project in
compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
b. The Initial Study has been circulated for review and comment by affected governmental
agencies and the public and all comments received, if any, have been considered. The
document was posted and advertised on May 23, 2008, in accordance with CEQA. The
public review period was open from May 23, 2008, through June 24, 2008.
C. Staff found that there were no impacts created as a result of the proposed project and a
Negative Declaration has been prepared for the project in accordance with the CEQA.
The Negative Declaration reflects the independent judgment of the City of Santa Clarita.
d. The location of the documents and other material which constitutes the record of
proceedings upon which the decision of the City Council is within the Public Works
Department and is in the custody of the Director of Public Works
SECTION 4. That if any portion of this Ordinance is held to be invalid, that portion shall
be stricken and severed, and the remaining portions shall be unaffected and remain in full force
and effect.
SECTION 5. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect thirty (30) days from its
passage and adoption.
SECTION 6. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage of this Ordinance and shall cause
2
the same to be published as required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 8th day of July, 2008.
ATTEST:
CITY CLERK
3
MAYOR
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
I, Sharon L. Dawson, CMC, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that
the foregoing Ordinance No. 08 *** was regularly introduced and placed upon its first reading
at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 24th day of June, 2008. That thereafter, said
Ordinance was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 8th day
of July, 2008, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
AND I FURTHER CERTIFY that the foregoing is the original of Ordinance No.
and was published in The Signal newspaper in accordance with State Law (G.C. 40806).
CITY CLERK
rd
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
CERTIFICATION OF
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE
I, Sharon L. Dawson, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that this is a true
and correct copy of the original Ordinance No. 08 , adopted by the City Council- of the City
of Santa Clarita, CA on July 8, 2008, which is now on file in my office.
Witness my hand and seal of the City of Santa Clarita, California, this 8th day of July, 2008.
Sharon L. Dawson, CMC
City Clerk
an
Susan Caputo
Deputy City Clerk
5
Exhibit "A"
2008 Update to the Floodplain Management Ordinance
Chapter 10.06
FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT
Sections:
10.06.010 Statutory Authorization, Findings of Fact, Purpose and Methods.
1&06:01010.06.020 Definitions.
40.06.020 10.06.030 General Provisions.
4&06:03010.06.040 Administration.
40.06:040 10.06.050 Provisions for Flood Hazard Reduction:
10.06:050 10.06.060 Variance Procedure.
10.06.010 Statutory Authorization, Findings of Fact, Purpose and Methods.
A. Statutory Authorization. The Legislature of the State of California has in Government
Code Sections 65302, 65560 and 65800 conferred upon local governments the authorityto o adopt
regulations designed to promote the public health, safety and general welfare of its citizenry.
Therefore, the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita does hereby adopt the following floodplain
management regulations.
B. Findings of Fact.
1. The flood hazard areas of the City of Santa Clarita are subject to periodic inundation which
results in loss of life and property, health and safety hazards, disruption of commerce and
governmental services, extraordinary public expenditures for flood protection and relief and
impairment of the tax base, all of which adversely affect the public health, safety andeg neral
welfare.
2. These flood losses are caused by uses that are inadequately elevated, floodproofed or
protected from flood damage. The cumulative effect of obstructions in areas of special flood hazards
which increase flood heights and velocities also contribute to flood losses.
C. Statement of Purpose. It is the purpose of this chapter to promote the public health, safety
and general welfare and to minimize public and private losses due to flood conditions in specific
areas by legally enforceable regulations applied uniformly throughout the community to all publicly
and privately owned land within flood prone areas. These regulations are designed to:
1. Protect human life and health;
2. Minimize expenditure of public money for costly flood control projects;
3. Minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding and generally
undertaken at the expense of the general public;
4. Minimize prolonged business interruptions;
5. Minimize damage to public facilities and utilities such as water and eas mains. electric
telephone and sewer lines, and streets and bridges located in areas of special flood hazard;
6. Help maintain a stable tax base by providing for the sound use and development of areas
of special flood hazard so as to minimize future blighted areas caused by flood damage;
7. Ensure that potential buyers are notified that property is in an area of special flood hazard;
and
8. Ensure that those who occupv the areas of special flood hazard assume responsibility for
their actions.
D. Methods of Reducing Flood Losses. In order to accomplish its purpose, this chapter
includes regulations to:
1. Restrict or prohibit uses which are dangerous to health, safety and property due to water or
erosion hazards, or which result in damaging increases in erosion or flood heights or velocities;
2. Require that uses vulnerable to floods, including facilities which serve such uses, be
protected against flood damage at the time of initial construction;
3. Control the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels and natural protective
barriers, which help accommodate or channel floodwaters;
4. Control filling, grading dredging and other development which may increase flood
damage;
5. Prevent or regulate the construction of flood barriers which will unnaturally divert -
floodwaters or which may increase flood hazards in other areas, and
6. These regulations take precedence over any less restrictive conflicting local laws,
ordinances and codes.
10.06.010 10.06.020 Definitions.
"A zone". See "Special flood hazard area".
"Accessory structure, low-cost and small" means a structure that is:
1. Solely used for the parking of no more than two (2) cars or limited storage, and
2. Small, low cost sheds of fifteen hundred dollars ($1500) or -less in value and not greater
than one hundred and forty-four (144) square feet.
"Apex" means a the point of highest elevation on an alluvial fan; whieh on tHidistur-bed f
gefleFaI154he POifit Whefe the major- stream that f4med the fan emerges ffem the Mountain ff or
similar landform below which the flow path of the major stream that formed the fan becomes
unpredictable and alluvial fan flooding can occur.
"Area of shallow flooding" means a designated AO or AH zone on the Flood Insurance Rate
Map (FIRM). The base flood depths range from one (1) to three (3) feet; a clearly defined channel
does not exist; the path of flooding is unpredictable and indeterminate; and velocity flow may be
evident. Such flooding is characterized by ponding or sheet flow.
"Base flood" means a flood which has a one percent LL!j) chance of being equaled or
exceeded in any given year (also called the "Oene hundred- 0" year 100- ear yeas flood"). Base
flood is the term used throughout this chapter.
"Base flood elevation (BFE)" means the elevation shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Map for
zones AE, AH, Al -30, VE and V1-30 that indicates the water surface elevation resultingfrom
om a
flood that has a one percent 0%) or greater chance of being equaled or exceeded in any'given year.
"Building". See "Structure".
"Existing manufactured home park or subdivision" means a manufactured home park or
subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured
homes are to be affixed (including, at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of
streets and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed before the effeetive
date of the fleadplain management r-eplations adopted by a eenununit� April 14, 1988.
"Flood Hazard Bound.,..., Map" means the affieial ,,, on which the Feder -a! Eme -geH6«
Management Ageney or- Feder -a! !HSHFanee Administf:atiea has delineated the areas of flood hazaF
"Floodplain Administrator" is the Difeeter- of Building and Engineering Sen,iees appointed
pursuant to this Oiapte' community official designated ted by title to administer and enforce the
floodplain management regulations.
"Floodplain management regulations" means this chapter, and other zoning ordinances,
subdivision regulations, building codes, health regulations, special purpose ordinances (such as
grading and erosion control) and other application of police power which control development in
flood -prone areas. This term describes federal, 8state or local regulations in any combination thereof
which provide standards for preventing and reducing flood loss and damage.
"Floodproofing" means any combination of structural and nonstructural additions, changes or
adjustments to structures which reduce or eliminate flood damage to real estate or improved real
property, water and sanitary facilities, structures and their contents. For guidelines on dry and wet
floodproofing, see FEMA Technical Bulletins TB 1-93, TB 3-93 and TB 7-93.
"Floodway" means the channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent land areas that
must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without cumulatively increasing the water
surface elevation more than one (1) foot. Also referred to as "Regulatory floodway."
"Fraud and victimization" as related to Section 10.06.959060, Variance Procedure, of this
chapter, means that the variance granted must not cause fraud on or victimization of the public. In
examining this requirement, the City Council will consider the fact that every,newly constructed
building adds to government responsibilities and remains a part of the community for fifty (50) to
one (100) hundred years. Buildings that are permitted to be constructed below the base flood
elevation are subject during all those years to increased risk of damage from floods, while future
owners of the property and the community as a whole are subject to all the costs, inconvenience,
danger and suffering that those increased flood damages bring. In addition, future owners may
purchase the property, unaware that it is subject to potential flood damage, and can be insured only
at very high flood insurance rates.
"Hardship" as related to Section 10.06.059060, Variance Procedure, of this chapter means the
exceptional hardship that would result from a failure to grant the requested variance. The governing
body requires that the variance be exceptional, unusual and peculiar to the property involved. Mere
economic or financial hardship alone is not exceptional. Inconvenience, aesthetic considerations,
physical handicaps, personal, preferences or the disapproval of one's neighbors likewise cannot, as a
rule, qualify as an exceptional hardship. All of these problems can be resolved through other means
without granting a variance, even if the alternative is more expensive, or requires the property owner
to build elsewhere or put the parcel to a different use than originally intended.
"Historic structure" means any structure that is:
3. Individually listed on Table 95-4 OS -3, Historic Resources in the Open Space and
Conservation Element of the City's General Plan;
5. Individually listed on a local inventory of historic places in communities with historic
preservation programs that have been certified either by an approved state program as
determined by the Secretary of the Interior or directly by the Secretary of the Interior in
states without approved programs.
"Lowest floor" means the lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area, including basement (see
"Basement" definition).
1. An unfinished or flood resistant enclosure below the lowest floor that is usable solely for
parking of vehicles, building access or storage in an area other than a basement area, is not
considered a building's lowest floor provided it conforms to applicable non -elevation design
requirements, including, but not limited to:
a. The wet pr -e frog flood openings standard in Section 10.06.949050(A)(3)(c).
b. The anchoring standards in Section 10.06.949050(A)(1).
c. The construction materials and methods standards in Section 10.06.949050(A)(2).
d. The standards for utilities in Section 10.06.949050(B).
"Market value" shall be determined by estimating the cost to replace the structure in new
condition and adjusting that cost figure by the amount of depreciation which has accrued since the
structure was constructed. The cost of replacement of the structure shall be based on a square footage
cost factor determined by reference to a building cost estimating guide recognized by the building
construction industry and shall not include any improvements not physically attached to the
structure. The amount of depreciation shall be determined by taking into account the age and
Physical deterioration of the structure and functional obsolescence as approved by the Floodplain
Administrator, but shall not include economic or other forms of external obsolescence. Use of
replacement costs or accrued depreciation factors different from those contained in recognized
building cost estimating guides may be considered only if such factors are included in a report
prepared by an independent certified appraiser and supported by a written explanation of the
differences.
"Mean sea level" means, for purposes of the National Flood Insurance Program, the National
Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD) of 19291 North American Vertical Datum (NAVD) of 1988 or
other datum, to which base flood elevations shown on a community's Flood Insurance Rate Map are
referenced.
"New construction," for floodplain management purposes, means structures for which the
"Sstart of construction" commenced on or after the e ffeetive da4e e f fleadpla n r,. anage..,o„*
regulations adopted by this eemmu April 14, 1988, and includes any subsequent improvements
to such structures.
"New manufactured home park or subdivision" means a manufactured home park or
subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured
homes are to be affixed (including at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of
streets and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed on or after the
e ffeetive date of floodplain management ..egulations adopted 1,y this eammunity. April 14, 1988.
"One hundred_ 0" year flood.." or "100 -year flood". See "Base flood."
"Program deficiency" means a defect in a community's floodplain management regulations or
administrative procedures that impairs effective implementation of those floodplain mana ement
regulations.
"Public safety and nuisance" as related to Section 10.06.9-59060, Variance Procedure, of this
chapter, means that the granting of a variance must not result in anything which is injurious to safety
or health of an entire community or neighborhood, or any considerable number of persons, or
unlawfully obstructs the free passage or use, in the customary manner, of any navigable lake, or
river, bay, stream, canal or basin.
"Regulatory floodway" means the channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent land
areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without cumulatively increasing the
water surface elevation more than one (1) foot.
"Remedy a violation" means to bring the structure or other development into compliance with
&state or local floodplain management regulations, or if this is not possible, to reduce the impacts of
its noncompliance. Ways that impacts may be reduced include protecting the structure or other
affected development from flood damages, implementing the enforcement provisions of the chapter
or otherwise deterring future similar violations, or reducing Estate or federal financial exposure with
regard to the structure or other development.
"Special flood hazard area (SFHA)" means an area' awing speeial flood mudslide (
„d flow` r flood related erosion hazards, ^a in the floodplain subject to a one percent (1 %) or
greater chance of floodingiylg_ven year. It is shown on an FHBM or FIRM as zone A, AO, A1-
30, AE, A99 or AH_, E, or- :r
"Sheet F -flow Aarea". See "Area of shallow flooding".
"Start of construction" includes substantial improvement and other proposed new
development and means the date the building permit was issued, provided the actual start of
construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, placement or other improvement was
within one hundred eighty (180) days from the date of the permit. The actual start means either the
first placement of permanent construction of a structure on a site, such as the pla6o. efit Of
einf ^o, pffl-t fief slabs ^" feet pouring of slab or footings, the installation of piles, the
construction of columns or any work beyond the stage of excavation; or the placement of a
manufactured home on a foundation. Permanent construction does not include land preparation, such
as clearing, grading and -filling; nor does it include the installation of streets and/or walkways; nor
does it include excavation for a basement, footings, piers or foundations or the erection of temporary
forms; nor does it include the installation on the property of accessory buildings, such as garages or
sheds not occupied as dwelling units or not part of the main structure. For a substantial improvement,
the actual start of construction means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor or other structural
part of a building, whether or not that alteration affects the external dimensions of the building.
"Substantial damage" means damage of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the cost of
restoring the structure to its before damaged condition would equal or ekceed fifty percent (50%) of
the "Mmarket value" of the structure before the damage occurred.
"Substantial improvement" means any reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition or other
proposed new developmen improvement of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds fifty
percent (50%) of the "Market value" of the structure before the "Start of construction" of the
improvement. This term includes structures which have incurred "Ssubstantial damage", regardless
of the actual repair work performed. The term does not, however, include either:
1. Any project for improvement of a structure to correct existing violations or &state or local
health, sanitary or safety code specifications which have been identified by the local code
enforcement official and which are the minimum necessary to assure safe living
conditions; or
"Water surface elevation" means the height, in relation to the National Geodetic Vertical
Datum (NGVD) of 1929, North American Vertical Datum (NAVD) of 1988 (or, other datum, e
spesified), of floods of various magnitudes and frequencies in the floodplains of coastal or riverine
areas. (Or -d. 9711, —) New Ordinance number?
X010.06.030 General Provisions.
B. Basis for Establishing the Areas of Special Flood Hazard. The areas of special flood hazard
identified by the Federal insti,.. nee ^ a,, mist-Fatio «T"' of the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) in the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) for the City of Santa Clarita
dated September 29, 1989, and with accompanying Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and
Flood Boundary and Floodway Maps (FBFMs}, , and all subsequent
amendments and/or revisions and the Los Angeles County Floodway Maps dated May of 1980
through August of 1985 are hereby adopted by reference and declared to be a part of this
chapter. This FIS and attendant mapping are the minimum area of applicability of this chapter
and may be supplemented by studies for other areas which allow implementation of this
chapter and which are recommended to the City Council by the Floodplain Administrator. The
Los Angeles County Floodway Maps shall apply in areas of the City where the FIRMs do not
identify floodway areas. Where the FIRMs do identify floodway areas, the FIRMs shall
govern. The study, FIRMs, Los Angeles County Floodway Maps and FBFMs are on file at the
office of the Director of Building and Engineer -in . Seiwiees Public Works at 23920 Valencia
Boulevard, Suite 300, Santa Clarita, California 91355.
E. Interpretation. In the interpretation and application of this chapter, all provisions shall be:
3. Deemed neither to limit nor repeal any other powers granted under &state statutes.
F. Warning and Disclaimer of Liability. The degree of flood protection required by this chapter is
considered reasonable for regulatory purposes and is based on scientific and engineering
considerations. Larger floods can and will occur on rare occasions. Flood heights may be
increased by man made or natural causes. This chapter does not imply that land outside the
areas of special flood hazards or uses permitted within such areas will be free from flooding or
flood damages. This chapter shall not create liability on the part of the City of Santa Clarita,
City Council or any officer or employee thereof, the State of California or the Federal
, Federal Emergency Management Agency, for any flood damages
that result from reliance on this chapter or any administrative decision lawfully made
hereunder. (Or -d. 97l 1— 7)
G. Severability. This chapter and the various parts thereof are hereby declared to be severable.
Should any section of this chapter be declared by the courts to be unconstitutional or invalid,
such decision shall not affect the validity of the chapter as a whole, or any portion thereof other
than the section so declared to be unconstitutional or invalid. (New Ordinance number?)
10.06.03010.06.040 Administration.
A. lEstablishment of a Fleedplain Area Development Pefmit. A floodplain area develepment.
pefmit shall be obtained before my eenstpaetion or- etheT- development begins within an), are
of sneeial flood hazard established ;n Se„tion 10.06.020(B). n ppheation for- a development
not be lifnited > ,
question;and elevation of the area in ,
or- dFainage > and the leeation of the feFegeing. Speeifiraally,
the following infi;r-matien
iuir-ed
1 . Proposed elevation in r -elation to fnean sea level, of the le:,A,est floor- (inealuding basement)
., 7„ n n ti f h i het d' t d d d l t'
of all , elevation of
of lowest fleer- of all st,-„ntufes;
7 Proposed elevation ; elation to ,,, a level to whiet a sidential str„etufe will
z: rrvPv�va-vxvracrvrtrirrcrcrcrorrcv-rrrcan :7ccr-rv�v-crZ�� �zrrcn arr`�-iroisc�zacrrcrur-�rrcrcraro
be f ;
3. All ap. gate t;f;eatiens listed ; subseetion (G)(4) of this ae.tien; and
4. hese.-intion of the extent to ...hint a ater-ee rse will be altered e elaeated as a result
ef proposed development.
B- A. Designation of the Floodplain Administrator. The Director of building and Engineering
Sen,iees Public Works is hereby appointed to administer, implement and enforce this chapter
by granting or denying development permits in accord with its provisions.
Q. B. Duties and Responsibilities of the Floodplain Administrator. The duties and responsibilities
of the Floodplain Administrator shall include, but not be limited to the following:
1. Permit Review. Review all floodplain area development permits to determine that:
a. Permit requirements of this chapter have been satisfied,_, including determination of
substantial improvement and substantial damage of existing structures;
c. The site is reasonably safe from flooding; and
d. The proposed development does not adversely affect the carrying capacity of areas
where base flood elevations have been determined but a floodway has not been
designated. For purposes of this ehaFt , ” l`• afi�-airrwts'2 This means that the
cumulative effect of the proposed development, when combined with all other existing
and anticipated development, will not increase the water surface elevation of the base
flood more than one (1) foot at any point.. within the City of Santa Clarita; and
e. All Letters of May Revision (LOMRs) for flood control projects are approved prior to
the issuance of building permits. Building permits must not be issued based on
Conditional Letters of May Revision (CLOMRs). Approved CLOMRs allow
construction of the proposed flood control project and land preparation as specified in
the "Start of construction" definition.
2. Development of Substantial Improvement and Substantial Damage Procedures.
a. Using FEMA publication FEMA 213, "Answers to Questions About Substantially
Damaged Buildings", develop detailed procedures for identifying and administering
requirements for substantial improvement and substantial damage, to include defining
"Market value".
b. Assure procedures are coordinated with other departments/divisions and implemented
by community staff.
c. Any reconstruction, rehabilitation or additions to existing permitted structures
constructed not compliant to the provisions of this chapter must be evaluated to
determine if the proposed scope of work exceeds the "Substantial improvement' or
"Substantial damage" threshold. An analysis based on the current City policy
must be submitted to, and approved by, the Public Works Department prior to the
issuance of building_ permits.
3. Review afW1 Use and Development of Any Other Base Flood Data. When base flood
elevation data has not been provided in accordance with Section 10.06.92-9030(B), the
Floodplain Administrator shall obtain, review and reasonably utilize any base flood
elevation and floodway data available from a federal or &state agency, or other source, in
order to administer Section 10.06.949050. Any such information shall be submitted to the
City Council for adoption.
NOTE: A base flood elevation may be obtained using one of two methods from the FEMA
publication, FEMA 265, "ManagingFloodplain Development in Approximate Zone A Areas
- A Guide for Obtaining and Developing Base (100 -year) Flood Elevations" dated July 1995.
3-: 4. Notification of Other Agencies.
a. In Aalteration or relocation of a watercourse:
1. a: Notify adjacent communities and the California Department of Water Resources prior
to alteration or relocation;
2. 1}: Submit evidence of such notification to the Feder -a! T. sur-anee Administration,
Federal Emergency Management Agency; and
3. �,-. Assure that the flood carrying capacity within the altered or relocated portion of said
watercourse is maintained.
b. Base flood elevation changes due to physical alterations:
1. Within six months of information becoming available or proiect completion, whichever
comes first the Floodplain Administrator shall submit or assure that the permit applicant submits
technical or scientific data to FEMA for a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR).
2. All LOMRs for flood control projects are approved prior to the issuance of building
permits. Building permits must not be issued on Conditional Letters of Map Revisions (CLOMRs).
Approved CLOMRs allow construction of the proposed flood control project and land preparation as
specified in the "Start of construction" definition.
Such submissions are necessary so that upon confirmation of those physical changes affecting
flooding conditions, risk premium rates and floodplain management requirements are based on
current data.
c. Changes in corporate boundaries:
1. Notify FEMA in writing whenever the corporate boundaries have been modified by
annexation or other means and include a copy of a map of the community clearly delineating the new
corporate limits.
4. 5. Documentation of Floodplain Developments. Obtain and maintain for public inspection
and make available as needed the following:
a. Certification required by Section 10.06.949050(A)(3)(a) and Section 10.06.050(D)
(lowest floor elevations);
b. Certification required by Section 10.06.949050(A)(3)(b) (elevation or floodproofing of
nonresidential structures);
c. Certification required by Sections 10.06.94050(A)(3)(c) (wet floodproofing standard);
d. Certification of elevation required by Section 10.06.949050(C) 1 c (subdivision and
other proposed development standards); and
e. Certification required by Section 10.06.949050(F)MQ (floodway encroachmentsyl and
f. Maintain a record of all variance actions, including justification for their issuance, and
report such variances issued in its biennial report submitted to the Federal Emergency
Management Agency.
6. Map Determinations. Make interpretations where needed, as to the exact location of the
boundaries of the areas of special flood hazard, €ere3iample, where there appears to be a conflict
between a mapped boundary and actual field conditions. The person contesting the location of the
boundary shall be given a reasonable opportunity to appeal the interpretation as provided in Section
10.06.0-50040(D).
6. 7. Remedial Action. Take action to remedy violations of this chapter as specified in
Section 10.06.9N030(C).
and the gFanting of var-ianees as pr-evided in Seetion 10.06.0
8. Biennial Report. Complete and submit Biennial Report to FEMA.
9. Planning. Assure community's General Plan is consistent with floodplain management
objectives herein.
