2022 06 14 PC
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA Page 1 of 4 JUNE 14, 2022
PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER
78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta
REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, June 14, 2022, AT 5:00 P.M.
****************************
SPECIAL NOTICE
Teleconferencing and Telephonic Accessibility In Effect
Pursuant to Executive Orders N-25-20 and N-08-21 executed by the Governor of
California, and subsequently Assembly Bill 361 (AB 361, 2021), enacted in response
to the state of emergency relating to novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
and enabling teleconferencing accommodations by suspending or waiving specified
provisions in the Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code § 54950 et seq.), members
of the public, Planning Commission, the City Attorney, City Staff, and City
Consultants may participate in this meeting by teleconference.
Members of the public may listen to this meeting by tuning-in live via
http://laquinta.12milesout.com/video/live.
Members of the public wanting to address the Planning Commission, either for a
specific agenda item or matters not on the agenda, are requested to follow the
instructions listed below:
Written public comments – can be provided in-person during the meeting or
emailed to the Commission Secretary, Tania Flores, at TFlores@LaQuintaCA.Gov,
before 2:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting, and will be distributed to the
Planning Commission and incorporated into the public record of the meeting, but will
not be read during the meeting unless, upon the request of the Chairperson, a brief
summary of public comment is asked to be read.
The email subject line should clearly state “Written Comments” and should include
the following:
1) Full Name 4) Public Comment or Agenda Item Number
2) City of Residence 5) Subject
3) Phone Number 6) Written Comments
Planning Commission agendas and
staff reports are now available on the
City’s web page: www.LaQuintaCA.Gov
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA Page 2 of 4 JUNE 14, 2022
***** TELECONFERENCE PROCEDURES *****
Verbal Public Comment via Teleconference – members of the public may
attend and participate in the meeting by teleconference via Zoom and use
the “raise your hand” feature when public comments are prompted by the
Chairperson; the City will facilitate the ability for a member of the public to be audible
to the Planning Commission and general public and allow him/her/they to speak on
the item(s) requested. Only one person may speak at a time and only after being
recognized by the Chairperson.
Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82853067939
Meeting ID: 828 5306 7939
Or by phone: (253) 215 – 8782
Email communications for public comments related to items on the agenda, or for
general public comment, should be submitted to the City at the email address listed
above prior to the commencement of the meeting. To accommodate the public,
every effort will be made to review emails received by the City during the course of
the meeting. The Chairperson will endeavor to take a brief pause before action is
taken on any agenda item to allow the Commission Secretary to review emails and
share any public comments received during the meeting. All emails received by the
City, at the email address above, until the adjournment of the meeting, will be
included within the public record relating to the meeting.
****************************
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL: Commissioners Caldwell, Currie, Hassett, McCune, Proctor, Tyerman
and Chairperson Nieto
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA
At this time, members of the public may address the Planning Commission on any
matter not listed on the agenda by providing written public comments either in-
person or via email as indicated above; or provide verbal public comments either
in-person or via teleconference by joining the meeting virtually at
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82853067939 and use the “raise your hand”
feature when prompted by the Chairperson or Commission Secretary. Members of
the public attending the meeting in-person are requested to complete a “Request
to Speak” form and submit to the Commission Secretary. Please limit your
comments to three (3) minutes (or approximately 350 words). The Planning
Commission values your comments; however, in accordance with State law, no
action shall be taken on any item not appearing on the agenda unless it is an
emergency item authorized by the Brown Act [Government Code § 54954.2(b)].
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA Page 3 of 4 JUNE 14, 2022
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
ANNOUNCEMENTS, PRESENTATIONS AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS - NONE
CONSENT CALENDAR - NONE
BUSINESS SESSION
PAGE
1. APPROVE CANCELLING THE REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETINGS OF AUGUST 9 AND 23, 2022
5
STUDY SESSION
PAGE
1. DISCUSS CITYWIDE HISTORIC RESOURCES SURVEY UPDATE 7
PUBLIC HEARINGS
For Public Hearings on the agenda, any person may provide public comments in
support or opposition of a project(s). If you challenge a project(s) in court, you may
be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public
hearing or in written correspondence delivered to the City at, or prior to, the public
hearing.
A person may submit written comments either in-person or via email at
TFlores@LaQuintaCA.Gov; or provide verbal comments during the public hearing
either in-person or via teleconference by joining the meeting virtually at
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82853067939 and use the “raise your hand”
feature when prompted by the Chairperson. Members of the public attending the
meeting in-person are requested to complete a “Request to Speak” form and
submit it to the Commission Secretary prior to consideration of the item. Please limit
your comments to three (3) minutes (or approximately 350 words).
PAGE
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO RECOMMEND TO CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL
OF ZONE CHANGE 2022-0001, ADDING THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING
OVERLAY (AHO) TO SPECIFIC PARCELS IDENTIFIED IN THE HOUSING
ELEMENT; AND ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 2022-0001,
MAKING TEXT AMENDMENTS NECESSARY FOR CONSISTENCY WITH
THE HOUSING ELEMENT. CEQA: REQUEST HAS BEEN PREVIOUSLY
ANALYZED AS PART OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2021-0010.
LOCATION: CITY-WIDE.
17
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS – NONE
STAFF ITEMS – NONE
COMMISSIONERS’ ITEMS – NONE
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA Page 4 of 4 JUNE 14, 2022
ADJOURNMENT
****************************
The next regular meeting of the La Quinta Planning Commission will be held on June
28, 2022, commencing at 5:00 p.m. with the Call to Order, at the City Hall Council
Chamber, 78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, California.
DECLARATION OF POSTING
I, Tania Flores, Planning Commission Secretary, do hereby declare that the foregoing
Agenda for the La Quinta Planning Commission meeting of June 14, 2022, was posted
on the City’s website, near the entrance to the Council Chamber at 78495 Calle
Tampico, and the bulletin boards at the Stater Brothers Supermarket at 78630
Highway 111, and the La Quinta Cove Post Office at 51321 Avenida Bermudas, on
June 10, 2022.
DATED: June 10, 2022
TANIA FLORES, Planning Commission Secretary
City of La Quinta, California
Public Notices
• The La Quinta City Council Chamber is handicapped accessible. If special equipment is needed
for the hearing impaired, please call the Planning Division of the Design and Development
Department at (760) 777-7023, twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the meeting and
accommodations will be made.
• If special electronic equipment is needed to make presentations to the Commission,
arrangements should be made in advance by contacting the Planning Division of the Design
and Development Department at (760) 777-7023. A one (1) week notice is required.
• If background material is to be presented to the Commission during a Planning Commission
meeting, please be advised that ten (10) copies of all documents, exhibits, etc., must be
supplied to the Planning Commission Secretary for distribution. It is requested that this takes
place prior to the beginning of the meeting.
• Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the Commission regarding any item(s)
on this agenda will be made available for public inspection at the Design and Development
Department’s counter at City Hall located at 78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, California,
92253, during normal business hours.
City of La Quinta
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING: June 14, 2022
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: APPROVE CANCELLING THE REGULAR PLANNING
COMMISSION MEETINGS OF AUGUST 9 AND 23, 2022
RECOMMENDATION
Approve cancelling the regular Planning Commission meetings of August 9 and
23, 2022.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•Planning Commission (PC) traditionally modifies its meeting schedule
during summer months if there are no known time-sensitive matters
requiring Commission action.
•Advance notice of cancelled meetings allows Planning Commissioners,
Staff, and the public to properly plan for deadlines and workflow.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
The Design and Development Director and the Planning Department have
reviewed the items requiring PC consideration, and all matters that require
Commission review can be scheduled for the June or July meetings or
subsequent meetings in September.
The recommended summer meeting schedule is as follows:
•June 28 regular meeting
•July 12 regular meeting
•July 26 regular meeting
•August 9 CANCELLED
•August 23 CANCELLED
•September 13 regular meeting
•September 27 regular meeting
Should a pressing situation or matter requiring PC direction or action arise
before the next regular meeting, a special meeting will be called.
BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 1
5
ALTERNATIVES
PC may select alternate dates for cancelled meetings, cancel only one meeting,
cancel two meetings, or cancel no meetings.
Prepared by: Tania Flores, Administrative Technician
Approved by: Danny Castro, Design and Development Director
6
STUDY SESSSION ITEM NO. 1
City of La Quinta
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING: June 14, 2022
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: DISCUSS CITYWIDE HISTORIC RESOURCES SURVEY UPDATE
RECOMMENDATION
Receive presentation and discuss the progress on the citywide Historic
Resources Survey Update
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•On April 5, 2022, the La Quinta City Council approved an agreement with
Urbana Preservation and Planning (Urbana) to conduct a citywide Historic
Resources Survey Update (Update).
•The Update is required by the City’s General Plan to update its historic
resources inventory.
•Urbana has started the process and is prepared to discuss progress and
next steps.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
The main purpose of La Quinta’s Historic Preservation Ordinance is to protect,
enhance and perpetuate historic resources, landmarks and districts that
represent or reflect elements of the La Quinta’s diverse cultural, social,
economic, political, and architectural history. The City maintains a historic
resources inventory of properties that was adopted in 1997 and was updated in
2006.It can be found here:
https://laqlaserweb.laquintaca.gov/WebLink/CustomSearch.aspx?SearchName=
HistoricResourcesProperties
The historic resources inventory serves to acknowledge, protect, and promote
buildings, structures or objects that have contributed to the area’s history, and
to identify resources that may be eligible for national and local historic
landmark designation. While the City maintains a historic resources inventory,
to-date there are no national or locally designated historic landmark properties
or districts in La Quinta. For properties, districts, or improvements to be
designated for local historic landmark status, the Planning Commission shall
7
review applications based on special criteria and make their recommendations
to the City Council. (Attachment 1)
The Survey Update was initiated in April 2022 with a contract awarded to
Urbana, a team of highly qualified historic preservation experts. The scope of
work includes conducting an update of the citywide resources previously
surveyed in 1997 and in 2006, and a survey of properties that are now 45
years of age or more since the 2006 survey was completed. The Update will
also include assessing the City’s current procedures on historical properties and
provide recommendations on any changes to municipal code text and/or
clarifications on the review procedures. Urbana has also completed a meeting
with City staff and La Quinta Historical Society members for input. This Study
Session provides an opportunity for Urbana to provide information on the
Update.
Prepared by: Carlos Flores, Senior Planner
Approved by: Danny Castro, Design and Development Director
Attachments: 1. Historic Preservation Ordinance – Title 7
8
La Quinta, California, Municipal Code
Title 7 HISTORIC PRESERVATION
La Quinta, California, Municipal Code Created: 2022-05-06 15:29:28 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 1 of 8
Title 7
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Chapter 7.02 GENERAL REGULATION AND ADMINISTRATION
7.02.010 Short title.
This title shall be known as the "historic preservation ordinance."
(Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
7.02.020 Purpose and intent.
It is the intent and purpose of this title to:
A. Effect the protection, enhancement and perpetuation of historic resources, landmarks and districts
that represent or reflect elements of the city's diverse cultural, social, economic, political and
architectural history;
B. Safeguard the city's historic heritage, as represented by its historic resources, landmarks and historic
districts;
C. Stabilize and improve property values;
D. Foster civic pride in the character and accomplishments of the past;
E. Protect and enhance the city's attraction to residents, tourists and visitors and serve to support and
stimulate business and industry;
F. Strengthen the economy of the city;
G. Promote the use of historic districts and landmarks for the education, enjoyment and welfare of the
people of the city.
(Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
7.02.030 Boundaries and areas of application.
This title shall apply to all historic resources, publicly and privately owned, within the corporate limits of the city.
(Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
7.02.040 Definitions.
Whenever the following words or terms are used in this title they shall have the meaning established by this
section:
"Alteration" means any change or modification, through public or private action, of any historic resource or of any
property located within a historic district, including, but not limited to, exterior changes to or modifications of a
ATTACHMENT 1
9
Created: 2022-05-06 15:29:27 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 2 of 8
structure or any of its architectural details or visual characteristics, including paint color and surface texture,
grading, surface paving, new structures, cutting or removal of trees and other natural features, disturbances of
archaeological sites or areas, and the placement or removal of any objects such as signs, plaques, light fixtures,
street furniture, walls, fences, steps, plantings and landscape accessories affecting the historic qualities of the
property.
"Archaeological site" means an area where remains of man or his activities prior to keeping of history are still
evident.
"Certificate of appropriateness" means a certificate issued by the city council approving such plans, specifications,
design or statements of work for any proposed alteration, restoration, construction, removal, relocation or
demolition, in whole or in part, of or to any historic resource or to any improvement within a historic district.
"Commission" means the planning commission established by this title.
"Contributing structure" means a structure within a designated historic district which has a special character,
special historic or aesthetic interest or value, and is incorporated into the district for that reason.