C. Development Permit. A development permit shall be obtained before any construction or
other development, including manufactured homes, within any area of special flood hazard
established in Section 10.06.030(B). Application for a development permit shall be made on forms
furnished by the City of Santa Clarita. The applicant shall provide the following minimum
information:
1. Plans in duplicate, drawn to scale, showing:
a. Location dimensions and elevation of the area in question, existing or proposed structures,
storage of materials and equipment and their location;
b. Proposed locations of water supply, sanitary sewer and other utilities,
c. Grading information showingexisting xisting and proposed contours, any proposed fill and
drainage facilities;
d. Location of the regulatory floodway when applicable;
e. Base flood elevation information as specified in Section 10.06.030(B) or Section
10.06.040(B)(3);
f. Proposed elevation in relation to mean sea level, of the lowest floor (including basement)
of all structures; and
g Proposed elevation in relation to mean sea level to which any nonresidential structure will
be floodproofed as required in Section 10.06.050(A)(3)(b) of this chapter and detailed in FEMA
Technical Bulletin TB 3-93.
2. Certification from a registered professional civil engineer or licensed land surveyor that
the nonresidential floodproofed building meets the floodproofing criteria in Section
10.06.050(A)(3)(b).
3. For a crawl -space foundation, location and total net area of foundation openings as
required in Section 10.06.050(A)(3)(c) of this chapter and detailed in FEMA Technical Bulletins TB
1-93 and TB 7-93.
4. Description of the extent to which any watercourse will be altered or relocated as a result
of proposed development.
5. All appropriate certifications listed in Section 10.06.040(B)(5) of this chapter.
D. Appeals. The City Council of the City of Santa Clarita shall hear and decide appeals when
it is alleged there is an error in any requirement, decision or determination made by the Floodplain
Administrator in the enforcement or administration of this chapter. Appeals to the City Council shall
be in accordance with Chapter 2.04 of the Municipal Code of the City of Santa Clarita. (Or -d. 97 1
(New Ordinance number?)
10.06.04010.06.050 Provisions for Flood Hazard Reduction.
A. Standards of Construction. In all areas of special flood hazards the following standards are
required:
1. Anchoring.
a. All new construction and substantial improvements of structures, including manufactured
homes, shall be adequately anchored to prevent flotation, collapse or lateral movement of the
structure resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including the effects of buoyancy.
b. All manufaetur-ed homes shall meet the aneher-ing standards of subsecation (P) 0
sceti o n.
2. Construction Materials and Methods. All new construction and substantial improvements
of structures, including manufactured homes, shall be constructed:
a. With flood resistant materials as specified in FEMA Technical Bulletin TB 2-93, and
utility equipment resistant to flood damage for all areas below the level of the base flood elevation
plus one (1) foot;
d. If Within zones AH or AO, so that there are adequate drainage paths around structures on
slopes to guide flood waters around and away from proposed structures.
3. Elevation and Floodproofing. (See definitions for "B4asement", "Llowest floor", "N_new
construction", "Ssubstantial damage" and "Ssubstantial improvement".)
a. Residential construction;_ All new construction or substantial improvements of residential
structures shall have the lowest floor, including basement:
1. In AE AH Al-30 Zones. Elevated to at least one (1) foot above the base flood elevation;
4-. 2. (In an AO Zone)_ Elevated above the highest adjacent grade to a height exceeding the
depth number specified in feet on the FIRM by at least one W foot, or elevated at least three feet (3)
above the highest adjacent grade if no depth number is specified;
3. (In an A Zone)_ Without BFE's specified on the FIRM (un-numbered A zone),
-✓elevated at least one (1) foot above the base flood elevation as determined by the eeffilnunity; under
Section 10.06.040(B)(3).
Z (i 11 ether- zones) Elo ate .,t to /, st e f et abo e the b e fl .1 el0 .,tp,ivvu v �� �u
Upon the completion of the structure, the elevation of the lowest floor, including basement,
shall be certified by a registered professional civil engineer or licensed land surveyor, and verified by
the community building inspector to be properly elevated. Such certification and verification shall be
provided to the Floodplain Administrator.
b. Nonresidential construction;_ All new construction or substantial improvements of
nonresidential structures shall either be elevated to conform with Subsection (A)(3)(a) of this section
or-, together-with .,henna t utility and sanitary farce l;t;os.
i. Be floodproofed, together with attendant utility and sanitary facilities, below the elevation
recommended under Subsection (A)(3)(a) of this section, so that the structure is watertight with
walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water;
3. Be certified by a registered professional civil engineer or armor licensed land surveyor
stie 7 ,.eAifie tie shall that the standards of Subsection (A)(3)(b) 1 and 2 of this section are
satisfied_. and Such certification shall be provided to the Floodplain Administrator.
C. Flood openings. All new construction and substantial improvements of structures with
fully enclosed areas below the lowest floor (excluding basements) that are usable solely for parking
of vehicles, building access or storage, and which are subject to flooding shall be designed to
automatically equalize hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls by allowing for the entry and exit of
floodwater. Designs for meeting this requirement must exceed the following minimum criteria:
1. For non-engineered openings:
i. B ei4i fie b a r-egistefed st fuet ,ral nrrtirvva.
i. ii-. Have a minimum of two (2) openings on different sides having a total net area of not
less than one (1) square inch for every one 1 square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding;
ii. The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one (1) foot above grade;
iii. Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, valves or other coverings or devices;
provided, they permit the automatic entry and exit of flood water -.i and
iv. Buildings with more than one enclosed area must have openings on exterior walls for each
area to allow flood water to directly enter; or
2. Be certified by a registered professional structural engineer.
d. Manufactured homes. shall a4se meet the standards in stibseetion 'n` of this JVeVel etie Vll.
1. Manufactured homes located outside of manufactured home parks or subdivisions shall
meet the elevation and floodproofing_requirement in Subsection (3) of this section.
2. Manufactured homes placed within manufactured home parks or subdivisions shall meet
the standards in Section 10.06.050(D). Additional guidance may be found in FEMA Technical
Bulletins TB 1-93 and TB 7-93.
e. Garages and low cost accessory structures.
1. Attached garages.
i. A garage attached to a residential structure, constructed with the garage floor slab below
the BFE must be designed to allow for the automatic entry of floodwaters. See Subsection (3) of this
section. Areas of the garage below the level of the base flood elevation plus one (1) foot must be
constructed with flood resistant materials. See Subsection (2) of this section.
ii. A garage attached to a nonresidential structure must meet the above requirements or be dry
floodproofed For guidance on below grade parking areas see FEMA Technical Bulletin TB 6-93.
2. Detached garages and accessory structures.
i. "Accessory structures" used solely -for parkin (two (2) car detached garages or smaller) or
limited storage (small low-cost sheds) as defined in Section 10.06.020, may be constructed such
that its floor is below the base flood elevation (BFE) provided the structure is designed and
constructed in accordance with the following requirements:
a. Use of the accessory structure must be limited to parking or limited storage;
b. The portions of the accessory structure located below the level of the base flood elevation
plus one (1) foot must be built using flood resistant materials;
c. The accessory structure must be adequately anchored to prevent floatation, collapse and
lateral movement;
d. Any mechanical and utility equipment in the accessory structure must be elevated or
floodproofed to at least one (1) foot above the BFE;
e. The accessory structure must comply with floodplain encroachment provisions in Section
10.06.050(F); and
f. The accessory structure must be designed to allow for the automatic entry and exit of
floodwaters in accordance with Subsection (3)(c) of this section.
ii. Detached garages and accessory structures not meeting the above standards must be
constructed in accordance with all applicable standards of Section 10.06.050(A).
C. Standards for Subdivisions and Other Proposed Development.
1. All new subdivision proposals and other proposed development, including
proposals for manufactured home parks and subdivisions greater than fifty (50) lots or five (5) acres
whichever is the lesser, shall:
a. Identify the Special Fflood Hhazard Aareas SFHAs and the elevation of the baso flood
Base Flood Elevations (BFEs);
b. Identify the elevations of lowest floors of all proposed structures and pads on the final
plans; and
c. If the site is filled above the base flood elevation, the following as -built information for
each structure shall be certified by a registered professional civil engineer or licensed land surveyor
and provided as part of an application for a Letter of Map Revision based on fill (LOMR-F) to the
Floodplain Administrator:
Lowest floor elevation.
1. Until a "Regulatory floodway" is adopted, no new construction, substantial development
or other development (including fill) shall be permitted within zones Al -30 and AE, unless it is
demonstrated that the cumulative effect of the proposed development, when combined with all other
development, will not increase the water surface elevation of the base flood more than one (1) foot at
any point within the City of Santa Clarita.
4-- 2. Within an adopted "Regulatory floodway", the City of Santa Clarita shall P -prohibit
encroachments or "Obstructions", including fill, new construction, substantial improvements and
other new development unless certification by a registered professional civil engineer er-ar-ehitee is
provided demonstrating that the proposed encroachments or obstructions wi4l shall not result in any
increase in [the base] flood elevation levels during the occurrence of the base flood discharge.
3. If subsections (17)(1) and 2 of this section is are satisfied, all new construction,
substantial improvement, and other proposed new development shall comply with all other
applicable flood hazard reduction provisions of this section. (Ord. 97 11, 7/W97) New Ord. number?
G. Cumulative Substantial Improvement and Substantial Damage.
1. Improvements of any type or value to structures, located in areas of special flood hazard,
constructed on or after April 14, 1988 must meet all floodproofing requirements of this chapter.
2. Improvements valued up to forty-nine percent (49%) of an existing structure's pre -
improvement "Market value", located in areas of special flood hazard, constructed prior to April 14,
1988, may be permitted without meeting the flood protection requirements of this chapter. Once the
substantial improvement or substantial damage threshold of greater than forty-nine percent (49%)
has been reached:
a. No further building_ permits will be issued for the structure for a period of ten (10) years
from the date of the issuance of the first building permit for improvements, alterations or additions,
rehabilitations or repairs, regardless of the origin of the damage, or any combination of said
improvements unless the structure is made to comply with the requirements of this chapter; and
b. When the total value of the cumulative improvements meets or exceeds fifty percent (50%)
of a structure's pre -improvement "Market value" within a ten (10) year period, the original structure
must be protected according to the requirements of this chapter; and
c. The "Market value" of the structure used at the issuance of the first building permit is the
market value that will be used throughout the ten (10) year period to determine the cost percentage
of the proposed improvements.
-010.06.060 Variance Procedure.
A. Nature of Variances. The issuance of a variance is for floodplain management purposes
only. Insurance premium rates are determined by statute according to actuarial risk and will not be
modified by the granting of a variance.
1. The variance criteria set forth in this section of the chapter are based on the general
principle of zoning law that variances pertain to a piece of property and are not personal in nature. A
variance may be granted for a parcel of property with physical characteristics so unusual that
complying with the requirements of this chapter would create an exceptional "Hhardship" to the
applicant or the surrounding property owners. The characteristics must be unique to the property and
not be shared by adjacent parcels. The unique characteristic must pertain to the land itself, not to the
structure, its inhabitants, or the property owners.
2. It is the duty of the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita to help protect its citizens
from flooding. This need is so compelling and the implications of the cost of insuring a structure
built below flood level are so serious that variances from the flood elevation or from other
requirements of this chapter are quite rare. The long term goal of preventing and reducing flood loss
and damage can only be met if variances are strictly limited. Therefore, the variance guidelines
provided in this chapter are more detailed and contain multiple provisions that must be met before a
variance can be properly granted. The criteria are designed to screen out those situations in which
alternatives other than a variance are more appropriate.
B. Conditions for Variances.
1. Generally, variances may be issued for new construction, substantial improvement, and
other proposed new development to be erected on a lot of one-half 1/2 acre or less in size
contiguous tot and surrounded by., lots with existing structures constructed below the base flood
level,., providing that the procedures of Sections 10.06.0-3-0040 and 10.06.949050 of this chapter have
been fully considered. As the lot size increases beyond one-half 1/2 acre, the technical justification
required for issuing the variance increases.
2. Variances may be issued for the repair or rehabilitation of "Hhistoric structures" (as
defined in Section 10.06.9.1-0020 of this chapter) upon a determination that the proposed repair or
rehabilitation will not preclude the structure's continued designation as a historic structure and the
variance is the minimum necessary to preserve the historic character and design of the structure.
3. Variances shall not be issued within any mapped "Rregulatory floodway" if any increase
in flood levels during the base flood discharge would result.
4. Variances shall only be issued upon a determination that the variance is the "Mminimum
necessary," considering the flood hazard, to afford relief. "Minimum necessary" means to afford
relief with a minimum of deviation from the requirements of this chapter. For example, in the case of
variances to an elevation requirement, this means the City Council need not grant permission for the
applicant to build at grade, or even to whatever elevation the applicant proposes, but only to that
elevation which the City Council believes will both provide relief and preserve the integrity of this
chapter.
5. BQ Any applicant to whom a variance is granted shall be given written notice over the
signature of a community official that:
a. The issuance of a variance to construct a structure below the base flood level will result in
increased premium rates for -flood insurance up to amounts as high as twenty-five dollars ($25.00)
for one hundred dollars ($100.00) of insurance coverage; and
b. Such construction below the base flood level increases risks to life and property. A copy of
the notice shall be recorded by the Floodplain Administrator in the Office of the Los Angeles County
Recorder and shall be recorded in a manner so that it appears in the chain of title of the affected
parcel of land.
6. The Floodplain Administrator will maintain a record of all variance actions, including
justification for their issuance, and report such variances issued in its biennial report submitted to the
Feder -a! lasu -anee n a,-. mist.-atiei , Federal Emergency Management Agency.
B-. C. Appeal Board.
2. C -r Variances shall be issued only upon:
a. A showing of good and sufficient cause;
b. A determination that failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional "Hhardship"
(as defined in Section 10.06.94-0020) to the applicant; and
c. A determination that the granting of a variance will not result in increased flood heights,
additional threats to public safety, or extraordinary public expense, create a nuisance (See "Public
safety and nuisance" as defined in Section 10.06.04-0920), cause "F€raud or victimization" (as
defined in Section 10.06.94-0020) of the public, or conflict with other existing local laws or
ordinances.
3. CIA, Variances may be issued for new construction, substantial improvement, and other
proposed new development necessary for the conduct of a functionally dependent use; provided, that
the provisions of Subsections (C)(1) through (54f4) of this section are satisfied, and that the structure
or other development is protected by methods that minimize flood damage during the base flood and
does not result in additional threats to public safety, and does not create a public nuisance.
ii. Pad elevation.
iii. Lowest adjacent grade.
2. All s4division plans will pr-ovide the elevation of proposed stFuetur-e(s) and pad(s). if th
site is filled above the base fleed elevation, t4e lowest floor- and the pad elevations shall be eei4i
-3-. 2. All subdivision proposals and other proposed development shall be consistent with the
need to minimize flood damage.
4. 3. All subdivision proposals and other proposed development shall have public utilities and
facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical and water systems located and constructed to minimize flood
damage.
4. All subdivisions and other proposed development shall provide adequate drainage to
reduce exposure to flood hazards.
D. Standards for Manufactured Homes Within Manufactured Home Parks and Subdivisions.
All manufactured homes in special flood hazard areas shall meet the anchoring standards in Section
10.06.050(A)(1), construction materials and methods in Section 10.06.04.050(A)(2), flood opening
requirements in Section 10.06.050(A)(3)(c), and garage and low-cost accessory structure standards
in Section 10.06.050(A)(3)(e).
NOTE: Manufactured homes located outside of manufactured home parks or subdivisions shall
meet the elevation and floodproofing requirement in Section 10.06.050(A)(3).
1. All manufactured homes that are placed, or substantially improved, within Zones ^' 30,
A14 and AEeenun;unity's Flood insur-anee Rate Map-, on sites located: aside a
antif , .urea home .,ark of: subdivision; b a in a new manufactured home park or subdivision; in an
expansion to an existing manufactured home park or subdivision; or in an existing manufactured
home park or subdivision on a site upon which a manufactured home has incurred "Substantial
damage" as the result of a flood shall;
a. Within zones Al-30, AH, and AE on the community's Flood Insurance Rate May, be
elevated on a permanent foundation such that the lowest floor of the manufactured home is elevated
to at least one (1) foot above the base flood elevation and be securely fastened to an adequately
anchored foundation system to resist flotation, collapse and lateral movement.
2. All manufactured homes...
a. Lowest floor of the manufactured home is at least one (1) foot above the base flood
elevation; or
Upon the completion of the structure, the elevation of the lowest floor, including basement,
shall be certified by a registered professional civil engineer or licensed land surveyor, and verified by
the community building inspector to be properly elevated. Such certification and verification shall be
provided to the Floodplain Administrator.
E. Standards for Recreational Vehicles.
a. Be on the site for fewer than one hundred eighty (180) consecutive days; and or
b. Be fully licensed and ready for highway use. —(-aA recreational vehicle is ready for
highway use if it is on its wheels or a jacking system, is attached to the site only by quick disconnect
type utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached additions); or
c. Meet the permit requirements of Section 10.06.99040 CJ of this chapter and the elevation
and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes in subsection (D)(1) of this section.
2. ReGFOatienal .,ehicales ,.,laeea on sites , ithi,, zones NI _van v and NIE on the
eemmtinity's Flood instir-anee Rate Map will fneet the r-eqtiir-effiefits of subseetion (E)(1) of this
seetion.
F. Floodways. r ate . ithi areas of speeial f4eea hazard established in Seesti ,n
1 n 06 020(B) are areas designated as fiee.A,ays. Since the floodways is are an extremely hazardous
area due to the velocity of floodwaters which carry debris, potential projectiles, and erosion
potential, the following provisions apply:
4. C—.7-. Upon consideration of the factors in subsection (B)(1) of this section and the purposes
of this chapter, the City Council may attach such conditions to the granting of variances as it deems
necessary to further the purposes of this chapter. (Ord. 9711, � New Ord. number?
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
[X] Proposed [ ] Final
PROJECT: Floodplain Ordinance Amendment
APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita, Public Works Department
LOCATION OF THE
PROJECT: Citywide, City of Santa Clarita, Los Angeles County, California
DESCRIPTION OF
THE PROJECT: The City of Santa Clarita is proposing to amend Chapter 10.06
(Floodplain Management Ordinance) of the City's Municipal Code. The proposed citywide project
would bring the Municipal Code into substantial conformance with the California Department of
Water Resources' (DWR) updated Model Floodplain Ordinance.
Based on the information contained in the Initial Study prepared for this project, and pursuant to the
requirements of Section 15065 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City of
Santa Clarita
[X] City Council [ ] Planning Commission [ ] Director of Planning and Building Services
finds that the project as proposed or revised will have no significant effect upon the environment,
and that a Negative Declaration shall be adopted pursuant to Section 15070 of CEQA.
Mitigation measures for this project:
[X] Are Not Required [ ] Are Attached [ ] Are Not Attached
Jeff HoganAICP Senior Planner
(Name/Title)
Public Review Period From To:
Public Notice Given On:
[X] Legal Advertisement [ ] Posting of Properties [ ] Written Notice
CERTIFICATION DATE:
&TW0evelopment Services\ChristmaTloodplain Ordinance
Floodplain Management Ordinance Amendment
Page 1 of 28
Project Title:
Lead Agency name and address:
INITIAL STUDY
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
Floodplain Management Ordinance Amendment
City of Santa Clarita
Public Works Department
23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 300
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Contact person and phone number: Christina Monde, Assistant Engineer
661-255-4959
Project location: Citywide, City of Santa Clarita, Los Angeles County,
California
Applicant's name and address: City of Santa Clarita
Public Works Department
23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 300
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
General Plan designation: N/A
Zoning: N/A
Description of project and setting: The _ City of Santa Clarita is proposing to amend
Chapter 10.06 (Floodplain Management Ordinance) of
the City's Municipal Code. The proposed citywide
project would bring the Municipal Code into substantial
conformance with the California Department of Water
Resources' (DWR) updated Model Floodplain
Ordinance. The modifications to the City's Floodplain
Management Ordinance will cleanup the intent of the
Municipal Code as well as clarify the procedures and
policy that must be followed when developments within
the 100 -year floodplain are proposed. The project does
not propose any changes to any limits or boundaries of
,any flood zones within the City. Modifications
proposed at this time include the following:
Provisions for Regulatory Floodways;
Added and Modified Definitions;
Addition of a Standards for Subdivisions and
Other Proposed Developments section;
Page 2 of 28 ,
• Addition of a Standards for Utilities section;
• New General and Administrative Provisions,
including as provision that all LOMR and
Conditional Letters of Map Revisions
(CLOMR) be obtained from FEMA, if
applicable, prior to the City's issuance of a
building permit.
Surrounding land uses: N/A
Other public agencies whose None
approval is required:
J
Floodplain Management Ordinance Amendment
Page 3 of 28
A. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED:
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at
least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" or a "Less than Significant With
Mitigation" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages.
[ ] Aesthetics [ ] Agriculture Resources [ ] Air Quality
[
Biological Resources ] gi [ ] Cultural Resources [ ] Geology /Soils
[ ] Hazards & Hazardous [ ] Hydrology / Water [ ] Land Use / Planning
Materials Quality
[ ] Mineral Resources [ ] Noise [ ] Population / Housing
[ ] Public Services [ ] Recreation [ ] Transportation / Traffic
[ ] Utilities / Service Systems [ ] Mandatory Findings of Significance
B. DETERMINATION:
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
[X] I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the
environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
[ ] I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the
environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the
project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
[ ] I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
[ ] I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or
"potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one
effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal
standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis
as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required,
but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed.
Page 4 of 28
[ ] I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the
environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately
in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and
(b) have been av ided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE
DECLARATION,;ncluding revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the
Darin
np led project�othing further is required.
er, Assistant Planner II
', Senior Planner
r//q I
DatE
Log
Date
Page 5 of 28
C. EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS:
I. AESTHETICS - Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista?
b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but
not limited to, primary/secondary ridgelines, trees,
rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a
state scenic highway?
c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or
quality of the site and its surroundings?
d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare that
would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the
area?
e) Other
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
[] [] [] [X]
[] [] [] [X]
[] [] [] [X]
[] [] [] [X]
II. AGRICULTURE RESOURCES - In determining whether impacts to agricultural
resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California
Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the
California Dept. of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on
agriculture and farmland. Would the project:
a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or [ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as
shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the
Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the
California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural
use?
b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or [ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
a Williamson Act contract?
c) Involve other changes in the existing environment [ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
which, due to their location or nature, could result in
conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use?
Page 6 of 28
Potentially Less Than Less Than
No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
d)Other [] [] []
[]
III. AIR QUALITY - Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable
air quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the
following determinations. Would the project:
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
applicable air quality plan?
b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
substantially to an existing or projected air quality
violation?
c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of [ ] [ ] [ ]
IN
any criteria pollutant for which the project region is
non -attainment under an applicable federal or state
ambient air quality standard (including releasing
emissions that exceed quantitative thresholds for
ozone precursors)?
d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant [ ] [ ] [ ]
IN
concentrations?
e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial [ ] [ ] [ ]
IN
number of people?
f)Other
IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES - Would the
project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or [ ] [ J [ J
[X]
through habitat modifications, on any species
identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status
species in local or regional plans, policies, or
regulations, or by the California Department of Fish
and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
Page 7 of 28
b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian
habitat or other sensitive natural community
identified in local or regional plans, policies,
regulations or by the California Department of Fish
and Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service?
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
[] [] [] [X]
c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally [ ] [ ]
protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the
Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to,
marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct
removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other
means?
d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any [ ] [ ]
native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species
or with established native resident or migratory
wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native
wildlife nursery sites?
e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances [ ] [ ]
protecting biological resources, such as a tree
preservation policy or ordinance? Oak trees?
f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat [ ] [ ]
Conservation Plan, Natural Community
Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional,
or state habitat conservation plan?
g) Affect a Significant Ecological Area (SEA) or [ ] [ ]
Significant Natural Area (SNA) as identified on the
City of Santa Clarity ESA Delineation Map?
h) Other [ ] [ ]
V. CULTURAL RESOURCES - Would the project:
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the [ ] [ ]
significance of a historical resource as defined in
'15064.5?
Page 8 of 28
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
[ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
significance of an archaeological resource pursuant
to ' 15064.5?
c) Directly or indirectly destroy or impact a unique
[ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
paleontological resource or site or unique geologic
feature?
d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred
[ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
outside of formal cemeteries?
e)Other
[] [] I []
VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS — Would the project:
a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial
[ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or
death involving:
i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as
[ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the
State Geologist for the area or based on other
substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to
Division of Mines and Geology Special
Publication 42.
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking?
[ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
iii) Seismic -related ground failure, including
[ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
liquefaction?
iv) Landslides?
[ ] [ j [ ] IN
b) Result in substantial wind or water soil erosion or the
[ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
loss of topsoil, either on or off site?
Page 9 of 28
Potentially Less Than Less Than
No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
or that would become unstable as a result of the
project, and potentially result in on- or off-site
landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction
or collapse?
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18- [ ] [ ] []
[X]
1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1997), creating
substantial risks to life or property?
e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal
systems where sewers are not available for the
disposal of wastewater?
f) Change in topography or ground surface relief [ ] [ ] []
[X]
features?
g) Earth movement (cut and/or fill) of 10,000 cubic [ ] [ ] []
[X]
yards or more?
h) Development and/or grading on a slope greater than [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
10% natural grade?
i) The destruction, covering or modification of any [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
,
unique geologic or physical feature?
j)Other [] [] []
[]
VII. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS - Would the project:
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
environment through the routine transport, use, or
disposal of hazardous materials?
Page 10 of 28
FA
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through reasonably foreseeable upset
and accident conditions involving explosion or the
release of hazardous materials into the environment
(including, but not limited to oil, pesticides,
chemicals, fuels, or radiation)?
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or [ ]
acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste
within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed
school?
d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of [ ]
hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to
Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result,
would it create a significant hazard fo the public or
the environment?
e) For a project located within an airport land use plan [ ]
or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within
two miles of a public airport or public use airport,
would the project result in a safety hazard for people
residing or working in the project area?
f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, [ ]
would the project result in a safety hazard for people
residing or working in the project area?
g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with [ ]
an adopted emergency response plan or emergency
evacuation plan?
h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of [ ]
loss, injury or death involving wildland fires,
including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized
areas or where residences are intermixed with
wildlands?
IN
[X]
IN
IN
Page 11 of 28
i) Exposure of people to existing sources of potential
health hazards (e.g. electrical transmission lines, gas
lines, oil pipelines)?
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
[] [] [] [X]
j)Other I I I I
VIII. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY - Would the
project:
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste [ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
discharge requirements?
b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or [ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
interfere substantially with groundwater recharge
such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer
volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table
level (e.g., the production rate of pre-existing nearby
wells would drop to a level which would not support
existing land uses or planned uses for which permits
have been granted)?
c) `Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the [ ] [ J [ J [X]
site or area, including through the alteration of the
course of a stream or river, in a manner which would
result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-
site?
d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the [ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
site or area, including through the alteration of the
course of a stream or river, or substantially increase
the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner
which would result in flooding on- or off-site?
e) Create or contribute runoff water which would [ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
exceed the capacity of existing or planned
stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial
additional sources of polluted runoff?
f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? [ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
Page 12 of 28
Potentially Less Than Less Than
No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
g) Place housing within a 100 -year flood hazard area as [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or
Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard
delineation map?
h) Place within a 100 -year flood hazard area structures [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
which would impede or redirect flood flows?
i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
loss, injury or death involving flooding, including
flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam?
j) Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
k) Changes in the rate of flow, currents, or the course [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
and direction of surface water and/or groundwater?
1) Other modification of a wash, channel creek or river? [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
m) Impact Stonnwater Management in any of the [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
following ways:
i) Potential impact of project construction and [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
project post -construction activity on storm water
runoff?
ii) Potential discharges from areas for materials [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
storage, vehicle or equipment fueling, vehicle or
equipment maintenance (including washing), waste
handling, hazardous materials handling or storage,
delivery areas or loading docks, or other outdoor
work areas?
iii) Significant environmentally harmful increase in [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
the flow velocity or volume of stone water runoff?
iv) Significant and environmentally harmful [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
increases in erosion of the project site or
surrounding areas?
Q
Page 13 of 28
v) Storm water discharges that would significantly
impair or contribute to the impairment of the
beneficial uses of receiving waters or areas that
provide water quality benefits (e.g. riparian
corridors, wetlands, etc.)
vi) Cause harm to the biological integrity of
drainage systems, watersheds, and/or water bodies?
vii) Does the proposed project include provisions
for the separation, recycling, and reuse of materials
both during construction and after project
occupancy?
IX. LAND USE AND PLANNING - Would the
project:
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
[] I I [X]
a) Disrupt or physically divide an established [ ]
community (including a low-income or minority
community)?
b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, [ ]
or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the
project (including, but not limited to the general
plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning
ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or
mitigating an environmental effect?
c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation [ ]
plan, natural community conservation plan, and/or
policies by agencies with jurisdiction over the
project?
X. MINERAL AND ENERGY RESOURCES - Would the project:
a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral [ ]
resource that would be of value to the region and the
residents of the state?
[X]
[X]
[X]
[X]
Page 14 of 28
Potentially Less Than Less Than
No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
important mineral resource recovery site delineated
on a local general plan, specific plan or other land
use plan? '
c) Use nonrenewable resources in a wasteful and [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
inefficient manner?
XI. NOISE - Would the project result in:
a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
in excess of standards established in the local general
plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of
other agencies?
b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive [ ] [ ] [ ]
IN
groundbome vibration or groundborne noise levels?
c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise [ ] [ ] [ ]
IN
levels in the project vicinity above levels existing
without the project?
d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in [ ] [ ] [ ]
IN
ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above
levels existing without the project?
e) For a project located within an airport land use plan [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within
two miles of a public airport or public use airport,
would the project expose people residing or working
in the project area to excessive noise levels?
f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, [ ] [ ] [ ]
[X]
\
would the project expose people residing or working
in the project area to excessive noise levels?
Page 15 of 28
XII. POPULATION AND HOUSING - Would the project:
a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, [ ]
either directly (for example, by proposing new
homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example,
through extension of -roads or other infrastructure)?
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, [ ]
necessitating the construction of replacement
housing elsewhere (especially affordable housing)?
c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating [ ]
the construction of replacement housing elsewhere?
XIII. PUBLIC SERVICES - Would the project
result in:
a) Substantial adverse physical impacts associated with
the provision of new or physically altered
governmental facilities, need for new or physically
altered governmental facilities, the construction of
which could cause significant environmental
impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service
ratios, response times or other performance
objectives for any of the public services:
i) Fire protection?
ii) Police protection?
iii) Schools?
iv) Parks?
XIV. RECREATION - Would the project:
a) Increase the use of existing neighborhood and
regional parks or other recreational facilities such
that substantial physical deterioration of the facility
would occur or be accelerated?
[] [] [] [X]
[] [] [] [X]
[] [] [] [X]
Page 16 of 28
b) Include recreational facilities or require the [ ] [ J [ ] [X]
construction or expansion of recreational facilities
which might have an adverse physical effect on the
environment?
XV. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC - Would the project:
a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in [ ] [ ] [ ] IN
relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of
the street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase
in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to
capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at
intersections)?
b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level [ ] [ ] [ ] IN
of service standard established by the county ,
congestion management agency for designated roads
or highways?
c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including [ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
either an increase in traffic levels or a change in
location that results in substantial safety risks?
d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature [ ] [ ] [ ] IN
(e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or
incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)?
e) Result in inadequate emergency access? [ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? [ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs [ ] [ ) [ ] [X]
supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus
turnouts, bicycle racks)?
h) Hazards or barriers for pedestrians or bicyclists? [ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
XVI. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS - Would the project:
a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the [ ] [ ] [ ] [X]
applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board?
Page 17 of 28
b) Require or result in the construction of new water or
wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of
existing facilities, the construction of which could
cause significant environmental effects?
c) Require or result in the construction of new storm
water drainage facilities or expansion of existing
facilities, the construction of which could cause
significant environmental effects?
d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the
project from existing entitlements and resources, or
are new or expanded entitlements needed?
e) Result in a determination by the wastewater
treatment provider which serves or may serve the
project that it has adequate capacity to serve the
project's projected demand in addition to the
provider's existing commitments?
f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted
capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste
disposal needs?
g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and
regulations related to solid waste?
XVII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE:
a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the
quality of the environment, substantially reduce the
habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or
wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining
levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal
community, reduce the number or restrict the range
of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate
important examples of the major periods of
California history or prehistory?
[] [] [] [X]
[] [] [] [X]
[] [] [] [X]
[] [] [] [X]
[] [] [] [X]
[] [] [] [X]
[] [] [] [X]
Page 18 of 28
b) Does the project have impacts that are individually
limited, but cumulatively considerable?
("Cumulatively
considerable" means that the incremental effects of a
project are considerable when viewed in connection
with the effects of past projects, the effects of other
current projects, and the effects of probable future
projects)?
c) Does the project have environmental effects which
will cause substantial adverse effects on human
beings, either directly or indirectly? '
"
J
Page 19 of 28
D. DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND/OR EARLIER ANALYSIS:
Section and Subsections
Evaluation of Impacts
I. AESTHETICS
a. -c.) No Impact — The proposed revisions to Chapter 10.06 of the
Municipal Code will not affect any scenic vistas or other scenic
resources within the City of Santa Clarita. The proposed
amendments will bring the Municipal Code into substantial
conformance with the DWR's Model. Floodplain Ordinance.
Amendments are also intended to clean up the Floodplain
Management Ordinance, as well as, include new procedures for
further clarification and consistency with the FEMA regulations.
The revisions would promote the public health, safety, and general
welfare and to minimize public and private losses due to flood
conditions in specific areas by legally enforceable regulations
applied uniformly throughout he community to all publicly and
privately owned land within flood prone areas. The proposed
project does not include any revisions to the City's development
standards pertaining to scenic resources or visual character. As
such, the project would have no related impacts.
d.) No Impact -- The proposed changes to the Floodplain
Management Ordinance will not affect any light or glare in day or
nighttime views; and none of the proposed amendments would
lessen lighting standards. Therefore, the proposal would have no
impact related to light or glare.
II. AGRICULTURE
a. -c.) No Impact — The proposed modifications to Chapter 10.06 of
RESOURCES
the Municipal Code will not affect any farmland identified by the
California Resources Agency, farmland designated under a
Williamson Act Contract, and will not convert any farmland to
non-agricultural use. Therefore, the proposal would have no
impact to agricultural resources.
III. AIR QUALITY
a. -d.) No Impact — Santa Clarita is located in the South Coast Air
Basin of California (SCAB), a 6,600 -square -mile area
encompassing Orange County and the nondesert portions of Los
Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties. The City is
under jurisdiction of the South Coast Air Basin Quality
Management District (SCAQMD). SCAQMD has adopted an Air
Quality Management Plan (AQMP) for the SCAB, which includes
transportation management measures, strict controls on automobile
emissions, new industrial controls, extension of controls to very
small sources, and restrictions on the use of various types of
products, such as paints and coatings, in order to manage the
Page 20 of 28
Basin's air quality. The proposed changes to Chapter 10.06 of the
Municipal Code will not alter any of the aforementioned measures.
Furthermore, the proposed project would not entitle any new
development and, as such, would not result in the emission of any
air pollutants. As such, the project would not cause or contribute
to any air quality violation and would not adversely affect any,
sensitive receptors. Therefore, no air quality impacts are
anticipated,
e.) No Impact — The proposal amendments to the Floodplain
Management Ordinance do not include any physical development
at this time. The proposed amendments may apply to future
development projects within the City. However, the proposed
amendments do not remove any odor -related regulations and
would not foreseeably lead to a change in the generation of odor.
IV. BIOLOGICAL a. -d.) No Impact — The proposed changes to Chapter 10.06 of the
RESOURCES Municipal Code do not include the modification of any habitat and
would not otherwise affect any candidate, sensitive or special
status species identified by the Department of Fish and Game or
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Further, the proposed changes
to Chapter 10.06 of the Municipal Code will not have any adverse
affect on any riparian habitat or wetlands as defined by Section
404 of the Clean Water Act. The proposed changes will provide
consistency of the ordinance to current FEMA and DWR
guidelines. In addition, there is no proposed alteration to any
wildlife corridor or migratory fish corridor proposed and no
change to any regulation or code protecting such resources. The
proposed amendments to Chapter 10.06 of the Municipal Code
would not remove environmental review requirements for any
future developments. Therefore, the proposed amendments to
Chapter 10.06 of the Municipal Code would cause no impacts to
sensitive species, sensitive natural community, riparian habitat, or
wetlands.
e.), No Impact — The City of Santa Clarita has an Oak Tree
Preservation Ordinance that regulates the development adjacent to
and under oak trees. At this time, there are no proposed
modifications to the Oak Tree Ordinance. Therefore, no impacts
to oak trees or conflicts with the City's Oak Tree Preservation
Ordinance would occur with the proposed project.
f. -g.) No Impact — The proposed Municipal Code modifications
propose no alterations to any local or regional habitat conservation
plan. In addition, the proposed Municipal Code modifications will
not affect any property designated as an SEA (Significant
Page 21 of 28
Ecological Area) or SNA (Significant Natural Area) on the City's
ESA (Environmentally Sensitive Area) Delineation Map.
Therefore, no impact is anticipated with respect to any habitat
conservation plan, SEA, or SNA.
V. CULTURAL
a. -d.) No Impact — The proposed changes to the Floodplain
RESOURCES
Management Ordinance of the Municipal Code will not have any
impact on cultural resources in the City of Santa Clarita. The
proposed modifications will not alter any unique geological
feature, paleontological resource, any human remains or affect any
historical or archeological resource. The proposed changes will
provide consistency between the ordinance and current FEMA and
DWR guidelines. All future development activity within the
established areas would continue to be required to comply with
Goal 10 of the City's Open Space and Conservation Element, to
protect the historical and culturally significant resources, which
contribute to community identity and a sense of history.
Therefore, no impact to any archeological, historical or cultural
resource would be caused by the proposed modifications to
Chapter 10.06 of the Municipal Code.
VI. GEOLOGY AND
a. i -iv) No Impact — Southern California has numerous active and
SOILS
potentially active faults that could affect the City. As stated in the
City's General Plan, the City is susceptible to geologic hazards in
the event of a major earthquake (magnitude 8.3) along the San
Andreas Fault. This could result in ground failure and
liquefaction. However, the proposed modifications to the
Floodplain Management Ordinance would not change any land use
entitlements, and would not change the requirements of future
development to follow all state and City building
codes/regulations. Therefore, the proposed Municipal Code
amendments would have no impact related to exposure of people
or structures to any adverse effects of seismic activity.
b. -e.) No Impact — The proposed modifications to the Floodplain
Management Ordinance will not result in any erosion or location
of structures on or near unstable soil, expansive or otherwise.
Furthermore, the proposal,would not affect requirements of future
developments to comply with all state and City building
codes/regulations. Therefore, the proposal would have no impact
with respect to erosion, unstable or expansive soil.
f. -i.) No Impact — The proposed modifications to the Floodplain
Management Ordinance is a regulatory adjustment and does not
include any development activities at this time. The proposed
amendments will bring the Municipal Code into substantial
Page 22 of 28
conformance with the State's Model Floodplain Ordinance. The
proposed modifications do not involve any development that
would alter topography, ground surface, or a physical feature and
does not involve any earth movement or grading. Therefore, the
proposed Municipal Code modifications would have no impacts on
topography, graded slopes, or geological features.
VII. HAZARDS AND
a. -d.) No Impact — The proposed changes to Chapter 10.06 of the
HAZARDOUS
Municipal Code would not expose people or the environment to
MATERIALS
hazards or hazardous materials and would not interfere with any
emergency response plans. The proposed modification to the
Floodplain Management Ordinance is a regulatory adjustment and
does not include any development activities at this time. The
proposed amendments will bring the Municipal Code into
substantial compliance with the State's Model Floodplain
Ordinance. The proposed amendment does not alter the any
regulations in the City's General Plan, development codes, or
federal, state, or local regulations pertaining to hazardous
materials. Therefore, no impact due to hazardous materials is
anticipated with the proposed Municipal Code modifications.
e. -f.) No Impact — The proposal includes no changes to land uses or
development standards for land within 2 miles of an airport,
airfield, or otherwise within an airport land use plan. Therefore,
the proposed Municipal Code amendments would not affect the
risks of land uses adjacent to airports or airfields and the proposal
would have no related impacts.
g.) No Impact — The proposed Municipal Code amendments would
not affect the implementation of emergency response plans, and
would have no related impacts. Conversely, the proposed
amendment is intended to reduce flood hazards, thereby potentially
reducing the need for emergency response.
h.) No Impacts — The proposed Municipal Code amendments would
not increase the risks of wildland fires, and would not change the
regulations or development standards governing development
adjacent to wildlands. Therefore, the proposed Municipal Code
amendments would have no related impacts.
VIII. HYDROLOGY,
a. -b.) No Impact — The proposed project would not impact water
AND WATER
quality standards, nor affect groundwater supplies. The proposed
QUALITY
modification to the Floodplain Management Ordinance is a
regulatory adjustment and does not include any development
activities at this time. The proposed amendments will bring the
Municipal Code into substantial compliance with the State's
Page 23 of 28
Model Floodplain Ordinance. Furthermore, the proposed project
would not alter any Clean Water Act requirements, including the
National. Pollutant discharge Elimination System (NPDES).
Therefore, the project will have no related impacts.
c. -f.) No. Impact — The proposed project would not alter any existing
drainage patterns, create or contribute any new runoff water, or
substantially degrade water quality within the City of Santa
Clarita. The proposed modification to the Floodplain Management
Ordinance is a regulatory adjustment and does not include any
development activities at this time. The proposed amendments
will bring the Municipal Code into substantial compliance with the
State's Model Floodplain Ordinance. Furthermore, the proposed
project would not alter any Clean Water Act requirements,
including the National Pollutant discharge Elimination System
(NPDES). Therefore, the project will have no related impacts.
It should be noted that future development within a special flood
hazard area would be required to make physical improvements to
remove the involved site from the special flood hazard area. Such
flood improvements could include alteration of a stream or river,
such as channelization, armoring of banks,' etc. However, since no
such improvements are currently proposed or under consideration,
the potential impacts of such future improvements are too
speculative to evaluate at this time. Regardless, at the time such
future improvements are proposed, they will be subject to
individual environmental review on a project -by -project basis.
g. -i.) No Impact — The proposed changes to Floodplain Management
Ordinance (Chapter 10.06 of the Municipal Code) will not remove
any of the floodplain requirements. The proposed changes include
additional and modified definitions, updates and additional
provisions. The intent of the changes in ordinance are to clarify
the procedures and policy that must be followed when
developments within the 100 year floodplain are proposed. The
proposed amendments will bring the Municipal Code into
substantial compliance with the State's Model Floodplain
Ordinance. In addition, the proposed amendment would not alter
or change any Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate
Map and does not include any development activities. Further, the
proposed amendment includes a provision that all Letter of Map
Revisions (LOMR) and Conditional Letters of Map Revisions
(CLOMR) be obtained from FEMA, if applicable, prior to the
City's issuance of a building permit. As such, the project would
have no related impacts.
Page 24 of 28
j. -m.) No Impact — The proposed changes to the Floodplain
Management Ordinance will not have any impact: 1) caused by
inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow, 2) changes in surface
water and/or groundwater, 3) modification of a wash, channel
creek or river, or 4) runoff of Stormwater Management systems.
As mentioned previously, the proposed project is an amendment
for a Floodplain Management Ordinance, and will not be
responsible for any development impacts. The proposed
amendments will bring the Municipal Code into substantial
compliance with the State's Model Floodplain Ordinance. The
amendment does not create any changes to any Clean Water Act
Requirements, including the National Pollutant discharge
Elimination System (NPDES). Therefore, the project will have no
related impacts.
TX. LAND USE AND
a.) No Impact — The proposed amendments will bring the Municipal
PLANNING
Code into substantial compliance with the State's Model
Floodplain Ordinance. The proposed amendment to the
Floodplain Management Ordinance -is a regulatory adjustment and
does not include any development activities at this time. No
established community would be disrupted or physically divided
due to the proposed adjustments and, therefore, no impact would
occur.
b.) No Impact — The proposed amendments will bring the Municipal
Code into substantial compliance with the State's Model
Floodplain Ordinance. The proposed amendments do not conflict
with any applicable land use plan, policy or regulations and would
have no related impacts.
c.) No Impact The proposed Municipal Code modifications propose
no alterations to any local or regional habitat conservation plan or
natural community conservation. In addition, no development
activities are included with the amendments. Therefore, the
project would have no adverse impacts on conservation plans.
X. MINERAL AND
a: -c.) No Impact — The City of Santa Clarita is rich in mineral
(ENERGY
resources. Gold mining and oil production historically have been
RESOURCES
the principal mineral extraction activities in and around the Santa
Clarita Valley. Other minerals found in the planning area include
construction aggregate, titanium, and tuff. Mineral resources and
extraction areas are shown in Exhibit OS -5 of the City's General
Plan. The proposed amendments to the Floodplain Management
Ordinance (Chapter 10.06 of the City's Municipal Code) would
not result in an increased removal or use of any mineral and
energy resources. As such, the proposed modifications to the
Page 25 of 28
Floodplain Management Ordinance will not impact any known
mineral resources or energy resources in the City.
XI. NOISE
a. -d.) No Impact — The proposed modifications to the City's
Floodplain Management Ordinance will not expose persons to the
generation of excess noise levels or groundborne vibration and
would not increase ambient noise or temporary noise in the City of
Santa Clarita. The Floodplain Management Ordinance, in fact,
does not propose any development at this time that would impact
noise levels in the City. The proposed amendments may apply to
future development projects within the City., However, the
proposed amendments do not remove any noise -related regulations
and would not foreseeably lead to a change in the generation of
noise. Therefore, no impact to noise levels is anticipated with the
project.
e. -f) No .Impact — There are no airports, airfields, or airport land use
plans within the City. Therefore, the proposed amendments to the
Floodplain Management Ordinance would cause no impacts
related to airport noise.
XII. POPULATION
a. -c.) No Impact — The proposed amendments to Chapter 10.06 of
AND HOUSING
the Municipal Code would not induce substantial population
growth in the City, either directly or indirectly, nor would any of
the proposed activities cause displacement of existing homes or
people. The proposed project is a regulatory adjustment and does
not include any development activities at this time. The proposed
amendments to Chapter 10.06 of the Municipal Code would not
alter the City's population projections and are consistent with the
City's General Plan. Therefore, the project would have no impacts
to population and housing.