"Exterior architectural feature" means the architectural style, design, general arrangement, components and
natural features and all the outer surfaces of the improvement, including, but not limited to, the kind and texture
of the building material, the type and style of all windows, doors, lights, signs, walls, fences, and other fixtures
appurtenant to such improvement, and the natural form and appearance of any grade, rock, body of water,
stream, tree, plant, shrub, road, path, walkway, plaza, fountain, sculpture, or other form of natural or artificial
landscaping.
"Historic district" means any area which contains one (1) or more historic resources or landmarks which has a
special character or special historical value, along with other structural, cultural, architectural, archaeological,
agricultural, community or aesthetic value, or which represents one (1) or more architectural periods or styles
typical to the history of the city, that has been designated a historic district pursuant to this title.
"Historic resource" means improvements, including, but not necessarily limited to, buildings, landscape, structures,
signs, features, sites, places, areas, or other objects of scientific, aesthetic, educational, cultural, architectural,
agricultural or historic significance to the citizens of the city.
"Historic resources inventory" means the historic resources inventory adopted and maintained by council pursuant
to Chapter 7.06 of this title.
"Improvement" means any building, structure, place, site, structural work of art, landscape feature, plant life, life-
form, scenic condition, parking facility, fence, gate, wall or other object constituting a physical betterment of real
property, or any part of such betterment.
"Landmark" means any property or improvement, manmade or natural, which has special historic, cultural,
architectural, archaeological, community interest or value as part of the development, heritage or history of the
city, the state of California, or the nation, and that has been designated as a landmark pursuant to this title.
"Ordinary maintenance" means any cleaning, painting, and/or other restoration which does not result in the
alteration of an improvement or landmark.
"Paleontological site" means an area where fossilized or otherwise preserved remains of plants or animals which
generally predate man's emergence on the earth are still evident.
"Person" means any individual, association, partnership, firm, corporation, public agency, or political subdivision.
"Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation" means the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for
Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings by the U.S. Department of the Interior, or the
National Park Service.
10
Created: 2022-05-06 15:29:27 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 3 of 8
"Site" means any parcel or portion of real property which has special character or special historic, cultural,
archaeological, architectural, community or aesthetic value.
(Ord. 536 § 1, 2016; Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
Chapter 7.06 HISTORIC RESOURCES, HISTORIC LANDMARKS AND HISTORIC
DISTRICTS
7.06.010 Establishment of historic resources inventory.
The city council shall establish and maintain a historic resources inventory according to the requirements of the
state historic preservation office.
(Ord. 536 § 2, 2016; Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
7.06.020 Criteria for historic resources inventory.
A historic resource may be considered for inclusion in the historic resource inventory based on one (1) or more of
the following:
A. It exemplifies or reflects special elements of the city's cultural, social, economic, political, aesthetic,
engineering or architectural history; or
B. It is identified with persons or events significant in local, state or national history; or
C. It embodies distinctive characteristics of a style, type, period or method of construction, is a valuable
example of the use of indigenous materials or craftsmanship or is representative of a notable work of
an acclaimed builder, designer or architect; or
D. It is an archaeological, paleontological, botanical, geological, topographical, ecological or geographical
site which has the potential of yielding information of scientific value; or
E. It is a geographically definable area possessing concentration of site, buildings, structures,
improvements or objects linked historically through location, design, setting, materials, workmanship,
feeling and/or association, in which the collective value of the improvements may be greater than the
value of each individual improvement.
(Ord. 536 § 2, 2016; Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
7.06.030 Landmark designation procedures.
Landmarks shall be established by the city council in the following manner:
A. Any person may request the designation of an improvement as a landmark by submitting a written
request for such designation to the planning commission. The planning commission or city council may
also initiate such proceedings by motion.
B. Any such request shall be filed with the planning and development department upon prescribed forms
and shall include the following data:
1. Name and address of property owner and assessor's parcel number and address of site;
11
Created: 2022-05-06 15:29:27 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 4 of 8
2. Description of the proposed landmark, including special aesthetic, cultural, architectural or
engineering interest or value of a historic nature, including information about the architecture,
notable features, construction and other information indicating the historical significance of the
site;
3. Sketches, photographs or drawings;
4. Statement of condition of the improvement;
5. Explanation of any known threats to the improvement of the site;
6. Additional information:
a. Site plan in appropriate scale,
b. Legal description of the property,
c. Photographs, old and recent,
d. Proposed use,
e. Existing zoning,
f. Bibliography and references,
g. Chain of title, if available.
C. Within forty-five (45) days of the date of the request, the commission shall hold a public hearing to
review the landmark application according to the criteria of Section 7.06.020.
D. Notice of the public hearing shall be published in a paper of local circulation at least ten (10) days prior
to the hearing date. In addition, notice of the date, place, time and purpose of the hearing shall be
mailed, return receipt requested, to the owner of the proposed landmark property as shown on the
last equalized assessment role at least fourteen (14) days prior to the date of the public hearing. Failure
to send notice by mail to any property owner when the address of such owner is not on the latest
equalized assessment role shall not invalidate any proceedings in connection with the proposed
designation.
E. A notice of the request for designation as a landmark shall be forwarded to the building and safety
department and no building or demolition permits for any alteration to any exterior architectural
features of the proposed landmark shall be issued while the matter is pending final decision.
F. After the public hearing, the commission shall, by resolution, make a report and recommendation to
the city council. If the commission determines that the improvement does not meet landmark criteria,
the process shall terminate and the commission shall notify the property owner and applicant of such
termination in writing within ten (10) days of the commission's determination. If the commission
determines that the historical resource warrants landmark designation and the property owner has
consented to same in writing, then the commission shall submit a written recommendation to the city
council incorporating its reasons in support of the proposed landmark designation. Without the
property owner's consent to the proposed designation, the proposal shall terminate.
G. The city council shall hold a public hearing on the proposed historic landmark designation within thirty
(30) days of the receipt of the recommendation from the commission.
H. At the conclusion of the public hearing on the proposed designation, the city council shall, by
resolution, designate, conditionally designate, or disapprove the designation of the landmark. Written
notice of the city council action shall be mailed to the property owner.
(Ord. 536 § 2, 2016; Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
12
Created: 2022-05-06 15:29:27 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 5 of 8
7.06.040 Historic district designation procedures.
Historic districts shall be established by the city council in the following manner:
A. The procedures for designating a historic district shall be the same as for designating a landmark,
except as otherwise provided in this section.
B. Any application for designation of a historic district shall be filed with the planning and development
department upon the prescribed form and shall include the following data:
1. Boundaries of the proposed district and a list of names and addresses of property owners,
assessor's parcel numbers and addresses of properties within the boundaries;
2. Description of the proposed historic district, including special aesthetic, cultural, architectural or
engineering interest or value of a historical nature;
3. Sketches, photographs or drawings;
4. Statement of condition of structures and improvements within the district;
5. Explanation of any known threats to any historic resource within the district;
6. Other information requested by the planning and development department.
C. If written consent of two-thirds (⅔) of the owners of property within the proposed district to the
proposed designation is not obtained at the time of the planning commission hearing, the process shall
terminate and the commission shall notify the property owners and applicant of the termination within
fourteen (14) days of the commission's determination.
D. If the commission determines that the area warrants historic district designation, it shall submit a
written recommendation to the city council incorporating its reasons in support of the proposed
district designation, within thirty (30) days of its decision. Such recommendation shall include a report
containing the following information:
1. A map showing the proposed boundaries of the historic district and identifying all structures
within the boundaries, contributing or noncontributing;
2. An explanation of the significance of the proposed district and description of the cultural
resources within the proposed boundaries;
3. Recommendations as to appropriate permitted uses, special uses, height and area regulations,
minimum dwelling size, floor area, sign regulations, parking regulations and any other
modification to existing development standards necessary or appropriate to the preservation of
the proposed historic district;
4. Proposed design guidelines for applying the criteria for review of certificates of appropriateness
to the nominated historic district.
(Ord. 536 § 2, 2016; Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
Chapter 7.08 PERMITS AND PERMIT PROCEDURES
7.08.010 Permits to work on historic resources, landmark or historic district.
A. It is unlawful for any person to tear down, demolish, construct, alter, remove or relocate any improvement
or any portion thereof which has been designated a historic landmark pursuant to the provisions of this
13
Created: 2022-05-06 15:29:27 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 6 of 8
chapter, or which lies within a historic district, or to alter in any manner any feature of such a designated
landmark, landmark site or improvement within a historic district without first obtaining a permit in the
manner provided in this chapter.
B. No board, department or commission shall grant any permit to carry out such work on a designated
landmark, landmark site or within a historic district, unless a permit has previously been issued by the city
council as provided in this chapter. No application for a building permit, demolition permit, grading permit,
redevelopment permit, conditional use permit, variance, development plan, zone change, tentative parcel or
subdivision maps, or any other permit which would allow the addition of a designated landmark, landmark
site or any improvement in a historical district, shall be deemed complete unless a permit has previously
been issued pursuant to this chapter.
C. No permit shall be necessary for ordinary maintenance and repair if the proposed work will not alter or
change the style, color, design, features or character of the landmark site or improvement and a permit is
not required under Section 301(b) of the Uniform Building Code, nor does this chapter prevent the
construction, reconstruction, alteration, restoration, demolition or removal of any such improvement when
the building and safety department certifies to the council that such action is required for the public safety
due to an unsafe or dangerous condition which cannot be rectified through the use of the State Historical
Building Code.
(Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
7.08.020 Permit procedure.
A. An application for a permit to do work in a historic district or on a designated landmark shall be submitted to
the planning and development department on forms provided by the planning and development director.
This application must include the plans and specifications for the proposed work. Within thirty (30) days of
the receipt of the complete application the commission shall review the application and shall make a written
report to the city council. The city council shall hold a public hearing on the application within thirty (30) days
of receipt of the commission's report. Notice of the public hearing shall be given as provided in Section
9.164.040 of this code.
B. At the conclusion of the public hearing on the permit application, the city council shall, by resolution, issue or
deny, in whole or in part, any permit application.
(Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
7.08.030 Permit criteria.
The city council shall issue a permit for the proposed work if, and only if, it determines:
A. In the case of a designated historical site, that the proposed work would not detrimentally alter,
destroy or adversely affect any architectural or landscape improvement;
B. If the owner of a designated historical site or landmark demonstrates to the city council that such
property cannot be economically used and denial of a permit would deprive the owner of all or most of
his or her economic interest in the property, the council may issue the permit with an effective date
one hundred eighty (180) days from the date of issuance of the permit to allow time for the
investigation of alternatives to the work proposed in the permit application, such as acquisition of site
or improvement by the city or a public interest group;
14
Created: 2022-05-06 15:29:27 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 7 of 8
C. In the case of construction of a new improvement, upon a historic site, that the exterior of such
improvement will not adversely affect and will be compatible with the external appearance of existing
historically designated improvements in said site;
D. That the applicant has presented clear and convincing evidence of facts demonstrating to the
satisfaction of the city council that such disapproval will impose immediate and substantial hardship on
the applicant because of conditions peculiar to the person seeking to carry out the proposed work,
whether this be property owner, tenant or resident, or because of conditions peculiar to the particular
improvement, or other feature involved, and that approval of the application will be consistent with
the purposes of this chapter.
(Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
7.08.040 Duty to keep in good repair.
The owner, occupant or other person legally responsible for a landmark or historic district shall keep in good repair
all portions of such landmark, district or historic site when subject to control as specified in the designating
ordinance or permit and all interior portions and appurtenances thereof whose maintenance is necessary to
prevent deterioration and decay of the historic resource. It shall be the duty of the building and safety director or
designee to enforce this section.
(Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
7.08.050 Existing improvements.
All repairs, alterations, reconstructions, restorations or changes in use of existing improvements shall conform to
the requirements of the state historical building code.
(Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
Chapter 7.10 ENFORCEMENT—PENALTIES
7.10.010 Enforcement.
A. Whenever any alteration, demolition, relocation, construction, or grading of any site is being done contrary
to the provisions of this title, the building and safety director or designee may order the action stopped by
notice in writing served on any person or persons engaged in the doing or causing of such action, and any
such person or persons shall forthwith stop such activity until authorized by the building and safety director
or designee to proceed.
B. It is unlawful for any person to carry out any work on any improvement or site in violation of a notice
stopping such work.
C. Any violation of the provisions of this title shall constitute a public nuisance.
(Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
15
Created: 2022-05-06 15:29:27 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 8 of 8
7.10.020 Restitution.
Upon damage, destruction or removal of a historic resource, designated landmark or historic district without
permit, the planning commission shall review the action and make recommendation for restitution commensurate
with damage inflicted, specifically assessing the historic, as well as economic, value of the resource destroyed.