XIII. PUBLIC
a)i. No Impact — The - proposed amendments to Floodplain
SERVICES
Management Ordinance of the Municipal Code reflect changes in
procedures made by the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA). Since the proposed Floodplain Management Ordinance
amendments do not include any physical development that would
increase the population of the City of Santa Clarita at this time, the
proposed changes would have no impact on fire protection
services. Any future development would remain subject to
development fees. As such, the project would have no impacts on
fire services.
a)ii. No Impact — The proposed amendments to Floodplain
Management Ordinance of the Municipal Code reflect changes in
procedures made by the Federal Emergency Management Agency
Page 26 of 28
(FEMA). Since the proposed Floodplain Management Ordinance
amendments do not include any physical development that would
increase the population of the City of Santa Clarita at this time, the
proposed changes would have no impact on police services. Any
future development would remain subject to development fees. As
such, the project would have no impacts on police services.
a)iii. No Impact — The proposed amendments to Floodplain
Management Ordinance of the Municipal Code reflect changes in
procedures made by the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA). Since the proposed Floodplain Management Ordinance
amendments do not include any physical development that would
increase the population of the City of Santa Clarita at this time, the
proposed changes would have no impact on school services. In
addition, any future development would remain subject to school
development fees, which are established to compensate for growth.
As such, the project would have no impacts on school services.
a)iv. No Impact — The proposed amendments to Floodplain
Management Ordinance of the Municipal Code reflect changes in
procedures made by the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA). Since, the proposed Floodplain Management Ordinance
amendments do not include any physical development that would
increase the population of the City of Santa Clarita at this time, the
proposed changes would have no impact on public parks. In
addition, any future development would remain subject to park
impact fees, which are established to compensate for growth.
XIV. RECREATION
a. -b.) No Impact — The proposed changes to the Floodplain
Management Ordinance will not have any impact on recreational
amenities within the City of Santa Clarita. The proposed project is
a regulatory adjustment and does not include any development
activities at this time. As such, no impact to recreation would be
caused by the proposed Floodplain Management Ordinance
modifications.
XV.
a. -b.) No Impact — The proposed amendments will bring the
TRANSPORTATION /
Municipal Code into substantial compliance with the State's
TRAFFIC
Model Floodplain Ordinance. The proposed project would have
no developmental impacts that would cause an increase in traffic
load and capacity on street systems. Therefore, the proposed
Municipal Code amendment would not result in any new or
different traffic impacts. ,
c. -h.) No Impact — The project would have no impacts on City traffic
systems including emergency routes, parking capacity, pedestrian
Page 27 of 28
or bicycle routes, air traffic patters, or increased hazards due to a
design feature or incompatible use. The proposed amendments
will bring the Municipal Code into substantial compliance with the
State's Model Floodplain Ordinance. The proposed amendments
will not have any changes to the Circulation Element of the City's
General Plan, the City's roadway design and parkway standards, or
any adopted policies, plans, and programs supporting alternative
transportation. Therefore, the project would have no associated
impacts.
XVI. UTILITIES AND
a. -g.) No Impact — The proposed amendment to Chapter 10.06 of the
SERVICE SYSTEMS
Municipal Code does not include any development at this time.
Therefore, the project would not result in the construction of new
water or wastewater facilities, expansion of existing facilities, alter
drainage patterns, or affect water treatment services; and,
furthermore, no impacts to landfill capacity would occur. Any
subsequent development would be required to comply with the
City's General Plan and the requirements of the Regional Water
Quality Control Board and all applicable utility purveyors.
Compliance with these requirements would ensure all federal, state
and local statutes and imposed regulations are met. Therefore, no
impacts to utilities or service systems would occur.
XVII. MANDATORY
a. -c.) No Impact — The project will have no impact on the
FINDINGS OF
environment that would lead to a substantial reduction in habitat of
SIGNIFICANCE
a fish or wildlife species, or reduce or restrict the number of rare,
threatened or endangered species. The proposed amendments will
•
bring the Municipal Code into substantial compliance with the
State's Model Floodplain Ordinance. The proposed amendments
do not remove any established City regulations that protect any
plant and animal species. Due to the nature of the proposed
amended Floodplain Management Ordinance, the proposal would
not contribute to any cumulative impacts and would not cause
environmental effects that would adversely affect humans. Rather,
the purpose of the Municipal Code amendment is to promote the
public health, safety and general welfare and to minimize public
and private losses due to flood conditions in specific areas by
legally enforceable regulations applied uniformly thought the
community to all publicly and privately owned land within flood
prone areas. Therefore, the proposed project would have no
impacts that could result in a Mandatory Findings of Significance.
Page 28 of 28
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA AMENDING TITLE 13 OF THE SANTA CLARITA
MUNICIPAL CODE MODIFYING DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL
DRIVE APPROACHES AND CONSTRUCTION ON NEW OR RECENTLY
REHABILITATED ROADWAYS
WHEREAS, the City has adopted standards for driveway widths for single and
multi -family residences with two -car garages but does not address driveway widths for single and
multi -family residences with three -car garages;
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments include adopting standards for driveway widths
for single and multi -family residents with three -car garages;
WHEREAS, the City has experienced substantial growth including extensive additions
and improvements to the City roadways resulting in encroachments into newly constructed or
rehabilitated roadways;
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments limit encroachments into newly constructed or
rehabilitated roadways, as well as providing provisions for enhanced paving requirements to
ensure proper repair, function, and to reduce aesthetic impacts should encroachment be
necessary;
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments are consistent with and further implement the
Goals and Policies of the City of Santa Clarita General Plan;
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita conducted a duly noticed public
hearing on June 24, 2008, at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, CA 91355.
Notice of the time, place, and purpose of the aforementioned meeting was duly noticed in
accordance with Government Code 65090. At this meeting, the City Council considered the staff
report, staff presentation, and public testimony on the proposed amendments, introduced the
ordinance by the City Council to modify the Unified Development Code and passed the
ordinance to a second reading on July 8, 2008.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, DOES
HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The proposed amendments to the Santa Clarita Municipal Code are
consistent with the City of Santa Clarita General Plan.
SECTION 2. The proposed amendments to Title 13 of the Santa Clarita Municipal Code
are hereby adopted as follows:
Chapter 13.16
CONSTRUCTION WORK
13.16.060 Driveways - Width Specifications.
The width of an individual driveway shall be calculated as, the net width, exclusive of side slopes
and returns, measured along the line of the curb or centerline of the highway. The width of an
individual driveway shall be not less than ten (10) feet and shall not exceed in width:
A. Twenty (20) feet if the driveway serves 2 -car residential or apartment garages. Thirty (30)
feet if the driveway serves 3 -car residential or apartment garages;
Chapter 13.18
EXCAVATIONS AND ENCROACHMENTS
13.18.035 Restrictions on New and Rehabilitated City Roadways.
Except for emergency situations, and at the discretion of the City Engineer, no encroachments
will be allowed in a street for a period of five (5) years following new construction or if a
rehabilitation/overlay of the street has been performed. No encroachments will be allowed in a
street for a period of two (2) years after slurry has been performed. In the event an encroachment
is approved, repairs to the pavement must be constructed per the Expanded Pavement
Requirements in the City's Encroachment Permit Policy.
SECTION 3. That if any portion of this Ordinance is held to be invalid, that portion shall
be stricken and severed, and the remaining portions shall be unaffected and remain in full force
and effect.
SECTION 4. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect thirty (30) days from its
passage and adoption.
SECTION 5. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage of this Ordinance and shall cause
the same to be published as required by law.
2
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 24 day of M, 2008.
MAYOR
ATTEST:
CITY CLERK
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
I, Sharon L. Dawson, CMC, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that
the foregoing Ordinance No. 08 *** was regularly introduced and placed upon its first reading
at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 24th day of M, 2008. That thereafter, said
Ordinance was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 0 day
of 21, 2008, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
AND I FURTHER CERTIFY that the foregoing is the original of Ordinance No.
and was published in The Signal newspaper in accordance with State Law (G.C. 40806).
CITY CLERK
4
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
CERTIFICATION OF
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE
I, Sharon L. Dawson, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that this is a true
and correct copy of the original Ordinance No. 08 - , adopted by the City Council of the City
of Santa Clarita, CA onh , 2008, which is now on file in my office.
Witness my hand and seal of the City of Santa Clarita, California, this day of
)20—.
Sharon L. Dawson, CMC
City Clerk
By
Susan Caputo
Deputy City Clerk
W
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA APPROVING MASTER CASE 08-038, UNIFIED
DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT 08-001, AMENDING TITLE 16 AND 17 (THE
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE) OF THE SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE AND
ADOPTING A NEGATIVE DECLARATION
WHEREAS, the City of Santa Clarita General Plan requires the implementation of the
City of Santa Clarita Unified Development Code (UDC) to be in compliance with the
Government Code of the State of California;
WHEREAS, the City of Santa Clarita Planning Division conducts an annual review of the
UDC, proposing amendments to keep consistent with state law, provide clarification, keep
current with current development trends and make the UDC more user friendly;
WHEREAS, the City of Santa Clarita Planning Division has initiated Unified
Development Code Amendment 08-001 (Master Case 08-038) to modify various sections of Title
16 and Title 17 of the City of Santa Clarita Municipal Code;
WHEREAS, Unified Development Code Amendment 08-001 includes various
modifications to the UDC attached as Exhibit "A", (the project);
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments are consistent with and further implement the
Goals and Policies of the City of Santa Clarita General Plan;
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing on the
project on May 20, 2008, at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, CA 91355.
Notice of the time, place, and purpose of the aforementioned meeting was duly noticed in
accordance with Government Code 65090. At this meeting, the Planning Commission adopted
Resolution P08-10, recommending that the City Council adopt an ordinance approving Master
Case 08-038, Unified Development Code Amendment 08-001 and adopt the Negative
Declaration prepared for the project.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita conducted a duly noticed public
hearing on the project on June 24, 2008, at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita,
CA 91355. Notice of the time, place, and purpose of the aforementioned meeting was duly
noticed in accordance with Government Code 65090. At this meeting, the City Council
considered the staff report, staff presentation, and public testimony on the proposed amendments,
introduced the ordinance by the City Council to modify the Unified Development Code and
passed the ordinance to a second reading on July 8, 2008.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, DOES
HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The proposed amendments to the Santa Clarita Unified Development Code
are consistent with the City of Santa Clarita General Plan.
SECTION 2. The proposed amendments to the Santa Clarita Unified Development Code
identified in Exhibit "A" are hereby adopted.
SECTION 3. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT FINDINGS. Based
upon the foregoing facts and findings in the Initial Study prepared for the project, the City
Council further finds, approves, and determines as follows:
a. An Initial Study and a Negative Declaration have been prepared for this project in
compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
b. The Initial Study has been circulated for review and comment by affected governmental
agencies and the public and all comments received, if any, have been considered. The
document was posted and advertised on April 18, 2008, in accordance with CEQA. The
public review period was open from April 18, 2008, through May 20, 2008.
C. Staff found that there were no impacts created as a result of the proposed project and a
Negative Declaration has been prepared for the project in accordance with the CEQA.
The Negative Declaration reflects the independent judgment of the City of Santa Clarita.
d. The location of the documents and other material which constitutes the record of
proceedings upon which the decision of the City Council is based is the Master Case
08-038 project file within the Community Development Department and is in the custody
of the Director of Community Development.
SECTION 4. That if any portion of this Ordinance is held to be invalid, that portion shall
be stricken and severed, and the remaining portions shall be unaffected and remain in full force
and effect.
SECTION 5. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect thirty (30) days from its
passage and adoption.
SECTION 6. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage of -this Ordinance and shall cause
the same to be published as required by law.
2
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 24th day of June, 2008. ,
MAYOR
ATTEST:
CITY CLERK
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
I, Sharon L. Dawson, CMC, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify
that the foregoing Ordinance No. 08- was regularly introduced and,placed
upon its first reading at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 24th day of June, 2008.
That thereafter, said Ordinance was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City
Council on the 8th day of July, 2008, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: - COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
40806)
AND I FURTHER CERTIFY that the foregoing is the original of Ordinance No.
and was published in The Signal newspaper in accordance with State Law (G.C.
1
3
CITY CLERK
STATE OF CALIFORNIA I )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
CERTIFICATION OF
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE
I, Sharon L. Dawson, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that this is a true
and correct copy of the original Ordinance No. 08- 1 , adopted by the City
Council of the City of Santa Clarita, CA on July 8, 2008, which is now on file in my office.
Witness my hand and seal of the City of Santa Clarita, California, this _ day of ,
20 .
Sharon L. Dawson, CMC
City Clerk
By
Susan Caputo
Deputy City Clerk
0
EXHIBIT "A"
2008 Unified Development Code Amendments
Title 16
SUBDIVISIONS
16.07.020 Restricted Residential Access
A. If a street or street system is restricted to a single route of access to a highway shown on the
Master Plan of Arterial Highways, except for a limited secondary highway, which is maintained
and open to public travel, whether at the point of intersection with the highway or at some point
distant from the highway, unless otherwise approved by the Fire Department, the street or street
system shall serve not more than:
1. One hundred fifty (150) dwelling units where the restriction is designed to be
permanent and the street or street system does not traverse a wild land area which is
subject to hazard from brush or forest fire;
2. Seventy-five (75) dwelling units where the restriction is designed to be permanent and
the street or street system traverses a wild land area which is subject to hazard from
brush or forest fire;
3. Three hundred (300) dwelling units where the restriction is subject to removal through
future development.
B. If the roadway paving on that portion of the street or street system forming the restriction is
less than thirty-six (36) feet in width and is not to be widened to thirty-six (36) feet or more as a
part of the development of the division of land, the permitted number of dwelling units shall be
reduced by twenty-five (25) percent if the pavement is twenty-eight (28) feet or more in width,
and by fifty (50) percent if the pavement is less than twenty-eight (28) feet in width. If the
roadway paving on that portion of the street or street system forming the restriction is sixty-four
(64) feet or more in width and the restriction is subject to removal through future development,
the permitted number of dwelling units may be increased to six hundred (600). In no event shall
the pavement width be less than twenty (20) feet. The provisions of this suhseetion (B) section
shall not apply to divisions of land referred to in Section 16.21.040, to divisions of land approved
pursuant to Section 16.21.060, or to minor land divisions.
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Exhibit "A"
Title 17
ZONING
Chapter 17.01
ADMINISTRATION
Sections:
17.01.010
Scope.
17.01.020
Purpose.
17.01.030
Private Agreements.
17.01.040
Repeal of Conflicting Development Codes.
17.01.050
Interpretation of Language.
17.01.060
Similar Use Determination.
17.01.070
General Plan Consistency.
17.01.080 Enforcement.
17.01.090 Development Applications.
17.01.100 Public Hearings and Notifications.
17.01.110 Action by the Director.
17.01.120 Action by the Planning Commission.
17.01.130 Action by the City Council.
17.01.135 Appeals.
17.01.140 Revocation or Modification of a Permit or Other Entitlement for Cause.
17.01.150 Automatic Revocation of a Permit or Other Entitlement.
17.01.160 Expiration and Extension.
17.01.170 Expansions of Conditionally Permitted Uses and Structures.
17.01.135 Appeals.
An appellant may submit a written request to withdraw their appeal any time up to 14 days prior
to the public hearing scheduled for the appeal, in which case the appeal shall not move forward
and the decision that was the subject of the appeal shall be the final decision. If an appeal is not
withdrawn by the close of business on the 14`h day prior to the scheduled appeal hearing, the
hearing shall be conducted by the reviewing body.
Chapter 17.03
PERMITS AND APPLICATIONS
Sections:
17.03.010 Development Agreements.
17.03.015 Specific Plans.
17.03.020 Zone Changes and Amendments.
17.03.025 Master Plans.
17.03.030 Tentative Subdivision Maps.
17.03.040 Conditional Use Permits and Minor Use Permits.
17.03.045 Nonconstruction Conditional Use Permits and Nonconstruction Minor Use
Permits.
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Exhibit "A"
17.03.050
Variances and Adjustments.
17.03.060
Development Review.
17.03.070
Lot Line Adjustments.
17.03.080
Temporary Use Permits.
17.03.090
Home Occupation Permits.
17.03.100
Grading Permits.
17.03.110
Administrative Permit.
17.03.120
Hillside Development Review.
17.03.125
Ridgeline Alteration Permit.
17.03.130
Architectural Review.
17.03.140
Oak Tree Permit.
17.03.010 Development Agreements
D. Action of the Planning Commission. Prior to the public hearing, the Director of
Community Development shall investigate the application and prepare a written report. The
report shall be transmitted to the Planning Commission and the applicant at least three (3)
calendar days prior to the public hearing. The Planning Commission action shall be in the form
of a ,-eeowA,,ondatie of .,,. pr-aval b resolution, recommending that the City Council approve or
deny as the development agreement as such was applied for or in modified form. if the aefion by
resolution of the Planning COM i i I . to deny the appheation, said aetion shall be fin
unless appe-Aled- i-;-;- 1141,; -4 -ting to the City Ceeneil within fifteen (15) ealefidar- days.
F. City Council Action. After receipt of the Commission's recommendation of approval or
following an .,appal of a denial by the Planning Gammis , the City Council shall hold a public
hearing and shall give notice of the public hearing pursuant to the procedure set forth in Section
17.01.100. The City Council may approve, modify or disapprove the development agreement.
Any modification of the development agreement by the City Council which was not previously
considered by the Commission during its hearing may be referred to the Planning Commission
for report and recommendation prior to final action by the City Council. The Commission shall
not be required to hold a public hearing thereon. Approval by the City Council of a development
agreement shall be by ordinance.
17.03.015 Specific Plans.
A. Purpose. The specific plan (SP) zone is to achieve the following purposes:
1. To promote and protect the public health, safety and welfare.
2. To implement the objectives and policies of the General Plan.
3. To safeguard and enhance environmental amenities, such as oak trees and significant
ridgelines, and enhance the quality of development.
4. To attain the physical, social and economic advantage resulting from comprehensive and
orderly planned use of land resources.
5. To lessen congestion and assure convenience of access; to secure safety from fire, flood
and other dangers; to provide for adequate light, air, sunlight and open space; to promote
and encourage conservation of scarce resources; to, facilitate the creation of a convenient,
attractive and harmonious community; to attain a desirable balance of residential and
emplo m�pportunities; and to expedite the provision of adequate and essential public
services.
Page 3 of 32
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Exhibit "A"
6. To facilitate development within the City in accordance with the General Plan by
permitting_ greater flexibility and, consequently, more creative and imaginative designs
for large-scale development projects thaneg nerally is possible under conventional zoning
regulations.
7. To promote more economical and efficient use of the land while providing a harmonious
variety of housing choices and commercial and industrial activities, a high level of urban
amenities and preservation of natural and scenic qualities of open space.
8. To provide a process for initiation, review and regulation of large-scale comprehensively
planned communities that affords the maximum flexibility to the developer within the
context of an overall development program and specific, phased development plans
coordinated with the provision of necessary public services and facilities.
B. Application. Applications and fees shall be submitted pursuant to Section 17.01.090 of this
development code.
C. Hearing and Notification. The Planning Commission and the City Council shall each hold
a public hearing on every complete application for a specific plan. The hearing shall be set
and notice given as prescribed in Section 17.01.100.
D. Findings. The Planning Commission may recommend that the City Council make one of
the followingfindings indings for a specific plan:
1. The proposed specific plan is consistent with the General Plan and development policies
of the City; or
2. The proposed specific plan is not consistent with the General Plan and development
policies of the City and den the he application or continue it to allow for changes to be made
to make the application consistent.
G. Final Action. The City Council's action to approve or deny is final.
H. New Application. Following the denial of an application for a specific plan, an application
or request for the same or substantially the same change shall not be filed within one
calendar year of the date of denial.
I. Change of Zoning Map. A specific plan shall be adopted by ordinance and shall become
the zoning for the property. A specific plan shall be indicated b lig on the zoning map
the number of the ordinance amending the map. The City Clerk shall notify the County
Assessor of any changes of zone within ninety (90) calendar days of adoption by the City
Council.
J. Specific Plan Amendments.
1. A specific plan may be amended in the same manner as provided for adoption of a
specific plan by this section.
2. An amendment to a specific plan may be initiated by the City Council. An amendment
may also be initiated b t�pplicant for the specific plan zone or a successor thereto,
provided such applicant or successor has, at the time of application for an amendment, a
continuing controlling interest in development or management of uses within the specific
plan zone.
17.03.025 Master Plans.
C. Applicability. The Director may require public, semi-public, or private uses of any size in
the City to submit a master plan, appropriate environmental documents and plans including but
not limited to landscape, transportation and building, as required by this chapter. Permitted and
conditionally permitted uses may be included in an application for a master plan. The
Page 4 of 32
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Exhibit "A"
submission of annlications for additional use hermits will not be reauired provided that uses
proposed are consistent with the provisions of the master plan.
1. Projects That Are Consistent. After a master development plan is approved, proposed
projects consistent with the plan, as determined by the Director, shall not require a conditional
use permit or a minor use permit, but shall comply with all other requirements of this code.
2. Projects That Are Inconsistent. If a project that is inconsistent with an approved
master plan is proposed for a site located within an area covered by such plan, an application
shall be filed for an amendment to the plan as authorized by this chapter.
G. Findings.
plan-. The Council shall make the following findings for the approval of a master plan:
a. That the proposed location, size, design, and operating characteristics of the proposed use is
in accordance with the purpose of this development code, the purpose of the zone in which the
site is located, the Santa Clarita General Plan, and the development policies and standards of the
City; and
b. That the location, size, design, and operating characteristics of the proposed use will be
compatible with and will not adversely affect or be materially detrimental to adjacent uses,
residents, buildings, structures, or natural resources, with consideration given to:
(1) Harmony in scale, bulk, coverage, and density;
(2) The availability of public facilities, services and utilities;
(3) The harmful effect, if any, upon desirable neighborhood character;
(4) The generation of traffic and the capacity and physical character of surrounding streets;
(5) The suitability of the site for the type and intensity of use or development which is
proposed;
(6) The adverse significant effect, if any, upon environmental quality and natural resources
which cannot be mitigated unless the approving authority adopts a statement of
overriding considerations; and
c. That the proposed location, size, design, and operating characteristics of the proposed use
and the conditions under which it would be operated or maintained will not be detrimental to the
public health, safety, or welfare, or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the
vicinity; and
d. That the proposed use will comply with each of the applicable provisions of this code,
except for an approved variance or adjustment.
17.03.050 Variances and Adjustments
E. Variance Findings. The Dife-„*,.,. of Planning Commission may grant a variance of
adjustment -to a property development standard prescribed by this development code, as the
variance ^r adjustme was applied for or in modified form, if, on the basis of the application and
the evidence submitted, the approving authority makes the following findings:
1. That, because of special circumstances applicable to the property (size, shape,
topography, location or surroundings) or the intended use of the property, the strict
application of the development code deprives the property of privileges enjoyed by
other properties in the vicinity under identical zoning classification; and
2. That granting a variance eF . djus*...o„* is necessary for the preservation and
enjoyment of a substantial property right possessed by other property in the same
vicinity and zone and denied to the property for which the variance is
sought; and
Page 5 of 32
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Exhibit "A"
3. That granting the variance will not be materially detrimental to the
public health, safety or welfare, or injurious to the property or improvements in such
vicinity and zone in which the property is located; and
4. That granting of this variance does not constitute a special privilege
inconsistent with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity and zone in
which such property is situated; and
5. That granting of this variance Or . djus*,,.,o..* does not allow a use or activity which is
prohibited by the zoning regulation governing the parcel of property; and
6. That granting the variance will not be inconsistent with the City of
Santa Clarita General Plan.
F. Adjustment Findings. The Director may grant an adjustment to a property development
standard prescribed by this development code, as the adjustment was applied for or in modified
form, if, on the basis of the application and the evidence submitted, the approving authority
makes the following findings:
1. That granting an adjustment is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a
substantial property ri hit possessed by other property in the same vicinity and zone
which would otherwise be denied to the property for which the adjustment is sought;
and
2. That granting the adjustment will not be materially detrimental to the public health,
safety or welfare, or injurious to the property or improvements in such vicinity and
zone in which the property is located.
F.G. Signs—Additional Findings. The Director, in the case of an adjustment, or the Planning
Commission, in the case of a variance, may grant a variance or adjustment for sign location and
other similar performance standards, as the variance or adjustment was applied for or in modified
form, if on the basis of the application and the evidence submitted, the approving authority
makes findings of fact established in subsection (E) for variances and subsection (F) for
adjustments of this section and finds that the granting of the variance or adjustment will not
detract from the attractiveness or orderliness of the City's appearance or the surrounding
neighborhood.
H. Parking—Additional Findings. The Director of Community Development may grant
an adjustment or the Planning Commission may grant a variance to a regulation prescribed by
this development code with respect to off-street parking facilities if, on the basis of the
application and the evidence submitted, the approving authority makes findings established in
subsection (E) and (F) of this section and makes the additional findings:
1. That neither present nor anticipated future traffic volumes generated by the use of
the site or the uses of the sites in the vicinity reasonably require strict or literal
interpretation and enforcement of the specified regulation; and
2. That the granting of the variance or adjustment will not result in the parking or
loading of vehicles on public streets in such a manner as to interfere with the free
flow of traffic on the streets.
H-. I. Expiration and Extension. An extension of a variance or adjustment may be granted
pursuant to Section 17.01.160.
J. Final Action. The decision of the approving authority is final and effective within fifteen
(15) calendar days unless an appeal is filed, in writing, in accordance with Section 17.01.110 for
Director's action and 17.01.120 for Planning Commission action.
Page 6 of 32
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Exhibit "A"
K. New Application. Following the denial of a variance or adjustment application, no
application for the same or substantially the same variance or adjustment on the same or
substantially the same site shall be filed within one year of the date of denial of the variance or
adjustment.
K-. L. Variance or Adjustment Related to Plans Submitted. Unless otherwise specified at the
time a variance or adjustment is granted, such variance or adjustment shall apply only to the
specific variance(s) or adjustment(s) requested by the applicant as shown on plans and drawings
submitted as part of the application.
17.03.080 Temporary Use Permits. '
A. Applicability. Where this section prescribes regulations more restrictive than the zone in
which a use or conditional use is permitted, the provisions of this section shall apply. Temporary
events that are conducted on public property or within the public right-of-way shall be subject to
approval of the Director of Parks, Recreation, and Community Services. The following
temporary uses are permitted in all zones, subject to the following regulations and with the
approval of the Director of Community Development (except as otherwise noted) and other
necessary permits and licenses.
16. Temporary uses in excess of one (1) year, but less than five (5) years will be subject to a
public hearing before the Planning Commission. The public hearing shall be noticed in
''accordance with Section 17.01.100 of this code. The Planning Commission may impose
conditions to safeguard and protect the public health, safety, and promote the general
welfare. The Planning Commission must make the following findings for an extended TUP:
a. That adequate public and private facilities such as utilities, parking spaces, and traffic
circulation measures are, or will be provided for the proposed use;
b. That the proposed location, size, design, and operating characteristics of the proposed
use is in accordance with the purpose of this development code, the purpose of the zone
in which the site is located, the Santa Clarita General Plan, and the development policies
and standards of the City;
c. That the use and its associated structures and facilities will not be detrimental to the
public health or safety, the general welfare, or the environment; and
d. That the use and facilities will not adversely affect or conflict with adjacent uses or
impede the normal development of surrounding properties.
E. Extension or Modification of Limitations. Upon written application, the Community
Development Director may extend the time within which temporary uses may be operated, or
may modify the limitations under which such uses may be conducted if the Director determines
that such extension or modification is in accordance with this code. Unless otherwise noted, any
extension of a temporary use beyond a cumulative duration of one year shall require notification
consistent with Section 17.01.100(D)(1). Should a reasonable case be presented to the Director
of Community Development that there is a public nuisance created as a result of the TUP,
additional review in the form of a noticed public hearing before the Planning Commission may
be required. At that hearing, additional conditions may b�posed to mitigate any nuisance, or
the TUP may be revoked in accordance with the provisions of this code.
17.03.090 Home Occupation Permits
B. Applicability. The following is a list of uses subject to the approval of a Home Occupation
Permit in residential zones within the City:
Page 7 of 32
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Exhibit "A"
1. Telecommuting.
2. Business and professional offices, excluding medical, dental, and similar uses that involve
regular patient visits to the site, provided that no retail sales transactions are made on the
premises and that no employees, customers, or clients visit the site except as specifically allowed
by this section. Typical examples of such general business office activities include research,
report writing, bookkeeping, sending and receiving of mail, telephone calls, electronic facsimile
communications and electronic communications by computer.
3. Instruction in academia, music, voice, art dance, or similar activities with no more than one
pupil receiving instruction at any given time.
4. Activities associated with the work of artists, sculptors, authors, and composers.
5. Activities associated with the work of dressmakers, seamstresses, and tailors.
6. Home crafts, such as model making, rug weaving, quilting and needlework, and wood
working, limited to the uses of tools and equipment commonly available for personal residential
use, but specifically excluding cabinet making_
7. Home based direct sales distributions businesses in which sales, merchandise distribution, and
product demonstrations are conducted either off-site or by telephone, mail, or other electronic
communication.
8. Other uses as determined by the Director of Community Development.
C. Prohibited Uses. The following businesses shall not be operated out of a home and shall not
be permitted by home occupation permits: alcohol sales, food preparation, firearm sales, on-site
massage therapists, hairdressers, retail sales, vehicle storage, vehicle sales and vehicle repair,
commercial kennels, commercial stables, breeding facilities and forensic testing,
B-. D. Conditions. Home occupations shall be subject to the following conditions:
hence—eeeupatie leehel sales, feed pr-epafatien, fireafm sues, on its --massage
therapists, haiFdf-Ossefs, Fetail sales, vehiele storage, vehiele sales and vehiele repair-, eemmer-eial
kennels, eemmer-eial stables, breeding faeilities and for-ensio testing.
17.03.125 Ridy-eline Alteration Permit
A. Purpose. In an effort to achieve the City's objective to preserve the ridgelines within the
City limits for the public health, safety and welfare for the long-term benefit of the community,
maintenance of the unique visual characteristics, resources and ridgeline integrity, and to achieve
a higher quality of life for its residents, the ridgeline preservation (RP) zoning overlay
classification was established.
B. Application. Applications and fees shall be submitted pursuant to Section 17.01.090 of this
development code.
C. Hearings and Notification. Public hearings shall be set and notice given as prescribed in
Section 17.01.100.
D. Approving Authority. The Planning Commission and the City Council shall each hold a
public hearingfor or a project in the RP overlay zone. The Planning Commission's review shall be
advisory to the City Council and shall include a recommendation on the required finding
City Council shall be the approving authority for a ridgeline alteration permit.
E. Findings. Approval of a ridgeline alteration permit for encroachment onto an identified
ridgeline shall be permitted when, following a public hearing, the City Council issues written
findings determining the following:
Page 8 of 32
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Exhibit "A"
1. The proposed use is in conformance with the various goals and policies of the General
Plan.
2. The use or development will not be materially detrimental to the visual character of the
neighborhood or community, nor will it endanger the public health,/safety oreg neral
welfare.
3. The appearance of the use or development will not be different than the appearance of
adjoining ridgeline areas so as to cause depreciation of the ridgeline appearance in the
vicinity.
4. The establishment of the proposed use or development will not impede the normal and
orderly development and improvement of surrounding_ property, nor encourage
inappropriate encroachments to the ridgeline area.
5. The proposed use or development will not violate the visual integrity of the ridgeline
area as has been demonstrated through precise illustration and depiction required in
Section 17.80.030.
6. The use or development minimizes the effects of grading to the extent practicable to
ensure that the natural character of the ridgeline is preserved.
7. The proposed use or development maintains the appearance of natural ridgelines with
uses and development consistent with density requirements established in Section
17.80.035.
8. The proposed use or development utilizes or creates minimally invasiveagr ding
techniques, creates visual interest in the project site design and/or spacing of
development that significantly exceeds the minimum standards identified in the Cityo
Santa Clarita Hillside Development Guidelines.
9. The proposed use or development is designed to mimic the existing topography to the
greatest extent possible through the use of landform contour grading,
10. The proposed use or development demonstrates creative and imaginative site design
resultin inaproject that will complement the community character and provide a
direct benefit to current and future community residents of not onlyproposed use
or development, but the residents of the City of Santa Clarita as a whole.
11. The proposed use or development does not alter natural landmarks and prominent
natural features of the ridgelines.
12. The provisions and implementation of this section does not create an undue economic
hardship or deny the minimal use of the land.
F. Final Action. The action of the City Council to approve, approve with conditions and/or
modifications, or deny the ridgeline alteration permit is final.
17.03.140 Oak Tree Permit
A. Purpose. The purpose of this section is to protect and preserve oak trees in the Citv and to
provide regulatory measures designed to accomplish this purpose.
B. Application. Applications and fees shall be submitted pursuant to Section 17.01.090 of this
development code.
C. Hearings and Notification. Public hearings shall be set and notice given as prescribed in
Section 17.01.100.
D. Approving Authority. The Director may approve, deny or conditionally approve a request
for the removal of three (3) or fewer oak trees on a single parcel except for heritage oak trees as
provided herein. The Director may approve, deny or conditionally approve a request for the
Page 9 of 32
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Exhibit "A"
removal of five (5) or fewer trees when the applicant is the owner of a single-family residence
and the trees in question are on the applicant's lot. The Director may also approve, deny or
conditionally approve a request for pruning by a certified arborist or encroachment involving an
unlimited number of oak trees. The decision of the Director may be appealed to the Planning
Commission and the Commission's decision may be appealed to the City Council pursuant to the
provisions of this code. The Director may refer any request for an oak tree permit directly to the
Planning Commission if the Director determines that special circumstances may exist with
regard to the status of the tree(s), special community interest, or exceptional aesthetic,
environmental or historical value. Any request for removal of four (4) or more oak trees or six
(6) or more oak trees on a property_ occupied by a single-family residence or one or more
heritage oak trees on a single parcel shall be reviewed by the Planning Commission who may
approve, deny or conditionally approve such request. The decision of the Planning Commission
may be appealed to the City Council pursuant to the provisions of this development code.
E. Findings. The approving authority shall make one or more of the following findings before
granting an oak tree permit:
1. The condition or location of the oak tree(s) requires cutting to maintain or aid its
health, balance or structure.
2. The condition of the tree(s) with respect to disease, danger of falling, proximity to
existing1pedestrian walkways or interference with utility services cannot be
controlled or remedied through reasonable preservation and/or preventative procedures
and practices.
3. It is necessary to remove, relocate, prune, cut or encroach into the protected zone of an
oak tree to enable reasonable use of the subject property which is otherwise prevented
by the presence of the tree and no reasonable alternative can be accommodated due to
the unique physical development constraints of the property.
4. The approval of the request will not be contrary to or in conflict with the general
purpose and intent of the Oak Tree Preservation Ordinance.
5. No heritage oak tree shall be removed unless one or more of the above findings are
made and the decisionmaker also finds that the heritage oak tree's continued existence
would prevent any reasonable development of the property and that no reasonable
alternative can be accommodated due to the unique physical constraints of the
property. It shall further be found that the removal of such heritage oak tree will not be
unreasonably detrimental to the community and surrounding
Chapter 17.05
PRE-EXISTING LEGAL USES AND STRUCTURES
17.05.020 Continuation and Maintenance.
E. A use which does not meet the performance standards of the zone in which it is located shall
be permitted to expand in the event that the expansion does not increase the degree of
nonconformity.
F. A parking lot previously constructed with or without a surplus of parking over what was
required at the time of approval of the development shall be subject to the parking_ provisions
of Section 17.18 of this code for all new uses or structures. A narkine lot shall onlv be
Page 10 of 32
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Exhibit "A"
considered to have a surplus of parking if it complies with the current parking provisions of
Section 17.18 of this code.
G. When interpreting setbacks for a residential use in a residential zone that are legal, non-
conforming, new construction shall be permitted to maintain/continue the existing
conformity provided the structure does not further encroach into the existing setback are.
Any further encroachment into the established setback shall be considered an increase in the
degree of non -conformity and will be required to obtain the appropriate adjustment or
variance entitlement.
Chapter 17.07
DEFINITIONS
17.07.010 Definitions U
"Barnyard animal" shall mean animals including, but not limited to, cows, horses, ducks,
goats, chickens, donkeys, sheep, llamas, turkeys, pigs, and alpaca.
"Co -location" means the locating of wireless communications equipment from more than one
provider on a single building -mounted, roof -mounted, or ground -mounted wireless
communication facility. Location of wireless communications facilities on existing utility poles,
commercial buildings, or other structures where there is no increase in height and the facility is
integrated into the design of the building or structure shall be considered a co -location.
"Licensed bed" shall mean a bed for which a hospital holds a license to operate by the State
of California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD).
"Open Space" shall mean improved, unimproved, or natural land where development activity
is limited in an effort to preserve natural areas and protect sensitive habitat. Active and passive
recreational opportunities may be encouraged in open space.
Chapter 17.12
USE TYPE CLASSIFICATION
Commercial Use Types
5. Bars, Wine Bars, and Alcohol Drinking Establishments
15. Professional Offices
a_ Call Centers
Public and Semi -Public Use Types
12. Small Wind Energy System
4-2-.13. Wireless Communications Facilities
X14. Zoos
a. Zoos
b. Petting Zoos
Page 11 of 32
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Exhibit "A"
17.12.050 Commercial Use Type Classifications
5. Bars, Wine Bars, and Alcohol Drinking Establishments – includes establishments used
primarily for sale or dispensing of alcoholic beverages for on-site consumption and that are not
part of a restaurant. Such establishments shall be in accordance with the provisions of Section
17.17.040(D).
15. Professional Offices—includes professional and government offices including, but not
limited to: administrative offices, advertising agencies, attorneys, counseling services, computer
software designers, engineering services, insurance agencies, real estate agencies, and travel
agencies.
a. Call Centers - A functional area within an organization or an outsourced, separate facility
that exists solely to answer inbound or place outbound telephone calls; usually a voice operations
center that provides a frill rangegh-volume, inbound or outbound call -handling services,
including customer support, operator services, directory assistance, multilingual customer
support, credit card services, inbound and outbound telemarketing, interactive voice response
and web -based services.
b A a ,.tiling
e. Attemeys-,
d. Counseling sen,ieses-,
e. Computer- seftwar-e ;
f Engin
g. iftsur
h. Real estate ageneies-,
i. T. of
17.12.60 Industrial Use Type Classifications
12. Recycling
e. Materials Recovery Facility—includes facilities where mixed municipal solid waste
is sorted and separated, by hand or through the use of machinery, for the purpose of recovering
recyclable materials. A materials recovery facility may flat incorporate a solid waste transfer
station as an accessory use.
17.12.070 Public and Semi -Public Use Type Classifications
12. Small Wind Enemy Svstem – includes wind enerav conversion systems consisting of a wind
turbine, a tower, and associated control or conversion electronics, which will be used primarily
to reduce on-site consumption of utility power.
4-2-.13. Wireless Communications Facilities - includes commercial and private electromagnetic
and photoelectric transmission, broadcast, repeater and receiving stations for radio, television,
telegraph, telephone, cellular telephone, microwave communications and data network
communications; including commercial earth stations for satellite -based communications.
Includes antennas (dish and satellite), telecommunication towers, monopoles and equipment
buildings. Wireless communication facilities shall be in accordance with Section 17.17.040(N).
Does not include accessory structures, including home television and radio receiving antennas,
HAM radio antennas, residential satellite dishes in accordance with Section 17.17.040(I), and
communications facilities for community services provided by a public agency.
473,714. Zoos
Page 12 of 32
UDC Changes 2008
Exhibit "A"
a. Zoos — includes places where animals are kept, often in a combination of indoor and
outdoor spaces, and are viewed by the public.
b. Petting Zoos — includes an establishment designated to the keeping of domestic and
barnyard animals in a combination of indoor and/or outdoor spaces where visitors
are able to directiv interact with the animals. Admission may be free or fee based.
Page 13 of 32
UDC Changes 2008
Exhibit "A"
Chapter 17.13
PERMITTED USE CHART
Sections:
17.13.005
Generally.
17.13.010
Residential Uses
17.13.020
Commercial Use Type Classifications
17.13.030
Industrial Use Type Classifications
17.13.040
Public and Semi -Public Use Type Classifications
17.13.050
Agricultural Use Type Classifications
17.13.060
Temporary Use Type Classifications
17.13.070
Accessory Structures and Uses Use Type classifications
17.13.080
Development Activities/Miscellaneous Use Type Classification
17.13.005 Generally.
Environmental clearance must be obtained prior to the installation, operation or
development of any use. All requirements for protection of significant ecological areas, flood
hazard areas and other areas of environmental concern identified by the Santa Clarita General
Plan shall be met.
This is not a complete list; the Director of Community Development may determine that
a use not listed below is similar to a listed use and process the proposal as the similar use would
be processed.
The following uses shall be permitted where the symbol "P" appears; subject to a
conditional use permit where the symbol "C" appears; subject to a. minor use permit where the
symbol "M" appears; and prohibited where the symbol "X" appears. Numbers contained in
parentheses identify applicable notes found at the end of the Chapter.
Page 14 of 32
UDC Changes 2008
Exhibit "A"
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Chapter 17.15
PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
17.15.020 Property Development Standards: Agricultural and Residential Zones
A. Setbacks
6. Accessory Buildings and Structures.
e. Pati , I!latforms, landings, decks, pools and access stairs exceeding an average
height of one foot which do not extend above the level of the first floor, may extend
into a required side and rear yard provided:
(1) That such structures shall not be located closer than five (5) feet to any lot
line; and
(2) That such structures shall remain unenclosed on at least two (2) sides. This
provision, however, shall not preclude the placement of detachable screens.
f. Covered patios which are enclosed on more than two sides with any material
including detachable screens, glass, or plexi -glass panels shall be considered an
enclosed patio and, at the discretion of the Director, shall meet all UDC requirements
for new construction. Proposals may be subject to conditions of approval.
Consideration shall be given to whether the proposed structure will be visible from
the street or from adjacent and neighboring lots. At the discretion of the Director,
compatibility with existing structures shall be maintained including roof style,
finishes, colors, trims, and architectural themes.
Mobile or portable canopies are not permitted in the front yard or side yard setback
areas, whether proposed to be located on a driveway or otherwise.
gh.Covered patios which are enclosed on more than two (2) sides with any material
including detachable screens, glass or plexiglass panels shall be considered an
enclosed patio and, at the discretion of the Director, shall meet all UDC requirements
for new construction. Proposals may be subject to conditions of approval.
Consideration shall be given to whether the proposed structure will be visible from
the street or from adjacent and neighboring lots. At the discretion of the Director,
compatibility with existing structures shall be maintained including roof style,
finishes, colors, trims and architectural themes.
h i. Metal buildings (accessory) over two hundred (200) square feet shall require the
submittal and approval of a minor use permit. The use of metal storage containers is
prohibited in residential zones unless they meet the design standards of this code. The
temporary use of metal storage containers shall be permitted upon the issuance of a
building permit subject to the Director of Community Development per Section
17.03.080 of this code.
i -i Other structures shall be permitted in required yards as follows:
(1) Fireplace structures (attached to dwellings), buttresses, wingwalls, eaves,
cantilevered roofs, awnings, canopies, water heaters, water softeners and gas or
electric meters may be located in required interior side and rear yards; provided,
that they are located no closer than two and one-half (2.5) feet to any lot line.
(2) Ground -mounted air conditioners, swimming pool pumps, waterfalls (not
exceeding six (6) feet in height), heaters, filters and fans may be located in
required rear yards; provided, that they are located not closer than two and one-
half (2.5) feet to any lot line.
Page 16 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
(3) Unenclosed stairways and balconies above the level of the first floor
attached to the primary structure may project a maximum of five (5) feet into a
required rear yard; provided, however, that an open work railing not to exceed
three and one-half (3.5) feet in height may be installed.
(4) Swimming pools and spas are permitted in required rear'yards; provided,
that they are located not closer than five (5) feet from any property line. The
setback shall be measured from the water line of a sunken pool or spa or from the
structure of an above -ground pool or spa.
(5) Structures not exceeding one foot above ground level may be used in any
required yard.
(6) Built-in barbeques, fire pits, detached fireplaces and built-in entertainment
centers shall be five (5) feet away from property lines and less than ten (10) feet
in height, including smoke stacks and chimneys.
j -k. Guesthouses. A guesthouse is a detached accessory building located on the same
property as a legal single-family dwelling unit, providing temporary living quarters for
the temporary use by occupants of the main residence or temporary guests of the
occupants of the primary dwelling unit. Such quarters may have a bath and toilet facilities
\ but no kitchen facilities and may not be rented or otherwise used as a separate dwelling.
17.15.020.F. Mobilehomes as Temporary Residences.
4. Unless otherwise stated in Section 17.13.060 of this code, T the occupancy of vehicles,
including recreational vehicles, as a residence, temporary or permanent, is prohibited in
all residential zones.
17.15.020.J. Multifamily Residential.
8. Trash Collection Areas. The following requirements shall be met for all trash
collection areas for multifamily residential development:
a.Trash areas shall be provided for each multifamily residential building. All trash areas
not located inside a building shall be paved and located in the rear yard. Such area shall
have minimum inside dimensions .of eight (8) feet by five (5) feet, shall accommodate
source separation of recyclable materials in accordance with State requirements, and shall
be screened from view by a five (5) foot high masonry wall, an -solid gates, and a solid
roof. One trash area shall be provided for the first ten (10) residential units, and one trash
area for each additional ten (10) units, or major fraction thereof.
b. Multifamily residential developments that require individual waste collection for each
unit shall provide space for all required waste bins to be screened from public view.
17.15.040.H. Other Requirements.
11. Unless otherwise stated in Section 17.13.060 of this code, the occupancy of vehicles,
including recreational vehicles, as a residence, temporarrpermanent, is prohibited in
all commercial and industrial zones.