(Ord. 536 § 3, 2016; Ord. 238 § 2, 1993; Ord. 207 § 1, 1992)
16
PUBLIC HEARING ITEM NO. 1
City of La Quinta
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING: June 14, 2022
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO RECOMMEND TO CITY COUNCIL
APPROVAL OF ZONE CHANGE 2022-0001, ADDING THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING
OVERLAY (AHO) TO SPECIFIC PARCELS IDENTIFIED IN THE HOUSING ELEMENT;
AND ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 2022-0001, MAKING TEXT
AMENDMENTS NECESSARY FOR CONSISTENCY WITH THE HOUSING ELEMENT.
CEQA: REQUEST HAS BEEN PREVIOUSLY ANALYZED AS PART OF
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2021-0010. LOCATION: CITY-WIDE
RECOMMENDATION
•Adopt a resolution recommending that the City Council approve Zoning Map
amendments adding the Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO) to specific parcels
identified in the Housing Element; approve Zoning Ordinance text
amendments necessary for consistency with the Housing Element; and find
that these map and text amendments were previously analyzed as part of
Environmental Assessment 2021-0010.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•The City Council adopted the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update for the 2021-
2029 planning period on February 15, 2022 after Planning Commission’s
recommendation to adopt on January 25, 2022.
•Policies and programs require amendments to the Zoning Map and Zoning
Ordinance, in order to assure consistency with the Housing Element Update.
•Map amendments are associated with the application of the Affordable
Housing Overlay (AHO) to specific parcels shown in the Affordable Housing
Inventory of the Housing Element.
•Text amendments are associated with a number of issues, including but not
limited to changes in State law, changes to allow increased density in the
AHO, and updates to Density Bonus and Accessory Dwelling Unit provisions.
17
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
The Housing Element was presented to the Planning Commission (Commission)
at two meetings in January 2022 and was adopted by the City Council on
February 15, 2022. As discussed in those meetings, the Housing Element
included a number of policies and programs that require changes to the Zoning
Map and Zoning Code in order to implement them. The Goals, Policies and
Programs are provided in Attachment 1 for reference. Each is described
individually below.
Zoning Map
The Housing Element’s Program 3.1.a requires that the AHO be applied to all
properties identified in the Affordable Housing Inventory (Exhibit A of the Draft
Resolution) for lower income households. In the past, the AHO overlay has been
provided in text, but has not been mapped on the Zoning Map. As shown in
Exhibit A of the Draft Resolution, the AHO would be added as a crosshatch
pattern to all commercially zoned properties, and to non-commercial properties
which are in the Inventory, to assure consistency. A parallel text amendment to
the AHO is also proposed, and described below.
Zoning Text Amendments
The Zoning text amendments address a number of issues which are covered in
the Housing Element. All changes are provided in Exhibit B of the Draft
Resolution.
Accessory Dwelling Units
Updates to the Accessory Dwelling Unit and Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit
(together, ADU) provisions to bring them into conformance with State law and
Program H-2.1.a. The changes have been made to Section 9.60.090 of the
Municipal Code and include allowances for ADUs in all zones that allow residential
development and modifications to the development standards. The changes are
consistent with the standards permitted by State law, which provide for reduced
setbacks and parking ratios.
Density Bonus
Updates to the Density Bonus provisions to bring them into conformance with
State law and Program H-2.2.a. The changes have been made to Section
9.60.260 of the Municipal Code. The last update of these provisions was in 2016,
and since that time, State law has changed to increase the allowed density bonus
for affordable housing units, which were previously capped at a 35% increase,
but are now allowed up to a 50% increase over base density. In addition, the
types of affordable housing projects have been broadened, to include student
housing, and housing near major transit stops. Although neither of these is likely
in the immediate future in La Quinta, the standards have been added to assure
that if such a project were to occur, the City would have the ability to regulate
it under law.
18
Affordable Housing Overlay
In addition to the Zoning Map amendment described above, the development
standards for the AHO have been modified in Section 9.110.100 of the Municipal
Code. These amendments include specifying a density range of 20 to 36 units
per acre, and adding language required by Government Code Section
65583.2(h)(i) which provides that the density of lower income projects must be
20 units per acre, that these projects with at least 20% of the units affordable
to low, very low or extremely low income households must be permitted by right
(not requiring a Conditional Use Permit), and must have 16 units per site,
consistent with Government Code. In addition, setbacks have been reduced to
assure that the allowed densities could be constructed. The AHO is proposed for
commercial parcels, particularly within the Highway 111 Corridor, as well as City-
owned parcels in the Village.
Program 3.1.a also requires an analysis of the feasibility of the AHO development
standards to facilitate affordable housing, as follows. Recent affordable housing
projects in the City and region, including projects in Palm Desert and Indio, are
being proposed and constructed at densities ranging between 24 and 30 units
per acre. Future affordable housing projects in the AHO in La Quinta would likely
be apartment style, two- and three-stories in height, which is permissible within
the height limit of 40 feet. Apartment sizes are likely to range from 600 square
feet for studios, to more than 1,500 square feet for three- and four-bedroom
units. The zoning text amendment reduces front and rear setbacks from 20 to
10 feet, and side yard setbacks from 10 to 5 feet. This reduction will increase
the available land for structures and parking. Parking requirements vary by unit
size, but if no density bonus is taken, and no parking concession is requested,
an average of 2 parking spaces per unit would be likely. A parking space requires
300 square feet (space plus drive aisle), so a 30-unit project on one acre would
require 60 parking spaces, which would take up 18,000 square feet, assuming a
surface parking lot. With setback and open space requirements requiring 25%
of the remaining land, approximately 18,000 square feet would remain for
building footprint. Assuming an average unit size of 1,100 square feet, a two-
story building would accommodate up to 32 units, although that number would
likely be reduced to accommodate stairways, landings, patios and similar
facilities. Since the zone allows three stories, however, a density of 30 units per
acre can be achieved for affordable housing projects in the AHO.
Special Needs Housing
The Housing Element also requires that changes be made to allow several
specific types of housing, including transitional and supportive housing, as
permitted uses in zones where similar uses are permitted by right. Table 9.1,
Permitted Uses in Residential Districts has been amended to allow them as
permitted uses in Medium, Medium High and High Density Residential zones,
consistent with Program H-5.4.b.
19
Table 9.5, Permitted Uses in Non-Residential Districts, allows Emergency
Shelters, but was silent on homeless shelters and a new use called “Low Barrier
Navigation Centers.” The latter is a center which provides, not only shelter, but
additional services required to find housing assistance for residents. Both have
been added to Table 9.5 and in conjunction with additions made to development
standards in Section 9.100.280 of the Municipal Code are consistent with
Programs H-5.4.a and H-5.4.b. In addition, a parking standard has been added
for homeless shelters, requiring one space per employee, consistent with
Government Code Section 65583(a)(4)(A)(ii).
Other Changes
Other changes are included in the text amendments:
1.Allowing mobile or manufactured homes on single family lots, subject to
the same standards as other single family homes (Section 9.60.180),
consistent with Government Code Section 65583.
2.Additions to the definitions (Section 9.280.030) to address the text
amendments above.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The City completed an Initial Study and Negative Declaration for the Housing
Element Update (EA 2021-0010). Since the changes proposed to the Zoning Map
and Zoning Ordinance are entirely associated with consistency with the Housing
Element, the environmental impacts of these Zoning amendments have been
previously studied, and no further analysis is required.
PUBLIC REVIEW
Public Notice
This project was advertised in The Desert Sun newspaper on June 3, 2022. No
comments have been received. Any written comments received will be handed
out at the Planning Commission hearing.
FINDINGS
In order to approve the project, the Planning Commission must make findings for
both the Zoning Map amendment (ZC2022-0001), and the Zoning Text
amendments (ZOA2022-0001). They are included in the attached Resolution.
Prepared by: Nicole Sauviat Criste, Consulting Planner
Approved by: Danny Castro, Design and Development Director
Attachments: 1.Housing Element Goals, Policies and Programs
20
DRAFT
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022 - XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE ZONE CHANGE 2022-
0001 AND ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 2022-0001
ADDING THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING OVERLAY (AHO)
TO SPECIFIC PARCELS IDENTIFIED IN THE HOUSING
ELEMENT; AND ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
NECESSARY FOR CONSISTENCY WITH THE HOUSING
ELEMENT
CASE NUMBERS:
ZONE CHANGE 2022-0001
ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 2022-0001
APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of La Quinta, California
did, on June 14, 2022, hold a duly noticed Public Hearing to consider Zone
Change 2022-0001, to add the Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO) to specific
parcels identified in the Housing Element; and Zoning Ordinance Amendment
2022-0001, to modify Zoning text to assure consistency with the 6th Cycle
Housing Element Update; and
WHEREAS, the Design and Development Department published a
public hearing notice in The Desert Sun newspaper on June 3, 2022, as
prescribed by the Municipal Code; and
Zone Change 2022-0001
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering all
testimony and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be
heard, the Planning Commission did make the following mandatory findings
to justify approval of said Zone Change [Exhibit A]:
1.Consistency with General Plan. The Zone Change is consistent with the
goals, objectives and policies of the general plan, as it adds the
Affordably Housing Overlay to parcels identified in the adopted 6th
Cycle Housing Element Update to assure consistency with the Element.
2.Public Welfare. Approval of the Zone Change will not create conditions
21
DRAFT Planning Commission Resolution 2022-XXX
Zone Change 2022-0001
Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2022-0001
Project: Housing Element Consistency Amendments
Adopted:
Page 2 of 3
materially detrimental to the public health, safety and general welfare,
insofar as it will facilitate the development of affordable housing
throughout the community which meets the standards of the City’s
Zoning Ordinance.
3.Land Use Compatibility. The new zoning is compatible with the zoning
on adjacent properties, insofar as these properties were identified as
appropriate for housing in part due to their location and surroundings.
4.Property Suitability. The new zoning is suitable and appropriate for the
properties on which the AHO overlay has been assigned, as their
suitability was analyzed in the Housing Element Update.
5.Change in Circumstances. Approval of the Zone Change is warranted
because the need for housing throughout the City, and assuring that
sufficient sites exist to meet that need have substantially changed since
the existing zoning was imposed.
Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2022-0001
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering all
testimony and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be
heard, said Planning Commission did make the following mandatory findings
to justify approval of said Zoning Ordinance Amendment [Exhibit B]:
1.Consistency with General Plan. The code amendment is consistent with
the goals, objectives and policies of the general plan, insofar as it is
required to be consistent with the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update.
2.Public Welfare. Approval of the code amendment will not create
conditions materially detrimental to the public health, safety and
general welfare, because the changes are required to provide housing
for all segments of the community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission
of the City of La Quinta, California, as follows:
SECTION 1. That the above recitations are true and constitute the Findings
of the Planning Commission in this case; and
22
DRAFT Planning Commission Resolution 2022-XXX
Zone Change 2022-0001
Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2022-0001
Project: Housing Element Consistency Amendments
Adopted:
Page 3 of 3
SECTION 2. That the above project is consistent with EA 2021-0010,
completed for the Housing Element Update; and
SECTION 3. That it does hereby recommend that the City Council approve
Zone Change 2022-0001 and Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2022-0001 for
the reasons set forth in this Resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of
the City of La Quinta Planning Commission, held on June 14, 2022, by the
following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
STEPHEN T. NIETO, Chairperson
City of La Quinta, California
ATTEST:
DANNY CASTRO, Design and Development Director
City of La Quinta, California
23
Exhibit
1
Zone Map AmendmentAffordable Housing Overlay La Quinta, California
06.07.22Source: City of La Quinta; ESRI, 2022 Proposed Zoning - AHO OverlayExisting Zoning - No AHO Overlay
CC
CC CC
CC
RMH RMH
CN CN
CR CR
Planning Commission Resolution 2022-XXX
Zone Change 2022-0001; Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2022-0001
Project: Housing Element Consistency Amendments
Adopted:
EXHIBIT A
24
Exhibit
2
Proposed Zoning - AHO Overlay
Existing Zoning - No AHO Overlay
Zone Map AmendmentAffordable Housing Overlay La Quinta, California
VC
VC
CN
CN
CN
CN
RMH
RMH CC
CC
CC
CC
Source: City of La Quinta; ESRI 2022 06.07.22
25
Exhibit
3
Zone Map AmendmentAffordable Housing Overlay La Quinta, California
06.07.22Source: City of La Quinta; ESRI, 2022 Proposed Zoning - AHO OverlayExisting Zoning - No AHO Overlay
CN
CN
CNCN
CN
CN
26
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:31 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 1 of 71
Chapter 9.40 RESIDENTIAL PERMITTED USES
9.40.030 Table of permitted uses.
Table 9-1: Permitted Uses in Residential Districts, following, specifies those areas and
structures which are permitted within each residential district. The letters in the columns
beneath the district designation mean the following:
"P": Permitted as a principal use within the district.
"PUD": Planned unit development.
"A": Permitted only if accessory to the principal residential use on the site.
"C": Permitted if a conditional use permit is approved.