Page 17 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
Chapter 17.16
SPECIAL ZONES AND STANDARDS
NOTE: PERMIT PROCESSING FOR SPECIFIC PLAN APPLICATIONS IS BEING
RELOCATED TO 17.03.01 S AND IS NOT BEING REMOVED FROM THE UNIFIED
DEVELOPMENT CODE.
17.16.030 SP—Specific Plan Zone.
7 T.. implement the obj .,t:, and peheies of the Ge ,l Algin
3. Tvsafeguard and enh a enAFE)m�aefftal amenities, eh as oak trooms and
signif;, nt ridgelines ,,,1 .,h.,., e the quality development.
e , „
4. To tire-physieal, see;lam--eeenemir-advantage - resulting from
raempf:ehensive and „r,lerly planned , of land Feseur-ees.
� tsafety f
G To lose., , estio and ., rseess; om,
�. e of a
e e e
iem
flood and ether .1., to pr-ev;.le f adequate light sunlight and `„men_
to pf:amQto and a "ge eensen,ation of svuree FeSOHFe. , I - �1 -te the e -e tiea f
eenv enient,attfaefi ha nit y; to attain a desirable h.,l.,nee .,f
residentialand plo nt eAun ties; and to e*pedite the sien_ef adequate na
ee
essential publie
!. To faro l;t.,te development nt with; the City with the G ,1
v. e e , re e e
Planbypvrirt;ro6rse,te. flexibility and, ...,e:».nt.y, more nreatiye and imaginative
designs for- large-seale—development ojests than generally is possible unde
7. To pr-efnete fnefe e .,1 and eff;ent , of the land ,while pf:oviding
level .,furban amenities and p w,tio .,fn t„ .,1 and seenie. qualities of open pace.
g. To pr-ev;,le a pr-eeess fOf iniiatiOr,, Feview and r-egulatien of lafge sea4e
raempr-ehensively planned eenmnunities that a&r- s the maximum flexibility t„ the
developer- within the conte ttr of an ev •,11 development program and s :f��phased
pow.a�
development plans rdl; .,teal ;th the faeeessar-y „hl: sen,Jees and
f l;t'e
raernricr.
B-.A.Use Regulations.
1. Allowable uses in each specific plan zone shall be as established by the specific
plan.
2. Existing uses within the specific plan zone at the time of its establishment shall be
deemed allowable and incorporated in the specific plan, unless terminated,
discontinued or changed pursuant to a specific time schedule incorporated in the
specific plan.
3. Unless otherwise provided by the specific plan, public utility facilities and
publicly owned facilities shall be allowable subject to a conditional use permit.
4. Unless otherwise provided by the specific plan, accessory uses or facilities shall
be subject to the same use regulation provisions as the principal use or facility.
Page 18 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
5. Temporary uses and home occupations pursuant to the requirements of this code
shall be allowable in each specific plan zone.
EB. Property Development Standards.
1. General Requirements.
a. A specific plan zone shall include a minimum area of thirty (30) contiguous
acres, under single ownership or otherwise subject to unified planning,
construction and development by a person, corporation, or other entity. The
City Council may reduce the minimum acreage requirement in cases where the
specific plan zone provides greater protection of the goals and objectives of the
general plan.
b. A specific plan zone shall be established upon application of a property owner, ,
in accordance with procedures set forth in Section 17.03.015, and subject to the
following provisions:
(1) A specific plan shall be submitted for consideration by the City Council,
pursuant to this chapter.
(2) Determination by the Council, after considering the recommendation of the
Planning Commission, that the establishment of the zone and approval of
the specific plan shall:
(A) Provide for the development of a comprehensively planned community
within the zone that is superior to development otherwise allowable
under alternate regulations.
(B) Provide for development within the zone in a manner consistent with
the General Plan and with related development and growth policies of
the City.
c. Provide for the construction, improvement or extension of transportation
facilities, public utilities and public services required by development within
the zone.
d. There shall be no minimum yard requirement for individual lots except as
established by a specific plan, a conditional use permit or development review.
e. There shall be no minimum usable open space requirement for individual lots,
except as established by a specific plan, a conditional use permit or
development review.
f. The maximum number of dwelling units within a specific plan zone shall not
exceed the ability of the City to provide services in accordance with the
General Plan and applicable local ordinances; provided that the distribution of
units within the zone and the maximum residential density on any individual
site or within designated portions of the zone shall be governed by the specific
plan, conditional use permit or development review.
Where a density bonus pursuant to Section 17.17.070(A) is requested, the
maximum residential density on any individual site shall be based upon the
maximum density of the specific plan zone for that site.
In the event the General Plan does not establish a maximum residential density for
said site, the City Council, after considering the recommendation of the Planning
Commission, shall determine the appropriate density based on detailed review of
the specific plan and the provisions of this code.
2. Special Requirements.
Page 19 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
a. The specific plan zone and all uses therein shall be designed and developed in
a manner compatible with and complementary to existing and potential
development in the general vicinity of the zone. Site planning on the perimeter
shall provide for the mutual protection of the zone and surrounding property
from potential adverse influences.
b. All public streets within or abutting the development shall be dedicated and
improved to City specifications for that particular classification of street.
Private streets within the development shall be improved to City specifications
for that particular classification of street. Private streets within the development
shall be irrevocably offered for dedication and maintained for their intended
purpose by means acceptable to and enforceable by the City. Consideration of
other forms of access, such as pedestrian ways, courts, plazas, driveways, horse
trails, bike trails, or open parking lots offered for dedication may be made at
the time of the specific plan consideration as a means of meeting requirements
for open space or park dedication requirements.
c. The Director may require the submission of an assessment of progress toward
completion of development authorized by the specific plan including adherence
to development schedules and phasing.
D-. C. Performance Standards.
1. All development within a specific plan zone shall be consistent with the Hillside
Development Ordinance and Guidelines; make suitable provision for the
preservation of watercourses, drainage areas and similar features; and shall
otherwise be designed to use and retain or enhance the natural features and
amenities to the best advantage for preservation.
2. All areas for storage of maintenance equipment, and all service areas including
refuse storage and collection facilities, shall be enclosed by a fence, wall and/or
landscape screen.
3. All uses within a specific plan zone shall provide off-street parking and loading
facilities pursuant to Chapter 17.18.
4. The specific plan shall propose a means for assuring continuing existence,
maintenance and operation of the various common elements and facilities.
5. Additional site development regulations and performance standards applicable to
individual uses or to designated portions of a specific plan zone may be
established by the specific plan, conditional use permit or development review
approval pursuant to the specific plan.
E:D.Pre-Application Procedure. Prior to submitting an application for a specific plan
zone, or implementation thereof, the applicant or prospective developer shall hold
preliminary consultations with the Director of Community Development and other
City officials. Such preliminary consultations should be relative to a conceptual
development plan which includes, but is not limited to, the following:
1. Proposed land uses to be developed within the zone.
2. Development concepts to be employed.
3. Schematic maps, illustrative material and narrative sufficient to describe the ,
general relationships between land uses, and the intended design character and
scale of principal features.
Page 20 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
4. A preliminary time schedule for development, including quantitative data, such as
population, housing units, land use acreage and other data sufficient to illustrate
the phasing of development and potential impact on public service requirements.
5. Following initial preliminary consultation pursuant to this section, the Director
may require presentation of the conceptual specific plan to the Planning
Commission and City Council.
1 F -al o,, ing initial pr-elifninar-y eenstiltatien pufsuant to this eeti,,,, the Difeeto
a3��e e -presentation ofthe —eeneeptual speeifie plan to—the Nafming
2 -An appheatien for- a sp8cifie-plan zone, if Fequifed, and the speeifie plan
submitted with the . plie.,tio shall be subjeet to f:eview and a .,l in the same
mannef as whoa i Seetio 17.03.020.
3. Eaeh speeifie
lotto,- (SP) fellowed by a .-efe enee number- ide ti flj4 g the zone. The s ..;fie ..1.,.,
as modified and ., ,ed by the City C.,,,nei shall be adopted by or-dinan v
G. Speei€ie D�nendme}ts.!. A speeifir. plan maye-affiended=nnthe same
manner- as Yrv:iea i y Seetio 17.03.020. Amendment.. plan „f e f:lan shall be
du
„bjeet to the same findings ., ribed for- initial o ,.t,, e t e ple,,,e.,t.,tion .,f
a speeifir. plan zone and adeption of the speeifie plan applieable to the speeifir. plan
zone
2. An afnendment to a speeific plan e initiated --by the City -Cenneil. An
amendment o zene
or-
sueeesser- previded--sneh app1;, antor- „eee;jer-ias, at time of
u„ amendment,
management of uses thin the s eif:r. pia
17.16.055 RP - Ridgeline Preservation Overlay Zone.
A. Purpose. In an effort to achieve the City's objective to preserve the ridgelines
within the City limits for the public health, safety and welfare for the long-term benefit of
the community, maintenance of the unique visual characteristics, resources and ridgeline
integrity, and to achieve a higher quality of life for its residents, the ridgeline preservation
(RP) zoning overlay classification was established.
B. Applicability. The ridgeline preservation (RP) overlay zone applies to areas
identified on the adopted ridgeline map on file in the Planning Division. Any
development including but not limited to grading permits, building permits and land use
entitlements, indicated on the ridgeline map and located within the upper two-thirds (2/3)
of the overall height of the ridgeline from its base and/or within 1,000 feet of the
ridgeline is subject to a ridgeline alteration permit. Applications and fees shall be
submitted pursuant to Section 17.01.090 of this development code.
NOTE: PERMIT PROCESSING FOR RID GELINE ALTERATION PERMITS IS BEING
RELOCATED TO 17.03.125 AND IS NOT BEING REMOVED FROM THE UNIFIED
DEVELOPMENT CODE.
Page 21 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
■ Y.
11 o
flip, WON
oil
W -OWN
~1111i
Page 22 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
F-. Final Aetion. The aration of the City Getmeil to ae with eenditiefts
final.and/or- medifirations, or- deny the r-idgeline alteration pefmit is
6- C. Uses. All uses of the underlying zone shall follow the requirements and
restrictions associated with that zone with the approval of a ridgeline alteration permit.
H: D. Property Development Standards. The following requirements shall apply to
any use, development or alteration of land on all properties located in the ridgeline
preservation overlay zone in addition to the requirements of the underlying zone.
Additional regulations may be specified as conditions of approval as part of the
permitting process. Any deviations from the property development standards will require
the approval of an Adjustment or a Variance as described in Section 17.03.050 of this
code.
Chapter 17.17
SPECIAL USES AND STANDARDS
17.17.040 Specific Development Requirements
S. Small Wind Energy Systems. All Small Wind Energy Systems shall conform to the
following requirements:
1. Small Wind Energy ystems shall not be permitted on parcels of less than one acre
in size.
2. Tower heights of not more than 65 feet shall be allowed on parcels between one and
five acres and tower heights of not more than 80 feet shall be allowed on parcels of
five acres or more, provided that the application includes evidence that the proposed
height does not exceed the height recommended by the manufacturer or distnbutor
of the system.
3. System towers must be setback from the property line equal to the height of the
proposed system tower, provided that it also complies with any applicable fire
setback requirements.
4. Decibel levels for the system shall not exceed the noise standards of the Municipal
Code.
5. The system's turbine must have been approved by the California Energy
Commission as qualifying under the Emerging Renewables Fund of the
commission's Renewables Investment Plan or certified by a national program
recognized and approved by the Energy Commission.
17.17.090 Oak Tree Preservation.
NOTE: OAK TREE STANDARDS ARE BEING RELOCATED TO 17.03.140 AND ARE
NOT BEING REMOVED FROM THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE.
14. Standards.
7 The . n-ditiafl A- 1.,...,tion- „f the
health,its
oak t, -eels\ Feqtiir-es„+f;..g
to maintain o aid
Z..1iJ -OVIIeftlh-eI V1(J) w11 r-espeet
to disease, dangef
of failing, „
to existinglots,40,,alkways
er-inter€er-ei}se- with
-tike
Page 23 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A”
7
H. Conditions. Conditions may be imposed on the permit at the discretion of the
decisionmaker, including, but not limited to, any of the following:
1. A condition requiring the replacement or placement of additional trees on the
subject property to offset the impacts associated with the loss of a tree, limbs or
encroachment into the protected zone of an oak tree.
2. The relocating of trees on-site or off-site, or the planting of new trees on-site
or off-site to offset the loss of a tree. The applicant shall be responsible for periodic
submission of affidavits by a qualified oak tree expert at the conclusion of grading and
construction one year after the planting of replacement or relocated trees and two (2)
years after the planting of replacement or relocated trees for on-site trees only. Such
affidavit shall certify compliance with all conditions of the permit and the health of all
replacement or relocated trees. This requirement shall be supplemented by random
inspections by the City of Santa Clarita. The applicant's acceptance of an approved
permit and the exercise of rights thereunder shall be deemed consent to allowing city
officials reasonable access to the property for the purpose of conducting such inspections.
3. A condition requiring an objectively observable maintenance and care
program to be initiated to ensure the continued health and care of oak trees on the
property.
4. Payment of a fee or donation of boxed trees to the City or other approved
public agency to be used elsewhere in the City. Such fee or boxed trees shall be of
equivalent value to any and all oak trees removed from the property as defined by the
current edition of the "Guide for Plant Appraisal," published by the International Society
of Arboriculture (ISA), a copy of which shall be kept on file in the City's Community
Development Department. The applicant shall be credited with the value of any
replacement oak trees which may be required. Such fees shall be utilized for the purpose
of furthering the preservation and regeneration of oak trees, the identification and official
designation of heritage oak trees, the purchase, monitoring and ongoing maintenance of
oak trees, landscaping and other habitat refurbishment and for educational and
informational programs related to oak trees and their preservation. As an alternative to
the payment of all or a portion of the fees described above, an applicant may also be
Page 24 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
credited with the value of any accepted dedications of property within the City which are
suitable for the planting and survival of oak trees. Fees imposed under this section may
be reduced as mitigated by specific circumstances and corrective measures undetected by
the property owner.
5. For mitigation of oaks due to removal, and/or major encroachment of non -
heritage oak trees on a property occupied by a single-family residence, any required tree
replacements shall be based on a six (6) inch increment as follows:
• 8" to 12" = Two (2) 24 -inch box native oaks
• 12" to 18" = Three (3) 24 -inch box native oaks
• 18" to 24" = Four (4) 24 -inch box native oaks
• 24" to 30" = Five (5) 24 -inch box native oaks
• 30" to 36" = Six (6) 24 -inch box native oaks
• increase in six (6) inch increments
Replacement trees shall 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 trees may be donated to the City following the
replacement schedule above or their monetary value may be paid to the City to the
satisfaction of the Director.
3: 1. Reimbursement. The City's oak tree consultant or the Director's designee shall
review the information submitted with the oak tree permit request and make appropriate
recommendations and site inspections. All consultant and/or staff time costs expended in
connection with such review, including, but not limited to, review of submitted reports,
plans, meetings, site inspections and monitoring shall be billed on an hourly basis and
reimbursed by the applicant when the cost of services exceeds the cost covered by the
permit fee. Nothing in this code or within the Oak Tree Preservation and Protection
Guidelines shall be deemed to impose any liability for damages or a duty of care and
maintenance upon the City or upon any of its officers or employees. The person in
possession of any public property or the owner of any private property shall have a duty
to keep the oak trees upon the property and under their control in a safe, healthy
condition. Except as provided in this code, any person who feels a tree located on
property possessed, owned or controlled by them is a danger to the safety of themselves,
others or structural improvements on-site or off-site shall have an obligation to secure the
area around the tree or support the tree, as appropriate to safeguard both persons and
improvements from harm.
J. Enforcement.
1. Any person who owns and/or cuts, damages, moves or removes any oak tree
within the City, unlawfully encroaches into the protected zone of an oak tree or who fails
to comply with conditions of approval or pay required fees or does any other act in
violation of the Oak Tree Preservation Ordinance or a permit issued pursuant hereto shall
be guilty of a misdemeanor.
2. In addition to the penalty described in subsection (K)(1) of this section, the
Director may suspend an oak tree permit or building permit if he determines that the
permittee or owner of the real property which is the subject of the permit, or one or more
of their agents, has violated a condition of approval of an oak tree permit issued pursuant
hereto or has violated any provision of this Oak Tree Preservation Ordinance. The
Page 25 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
Director's determination to suspend a permit shall be subject to appeal as provided in this
code.
3. 'In addition to the penalties described in subsections (K)(1) and (2) of this
section, any person who violates the Oak Tree Preservation Ordinance is responsible for
proper restitution and may be required to replace the oak tree(s) so removed or damaged,
by the donation of or by replanting one or more oak trees of reasonable equivalent size
and value to the tree(s) damaged or removed. The number, size and location of said
equivalent replacement oak tree(s) shall be to• the satisfaction of the Director of
Community Development.
L-. K. Additional Permit. Notwithstanding any action taken pursuant to this code,
whenever the Director determines that any person has without a permit conducted
activities prohibited by this Oak Tree Preservation Ordinance, the Director may require
such person to obtain an oak tree permit pursuant to this code.
Chapter 17.18
PARKING STANDARDS
17.18.050 Width, Paving and Slope of Driveways.
A. Driveways shall be not less than ten (10) feet wide. Refer to Sections 13.04.250 and
13.16.040 through 13.16.120 of the Municipal Code for additional requirements and
restrictions.
B. Where this section requires that such access be paved, the pavement shall be not less
than ten (10) feet in width throughout, except that a center strip over which the
wheels of a vehicle will not pass in normal use need not be paved.
C. Unless modified by the Director of Ge ffH.,unity Development Public Works because
of topographical or other conditions_
par -king areas shall exeeed a slope of twenty (20) peFeeat. th-e-r-e- is a ehange iff
o s,
will be able to pass ever- stieh ehange in slope without inte4efenee with theif
1. No portion of a driveway providing access to parking areas shall exceed a slope of
twenty (20) percent. Where there is a change in the slope of driveway providing
such access, it must be demonstrated that vehicles will be able to pass over such
change in slope without interference with their undercarriages.
2. Changes in slope along the run of a driveway must be at a maximum algebraic
grade difference of ten (10) percent per grade break for a minimum of ten (10)
feet per grade break. This profile shall be measured along the maximum slope of
the driveway.All grade breaks shall be rounded with a five (5) foot long vertical
curve. (An exception is driveway pproaches per APWA standards).
3. Commercial driveways on major, secondary, collector, and other streets as
determined by the Director of Public Works, shall be designed using a modified
APWA 110-1, Type C commercial driveway design that will provide a
street/drive approach transition with a maximum algebraic grade difference of
seven (7) percent.
Page 26 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
17.18.130.D. Schedule of Off Street Parking Requirements by Use Type. The
following use types shall provide the number of parking spaces indicated below:
Commercial Uses.
15. Professional Offices 1 space per 250 square feet.
a. Call Centers 1 space per 200 square feet.
17.18.140 Modification of Off -Street Parking Requirements.
C. Shared Parking. Shared parking shall be allowed with approval of a conditional use
permit in commercial and industrial zones for parking adjustments over 20%, and with
ant)roval of an adjustment in commercial and industrial zones for parking adjustments
20% and under, pursuant to Section 17.03 of this code.
Chapter 17.19
SIGN REGULATIONS (PRIVATE PROPERTY)
17.19.020 Definitions.
Sign, "Corporate Flag" shall mean any flag identifyjng a business or development
whether permanent or temporary. A single (1) corporate flag may be flown provided that
it is flown in conjunction with, and in similar fashion as, a federal and/or state flag.
"Sign area" means the entire surface area, excluding all support structures of a
sign. When calculating sign area, sign bands shall be considered a part of the total sign
area.
17.19.070 General Location, Height and Area Standards.
C. Sign Area
5. Logos, sign bands, and graphics shall be included as part of the calculation of sign
area.
Division 3. Grading
17.21.010 Permits
B. Exceptions. Exemption from the permit requirements of this section shall not be
deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the
provisions of this chapter or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Approvals
from other agencies may be required. A grading permit shall not be required for the
following:
1. An excavation which:
a. Is less than three (3) feet in depth, or belew the existing gFetind suffaee,
the tie
o afl-,L
b. Does not create a cut slope greater than five (5) feet in height and steeper
than five (5) horizontal to one (1) vertical (20% slope), or
c. Does not exceed fifty (50) cubic yards;
Page 27 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
2. A fill not intended to support structures and which does not obstruct a drainage
course if such fill:
a. Is placed on natural grade that has a slope not steeper than five (5)
horizontal to one (1) vertical and is less than one (1) foot deep, or
3. An excavation below finish grade for basements and footings of a building,
retaining wall, or other structures authorized by a valid building permit or trench
excavations for the purpose of installing underground utilities. This shall not
exempt any fill made with the material from such excavation or exempt any
excavation having an unsupported height greater than five (5) feet after the
completion of the structure;
4. Grading within property dedicated or used for cemetery purposes where such
grading is more than one hundred (100) feet from the property line and is not
intended to support structures. No permit shall be required for the excavation or
filling of graves at any location within such property;
6. With prior approval in writing by the City Engineer, grading in an isolated, self-
contained area if the City Engineer finds that the grading operations cannot result
in danger to private or public property;
10. An excavation or fill for a road or slope purposes and shown on plans that are
approved by the Director of Public
Works as being necessary for the support, construction or maintenance of a public
road;
11. Exploratory excavations under the direction of seAs geotechnical engineers or
engineering geologists exclusive of grading associated with accessing the
exploratory excavation location; and `
12. Grading for an oil and/or gas drilling site which is located in an existing oil field
as designated by the State Division of Oil and Gas and is one thousand (1,000)
feet from a public highway and five hundred (500) feet from the nearest
residence. The proposed grading must not result in the deposition of silt and
debris onto downstream property or storm drain facilities. Permits will not be
issued for parcels of land with an average slope of ten (10) percent or greater
unless the proposed grading complies with the provisions of the Hillside
Development Ordinance, Chapter 17.80 of this code. (Permits for less than one
hundred (100) cubic yards are exempt from this requirement).
17.21.030 Unpermitted Grading. /
A person shall not own, use, of occupy, or maintain any site containing unpermitted
grading. For the purposes of this code, unpermitted grading shall be defined as any
grading that was performed at any point in time, without the required permit(s) having
first been obtained from the City Engineer.
17.23.010(B) Plans and Specifications.
5. Location of any existing buildings or structures on the property where the work is to be
performed, and the location of any buildings or structures on adjacent land which are
within fifteen (15) fort40 feet of the property line;
Page 28 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
17.23.010(D) Engineering Geological Reports.
The City Engineer may require an engineering geological investigation and report, based
on the most recent grading plan. The report is to be less than one year old at the date of
application. The engineering geological report shall include an adequate description of
the geology of the site and conclusions and recommendations regarding the effect of
geologic condition on the proposed development.
17.23.020(A) General Conditions.
The issuance of a grading permit shall constitute an authorization to do only that work
which is described or illustrated on the application for the permit, or on the grading plans
and specifications approved by the City Engineer. Grading plan approval shall only be
valid for one (1) year from the date of approval.
17.23.020(D) Modification of Approved Plans.
Any modifications of, or changes in, the approved grading plan must be approved by the
City Engineer prior to implementation in the field. Modifications which affect basic tract
design or land use must have the approval of the appropriate control agency.
17.27.20 Fills.
A. Compaction. Fills shall be compacted throughout their full extent to a
minimum relative compaction of ninety (90) percent of maximum dry density
as Eletefmined by AST -N4 Soil Gemparation Test D 1557 ,
where `� ;
i ,heT-e-no test-iaeeeptable to tYitCity -Engineer- sh llual be cased-:
within forty (40) feet below finished grade and ninety-three (93) percent of
maximum dry densityper than forty (40) feet below finish grade, unless a
lower relative compaction (not less than ninety (90) percent of maximum dry
density) is justified by the geotechnical engineer. Fills used to elevate
structures in compliance with Chapter 10.06 of this code shall be compacted
to ninety-five (95) percent of maximum dry density. The relative compaction
shall be determined by A.S.T.M. Soil Compaction Test D1557 where
applicable. Where not applicable, a test acceptable to the City Engineer shall
he used_
Field density shall be determined by a method acceptable to the City
Engineer, however, a minimum of ten (10) percent of the required density
tests shall be obtained by the Sand Cone Method (ASTM D1556). The
required ten (10) percent by Sand Cone Method shall be uniformly distributed
throughout the depths and limits of the fill. Fill slopes steeper than, or equal
to, two (2) horizontal to one (1) vertical shall be constructed by the placement
of soil a sufficient distance beyond the proposed finished slope to allow
compaction equipment to operate at the outer surface limits of the final slope
surface. The excess fill is to be removed prior to completion of rough
grading. Other construction procedures may be utilized when it is first shown
to the satisfaction of the City Engineer that the angle of slope, construction
method and other factors will accomplish the intent of this section.
1. Fills .t intended to s aA stocietur-es need nat be e eted to those
sttandafds if theCity Engineer- detefmines that suei eafnpaetian is
Page 29 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
,king this .fete,.„ ifia fi ,.,
)
on he made by a oils e
the iit of settl en+
)
Of t.. SE)ilh. ,rhe ethOdS FE)Vided SUOh Sl^„eS ..he a e,l
, , .�v- pi c'iuvc[
Otho....iSe . ply w44 the requirements of this seet;n
B. Preparation of Ground. Where slopes are steeper than five (5) horizontal to
one (1) vertical and the height is greater than five (5) feet, Tthe existing
ground surface shall be prepared to receive fill by removing vegetation,
noncomplying fill., or- ethef ineempet nt materia'.- topsoils and other
unsuitable materials and scarifying to provide a bond with the new fill and,
......-„.. .,. ----Y--) ---- ---- "_-"-- _,- - --Y I'-'---`- "-- -- -- "-------" -'"- ----"
,,,rete„* ,...,.,ter:,,' by benching into sound bedrock or other competent
material as determined by the geotechnical engineer. The bench under the toe
of a fill on a slope steeper than five (5) horizontal to one 1 vertical shall be
at least ten (10) feet wide. The area beyond the toe of fill shall be sloped for
sheet overflow or a paved drain shall be provided. When fill is to be placed
over a cut, the bench under the toe of fill shall be at least ten (10) feet wide
but the cut shall be made before placing the fill and before acceptance by the
geotechnical engineer or engineering geologist or both as a suitable
foundation for fill. Daylight lines indicating a transition between fill and
natural ground or fill and excavation shall not be allowed within the building
area of a graded pad unless approved by the City Engineer based on special
circumstances or site conditions.
Except where recommended by the geotechnical engineer or en ing eering
geologist as not being necessary, subdrains shall be provided under all fills
placed in natural drainage courses and in other locations where seepage is
evident. Such subdrainage systems shall be of a material and design approved
by the geotechnical engineer and acceptable to the City Engineer. The
permittee shall provide continuous inspection during the, process of subdrain
installation to verify compliance with the approved plans and the geotechnical
engineer's recommendation. Such inspection shall be done by the soil testing
agency. The leea4ion line and elevation of the subdrains shall be shown on a
plan by the geotechnical engineer. Excavations for the subdrains shall be
inspected by the engineering geologist when such subdrains are included in
the recommendations of the engineering geologist.
D. Fill Material. ;;et6meeta-am unts of Organic material shall not be
permitted in fills- unless substantiated by the geotechnical engineer and
accepted by the City Engineer. Soil ^^„taming all afneunts of r-oets .,he
allowed; „ ;d;„.. that the r „y atom t;tanddist,-;ht.a ;
e„emanne
material reved by the soils engineen Except as permitted by the City
Engineer, no rock or similar irreducible materials with a maximum dimension
greater than twelve (12) inches shall be buried or placed in fills. except -as
Page 30 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A”
ended by the soils en o. � .0.7 b. ' the G t., l:.-,giaAo,-And
meeting the following ro o �^t� Stockpiled soil, sand or gravel shall be
covered or stabilized to prevent erosion by wind or water.
Exception: The City Engineer may permit the placement of larger rock when
the geotechnical engineer properly devises a method of placement, and
continuously inspects its placement and approves the fill stability. The
following shall also apply:
1. The ever -sized material shall be plaeod to„ (1 0) feet or- fnefe below
finished gfade-,-
2. A r-epr-esentafive of the soils engineer- shall be presentwhile the ever -sized
material is plaeed and eaver-ed;
3. The report submitted by the soil engineer- shall acknowledge the
„haeme t of the a ze fn to,-ial and whetheF the . or -k porf ,-.,-,0.7 is in
J. T -h -e- lerVation of the eveff-siZead reek dispefsal areas shall be shown on th
as built „ 1 a., •
5. Steek-piled-soil, sand o gr-avel shall be ,over -ed ., stabilized as to ,, o e t
erosion by wind or -water-.
1. Prior to issuance of the grading permit, potential rock disposal areas shall
be delineated on the grading plan.
2. Rock sizes greater than twelve (12) inches in maximum dimension shall
be ten 0 0) feet or more below grade, measured vertically.
3. Rocks shall be placed so as to assure the filling of all voids with well -
graded soil.
4. The reports submitted by the geotechnical engineer shall acknowledge the
placement of the oversized material and whether the work was performed
in accordance with the engineer's recommendations and the approved
1p ans.
5. The locations of oversized rock dispersal areas shall be shown on the as -
built plan.
17.28.010(D) Drainage Terraces Required.
The requirements for drainage terraces shall apply to all cut or fill slopes equal to 0
steeper- than steeper than or equal to three (3) horizontal to one (1) vertical or any slopes
with an average slope steeper than or equal to three (3) horizontal to one (1) vertical. For
slopes not steeper than three (3) horizontal to one vertical (". ,(1), the City Engineer
may require a drainage and terrace design to be submitted. Suitable access to allow
proper cleaning and maintenance shall be provided for all drainage terraces. Cut or fill
slopes more than thirty (30) feet in height shall have drainage terraces provided at vertical
intervals not exceeding twenty-five (25) feet except where only one terrace is required. In
such case the terrace shall be located at mid -height. Terrace drains shall be required for
slopes less than thirty (30) feet in height, at the discretion of the City Engineer. Such
terraces shall be not less than eight (8) feet in width (measured horizontally from the
outside edge). When the total slope height exceeds one hundred (100) feet, one terrace
near mid -height shall be not less than twenty (20) feet in width (measured horizontally
from the outside edge). In lieu of the above, for cut and fill slopes greater than one
Page 31 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
hundred twenty (120) feet in height, the applicant may submit a drainage and terrace
design by a civil engineer to be approved by the City Engineer.
17.29.010(E) Noninspected Grading.
No person shall ewer, use; or maintain any noninspected graded property. For the
purposes of this code, noninspected grading shall be defined as any grading for which a
grading permit was first obtained, but which has progressed beyond any point requiring
inspection and approval by the City Engineer without such inspection and approval
having been obtained.
Page 32 of 32
UDC Update 2008
Exhibit "A"
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA I
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
[X] Proposed [ ] Final
MASTER CASE NO: 08-038
PERMIT/PROJECT
NAME: Unified Development Code Amendment 08-001
APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita
LOCATION OF THE
PROJECT: Citywide
DESCRIPTION OF
THE PROJECT: The City of Santa Clarita is conducting its annual Unified
Development Code (UDC) Amendments. The annual amendments
include minor changes to clarify the intent of the UDC, keep the UDC
up to date with State regulations, and correct minor spelling and
grammar corrections.
J
Based on the information contained in the Initial Study prepared for this project, and pursuant to the
requirements of Section 15065 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City of
Santa Clarita
[X] City Council [ ] Planning Commission [ ] Director of Planning and Building Services
finds that the project as proposed or revised will have no significant effect upon the environment,
and that a Negative Declaration shall be adopted pursuant to Section 15070 of CEQA.
Mitigation measures for this project
[X] Are Not Required [ ] Are Attached [ ] Are Not Attached
Lisa M. Webber, AICP
PLANNING MAN
Prepared by: Patrick Leclair, Associate Planner
(Signature) (Name/Title)
Approved by: Ae'-L40 �"'J Sharon Sorensen, Senior Planner
(Signature) (Name/Title)
Public Review Period From April 18, 2008 To ME 20, 2008
Public Notice Given On April 18, 2008
[X] Legal Advertisement [ ] Posting of Properties [ ] Written Notice
CERTIFICATION DATE:
S \CD\CURREN-n12008\08-038 (UDC)\08-038 Neg Dec.doc
INITIAL STUDY
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
Project Title/Master Case Number: Master Case 08-038
City of Santa Clarita Annual Unified Development
Code Amendments (UDC 08-001)
Lead Agency name and address: City of Santa-Clarita
23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 302
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Contact person and phone number: Patrick Leclair
Associate Planner
(661) 255-4330
Project location: Citywide
Applicant's name and address: City of Santa Clarita
23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 302
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
General Plan designation: N/A -
Zoning: N/A
Description of project and setting: The City of Santa Clarita is preparing annual
amendments to Chapter 16 and 17 of the City's
Municipal Code (the Unified Development Code or
UDC). Updates are prepared annually to correct minor
grammar and spelling errors, clarify the intent of the
UDC, and to keep the UDC up to date with current
planning and development trends. Changes associated
with the annual updates to the UDC affect property
citywide and will guide future development within the
City of Santa Clarita. The changes are not anticipated
to either directly, or indirectly, result in any future,
foreseeable development. All future development
affected by these changes will be evaluated on a case by
case basis to determine their impacts on the
environment pursuant to CEQA. Therefore, the
findings in this Initial Study relate only to the UDC
changes themselves.
In addition to minor spelling, grammar, and other minor
Master Case 08-038
UDC 08-001
Page 2 of 30
modifications, the amendments contained in UDC 08-
001 consist of the following:
17.01 Administration
1. Clarification to the appeal process was added for
instances when an appellant withdraws their complaint.
17.03 Permits and Applications
2. Changes to the approval process for Development
Agreements.
3. The Specific Plan entitlement application process
was relocated from Section 17.16.030 of the UDC. In
addition, findings were revised to be more applicable to
specific plans.
4. Findings for Master Plans were incorporated in this
section. Previously this section referred to the
Conditional Use Permit findings.
5. Findings were created for Adjustments. Previously
Variances and Adjustments shared the same findings.
6. A Temporary Use Permit for temporary uses up to
five years was created.
7. A list of uses subject to a Home Occupation Permit
was created.
8. The R.idgeline Alteration Permit process was
relocated from Section 17.16.055 of the UDC.
9. The Oak Tree Permit process was relocated from
Section 17.17.090 of the UDC.
17.05 Pre -Existing Legal Uses and Structures
10. Parking requirements for new uses in pre-existing
shopping centers was clarified.
11. The interpretation of pre-existing setbacks for
residential uses was clarified.
17.07 Definitions
12. Definitions were created or modified for "Barnyard
animal', "Co -location", "Licensed bed", and "Open
Space".
17.12 Use Type Classifications
13. Use Type Classifications and/or definitions for use
types were created or modified , for Transitional
Housing, Wine Bars, Call Centers, Materials Recovery
Facility, and Zoos.
Master Case 08-038
UDC 08-001
Page 3 of 30
17.13 Permitted Use Chart
14. Permitted status was created or modified for Call
Centers, Homeless Shelters, Contractor's Yards,
Wireless Communications Facilities, and Zoos.
17.15 Property Development Standards
15. The prohibition of vehicles and recreational
vehicles as residences was clarified in residential and
commercial zones.
17.17 Special Uses and Standards
16. Specific Development Standards were created for
Homeless Shelters consistent with State regulations.
17.18 Parking Standards
17. Design standards for driveways and drive
approaches were created.
18. Parking standards were created for Call Centers.
17.19 Sign Regulations
19. Definitions for "Corporate Flag" and "Sign" area
were created.
17.21-17.28 Grading
20. Minor modifications to the Grading portion of the
UDC to clarify the permit process, exemptions, and
development standards for Grading Permits in the City.
Surrounding land uses: N/A
Other public agencies whose N/A
approval is required:
A. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED:
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at
least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact' or a "Less than Significant with
Mitigation" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages.
[ ] Aesthetics
[ ] Agriculture Resources [
] Air Quality
[ ] 'Biological Resources
[ ] Cultural Resources [
] Geology/ Soils
[ ] Hazards & Hazardous
[ ] Hydrology / Water [
] Land Use / Planning
Materials
Quality
[ ] Mineral Resources
[ ] Noise [
] Population / Housing
[ ] Public Services [ ] Recreation [ ] Transportation / Traffic
[ ] Utilities / Service Systems [ ] Mandatory Findings of Significance
B. DETERMINATION:
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
[X] I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the
environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
[ J I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the
environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the
project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
[ ] I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
[ ] Y find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or
"potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one
effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal
standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis
as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required,
but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed.
Master Case 08-038
UDC 08-001
Page 5 of 30
[ ] I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the
environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately
in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and
(b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE
DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the
prop d project, nothing further is required.
� I7 Df?
Patrick Leclair, Associate Planner Date
d&fir -/ - / 7 r dav-
Sharon Sorensen, Senior Planner Date
Master Case 08-038
UDC 08-001
Page 6 of 30
C. EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS:
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
I. AESTHETICS - Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but [ ]
[ ] [X] []
not limited to, primary/secondary ridgelines, trees,
rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a
state scenic highway?
c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
quality of the site and its surroundings?
d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare that [ ]
[ ] IN [ ]
would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the
area?
e)Other []
I I I
II. AGRICULTURE RESOURCES - In determining whether
impacts to agricultural
resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California
Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model
(1997) prepared by the
California Dept. of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on
agriculture and farmland. Would the project:
a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as
shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the
Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the
California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural
use?
b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
a Williamson Act contract? ,
c) Involve other changes in the existing environment [ ] [ ] [X] [ ]
which, due to their location or nature, could result in
conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use?
Master Case 08-038
UDC 08-001
Page 7 of 30
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
d)Other [] I I I
III. AIR QUALITY - Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable
air quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the
following determinations. Would the project:
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the [ ] [ ] [X] [ ]
applicable air quality plan?
b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute [ ] [ ] [X] [ ]
substantially to an existing or projected air quality
violation?
c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of
any criteria pollutant for which the project region is
non -attainment under an applicable federal or state
ambient air quality standard (including releasing
emissions that exceed quantitative thresholds for
ozone precursors)?
d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant
concentrations?
e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial
number of people?
f) Other
IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES - Would the
project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or
through habitat modifications, on any species
identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status
species in local or regional plans, policies, or
regulations, or by the California Department of Fish
and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
0
Master Case 08-038
UDC 08-001
Page 8 of 30
Potentially
Less Than Less Than No
Significant
Significant Significant Impact
Impact
with Impact
Mitigation
b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
habitat or other sensitive natural community
identified in •local or regional plans, policies,
regulations or by the California Department of Fish
and Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service?
c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the
Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to,
marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct
removal, filling, hydrological interruption, .or other
means?
d Interfere substantially with the movement of an
native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species
or with established native resident or migratory
wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native
wildlife nursery sites?
e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances [)
[ ] [X] [ ]
protecting biological resources, such as a tree
preservation policy or ordinance? Oak trees?
f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
Conservation Plan, Natural Community
Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional,
or state habitat conservation plan?
g) Affect a Significant Ecological Area (SEA) or [ ]
[ ] [X] ( ]
Significant Natural Area (SNA) as identified on the
City of Santa Clarita ESA Delineation Map?
h)Other []
[] I []
V. CULTURAL RESOURCES - Would the project:
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the [ ]
[ ) [X] [ ]
significance of a historical resource as defined in
'15064.5?
Master Case 08-038 \
UDC 08-001
Page 9 of 30
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the [ ] [ ] [X] []
significance of an archaeological resource pursuant
to '15064.5?
c) Directly or indirectly destroy or impact a unique [ ]
paleontological resource or site or unique geologic
feature?
d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred [ ]
outside of formal cemeteries?
e) Other [ ]
VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS — Would the project:
a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial [ ]
adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or
death involving:
i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as [ ]
delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the
State Geologist for the area or based on other
substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to
Division of Mines and Geology Special
Publication 42.
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? [ ]
iii) Seismic -related ground failure, including [ ]
liquefaction?
iv) Landslides? [ ]
b) Result in substantial wind or water soil erosion or the [ ]
loss of topsoil, either on or off site?
[] [X] []
[] [X]] []
[]
IN []
[] [X] []
Master Case 08-038
UDC 08-001
Page 10 of 30
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, [ ] [ ] IN [ ]
or that would become unstable as a result of the
project, and potentially result in on- or off-site
landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction
or collapse?
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18- [ ] [ ]
1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1997), creating
substantial risks to life,or property?
e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the [ ] [ ]
use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal
systems where sewers are not available for the
disposal of wastewater?
f) Change in topography or ground surface relief [ ] [ ]
features?
g) Earth movement (cut and/or fill) of 10,000 cubic [ ] [ ]
yards or more?
h) Development and/or grading on a slope greater than [ ] [ ]
10% natural grade?
i) The destruction, covering or modification of any [ ] [ ]
unique geologic or physical feature?
j) Other [ ] [ ]
VII. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS - Would the project:
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the [ ] [ ]
environment through the routine transport, use, or
disposal of hazardous materials?
[X]
[X]
[X] 11'
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Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the [ ] [ ] [X] [ ]
environment through reasonably, foreseeable upset
and accident conditions' involving explosion or the
release of hazardous materials into the environment
(including, but not limited to oil, pesticides,
chemicals, fuels, or radiation)?
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or
acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste
within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed
school?
d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of
hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to
Government Code Section 65961.5 and, as a result,
would it create a significant hazard to the public or
the environment?
e) For a project located within an airport land use plan
or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within
two miles of a public airport or public use airport,
would the project result in a safety hazard for people
residing or working in the project area?
f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip,
would the project result in a safety hazard for people
residing or working in the project area?
g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with
an adopted emergency .response .plan or emergency
evacuation plan?
h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of
loss, injury or death involving wildland fires,
including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized
areas or where residences are intermixed with
wildlands?
[] [] [X] []
[] [] IN []
[] H [] [X]
[] [] [X] []
[] [] [X] []
- 1 �
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i) Exposure of people to -existing sources of potential
health hazards (e.g. electrical transmission lines, gas
lines, oil pipelines)?
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
[] [] [X] I
j)Other [] [] []
VIII. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY - Would the
project:
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste [ ] [ ] [X]
discharge requirements?
b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or [ ] [ ] [X]
interfere substantially with groundwater recharge
such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer
volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table
level (e.g., the production rate of pre-existing nearby
wells would drop to a level which would not support
existing land uses or planned uses for which permits
have been granted)?
c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the [ ] [ ] [X]
site or area, including through the alteration of the
course of a stream or river, in a manner which would
result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-
site?
d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the [ ] [ ] [X]
site or area, including through the alteration of the
course of a stream or river, or substantially increase
the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner
which would result in flooding on- or off-site?
e) Create or contribute runoff water which would [ ] [ ] [X]
exceed the capacity of existing or planned
stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial
additional sources of polluted runoff?
f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? [ ] [ ] [X]
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Potentially
Less Than Less Than No
Significant
Significant Significant Impact
Impact
with Impact
Mitigation
g) Place housing within a 100 -year flood hazard area as [ ]
[ J [XJ [ J
mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or
Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard
delineation map?
h) Place within a 100 -year flood hazard area structures [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
which would impede or redirect flood flows?
i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of [ ]
[ ] IN [ ]
loss, injury or death involving flooding, including
flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam?
j) Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
k) Changes in the rate of flow, currents, or the course [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
and direction of surface water and/or groundwater?
i) Other modification of a wash, channel creek or river? [ ]
[ J [X] [ ]
1) Impact Stormwater Management in any of the [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
following ways:
i) Potential impact of project construction and [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
project post -construction activity on storm water
runoff?
ii) Potential discharges from areas for materials [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
storage, vehicle or equipment fueling, vehicle or
equipment maintenance (including washing), waste
handling, hazardous materials handling or storage,
delivery areas or loading docks, or other outdoor
work areas?
iii) Significant environmentally harmful increase in [ ]
[ ] IN [ ]
the flow velocity or volume of storm water runoff?
iv) Significant and environmentally harmful [ ]
[ ] [X] [ ]
increases in erosion of the project site or
surrounding areas?
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v) Storm water discharges that would significantly
impair or contribute to the impairment of the
beneficial uses. of receiving waters or areas that
provide water quality benefits (e.g. riparian
corridors, wetlands, etc.)
vi) Cause harm to the biological integrity of
drainage systems, watersheds, and/or water bodies?
vii) Does the proposed project include provisions
for the separation, recycling, and reuse of materials
both during construction and after project
occupancy?
IX. LAND USE AND PLANNING - Would the
project:
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
[] I IN I
[] [] [X]
[] [] [X]
a) Disrupt or physically divide an established [ ]
community (including a low-income or minority
community)?
b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, [ ]
or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the
project (including, but not limited to the general
plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning
ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or
mitigating an environmental effect?'
c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation [ ]
plan, natural community conservation plan, and/or
policies by agencies with jurisdiction over the
project?
X. MINERAL AND ENERGY RESOURCES - Would the project:
a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral [ ]
resource that would be of value to the region and the
residents of the state?
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Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally [ ] [ ] [X] [ ]
important mineral resource recovery site delineated
on a local general plan, specific plan or other land
use plan?
c) Use nonrenewable resources in a wasteful and
inefficient manner?
XI. NOISE - Would the project result in:
a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels
in excess of standards established in the local general
plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of
other agencies?
b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive
groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels?
c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise
levels in the project vicinity above levels existing
without the project?
d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in
ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above
levels existing without the project?
e) For a project located within an airport land use plan
or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within
two miles of a public airport or public use airport,
would the project expose people residing or working
in the project area to excessive noise levels?
f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip,
would the project expose people residing or working
in the project area to excessive noise levels?
[] [] [X] []
[] [] [X] []
[] [] [X] []
[] [] [X] []
[] [] [X] []
[] [] [] [X]
[] [] [] [X]
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XII. POPULATION AND HOUSING - Would the project:
a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, [ ] [ ] [X]
either directly (for example, by proposing new
homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example,
through extension of roads or other infrastructure)?
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, [ ] [ ] [X]
necessitating the construction of replacement
housing elsewhere (especially affordable housing)?
c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating [ ] [ ] [X]
the construction of replacement housing elsewhere?