"M": Permitted if a minor use permit is approved.
"H": Permitted as a home occupation if accessory to the principal residential use and if a
home occupation permit is approved.
"S": Permitted if a specific plan is approved per Chapter 9.240.
"X": Prohibited in the district.
Table 9-1 Permitted Uses in Residential Districts
P = Permitted use
A = Accessory use
C = Conditional use permit
PUD = Planned unit development
M = Minor use permit
H = Home occupation permit
S = Specific plan required
T= Temporary use permit
X = Prohibited use Very Low Density Residential Low Density Residential Cove Residential Medium Density Residential Medium-High Density Residential High Density Residential Land Use RVL RL RC RM RMH RH
Single-family detached dwellings P P P P P S
Single-family detached patio homes (i.e., "zero
lot-line")
PUD PUD PUD PUD PUD PUD
Duplexes (two units on the same lot) PUD PUD X PUD P P
Single-family attached dwellings (two units per
building with each unit on its own lot)
PUD PUD X PUD P P
Townhome dwellings (two or more units per
building with each unit on its own lot)
PUD PUD X P P P
Condominium multifamily ("airspace" units) PUD PUD X P P P
Apartment multifamily (rental units) X X X P P P
Mobilehome parks C C C C C C
Mobilehome subdivisions and manufactured
homes on individual lots, subject to Section
9.60.180
P P P P P X S
Planning Commission Resolution 2022-XXX
Zone Change 2022-0001; Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2022-0001
Project: Housing Element Consistency Amendments
Adopted:
EXHIBIT B
27
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 2 of 71
Resort residential subject to Section 9.60.310 P P X P P P
Guesthouses, subject to Section 9.60.100 A A A A A A
Second residential units subject to Section
9.60.090
A A A A A A
Group Living and Care Uses
Child day care facilities as an accessory use,
serving 6 or fewer children, subject to Section
9.60.190
A A A A A A
Child day care facilities as an accessory use,
serving 7—14 children, subject to Section
9.60.190
A A A A A A
Congregate living facilities, 6 or fewer persons P P P P P X
Congregate care facility C C C C C C
Residential care facilities, 6 or fewer persons P P P P P P
Senior citizen residences, 6 or fewer persons P P P P P P
Senior group housing, 7 or more persons X X X M M M
Time share facilities, subject to Section
9.60.280
M M M M M M
Bed and breakfast inns M M M M M M
Supportive housing X X X C P C P C P
Transitional housing X X X C P C P C P
Open Space and Recreational Uses
Public parks, playfields and open space P P P P P P
Bicycle, equestrian and hiking trails P P P P P P
Clubhouses and community pools/cabanas P P P P P P
Unlighted tennis and other game courts on
private property, subject to Section 9.60.150
A A A A A A
Lighted tennis and other game courts on
private property, subject to Section 9.60.150
M M M M M M
Golf courses and country clubs per Section
9.110.040
P P P P P P
Driving range with or without lights M M X M M M
Accessory Uses and Structures
Home occupations, subject to Section
9.60.110
A A A A A A
Cottage food operations, subject to Section
9.60.115
P P P P P P
Patio covers, decks, and gazebos, subject to
Section 9.60.040
A A A A A A
Fences and walls, subject to Section 9.60.030 P P P P P P
Satellite dishes and other antennas subject to
Section 9.60.080
A A A A A A
Swimming pools, spas and cabanas, subject to A A A A A A
28
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 3 of 71
Section 9.60.070
Garages and carports, subject to Section
9.60.060
A A A A A A
Keeping of household pets, subject to Section
9.60.120
A A A A A A
On lots of 1 acre or more, the noncommercial
keeping of hoofed animals, fowl (except
roosters) and rabbits, subject to Section
9.60.120. Hoofed animals include horses,
sheep, goats, pot bellied pigs, and similar. The
keeping of horses is subject to Section
9.140.060 and limited to one horse per 2.5
acres.
A A X X X X
Other accessory uses and structures which are
customarily associated with and subordinate to
the principal use on the premises and are
consistent with the purpose and intent of the
zoning district.
A A A A A A
Agricultural Uses
Tree crop farming; greenhouses P X X X X X
Field crop farming P M X X X X
Produce stands, subject to Section 9.100.100 P T X X X X
Temporary Uses
Garage sales A A A A A A
Construction and guard offices, subject to
Section 9.60.200
A A A A A A
Use of relocatable building M M M M M M
Model home complexes and sales offices,
subject to Section 9.60.240
M M M M M M
Special outdoor events, subject to Section
9.60.170
M M M M M M
Parking of recreational vehicles, subject to
Section 9.60.130
A A A X X X
Other Uses
Churches, temples and other places of worship C C C C C C
Museum or gallery displaying sculpture,
artwork or crafts, including schools for above,
on 20 acres or more
M M M M M M
Community recreational vehicle storage lots,
noncommercial
A A X A A A
Communication towers and equipment
(freestanding, new towers) subject to Chapter
9.170
C C C C C C
Communication towers and equipment (co-M M M M M M
29
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 4 of 71
location, mounted to existing facility) subject
to Chapter 9.170
Utility substations and facilities M M M M M M
Public flood control facilities and devices P P P P P P
Other principal, accessory or temporary uses
not in this table.
Director or planning commission to
determine whether use is
permitted in accordance with
Section 9.20.040.
(Ord. 584 § 2, 2020; Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 538 § 2, 2016; Ord. 523 § 1, 2015; Ord.
515 § 1, 2013; Ord. 512 § 1, 2013; Ord. 492 § 1, 2011; Ord. 480 § 1, 2010; Ord. 466 § 1,
2009; Ord. 445 § 1, 2007; Ord. 414 § 1, 2005; Ord. 394 § 2, 2003; Ord. 325 § 1, 1998;
Ord. 299 § 1, 1997; Ord. 284 § 1, 1996)
Chapter 9.60 SUPPLEMENTAL RESIDENTIAL REGULATIONS
9.60.090 Accessory dwelling units.
A. Purpose. This section provides standards and criteria for the establishment of accessory
dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units within residential districts, consistent
with California Government Code Section 65852.2, subdivision (a)(1) and 65852.22.
Accessory dwelling units shall be permitted only in the zones that allow single family or
multifamily uses: RVL, RL, RC, RM, RMH, and RH, CR, CP, CC, CN, TC, CO and VC zone
districts. Junior accessory dwelling units are permitted in single family zones: RVL, RL,
RC, RM, RMH, and RH zone districts.
B. Definitions. See Chapter 9.280. For purposes of this section, "second residential unit,"
"second dwelling unit," "second unit," and "granny flat" as defined in Section 9.280.030
(or successor section) shall not apply, and, instead, "accessory dwelling unit" as
defined in California Government Code Section 65852.2(i)(4) (or successor section in
the Government Code) shall apply. An accessory dwelling unit shall be either "attached"
or "detached" to the primary residence as described in Government Code Section
65852.2(i)(4) (or successor statute). In addition, the following definitions shall apply
for purposes of this section:
1. "Junior accessory dwelling unit" means a unit that is no less than one hundred fifty
(150) square feet and no more than five hundred (500) square feet in size and
contained entirely within a single-family residence. A junior accessory dwelling unit
may include separate sanitation facilities, or may share sanitation facilities with
the existing structure.
2. "Living area" shall have the same meaning as California Government Code Section
65852.2(i)(1) (or successor section in the Government Code), notwithstanding any
provision in Section 9.280.030 of this code to the contrary.
3. "Primary residence" shall have the same meaning as "dwelling, single-family
detached" or "single-family detached dwelling"main or Primary residence” as
defined in Section 9.280.030 (or successor section).
30
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:32 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 5 of 71
4. "Public transit" means a location, including but not limited to, a bus stop or train
station, where the public may access buses, trains, subways, and other forms of
transportation that charge set fares, run on fixed routes and are available to the
public (consistent with Government Code Section 65852.2, subdivision (j)(9).
public mass transit that has a major transit stop or bus stop along a high-quality
transit corridor as described in California Public Resources Code Section 21155(b)
(or successor statute).
C. Standards for Accessory Dwelling Units. Subject to allowances set forth in subsection D,
tThe following standards shall apply to accessory dwelling units:
1. Except as provided in Government Code Section 65852.26, the accessory dwelling
unit may be rented separate from the primary residence, but may not be sold or
otherwise conveyed separate from the primary residence.
2. The lot is zoned to allow single-family or multifamily dwelling use and includes a
proposed or existing dwelling.
3. The accessory dwelling unit is either attached to, or located within, the proposed
or existing primary dwelling, including attached garages, storage areas or similar
uses, or an accessory structure or detached from the proposed or existing primary
dwelling and located on the same lot as the proposed or existing primary dwelling.
4. The total floor area of an attached accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed 50
percent of the primary dwelling or 800 square feet if the primary dwelling is less
than 1,600 square feet.
5. The total floor area for a new detached accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed
1,200 square feet.
6. An accessory dwelling unit shall include a kitchen and bathroom.
7. An efficiency unit as defined by Section 17958.1 of the California Health and
Safety Code must be a minimum of 150 square feet.
8. No passageway shall be required in conjunction with the construction of an
accessory dwelling unit.
9. No setback shall be required for an existing living area or accessory structure or a
structure constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as an
existing structure that is converted to an accessory dwelling unit or to a portion of
an accessory dwelling unit, and a setback of no more than four feet from the side
and rear lot lines shall be required for an accessory dwelling unit that is not
converted from an existing structure or a new structure constructed in the same
location and to the same dimensions as an existing structure.
10. The building code requirements in effect at the time a building permit is secured
shall apply to detached dwellings.
11. The accessory dwelling unit must be approved by the Riverside County
Department of Environmental Health and the Regional Water Quality Control
Board where a private sewage disposal system is being used or proposed.
12. Parking requirements for accessory dwelling units shall not exceed one parking
space per accessory dwelling unit or per bedroom, whichever is less. These spaces
may be provided as tandem parking on a driveway.
a. Off-street parking shall be permitted in setback areas or through tandem
parking, unless specific findings are made that parking in setback areas or
tandem parking is not feasible based upon specific site or regional
topographical or fire and life safety conditions.
b. There shall be no additional parking requirement for an accessory dwelling
unit in any of the following instances:
31
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:32 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 6 of 71
i. The accessory dwelling unit is located within one-half mile walking
distance of public transit.
ii. The accessory dwelling unit is located within an architecturally and
historically significant historic district.
iii. The accessory dwelling unit is part of the proposed or existing primary
residence or an accessory structure.
iv. When on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the
occupant of the accessory dwelling unit.
v. When there is a car share vehicle located within one block of the
accessory dwelling unit.
c. When a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished in
conjunction with the construction of an accessory dwelling unit or converted
to an accessory dwelling unit, those off-street parking spaces need not be
replaced.
13. One accessory dwelling unit and one junior accessory dwelling unit is permitted per
lot with a proposed or existing single-family dwelling if all of the following apply:
a. The accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit is within the
proposed space of a single-family dwelling or existing space of a single-family
dwelling or accessory structure and may include an expansion of not more
than 150 square feet beyond the same physical dimensions as the existing
accessory structure. An expansion beyond the physical dimensions of the
existing accessory structure shall be limited to accommodating ingress and
egress.
b. The space has exterior access from the proposed or existing single-family
dwelling.
c. The side and rear setbacks are sufficient for fire and safety.
d. The junior accessory dwelling unit complies with the requirements of
California Government Code Section 65852.22.
14. One detached, new construction, accessory dwelling unit that does not exceed four-
foot side and rear yard setbacks for a lot with a proposed or existing single-family
dwelling. The accessory dwelling unit may be combined with a junior accessory
dwelling unit described in subsection D, if it complies with the following:
a. A total floor area limitation of not more than 800 square feet.
b. A height limitation of 16 feet.
15. Multiple accessory dwelling units are permitted within the portions of existing
multifamily dwelling structures that are not used as livable space, including, but not
limited to, storage rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics, basements, or garages,
if each unit complies with state building standards for dwellings.
a. One accessory dwelling unit is permitted within an existing multifamily
dwelling and up to 25 percent of the existing multifamily dwelling units may
contain an accessory dwelling unit.
b. Not more than two accessory dwelling units that are located on a lot that has
an existing multifamily dwelling, but are detached from that multifamily
dwelling are permitted, and are subject to a height limit of 16 feet and four-
foot rear yard and side setbacks.
16. Accessory dwelling units shall not be required to provide fire sprinklers if they are
not required for the primary residence.
17. An accessory dwelling unit that is rented must be rented for terms longer than 30
days. Under no circumstances shall an accessory dwelling unit be eligible for a
Short Term Vacation Rental permit.
32
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:32 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 7 of 71
18. In the event of any conflicts between the standards set forth in this section and
those set forth in the regulations of the applicable zoning district, the provisions of
this section shall prevail.