XIII. PUBLIC SERVICES - Would the project
result in:
a) Substantial adverse physical impacts associated with
the provision of new or physically altered
governmental facilities, need for new or physically
altered governmental facilities, the construction of
which could cause significant environmental
impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service
ratios, response times or other performance
objectives for any of the public services:
i) Fire protection? [ ] [ ] IN
ii) Police protection? [ ] [ ] [X]
iii) Schools? [ ] [ ] [X]
iv) Parks? [ ] [ ] [X]
XIV. RECREATION - Would the project:
a) Increase the use of existing neighborhood and [ ] [ ] [X] [ ]
regional parks or other recreational facilities such
that substantial physical deterioration of the facility
would occur or be accelerated?
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b) Include recreational , facilities or require the [ ] [ ]
[X] [ ]
construction or expansion of recreational facilities
which might have an adverse physical effect on the
environment?
XV. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC - Would the project:
a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in [ ] [ ]
[X] [ ]
relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of
the street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase
in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to
capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at
intersections)?
b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level [ ] [ ]
[X] []
of service standard established by the county
congestion management agency for designated roads
or highways?
c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including [ ] [ ]
[ ] [X]
either an increase in traffic levels or a change in
location that results in substantial safety risks?
d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature [ ] [ ]
[X] [ ]
(e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or
incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)?
e) Result in inadequate emergency access? [ ] [ ]
[X] [ ]
f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? [ ] [ ]
IN [ ]
l
g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs [ ] [ ]
[X] [ ]
supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus
turnouts, bicycle racks)?
h) Hazards or barriers for pedestrians or bicyclists? [ ] [ ]
IN [ ]
XVI. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS - Would the project:
a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the [ ] [ ]
[X] [ ]
applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board?
I
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b) Require or result in the construction of new water or [
wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of
existing facilities, the construction of which could
cause significant environmental effects?
c) Require or result in the construction of new storm
water drainage facilities or expansion of existing
facilities, the construction of which could cause
significant environmental effects?
d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the
project from existing entitlements and resources, or
are new or expanded entitlements needed?
e) Result in a determination by the wastewater
treatment provider which serves or may serve the
project that it has adequate capacity to serve the
project's projected demand in addition to the
provider's existing commitments?
f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted
capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste
disposal needs?
g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and
regulations related to solid waste?
XVII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE:
a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the
quality of the environment, substantially reduce the
habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or
wildlife-, population to drop below self-sustaining
levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal
community, reduce the number or restrict the range
of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate
important examples of the major periods of
California history or prehistory?
[X1 [�
[X1 [�
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b) Does the project have impacts that are individually [ ] [ ] IN [ ]
limited, but cumulatively considerable?
("Cumulatively considerable" means that the
incremental effects of a project are considerable
when viewed in connection with the effects of past
projects, the effects of other current projects, and the
effects of probable future projects)?
c) Does the project have environmental effects which [ ] [ ] IN [ ]
will cause substantial adverse effects on human
beings, either directly or indirectly?
XVII. DEPARTMENT OF FISH .AND GAME `DE MINIMUS' FINDING
a) Will the project have an adverse effect either [ ] [ J [ J [X]
individually or cumulatively, on fish and wildlife
resources? Wildlife shall be defined for the purpose
of this question as "all wild animals, birds, plants,
fish, amphibians, and related - ecological
communities, including the habitat upon which the
wildlife depends for it's continued viability."
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D. DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND/OR EARLIER ANALYSIS:
Section and Subsections
Evaluation of Impacts
I. AESTHETICS
a.) Less than Significant Impact: The City of Santa Clarita is
located within Southern California's Santa Clarita Valley, which is
bounded by the San Gabriel Mountains to the south and east, the
Santa Susanna Mountains to the southwest, and the mountains of the
Los Padres and Angeles National Forests to the north. The
surrounding natural mountains and ridgelines, some of which extend
into the City, provide a visual backdrop for the City. Other scenic
resources within or visible from the City include the Santa Clara
River corridor, forested/vegetated land, and a variety of canyons and
natural drainages in portions of the City.
The annual modifications to the Unified Development Code (UDC)
will not affect any scenic vistas or other scenic resources within the
City of Santa Clarita. Rather, the modifications proposed will tend to
improve aesthetics, visual character and visual quality with the City
of Santa Clarita by clarifying development requirements for projects.
Therefore, the proposed UDC amendments would have a less than
significant impact on scenic vistas.
b.) Less than Significant Impact: The only roadway within the City
of Santa Clarita that is identified in the California Department of
Transportation's State Scenic Highway program is the Interstate 5 (I-
5) freeway, which is designated as an "Eligible State Scenic
Highway". This designated eligible segment of the I-5 Freeway
extends from the I-210 Freeway interchange to the SR126!Newhall
Ranch Road interchange. SR 126 from the City's boundary at the I-5
west to SR 150 in Ventura County is also designated an "Eligible
State Scenic Highway". The proposed UDC amendments will not r
affect existing City development standards, codes and ordinances
regarding development of or near Scenic Highways. Therefore, the
proposed amendments would have no impacts on scenic resources
within a state scenic highway.
c.) Less than Significant Impact: The proposed amendments would
be applied to all future development within the City. The proposed
changes do not significantly alter existing City standards for height,
massing, and setback requirements. Minor changes have been made
to the setbacks for pre-existing legal, residential structures that will
allow structures'to maintain the prevailing setback provided that they
do not increase the degree of non -conformity by any further
encroachment into required setbacks. Projects based on the proposed
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amendments would be in character with current development
standards. Therefore, the proposed amendments would have a less
than significant impact on the visual character or quality of site and
surroundings.
d.) Less than Significant Impact: The proposed amendments do not
alter the City standards for outdoor lighting and would not be a new
source of light or glare. The proposed amendments are anticipated to
have a less than significant impact on light and glare.
II. AGRICULTURE
a. -c.) Less than Siknificant Impact — The proposed modifications to
RESOURCES
the UDC will not affect any farmland identified by the California
Resources Agency, farmland designated under a Williamson Act
Contract, and will not convert any farmland to non-agricultural use.
Therefore, the amendments are anticipated to have a less than
significant impact on agricultural resources.
III. AIR QUALITY
a.) Less than Significant Impact: The City of Santa Clarita is
within the South Coast Air Basin (SCAB), which is bounded by the
San Gabriel, San Bernardino, and San Jacinto Mountains to the north
and east, and the Pacific Ocean to the south and west. The air quality
in the SCAB is managed by the South Coast Air Quality
Management District (SCAQMD).
The SCAB has a history of recorded air quality violations and is an
area where both state and federal ambient air quality standards are
exceeded. Because of the violations of the California Ambient Air
Quality Standards (CAAQS), the California Clean Air Act requires
triennial preparation of an Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP).
The AQMP analyzes air quality on a regional level and identifies
region -wide attenuation methods to achieve the air quality standards.
These region -wide attenuation methods include regulations for
stationary -source polluters; facilitation of new transportation
technologies, such as low -emission vehicles; and capital
improvements, such as park-and-ride facilities and public transit
improvements.
The most recently adopted plan is the 2007 AQMP, adopted on June
1, 2007. This plan is the South Coast Air Basin's portion of the State
Implementation Plan (SIP). This plan is designed to implement the
California Clean Air Act an in turn implement the Federal Clean Air
Act administered by the EPA. The AQMP accommodates population
growth and transportation projections based on the predictions made
by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG).
Thus, projects that are consistent with employment and population
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forecasts are consistent with the AQMD.
The proposed changes to the UDC will not alter any of the
aforementioned measures directly. The proposed amendments are
consistent with Zoning and General Plan Land Use designations. The
amendments are consistent with, and will have no effect on, the
growth expectations for the region and are therefore consistent with
the 2007 AQMP. Subsequent development projects within the City
will likely affect the local air quality in the future. The potential air
quality impacts of future development projects however, are too
speculative, to evaluate at this time. Regardless, subsequent
development projects will be required to adhere to the General Plan
and standards set forth in the UDC. Future development is therefore
also anticipated to be consistent with the AQMP and is not expected
to result in significant environmental impacts.
b.) Less than Significant Impact: Santa Clarita is located in a non -
attainment area, an area that frequently exceeds national ambient air
quality standards. However, the proposed UDC amendments do not
affect the South Coast Air Quality Management District's
(SCAQMD) land use, construction, and mobile emission thresholds
for significant air quality impacts, according to the 1993 'updated
SCAQMD's CEQA Air Quality Handbook. Therefore, no impact to
air quality standards is anticipated as a result of the proposed UDC
amendments.
c.) Less than Significant Impact: As discussed is Section III.b), the
proposed amendments would not exceed the thresholds of
significance established by the SCAQMD. The SCQAMD
established these thresholds in consideration of cumulative air
pollution in the SCAB. As such, projects that do ,not exceed the
SCAQMD's thresholds are not considered to significantly contribute
to cumulative air quality impacts. The proposed amendments to the
UDC do not proposed development; however, any future
development will be evaluated pursuant to CEQA and assess project
related air quality impacts. Therefore, no impact to ambient air
quality is anticipated as a result of the proposed UDC amendments.
d.) Less than Significant Impact: Certain residents, such as the
very young, the elderly and those suffering from certain illnesses or
disabilities, are particularly sensitive to air pollution and are
considered sensitive receptors. In addition, active park users, such as
participants in sporting events, are sensitive air pollutant receptors
due to increased breathing rates. Land uses where sensitive air
pollutant receptors congregate include schools, day care centers,
parks, recreational areas, medical facilities, rest homes, and
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convalescent care facilities.
The proposal does not include any physical development at this time.
The proposed UDC amendments may apply to future development
projects within the City. However, the proposed amendments do not
remove any odor -related regulations and would not foreseeably lead
to a change in the generation of odor. Additionally, the proposed
amendments would not place sensitive land uses adjacent to
substantial air pollution sources. Therefore, the proposed
amendments would have no air quality impacts on sensitive receptors.
e.) Less than Significant Impact: The proposed UDC amendments
will not locate any land use adjacent to an odor producing facility or
use. The proposed amendments are regulatory in nature and all
future land uses must comply with all applicable regulations of the
AQMD and the City of Santa Clarita General Plan and UDC.
Therefore, the proposed amendments would have no odor -related
impacts.
IV. BIOLOGICAL a. -d.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed changes to the
RESOURCES UDC do not , include the modification of any habitat and would not
otherwise affect any candidate, sensitive or special status species
identified by the Department of Fish and Game or the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service. Further, the proposed UDC changes will not have
any adverse affect on any riparian habitat or wetlands as defined by
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. The proposed UDC changes
will help to guide development within the City, will not change any
land use entitlements, and .would not remove environmental review
requirements for any future developments. In addition-_, there is no
proposed alteration to any wildlife corridor or migratory fish corridor
proposed and no change to any regulation or code protecting such
resources. Therefore, the proposed UDC amendments would not
cause significant impacts to sensitive species, sensitive natural
community, riparian habitat, or wetlands.
e.) Less than Significant Impact — The City of Santa Clarita has an
Oak Tree Preservation Ordinance that regulates the development
adjacent to and under oak trees. Minor modifications to the Oak Tree
Preservation Ordinance are proposed at this time to clarify the
permitting process for work on or near an oak tree. No additional
modifications to the Oak Tree Preservation Ordinance are proposed
at this time. Therefore, no significant impact to oak trees is
anticipated with the proposed amendments.
f. -g.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed UDC
modifications propose no alterations to any local or regional habitat
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conservation plan. In addition, the proposed UDC modifications will
not affect any property designated as an SEA (Significant Ecological
Area) or SNA (Significant Natural Area) on the City's ESA
(Environmentally Sensitive Area) Deliniation Map. Therefore, no
significant impact is anticipated with respect to any SEA or SNA as
identified on the City's ESA map.
V. CULTURAL
a. -d.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed changes to the
RESOURCES
Unified Development Code will not have any impact on cultural
resources in the City of Santa Clarita. The proposed modifications
will not alter any unique geological feature, paleontological resource,
any human remains or affect any historical or archeological resource.
The proposed amendments will govern subsequent development
activity, which may impact cultural resources. However, the
potential impact of future development is too speculative to evaluate
at this time; and all future development activity within the established
areas would be required to comply with Goal 10 of the City's Open
Space and Conservation Element, to protect the historical and
culturally significant resources, which contribute to community
identity and a sense of history. Therefore, a less than significant
impact to archeological, historical or cultural resource would be
caused by the proposed UDC amendments.
VI. GEOLOGY AND
a. i -iv) Less than Significant Impact — Southern California has
SOILS
numerous active and potentially active faults that could affect the
City. As stated in the City's General Plan, the City is susceptible to
geologic hazards in the event of a major earthquake (magnitude 8.3)
along the San Andreas Fault. This could result in ground failure and
liquefaction. However, the proposed modifications to the UDC
would not change any land use entitlements, and would not change
the requirements of future development to follow all state and City
building codes/regulations. Therefore, the proposed UDC
amendments would have a less than significant impact related to
exposure of people. or structures to any adverse effects of seismic
activity.
b. i.) Less that Significant Impact — The proposed UDC
modifications will not result in any erosion or location of structures
on or near unstable soil, expansive or otherwise. No modifications to
the UDC will be made with respect to the impact to any
topographical features, movement of earth, development on slopes
with greater than 10% natural grade, or any over -covering of any
physical or geological feature. Furthermore, the proposal would not
affect requirements of future developments to comply with all state
and city building codes/regulations. Therefore, the proposal would
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have a less than significant impact with respect to erosion, unstable
or expansive soil, or any topographical features.
VII. HAZARDS AND
a. -d.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed changes to the
HAZARDOUS
UDC would not directly expose people to health hazards or
MATERIALS
hazardous materials and would not interfere with any emergency
response plans. The proposed land use regulation adjustments would
guide future building within the city. However, subsequent
developments in the city would be required to comply with the City's
General Plan and development codes and federal, state, and local
hazardous material regulations. Furthermore, no development is
associated with these UDC modifications, and potential future effects
would only occur as a subsequent affect of future on-site
development. Therefore, a less than significant impact to hazardous
materials is anticipated with the proposed UDC modifications.
e. -f.) No Impact — The proposed amendments includes no change to
land use or development standards for land within 2 miles of an
airport and airfield or otherwise within an airport land use plan.
Further, no airport of airfield is located within 2 miles of the City
boundaries. Therefore, the proposed UDC amendments would not
affect the risks of land uses adjacent to airports or airfields and the
proposal would have no related impacts.
g.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed UDC amendments
would not affect the implementation of emergency response plans,
and would have a less than significant impact.
h.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed UDC amendments
would not directly increase the risks of wildland fires, and would not
change the regulations or development standards governing
development adjacent to wildlands. Therefore, the proposed UDC
amendments would have a less than significant impact.
VIII. HYDROLOGY
a. -b.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed project would
AND WATER
not impact water quality standards, nor affect groundwater supplies.
QUALITY
The proposed project is an amendment for a land use provisions, and
will not be responsible for direct development impacts. However,
subsequent development projects would be required to comply with
the development impact standards put forth in the City's General
Plan and all Clean Water Act Requirements, including the National
Pollutant discharge Elimination System (NPDES). Therefore, the
project will have a less than significant impact to water quality or
ground water supplies.
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c.-1.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed changes to the
UDC are anticipated to have a less than significant impact on any
100 -year flood hazard area, tsunami, drainage pattern, or runoff of
Stormwater Management systems. As mentioned previously, the
proposed project is an amendment for a land use provision, and will
not be responsible for direct development impacts. However,
subsequent development projects in the revised UDC areas would be
required to comply with the standards put forth in the City's General
Plan and all Clean Water Act Requirements, including the National
Pollutant discharge Elimination System (NPDES). Furthermore, the
proposed UDC amendments would not change any hydrology or
water quality -related codes, laws, permits, or regulations. Therefore,
the project will have a less than significant impact.
IX. LAND USE AND
a.) Less than Significant Impact: No established community would
PLANNING
be disrupted or physically divided due to the proposed amendments,
and therefore, a less than significant impact would occur.
b.) Less than Significant Impact: The purpose of these
amendments is to clarify development standards and provide general
maintenance of the UDC to keep current with general planning and
development trends. The proposed amendments will guide future
development in the City, however, no development activity will be
authorized at this time. Therefore, a less than significant impact
related to land use and planning is anticipated with the proposed
amendments to the UDC.
c.) Less than Significant Impact: The proposed amendments do not
affect current City standards regarding habitat conservation plans,
natural community preservation plans, and/ or the policies of agencies
with jurisdiction over resources and resource areas within the City.
The proposed amendments would ensure the continued availability of
important mineral resources. Any future development project under
these amendments would be subject to the standards and regulations
established by the City and other agencies. Therefore, the project
would have a less than significant impact on conservation plans.
X. MINERAL AND
a. -c.) Less than Significant Impact — Gold mining and oil
ENERGY
production historically have been the principal mineral extraction
RESOURCES
activities in and around the Santa Clarita Valley. Other minerals
found in the planning area include construction aggregate; titanium,
and tuff. Mineral resources and extraction areas are shown in Exhibit
OS -5 of the City's General Plan. No modifications to the UDC are
proposed at this time with respect to current mining operations within
the city and will not affect mineral resources in the city. Therefore,
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no significant impact related to mineral and energy resources is
anticipated.
XI. NOISE
a. -d.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed modifications
to the UDC will not expose persons to the generation of excess noise
levels, groundbome vibration, or increase ambient noise in the City
,of Santa Clarita. The UDC modification, in fact, does not propose
any development at this time and therefore, there would be no impact
to noise levels in the city. The proposed amendments may apply to
fature development projects within the City. The proposed
amendments do not remove any noise -related regulations and would
not foreseeably lead to a change in the generation of noise at this
time. Therefore, no significant impact is anticipated with relation to
noise.
e. -f.) No Impact — There are no airports, airfields, or airport land use
plans within the City. Therefore, the proposed UDC amendments
would cause no impacts related to airport noise.
XII. POPULATION
a. -c.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed modifications to
AND HOUSING
the UDC are not anticipated to induce substantial population growth
in the City, either directly or indirectly, nor would any of the
proposed activities cause displacement of existing homes or people.
The proposed project is a regulatory adjustment and does not include
any development activity at this time. The proposed UDC
modifications would not alter the City's population projections and
are consistent with the City's General Plan. Therefore, the project
would have no significant impacts to population and housing.
XIII. PUBLIC
a)i. Less than Significant Impact — The proposed project will not
SERVICES
directly increase the need for fire protection services. However, any
future development would be subject to development fees, which are
established to compensate for growth. Since, the proposed UDC
amendments are not anticipated to have an immediate impact on fire
protection services, and future development would remain subject to
development fees, the project would have no significant impact to
fire services.
a)ii. Less than Significant Impact — The proposed amendments are
not anticipated to directly increase the need for police services.
However, any future development would be subject to development
fees, which are established to compensate for growth. Since, the
proposed UDC amendments would have no immediate impact on
police services, and future development would remain subject to
development fees, the project would have no significant impact to
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police services. , .
a)iii. Less than Significant Impact — The proposed project is not
anticipated to directly increase the population of the City of Santa
Clarita. However, any future residential development would be
subject to school development fees, are established to
,which
compensate for growth. Since, the proposed change UDC
amendments would have no immediate impact on school services,
and future development would be subject to school development fees,
the project is anticipated to have a less than significant impact to
school services.
a)iv. Less than Significant Impact — The proposed project is not
anticipated to directly increase number of persons using public parks.
However, any future development would be subject to park impact
fees, which are established to compensate for residential growth.
Since, the proposed UDC amendments would have no immediate
impact on parks, and future development would remain subject to
park impact fees, the amendments are anticipated to have a less than
significant impact to parks.
XIV. RECREATION
a. -b.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed changes to the
UDC will not have any impact on recreational amenities within the
City of Santa Clarita. The proposed project is a regulatory
adjustment and does not include any development activities at this
time. Any subsequent development would be required to comply
with the Parks and Recreation Element in the City's General Plan and
would be subject to the City's park impact fees. Therefore, no
significant impact to recreation is anticipated with the proposed UDC
modifications.
XV.
a. -b.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed amendments to
TRANSPORTATION /
the UDC are regulatory in nature and are not anticipated to have
TRAFFIC
immediate developmental impacts that alter traffic load or capacity
on street systems. Future development activity in the city would be
regulated by the City's UDC, General Plan, and transportation
policies. Future projects would be subject to additional CEQA
review to determine project related impacts and potential mitigation
measures. However, at this time, since no development is being
approved, a less than significant impact to traffic is anticipated as a
result of the proposed UDC amendments.
c. -h.) Less than Significant Impact: The proposed amendments to
the UDC do not authorize any development at this time. Therefore,
the proposed amendments would have no impacts on City traffic
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systems including emergency routes, parking capacity, pedestrian or
bicycle routes, air traffic patterns, or increase hazards due to a design
feature or incompatible use. Future development projects would be
required to comply with the Circulation Element of the City's
General Plan, the City's roadway design and parkway standards, and
all adopted policies, plans, and programs supporting alternative
transportation. Therefore, the proposed amendments would have a
less than significant impact on traffic.
XVI. UTELITIES AND
a. -g.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed amendments to
SERVICE SYSTEMS
the City's Unified Development Code do not include any
development at this time. Therefore, the project would not result in
the construction of new water facilities, expansion of existing
facilities, affect drainage patterns, water treatment services, and
furthermore, no impacts to the City's landfill capacity would occur.
Any subsequent development would be required to comply with the
City's General Plan and the requirements of the Regional Water
Quality Control Board and all applicable utility purveyors.
Compliance with these requirements would ensure all federal, state
and local statutes and imposed regulations are met. � Therefore, a less
than significant impact to utilities or service systems is anticipated
with the proposed amendments.
XVII. MANDATORY
a. -c.) Less than Significant Impact — The proposed amendments to
FINDINGS OF
the UDC are not anticipated to have a significant impact on the
SIGNIFICANCE
environment that would lead to a substantial reduction in habitat of a
fish or wildlife species, or reduce or restrict the number of rare,
threatened or endangered species. The proposal does not involve any
physical development at this time. The proposed UDC amendments
may apply to future development projects within the City. However,
the proposed amendments do not remove any established City
regulations that protect any plant and animal species. Due to the
nature of the proposed UDC amendments, the proposal would not
contribute to any cumulative impacts and would not cause
environmental effects that would adversely affect humans. Rather,
the proposed UDC amendments are intended to guide future
development throughout the city. Therefore, the proposed project
would have no significant impact that could result in a Mandatory
Findings of Significance.
XVIII. DEPARTMENT
a.) No Impact — The legislative intent of the Department of Fish and
OF FISH AND GAME
Gam `De Minimus' Finding is "to extend the current user -based
IDE MINIMUS'
funding system by allocating the transactional costs of wildlife
FINDING
protection and management to those who would consume those
resources through urbanization and development..." (AB 3158,
Chapter 1706, Statutes of 1990, effective January 1, 1991, Section
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1(c)). However, the proposed UDC amendments would not entitle
any new development; and any future development proposal seeking
discretionary approval would remain subject to CEQA and the CDFG
Code. Since, the proposed amendments are not anticipated to have a
significant adverse effect either individually or cumulatively, on fish
and wildlife resources, the project's impacts on fish and wildlife are
de minimus.
SACD\CURRENTV2008\08-038 UDC Amendments\08-038 Initial Study doc