19. The applicant shall pay to the city all applicable fees imposed on such new
development of an accessory dwelling unit or new or rehabilitated primary residence
that will include an accessory dwelling unit, provided, however, that no impact fee
shall be imposed upon the development of an accessory dwelling unit less than 750
square feet, and any impact fees charged for an accessory dwelling unit of 750
square feet or more shall be charged proportionately in relation to the square
footage of the primary dwelling unit.
1. An accessory dwelling unit shall be consistent with the provisions of the
applicable zoning district in which it is constructed.
2. An accessory dwelling unit shall only be permitted on a lot in which the
primary residence and all other structures thereon conform to all minimum
requirements of the applicable zoning district.
1. 3. The lot shall contain an existing primary residence at the time an application
for an accessory dwelling unit is submitted, or the application for the accessory
dwelling unit may be made in conjunction with the development of the primary
residence.
2. 4. The accessory dwelling unit must either be attached to, or located within the
proposed or existing primary dwelling, including attached garages, storage areas
or similar uses, or an accessory structure; or detached from the proposed or
existing primary dwelling and located on the same lot as the proposed or existing
primary dwelling.
3. 5. Prior to issuance of occupancy approval of the accessory dwelling unit, the
city shall require the property owner to enter into a restrictive covenant with the
city that the accessory dwelling unit shall not be sold, or title thereto transferred
separate from that of the lot or the primary residence; and that the accessory
dwelling unit shall be rented for terms longer than thirty (30) days.
4. 6. The maximum increase in gross floor area of an attached accessory dwelling
unit shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the existing primary residence.
5. 7. The minimum gross floor area of an accessory dwelling unit shall be four
hundred (400) square feet, except that the minimum gross floor area of an
accessory dwelling unit that qualifies as an efficiency unit under California Health
and Safety Code Section 17958.1 (or successor statute) shall be one hundred fifty
(150) square feet.
6. 8. The maximum gross floor area of a detached accessory dwelling unit shall not
exceed one thousand two hundred (1,200) square feet.
7. 9. An accessory dwelling unit shall have no more than two (2) bedrooms.
8. 10. The accessory dwelling unit shall be architecturally compatible with the
primary residence and surrounding residential neighborhood. If a dispute arises
whether the accessory dwelling unit is architecturally compatible with the primary
residence, review of the application for the accessory dwelling unit shall be
processed as any other design review application under the code but limited to the
determination of architectural compatibility. For purposes of this section,
33
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:32 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 8 of 71
"architecturally compatible" means that the accessory dwelling unit generally has
the same or substantially similar architectural style, construction and structure
materials, paint palette or scheme, and other prominent design features, as the
primary residence.
9. 11. No attached accessory dwelling unit shall cause the height of the primary
residence to exceed the height limitation for the applicable zoning district. If the
attached accessory dwelling unit is not located above any portion of an existing
primary residence, the maximum height of the accessory dwelling unit shall not
exceed the height of the primary residence.
10. 12. A detached accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed seventeen (17) feet in
height nor more than one (1) story.
11. 13. No setback shall be required for an existing living area or accessory structure
or a structure constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as an
existing structure that is converted to an accessory dwelling unit or to a portion of
an accessory dwelling unit, and a setback of no more than four (4) feet from the
side and rear lot lines shall be required for an accessory unit that is constructed
not converted from an existing structure or a new structure constructed in the
same location and to the same dimensions as an existing structure.
12. 14. An attached accessory dwelling unit may have a separate entrance; provided,
however, in no event shall any external stairwell be placed within the front or side
yard setback.
13. 15. An accessory dwelling unit shall contain separate kitchen and bathroom
facilities.
14. 16. All attached and detached accessory dwelling units shall be equipped with
approved smoke detectors conforming to the latest Uniform Building Code
standards, mounted on the ceiling or wall at a point centrally located in an area
giving access to rooms used for sleeping purposes.
15. 17. In addition to the required parking for the primary residence, one (1)
additional off-street parking space shall be provided per accessory unit or per
bedroom of the accessory unit, whichever is less, on the same lot as the accessory
dwelling unit. One (1) parking space shall be provided for each efficiency unit as
defined under California Health and Safety Code Section 17958.1 (or successor
statute). Subject to the allowances in subsection D, no variance or adjustment
shall be granted to allow substandard parking spaces or locations.
16. 18. All construction, structural alterations or additions made to create an
accessory dwelling unit shall comply with current building, electrical, fire,
plumbing and zoning code regulations.
17. 19. Accessory dwelling units shall not be required to provide fire sprinklers if they
are not required for the primary residence.
18. 20. In the event of any conflicts between the standards set forth in this section
and those set forth in the regulations of the applicable zoning district, the
provisions of this section shall prevail.
19. 21. The applicant shall pay to the city all applicable fees imposed on such new
development of an accessory dwelling unit or new or rehabilitated primary
residence that will include an accessory dwelling unit.
34
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:32 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 9 of 71
20. 22. The city manager or authorized designee may add other conditions,
consistent with general law and applicable state and city standards, as necessary
to preserve the health, safety, welfare and character of the residential
neighborhood; provided, however, that such conditions shall not unreasonably
restrict the ability of an applicant to create an accessory dwelling unit.
D. Standards for Junior Accessory Dwelling Units. The following standards shall apply for
junior accessory dwelling units:
Allowances for Qualifying Accessory Dwelling Units. In accordance with California
Government Code Section 65852.2, as amended the following allowances apply for
qualifying accessory dwelling units.
1. Parking Requirement Exemptions. If one (1) or more of the following criteria is
met: (a) a proposed accessory dwelling unit is located within one-half (½) mile
walking distance of public transit; (b) a proposed accessory dwelling unit is located
within an architecturally and historically significant historic district; (c) a proposed
accessory dwelling unit is part of an existing primary residence or existing
accessory structure; (d) the occupant of a proposed accessory dwelling unit would
be required to obtain an on-street parking permit from the city; or (e) a proposed
accessory dwelling unit is located within one (1) block of a car-share vehicle
station or parking area; then the applicant for an accessory dwelling unit may be
exempted from the parking requirements under the zone for which the proposed
accessory dwelling unit is located. Nothing in this subsection, however, exempts
the primary residence from complying with all parking requirements under the
zone in which the primary residence is located. Furthermore, nothing in this
subsection exempts the owner of the lot from complying with all parking
requirements for fire safety, including access to the lot by front and rear setbacks
that are to be clear of obstructions.
2. For purposes of this subsection D, "existing accessory structure" means "accessory
building or structure" as defined in Section 9.280.030, that exists on the lot with
an existing primary residence at the time of submittal for any application relating
to the proposed accessory dwelling unit.
E. Standards for Junior Accessory Dwelling Units.
1. Junior accessory dwelling units shall be limited to one (1) per residential lot zoned
for single-family residences with a single-family residence already built or
proposed to be built, on the lot.
2. The single-family residence in which the junior accessory dwelling unit will occur
must be owner-occupied. The owner may reside in either the remaining portion of
the structure or the newly created junior accessory dwelling unit. Owner-
occupancy shall not be required if the owner is another governmental agency, land
trust, or housing organization.
3. Prior to issuance of occupancy approval of the accessory dwelling unit, the city
may require the property owner to enter into a restrictive covenant with the city
prohibiting the sale of the junior accessory dwelling unit separate from the sale of
the single-family residence, including a statement that the deed restriction may be
enforced against future purchasers; and restricting the size and attributes of the
junior accessory dwelling unit that conforms with this section.
35
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:32 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 10 of 71
4. A junior accessory dwelling unit must be constructed within the walls of the
proposed or existing single-family residence.
5. A junior accessory dwelling shall provide a separate entrance from the main
entrance to the proposed or existing single-family residence.
6. A junior accessory dwelling unit shall include an efficiency kitchen, which shall
include all of the following:
a. A cooking facility with appliances, and
b. A food preparation counter and storage cabinets that are of reasonable size in
relation to the size of the junior accessory dwelling unit.
7. Parking: A junior accessory dwelling unit shall not require parking in addition to
that required for the proposed or existing single-family residence.
8. For the purposes of providing service for water, sewer, or power, including a
connection fee, a junior accessory dwelling unit shall not be considered a separate
or new dwelling unit.
F. A permit application for an accessory dwelling unit or a junior accessory dwelling unit
shall be considered and approved ministerially without discretionary review or a
hearing. The director, or his/her designee, shall act on the application within sixty (60)
days from the date the application is found complete if there is an existing single-family
or multifamily dwelling on the lot. If the permit application to create an accessory
dwelling unit or a junior accessory dwelling unit is submitted with a permit application
to create a new single-family dwelling on the lot, the director may delay acting on the
permit application for the accessory dwelling unit or the junior accessory dwelling unit
until the issuance of a building permit for the new single-family dwelling. If the
applicant requests a delay, the sixty (60)-day time period shall be tolled for the period
of the delay.
G. If an application for an accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit is
submitted or required to be submitted with any other applications that require or
permit ministerial or discretionary review under the code, nothing in this section
precludes the processing and review of those other applications pursuant to those other
provisions in the code.
( Ord. 588 § 2(Exh. A), 2-2-2021; Ord. 561 § 1, 2017; Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 445 § 2,
2007; Ord. 299 § 1, 1997; Ord. 284 § 1, 1996)
9.60.180 Manufactured housing and mobile homes.
A. Purpose. This section is intended to provide standards and criteria for the placement,
design, and construction of manufactured, modular and mobile homes in residential
districts consistent with Section 65852.3 et seq. of the State Government Code.
B. Definition. See Chapter 9.280. For purposes of simplicity, the term manufactured home
is used in this section.
C. Mobile Home Parks. In accordance with Section 65852.7 of the State Government
Code, mobile home parks are permitted in all residential districts if a conditional use
permit is approved. Development standards for such parks shall be as follows:
minimum thirty percent (30%) common open area and minimum perimeter setbacks of
36
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 11 of 71
twenty (20) feet at any point and twenty-five (25) feet average over the entire
perimeter.
D. Individual Manufactured Homes. In accordance with Section 65852.3 et seq. of the
State Government Code, individual mobile homes may beare permitted as permanent
or temporary dwellings on single-family lots within the RVL, RL, RC, RM, and RMH
districts.
E. Minor Use Permit Required. Approval of a minor use permit by the planning commission
shall be required prior to the placement of a manufactured home on a single-family lot
subject to the provisions of Section 9.210.025. The permit shall not be approved unless
the director finds that the dwelling meets Mobilehomes must meet the same
development standards as provided for single-family homes for each district as set
forth in Chapter 9.50 and elsewhere in this code in addition to the standard findings for
approval of a site development permit per Section 9.210.010.
(Ord. 584 § 2, 2020; Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 325 § 1, 1998; Ord. 299 § 1, 1997; Ord.
284 § 1, 1996)
9.60.260 Density bonuses for affordable housing.
A. Purpose and Application. The purpose of this section is to (1) establish procedures for
implementing state density bonus requirements, as set forth in California Government
Code Section 65915, as amended, (2) increase the production of affordable housing,
consistent with the city's goals, objectives, and policies and (3) implement the
provisions of the city's general plan housing element policies and programs relating to
the provision of affordable housing. When an applicant seeks a density bonus for a
housing development, or for the donation of land for housing, within the city's
jurisdiction, the city shall provide the applicant incentives or concessions for the
production of housing units and child daycare facilities as prescribed in this section.
B. Definitions. See Chapter 9.280. Also, the following definitions shall apply to this
section:
1."Applicant" means a developer or applicant for a density bonus pursuant to
Government Code Section 65915, subdivision (b), of the California Government
Code and subsection C of this section.
2.“Development standard” includes a site or construction condition, including, but
not limited to, a height limitation, a setback requirement, a floor area ratio, an
onsite open-space requirement, or a parking ratio that applies to a residential
development pursuant to any ordinance, general plan element, specific plan,
charter, or other City condition, law, policy, resolution, or regulation.
23."Housing development," means one (1) or more groups of projects for residential
units in the planned development of the city. "Housing development" also includes
a subdivision or common interest development, as defined in Section 1351 of the
California Civil Code, approved by the city and consisting of residential units or
unimproved residential lots and either a project to substantially rehabilitate and
convert an existing commercial building to residential use or the substantial
rehabilitation of an existing multifamily dwelling, as defined in subdivision (d) of
Government Code Section 65863.4, where the result of the rehabilitation would be
a net increase in available residential units.
37
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 12 of 71
4. “Located within one-half mile of a major transit stop” means that any point on a
proposed development, for which an applicant seeks a density bonus, other
incentives or concessions, waivers or reductions of development standards, or a
vehicular parking ratio pursuant to this section, is within one-half mile of any point
on the property on which a major transit stop is located, including any parking lot
owned by the transit authority or other local agency operating the major transit
stop.
5. “Lower income student” means a student who has a household income and asset
level that does not exceed the level for Cal Grant A or Cal Grant B award
recipients as set forth in paragraph (1) of subdivision (k) of Section 69432.7 of
the Education Code. The eligibility of a student to occupy a unit for lower income
students under this section shall be verified by an affidavit, award letter, or letter
of eligibility provided by the institution of higher education in which the student is
enrolled or by the California Student Aid Commission that the student receives or
is eligible for financial aid, including an institutional grant or fee waiver from the
college or university, the California Student Aid Commission, or the federal
government.
6. “Major transit stop” has the same meaning as defined in subdivision (b) of Section
21155 of the Public Resources Code.
7. “Maximum allowable residential density” means the density allowed under the
zoning ordinance and land use element of the general plan, or, if a range of density
is permitted, means the maximum allowable density for the specific zoning range
and land use element of the general plan applicable to the project. If the density
allowed under the zoning ordinance is inconsistent with the density allowed
under the land use element of the general plan, the general plan density shall
prevail.
38. "Qualified mobile home park" means a mobile home park that limits residency
based on age requirements for housing for older persons pursuant to Section
798.76 or 799.5 of the California Civil Code.
49. "Senior citizen housing development" means senior citizen housing as defined in
Sections 51.3 and 51.12 of the California Civil Code.
510. "Specific adverse impact" means any adverse impact as defined in paragraph (2),
subdivision (d), of Government Code Section 65589.5, upon public health and
safety or the physical environment, or on any real property that is listed in the
California Register of Historical Resources, and for which there is no feasible
method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific adverse impact without
rendering the housing development unaffordable to low- and moderate-income
households.
11. “Total units” or “total dwelling units” means a calculation of the number of units
that:
a. Excludes a unit added by a density bonus awarded pursuant to this section.
b. Includes a unit designated to satisfy an inclusionary zoning requirement.
C. Qualifications for Density Bonus and Incentives and Concessions.
38
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 13 of 71
1. The city shall grant one (1) density bonus as specified in subsection G of this
section, and incentives or concessions as described in subsection E, when an
applicant seeks and agrees to construct a housing development, excluding any
units permitted by the density bonus awarded pursuant to this section, that will
contain at least any one (1) of the following:
a. Ten percent of the total units of a housing development for rental or sale to
lower income households, as defined in Section 50079.5 of the Health and
Safety Code.
b. Five percent of the total units of a housing development for rental or sale to
very low income households, as defined in Section 50105 of the Health and
Safety Code.
c. A senior citizen housing development, as defined in Sections 51.3 and 51.12
of the Civil Code, or a mobilehome park that limits residency based on age
requirements for housing for older persons pursuant to Section 798.76 or
799.5 of the Civil Code.
d. Ten percent of the total dwelling units of a housing development are sold for
rental or sale to persons and families of moderate income, as defined in
Section 50093 of the Health and Safety Code provided that all units in the
development are offered to the public for purchase.
e. Ten percent of the total units of a housing development for transitional foster
youth, as defined in Section 66025.9 of the Education Code, disabled
veterans, as defined in Section 18541, or homeless persons, as defined in the
federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 11301 et
seq.). The units described in this subparagraph shall be subject to a recorded
affordability restriction of 55 years and shall be provided at the same
affordability level as very low income units.
f. Twenty percent of the total units for lower income students in a student
housing development that meets the following requirements:
i. All units in the student housing development will be used exclusively for
undergraduate, graduate, or professional students enrolled full time at an
institution of higher education accredited by the Western Association of
Schools and Colleges or the Accrediting Commission for Community and
Junior Colleges. In order to be eligible under this subclause, the developer
shall, as a condition of receiving a certificate of occupancy, provide
evidence to the city, county, or city and county that the developer has
entered into an operating agreement or master lease with one or more
institutions of higher education for the institution or institutions to occupy
all units of the student housing development with students from that
institution or institutions. An operating agreement or master lease entered
into pursuant to this subclause is not violated or breached if, in any
subsequent year, there are not sufficient students enrolled in an
institution of higher education to fill all units in the student housing
development.
ii. The applicable 20-percent units will be used for lower income students.
iii. The rent provided in the applicable units of the development for lower
income students shall be calculated at 30 percent of 65 percent of the
39
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 14 of 71
area median income for a single-room occupancy unit type. Ten percent
(10%) of the total units of the housing development as affordable housing
units affordable to lower income households; or
iv. The development will provide priority for the applicable affordable units for
lower income students experiencing homelessness. A homeless service
provider, as defined in paragraph (3) of subdivision (e) of Section 103577
of the Health and Safety Code, or institution of higher education that has
knowledge of a person’s homeless status may verify a person’s status as
homeless for purposes of this subclause.
For purposes of calculating a density bonus granted pursuant to this
subparagraph, the term “unit” as used in this section means one rental
bed and its pro rata share of associated common area facilities. The units
described in this subparagraph shall be subject to a recorded affordability
restriction of 55 years.
g. 100 percent of all units in the development, including total units and density
bonus units, but exclusive of a manager’s unit or units, are for lower income
households, as defined by Section 50079.5 of the Health and Safety Code,
except that up to 20 percent of the units in the development, including total
units and density bonus units, may be for moderate-income households, as
defined in Section 50053 of the Health and Safety Code.b. Five percent
(5%) of the total units of the housing development as affordable housing
units affordable to very low income households; or
c. A senior citizen housing development; or
d. A qualified mobile home park; or
e. Ten percent (10%) of the total units of a common interest development as
affordable housing units affordable to moderate income households, provided
that all units in the development are offered to the public for purchase subject
to the restrictions specified in this section.
2. As used in subsection (C)(1) of this section, the term "total units" does not include
units permitted by a density bonus awarded pursuant to this section or any other
local law granting a greater density bonus.
3. Election of Density Bonus Category. Each applicant who requests a density bonus
pursuant to this section shall elect whether the bonus shall be awarded on the
basis of subsection a, b, c, d, e, f or e g of subsection (C)(1). Each housing
development is entitled to only one (1) density bonus, which may be selected
based on the percentage of either very low affordable housing units, lower income
affordable housing units or moderate-income affordable housing units, or the
development's status as a senior citizen housing development, student housing
development or qualified mobile home park. Density bonuses from more than one
(1) category may not be combined.
4. Previous Density Bonuses. The density bonus provisions shall not apply to any
parcel or project area which has previously been granted increased density
40
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 15 of 71
through a general plan amendment, zone change or other permit to facilitate
affordable housing.
D. Continued Affordability.
1. Prior to the issuance of building permits for any dwelling unit, an applicant shall
enter into a written agreement with the city to ensure and guarantee the
continued affordability of all low and very low income units that qualified the
applicant for the award of the density bonus for a period of thirty fifty-five (3055)
years or a longer period of time if required by the construction or mortgage
financing assistance program, mortgage insurance program, or rental subsidy
program. Rents for affordable housing units for lower income households shall be
set at an affordable rent. Owner-occupied affordable housing units shall be
available at an affordable housing cost.
a. The terms and conditions of the agreement shall run with the land, shall be
binding upon all successors in interest of the applicant, and shall be recorded
in the office of the Riverside County Recorder.
b. The agreement shall also include the following provisions:
i. The applicant shall grant the city the continuing right of refusal to
purchase or lease any or all of the designated units at fair market value;
ii. The deeds to the designated units shall contain a covenant stating that
the applicant or the applicant's successor in interest shall not sell, rent,
lease, sublet, assign, or otherwise transfer (whether voluntarily,
involuntarily or by operation of law) any interest in such unit without
written approval of the city, confirming that the sales price or lease/rent
amount of the unit is consistent with the limits established for low- and
very-low income households as adjusted by the Consumer Price Index;
and
iii. The city shall also have the authority to enter into other agreements with
the applicant or purchases or lessees of the dwelling units as may be
necessary to assume that the designated dwelling units are continuously
occupied by eligible households.
2. Prior to the issuance of building permits for any dwelling unit, an applicant shall
agree to, and the city shall ensure, that the initial occupant of moderate-income
units that are related to the receipt of the density bonus in a common interest
development, are persons and families of moderate income and that the units are
offered at an affordable housing cost. With respect to moderate-income units in a
common interest development, the city shall require the applicant to enter and
shall enforce an equity-sharing agreement, unless it is in conflict with the
requirements of another public funding source or law. The following shall apply to
the equity-sharing agreement:
a. Upon resale, the seller of the moderate-income unit in a common interest
development unit shall retain the value of any improvements, the down
payment, and the seller's proportionate share of appreciation. The city shall
recapture any initial subsidy and its proportionate share of appreciation,
which shall then be used within five (5) years for any of the purposes that
promote homeownership as described in subdivision (e) of Section 33334.2 of
the California Health and Safety Code.
41
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 16 of 71
b. For purposes of this subsection (D)(2), the city's initial subsidy shall be equal
to the fair market value of the moderate-income unit in a common interest
development at the time of initial sale minus the initial sale price to the
moderate-income household, plus the amount of any down payment
assistance or mortgage assistance. If upon resale the market value is lower
than the initial market value, then the value at the time of the resale shall be
used as the initial market value.
c. For purposes of this subsection (D)(2), the city's proportionate share of
appreciation shall be equal to the ratio of the initial subsidy to the fair market
value of the moderate-income unit in a common interest development at the
time of initial sale.
d. The applicant shall grant the city a right of first refusal to purchase any or all
of the designated units at fair market value, which right of first refusal shall
apply to subsequent sellers.
E. Incentives and Concessions.
1. An applicant for a density bonus may also submit to the city a proposal for specific
incentives or concessions in exchange for the provision of affordable housing units
in accordance with this section. The applicant may also request a meeting with the
city to discuss such proposal. The city shall grant the concession or incentive
requested by the applicant unless the city makes a written finding, based upon
substantial evidence, of either of the following:
a. The concession or incentive is not required in order to provide for affordable
housing costs or for rents for the targeted units to be set as specified in
subsection D of this section (i.e., the applicant is unable to demonstrate that
the waiver or modification is necessary to make the housing units
economically feasible); or
b. The concession or incentive would have a specific adverse impact, as defined
in paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 65589.5 of the Health and
Safety Code, upon public health and safety or the physical environment or on
any real property that is listed in the California Register of Historical
Resources and for which there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate
or avoid the specific adverse impact without rendering the development
unaffordable to low- and moderate-income households.
c. The concession or incentive would be contrary to state or federal law.
2. If the conditions of subsection C and subsection 1 of this subsection E are met by
an applicant, the city may grant an applicant applying for incentives or concessions
the following number of incentives or concessions:
a. One (1) incentive or concession for housing developments that include: At
least ten percent (10%) of the total units affordable to lower income
households; or at least five percent (5%) of the total units affordable to very
low income households; or at least ten percent (10%) of the total units
affordable to persons and families of moderate income in a common interest
developmentdevelopment in which the units are for rental or sale.
b. Two (2) incentives or concessions for housing developments that include: At
least twenty seventeen percent (2017%) of the total units affordable to lower
income households; or at least ten percent (10%) of the total units affordable
42
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 17 of 71
to very low income households; or at least twenty percent (20%) of the total
units affordable to persons and families of moderate income in a development
in which the units are for rental or sale. common interest development.
c. Three (3) incentives or concessions for housing developments that include: At
least thirty twenty-four percent (3024%) of the total units for lower income
households; or at least fifteen percent (15%) for very low income households;
or at least thirty percent (30%) for persons and families of moderate income
in a development in which the units are for rental or sale.common interest
development.
d. Four (4) incentives of concessions if the project includes 100% affordable
housing units, excluding the manager’s unit, and is within one-half mile of a
major transit stop. The applicant shall also receive a height increase of up to
three additional stories, or 33 feet.
e. One incentive or concession for projects that include at least twenty (20)
percent of the total units for lower income students in a student housing
development.
3. For the purposes of this section, available concessions or incentives may include
any of the following:
a. A reduction in site development standards or a modification of zoning code
requirements or architectural design requirements that exceed the minimum
building standards approved by the California Building Standards Commission
as provided in Part 2.5 (commencing with Section 18901) of Division 13 of the
California Health and Safety Code, including, but not limited to, a reduction in
setback and square footage requirements and in the ratio of vehicular parking
spaces that would otherwise be required that results in identifiable, financially
sufficient, and actual cost reductions.
b. Approval of mixed use zoning in conjunction with the housing development if
commercial, office, industrial, or other land uses will reduce the cost of the
housing development and if the commercial, office, industrial, or other land
uses are compatible with the housing project and the existing or planned
development in the area where the proposed housing development will be
located.
c. Other regulatory incentives or concessions proposed by the applicant or the
city that result in identifiable, financially sufficient, and actual cost reductions.
d. For purposes of this section, the parking ratios set forth in Government Code
Section 65915 (and subsection K of this section) for qualified affordable
housing projects shall be deemed a concession or incentive available to the
applicant.
4. This subsection does not limit or require the provision of direct financial incentives
for the housing development, including the provision of publicly-owned land, by
the city or the waiver of fees or dedication requirements. Nor does any provision of
this subsection require the city to grant an incentive or concession found to have a
specific adverse impact.
5. The granting of a concession or incentive shall not be interpreted, in and of itself,
to require a general plan amendment, zoning change, or other discretionary
approval.
43
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 18 of 71
6. The application and review process for a proposal of incentives and concessions is
set forth in subsection L of this section.
F. Waiver/Modification of Development Standards.
1. Applicants may, by application, seek a waiver, modification or reduction of
development standards that will otherwise preclude or inhibit the use of density
bonus units in a housing development at the densities or with the concessions or
incentives permitted by this section. The applicant may also request a meeting
with the city to discuss such request for waiver/modification. In order to obtain a
waiver/modification of development standards, the applicant shall show that (a)
the waiver or modification is necessary to make the housing units economically
feasible, and (b) that the development standards will have the effect of precluding
the construction of a housing development meeting the criteria of subsection
(C)(1), at the densities or with the concessions or incentives permitted by this
section.
2. Nothing in this subsection shall be interpreted to require the city to waive, modify
or reduce development standards if the wavier, modification or reduction would
have a specific adverse impact.
3. The application and review process for a waiver/modification of development
standards is set forth in subsection L of this section.
4. Waiver or Reduction of Development Standards.
a. In no case may the city apply any development standard that will have the
effect of physically precluding the construction of a development meeting the
criteria of subsection C at the densities or with the concessions or incentives
permitted by this section. An applicant may submit to the city a proposal for
the waiver or reduction of development standards that will have the effect of
physically precluding the construction of a development meeting the criteria
of subsection C at the densities or with the concessions or incentives
permitted under this section, and may request a meeting with the city. If a
court finds that the refusal to grant a waiver or reduction of development
standards is in violation of this section, the court shall award the plaintiff
reasonable attorney's fees and costs of suit. Nothing in this subdivision shall
be interpreted to require the city to waive or reduce development standards if
the waiver or reduction would have a specific, adverse impact, as defined in
paragraph (2) of subsection (d) of Section 65589.5, upon health, safety, or
the physical environment, and for which there is no feasible method to
satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific adverse impact. Nothing in this
subdivision shall be interpreted to require the city to waive or reduce
development standards that would have an adverse impact on any real
property that is listed in the California Register of Historical Resources or to
grant any waiver or reduction that would be contrary to state or federal law.
b. A proposal for the waiver or reduction of development standards pursuant to
this subdivision shall neither reduce nor increase the number of incentives or
concessions to which the applicant is entitled pursuant to subsection C.
G. Specified Density Bonus Percentages. Only housing developments consisting of five (5)
or more dwelling units are eligible for the density bonus percentages provided by this
subsection. The amount of density bonus to which the applicant is entitled shall vary
44
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 19 of 71
according to the amount by which the percentage of affordable housing units exceeds
the percentage established in subsection (C)(1).
1. For housing developments meeting the criteria of subsection (C)(1)(a), the density
bonus shall be calculated as follows:
Percentage Low-Income Units Percentage Density Bonus
10 20
11 21.5
12 23
13 24.5
14 26
15 27.5
16 29
17 30.5
18 32
19 33.5
20 35 (maximum)
21 38.75
22 42.5
23 46.25
24 50
2. For housing developments meeting the criteria of subsection (C)(1)(b), the density
bonus shall be calculated as follows:
Percentage Very Low Income Units Percentage Density Bonus
5 20
6 22.5
7 25
8 27.5
9 30
10 32.5
11 35 (maximum)
12 38.75
13 42.5
14 46.25
15 50
3. For housing developments meeting the criteria of subsection (C)(1)(c) and (de),
the density bonus shall be twenty percent (20%).
4. For housing developments meeting the criteria of subsection (C)(1)(f), the density
bonus shall be thirty-five percent (35%).
5. For housing development meeting the criteria of subsection (C)(1)(g), the
following shall apply:
i. The density bonus shall be 80 percent of the number of units for lower income
households.
45
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 20 of 71
ii. If the housing development is located within one-half mile of a major transit
stop, the city shall not impose any maximum controls on density.
4. For housing developments meeting the criteria of subsection (C)(1)(ed), the
density bonus shall be calculated as follows:
Percentage Moderate Income Units Percentage Density Bonus
10 5
11 6
12 7
13 8
14 9
15 10
16 11
17 12
18 13
19 14
20 15
21 16
22 17
23 18
24 19
25 20
26 21
27 22
28 23
29 24
30 25
31 26
32 27
33 28
34 29
35 30
36 31
37 32
38 33
39 34
40 35 (maximum)
41 38.75
42 42.5
43 46.25
44 50
5. An applicant may elect to accept a lesser percentage of density bonus than that to
which the applicant is entitled under this section. All density bonus calculations
resulting in a fractional number shall be rounded upwards to the next whole
number. The granting of a density bonus shall not be interpreted, in and of itself,
46
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 21 of 71
to require a general plan amendment, zoning change, or other discretionary
approval.
6. For the purpose of calculating a density bonus, the residential units do not have to
be based upon individual subdivision maps or parcels. The density bonus shall be
permitted in geographic areas of the housing development other than the areas
where the units for the lower income households are located.
7. The application and review process for a density bonus as provided by this section
is set forth in subsection L of this section.
H. Land Donation. When a developer of a housing development donates land to the city as
provided for in this subsection, the applicant shall be entitled to a fifteen percent (15%)
increase above the otherwise maximum allowable residential density under the
applicable zoning ordinance and land use element of the general plan for the entire
housing development, as follows:
Percentage Very Low Income Units Percentage Density Bonus
10 15
11 16
12 17
13 18
14 19
15 20
16 21
17 22
18 23
19 24
20 25
21 26
22 27
23 28
24 29
25 30
26 31
27 32
28 33
29 34
30 35 (maximum)
This increase shall be in addition to any increase in density mandated by subsection C, up to
a maximum combined mandated density increase of thirty-five percent (35%), if an
applicant seeks both the increase required pursuant to this subsection and subsection C. All
density calculations resulting in fractional units shall be rounded up to the next whole
number. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to enlarge or diminish the city's
authority to require an applicant to donate land as a condition of development.
1. An applicant shall be eligible for the increased density bonus described in this
section if the city is able to make all the following findings:
47
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 22 of 71
a. The applicant donates and transfers the land no later than the date of
approval of the final subdivision map, parcel map, or residential development
application.
b. The developable acreage and zoning classification of the land being
transferred are sufficient to permit construction of units affordable to very low
income households in an amount not less than ten percent (10%) of the
number of residential units of the proposed development.
c. The transferred land is at least one (1) acre in size or of sufficient size to
permit development of at least forty (40) units, has the appropriate general
plan designation, is appropriately zoned for development as affordable
housing, and is or will be served by adequate public facilities and
infrastructure. The land shall have appropriate zoning and development
standards to make the development of the affordable units feasible. No later
than the date of approval of the final subdivision map, parcel map, or
development application for the housing development, the transferred land
shall have all of the permits and approvals, other than building permits,
necessary for the development of very low income housing units on the
transferred land, except that the city may subject the proposed development
to subsequent design review to the extent authorized by subdivision (i) of
Government Code Section 65583.2 if the design is not reviewed by the local
government prior to the time of transfer.
d. The transferred land and the very low income units constructed on the land
will be subject to a deed restriction ensuring continued affordability of the
units consistent with this section, which restriction will be recorded on the
property at the time of dedication.
e. The land is transferred to the city or to a housing developer approved by the
city. The city may require the applicant to identify and transfer the land to
such city-approved developer.
f. The transferred land shall be within the boundary of the proposed
development or, if the city agrees in writing, within one-quarter (¼) mile of
the boundary of the proposed development.
g. A proposed source of funding for the very low income units shall be identified
not later than the date of approval of the final subdivision map, parcel map,
or residential development application.
2. The application and review process for a donation of land and related density
bonus is set forth in subsection L of this section.
I. Child Daycare Facilities.
1. When an applicant proposes to construct a housing development that includes
affordable units as specified in subsection C and includes a child daycare facility
that will be located on the premises of, as part of, or adjacent to such housing
development, the city shall grant either of the following if requested by the
developer.
a. An additional density bonus that is an amount of square feet of residential
space that is equal to or greater than the amount of square feet in the child
daycare facility.
48
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 23 of 71
b. An additional concession or incentive that contributes significantly to the
economic feasibility of the construction of the child daycare facility.
2. A housing development shall be eligible for the density bonus or concession
described in this subsection if the city, as a condition of approving the housing
development, requires all of the following to occur:
a. The child daycare facility will remain in operation for a period of time that is
as long as or longer than the period of time during which the affordable
housing units are required to remain affordable pursuant to subsection D.
b. Of the children who attend the child daycare facility, the percentage of
children of very low income households, lower income households, or
moderate income households shall be equal to or greater than the percentage
of affordable housing units that are proposed to be affordable to very low
income households, lower income households, or moderate income
households.
c. Notwithstanding any requirement of this subsection, the city shall not be
required to provide a density bonus or concession for a child daycare facility if
it finds, based upon substantial evidence, that the community already has
adequate child daycare facilities.
3. The application and review process for the provision of child daycare facilities and
related density bonus or concessions or incentives is set forth in subsection L of
this section.
J. Condominium Conversions. Any developer converting condominiums of a housing
development of five (5) units or more who seeks a density bonus, shall make such
application in conjunction with its tract map application pursuant to the Subdivision
Map Act, Section 9.60.260 of this code and consistent with Government Code Section
65915.5. Any appeal of any concession or incentive or review by the planning
commission or city council shall automatically require an appeal of the underlying map
to that body. An applicant shall be ineligible for a density bonus or other incentives
under this section if the apartments proposed for conversion constitute a housing
development for which a density bonus or other incentives were provided under
Government Code Section 65915.
K. By-Right Parking Incentives. Housing developments meeting any of the criteria of
subsection (C)(1), shall be granted the following maximum parking ratios, inclusive of
handicapped and guest parking, which shall apply to the entire development, not just
the restricted affordable units, when requested by a developer:
1. Zero (0) to one (1) bedroom dwelling unit: one (1) onsite parking space;
2. Two (2) to three (3) bedrooms dwelling unit: two (2)one and one-half (1½) onsite
parking spaces;
3. Four (4) or more bedrooms: two and one-half (2½) parking spaces.
If the total number of spaces required results in a fractional number, it shall be rounded up
to the next whole number. For purposes of this subsection, a development may provide
"onsite parking" through tandem parking or uncovered parking, but not through on-street
parking.
If a development includes at least 20 percent low-income units or at least 11 percent very
low income units and is located within one-half mile of a major transit stop, and there is
49
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 24 of 71
unobstructed access to the major transit stop from the development, then, upon the
request of the developer, the city shall not impose a vehicular parking ratio, inclusive of
parking for persons with a disability and guests, that exceeds 0.5 spaces per unit.
If a development includes at least 40 percent moderate-income units and is located within
one-half mile of a major transit stop, and the residents of the development have
unobstructed access to the major transit stop from the development then, upon the request
of the developer, the city shall not impose a vehicular parking ratio, inclusive of parking for
persons with a disability and guests, that exceeds 0.5 spaces per bedroom.
For purposes of this subdivision, “unobstructed access to the major transit stop” means a
resident is able to access the major transit stop without encountering natural or
constructed impediments. For purposes of this subparagraph, “natural or constructed
impediments” includes, but is not limited to, freeways, rivers, mountains, and bodies of
water, but does not include residential structures, shopping centers, parking lots, or rails
used for transit.
If a development consists solely of rental units, exclusive of a manager’s unit or units, with an
affordable housing cost to lower income families, then, upon the request of the developer,
the city shall not impose vehicular parking standards if the development meets either of the
following criteria:
a. The development is located within one-half mile of a major transit stop and there is
unobstructed access to the major transit stop from the development.
b. The development is a for-rent housing development for individuals who are 62 years of
age or older that complies with Sections 51.2 and 51.3 of the Civil Code and the
development has either paratransit service or unobstructed access, within one-half
mile, to fixed bus route service that operates at least eight times per day.
If a development consists solely of rental units, exclusive of a manager’s unit or units, with
an affordable housing cost to lower income families, and the development is either a special
needs housing development, as defined in Section 51312 of the Health and Safety Code, or a
supportive housing development, as defined in Section 50675.14 of the Health and Safety
Code, then, upon the request of the developer, the city shall not impose any minimum
vehicular parking requirement. A development that is a special needs housing development
shall have either paratransit service or unobstructed access, within one-half mile, to fixed
bus route service that operates at least eight times per day.
L. Application and Review Procedures.
1. A written application for a density bonus, incentive, concession, waiver, or
modification pursuant to this section shall be submitted with the first application
that is submitted for approval of a housing development and processed
concurrently with all other applications required for the housing development.
Notwithstanding any other requirements, affordable housing projects processed
under this section shall require approval of a conditional use permit, subject to the
requirements of Government Code Section 65589.5(d). The application shall be
submitted on a form prescribed by the city and shall include at least the following
information:
50
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:33 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 25 of 71
a. Site plan showing total number of units, number and location of affordable
housing units, and number and location of proposed density bonus units.
b. Level of affordability of affordable housing units and proposals for ensuring
affordability.
c. A specific description of any requested incentives, concessions, waivers or
modifications of development standards, or modified parking standards. The
application shall include evidence that the requested incentives and
concessions are required for the provision of affordable housing costs and/or
affordable rents, as well as evidence relating to any other factual findings
required under subsection E.
d. If a density bonus or concession is requested in connection with a land
donation, the application shall show the location of the land to be dedicated
and provide evidence that each of the findings included in subsection H can be
made.
e. If a density bonus or concession/incentive is requested for a childcare facility,
the application shall show the location and square footage of the child daycare
facilities and provide evidence that each of the findings included subsection I
can be made.
2. An application for a density bonus, incentive or concession pursuant to this section
shall be considered by and acted upon by the approval body with authority to
approve the housing development and subject to the same administrative appeal
procedure, if any. In accordance with state law, neither the granting of a
concession, incentive, waiver, or modification nor the granting of a density bonus
shall be interpreted, in and of itself, to require a general plan amendment, zoning
change, variance, or other discretionary approval.
3. For housing developments requesting a waiver, modification or reduction of a
development standard, an application pursuant to this subdivision shall be heard
by the planning commission. A public hearing shall be held by the planning
commission and the commission shall issue a determination. Pursuant to
Government Code Section 65915, the planning commission shall approve the
requested waiver/modification or reduction of development standards, unless one
(1) of the following conditions applies:
a. The waiver/modification is not required to make the proposed affordable
housing units feasible; or
b. The waiver/modification will have a specific adverse impact.
The decision of the planning commission may be appealed to the city council in the
manner provided in Section 9.200.120 of the La Quinta Municipal Code.
4. Notice of any city determination pursuant to this section shall be provided to the
same extent as required for the underlying development approval.
51
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:31 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 26 of 71
Chapter 9.80 NONRESIDENTIAL PERMITTED USES
9.80.020 Table of permitted uses.
A. Uses and Structures Permitted. Table 9-5, Permitted Uses in Nonresidential Districts,
following, specifies those uses and structures which are permitted within each
nonresidential district. The letters in the columns beneath the district designations
mean the following:
1. "P": Permitted as a principal use within the district.
2. "A": Permitted only if accessory to the principal use on the site.
3. "C": Permitted as a principal or accessory use if a conditional use permit is
approved.
4. "M": Permitted if a minor use permit is approved.
5. "T": Permitted as a temporary use only.
6. "X": Prohibited in the district.
7. "S": Permitted under a specific plan.
B. Uses Not Listed in Table. Land uses which are not listed in Table 9-5 are not permitted
unless the planning or the planning commission determines that such use is within one
(1) of the permitted use categories listed (e.g., principal use, conditional use, etc.) in
accordance with Section 9.20.040.
Table 9-5 Permitted Uses in Nonresidential Districts
P = Permitted use
A = Accessory use
C = Conditional use permit
M = Minor use permit
T = Temporary use permit
X = Prohibited use Regional Commercial Commercial Park Community Commercial Neighborhood Commercial Tourist Commercial Office Commercial Major Community Village Commercial Land Use CR CP CC CN CT CO MC VC
Retail Uses
Retail stores under 10,000 sq. ft. floor area
per business
P P P P P P X P
Retail stores1 , 10,000—50,000 sq. ft. floor
area
P P P P X X X P
Retail stores1 , over 50,000 sq. ft. floor area P C M X X X X X
Food, liquor and convenience stores under
10,000 sq. ft. floor area, open less than 18
hours/day2
P A P P A A X P
Food, liquor and convenience stores under
10,000 sq. ft. floor area, open 18 or more
hours/day2
M X M M M X X M
Plant nurseries and garden supply stores,
with no propagation of plants on the
P X P P X X X P
52
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:34 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 27 of 71
premises, subject to Section 9.100.110
(Outdoor storage and display)
Showroom/catalog stores, without substantial
on-site inventory
P P P X X X X X
General Services
Barbershops, beauty, nail and tanning salons
and similar uses
P A P P P A X P
Miscellaneous services such as travel
services, photo and video services, shoe
repair, appliance repair, and similar uses
P A P P P A X P
Laundromats and dry cleaners, except central
cleaning plants
P X P P P X X M
Printing, blueprinting and copy services P P P P P P X P
Pet grooming—without overnight boarding P X P P P X X P
Office and Health Services
Banks P X P P P P X P
General and professional offices P P P P P P P P
Medical offices—physicians, dentists,
optometrists, chiropractors and similar
practitioners, 3 or fewer offices in one
building
P P P P P P X P
Medical centers/clinics—four or more offices
in one building
P X P C X P X P
Surgicenters/medical clinics P P P C X P X X
Hospitals C X X X X X C X
Convalescent hospitals C X C X X X C X
Veterinary clinics/animal hospitals and pet
boarding (indoor only)
M M M M X X X M
Dining, Drinking and Entertainment Uses
Restaurants, other than drive-through P A P P P X A P
Restaurants, drive-through P A P X P X X X
Restaurants, counter take-out with ancillary
seating, such as yogurt, ice cream, pastry
shops and similar
P P P P P X A P
Bars and cocktail lounges M M M M M X X M
Dance clubs and nightclubs C C C X C X X C
Dancing or live entertainment as an accessory
use
A A A A A X X A
Theaters, live or motion picture P X M M M X A M
Tobacco shops without onsite smoking, as per
the provisions of the Heath and Sanitation
Code
P X P P A X X P
Cigar lounges, hookah bars, and similar uses
with onsite smoking, as per the provisions of
M X M M A X X M
53
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:34 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 28 of 71
the Health and Sanitation Code
Recreation Uses
Bowling alleys P X P X P X X C
Pool or billiard centers as a principal use C C C X C X X C
Pool or billiard tables as accessory use (3
tables or less)
A A A A A A X A
Game machines as an accessory use A A A A A A X A
Golf courses and country clubs (see GC
district permitted uses, Chapter 9.120)
X X X X A X X X
Driving range unlighted P A C X P A P X
Tennis clubs or complexes C A C X X A C X
Health clubs, martial arts studios, and dance
studios, 5,000 sq. ft. floor area or less
P P P P P P P P
Health clubs, martial arts studios, and dance
studios, over 5,000 sq. ft. floor area
M M M M M M M M
Libraries P P P P P P P P
Museum P P P P P P P P
Arts and crafts studios, including classes P P P P P P P P
Parks, unlighted playfields and open space P P P P P P P P
Lighted playfields X X X X X X C C
Bicycle, equestrian and hiking trails P P P P P P P P
Indoor pistol or rifle ranges X C X X X X X X
Indoor or outdoor commercial recreation
centers
M M M M M M X M
Ice skating rinks M M M X M X M X
Assembly Uses
Lodges, union halls, social clubs and
community centers
P P P P X X P P
Churches, temples and other places of
worship
M M M M X M X M
Mortuaries and funeral homes M M M X X X X X
Public and Semipublic Uses
Fire stations P P P P P P P P
Government offices and police stations P P P P P P P P
Communication towers and equipment
(freestanding, new towers) subject to Chapter
9.170
C C C C C C C C
Communication towers and equipment (co-
location, mounted to existing facility) subject
to Chapter 9.170
M M M M M M M M
Electrical substations X M X X X X M X
Water wells and pumping stations P P P P P P P P
Reservoirs and water tanks X X X X X X P X
Public flood control facilities and devices P P P P P P P P
54
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:34 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 29 of 71
Colleges and universities C M X X X M C C
Vocational schools, e.g., barber, beauty and
similar
M C C X X C C C
Private elementary, intermediate and high
schools
C C C C C C C C
Helicopter pads X X X X C X C X
Public or private kennels and animal shelters
(with indoor or outdoor pet boarding)
X C X X X X C X
Residential, Lodging and Child Daycare Uses
Existing single family home X X X X X X X P
Townhome and multifamily dwelling as a
primary use3,4
C C C C C C X C
Residential as an accessory use, e.g.,
caretaker residences per Section 9.100.160
M M M M M M M M
Child daycare facilities, centers and
preschools as a principal use, subject to
Section 9.100.240 (also see Accessory Uses)
M M M M X M M M
Senior group housing X X X X X X X M
Rooming and boarding houses X X X X X X X M
Single room occupancy (SRO) hotels, subject
to Section 9.100.250
C X X X X X X X
Emergency and homeless shelters and Low
Barrier Navigation Centers
P P P P P P P X
Transitional shelters and supportive housing
for homeless persons or victims of domestic
abuse
C X X X X X C X
Single-family residential X X X X X X X X
Mixed-use projects subject to Section
9.110.120
P P P P P P X P
RV rental parks and ownership/membership
parks
X X X X M X X X
Resort residential, subject to Section
9.60.310
S X C X P X X P
Hotels and motels P X P X P X X P
Timeshare facilities, fractional ownership,
subject to Section 9.60.280
P X P X P X X P
Automotive, Automobile Uses5
Golf cart, neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV),
and electric scooter sales
P P P M X X X M
Automobile service stations, with or without
minimart subject to Section 9.100.230
C C C C X X X C
Car washes M M M X X X X X
Auto body repair and painting; transmission
repair
X C X X X X X X
55
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:34 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 30 of 71
Auto repair specialty shops, providing minor
auto maintenance: tire sales/service, muffler,
brake, lube and tune-up services
C C C X X X X X
Auto and motorcycle sales and rentals M M X X X X X X
Used vehicle sales, not associated with a new
vehicle sales facility, as per Section
9.100.260
C C X X X X X X
Truck, recreation vehicle and boat sales C C X X X X X
Auto parts stores, with no repair or parts
installation on the premises
P P P P X X X P
Auto or truck storage yards, not including
dismantling
X C X X X X X X
Private parking lots/garages as a principal use
subject to Chapter 9.150, Parking
C C C X C C X C
Warehousing and Heavy Commercial Uses5
Wholesaling/distribution centers, general
warehouses with no sales to consumers
C P X X X X X X
Mini-storage X X6 X X X X X X
Lumber yards, outdoor (see retail stores for
indoor lumber sales)
X M X X X X X X
Pest control services M P X X X X X X
Contractor offices, public utility and similar
equipment/storage yards
X M X X X X P X
Central cleaning or laundry plants X X X X A X X X
Industrial and Research Uses
Indoor manufacture and assembly of
components or finished products
X P X X X X X X
Research and development P P X X X X X X
Recording studios M P X X X X X M
Bottling plants X P X X X X X X
Recycling centers as a primary use, collection
and sorting only, subject to Section
9.100.190
X C X X X X C X
Off-site hazardous waste facilities X C X X X X X X
Accessory Uses and Structures
Construction and guard offices, subject to
Section 9.100.170
P P P P P P P P
Portable outdoor vendor uses subject to
Section 9.100.100
M M M M M M M M
Swimming pools as an accessory use A A A A A A A A
Indoor golf or tennis facilities as an accessory
use
A A A A A A A A
Outdoor golf or tennis facilities as an
accessory use
M M M M M M M M
56
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:34 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 31 of 71
Antennas and satellite dishes, subject to
Section 9.100.070
A A A A A A A A
Reverse vending machines and recycling
dropoff bins, subject to Section 9.100.190
A A A A X X A M
Incidental on-site products or services for
employees or businesses, such as child day
care, cafeterias and business support uses
A A A A A A A A
Other accessory uses and structures which
are customarily associated with and
subordinate to the principal use on the
premises and are consistent with the purpose
and intent of the zoning district, as
determined by the director
A A A A A A A A
Temporary Uses
Christmas tree sales, subject to Section
9.100.080
T T T T X X T T
Halloween pumpkin sales, subject to Section
9.100.080
T T T T X X T T
Stands selling fresh produce in season,
subject to Section 9.100.090
T T T T X X T T
Sidewalk sales, subject to Section 9.100.120 T T T T T T X T
Temporary outdoor events, subject to Section
9.100.130
T T T T T T T T
Use of relocatable building, subject to Section
9.100.180
T T T T T T T T
Holiday period storage subject to Section
9.100.145
M M M M M M M M
Other Uses
Sexually oriented businesses, subject to
Section 9.110.0807
C X X X X X X X
Medical marijuana dispensaries X X X X X X X X
Other uses not listed in this table: per Section
9.20.040, director or planning commission to
determine whether use is permitted
Notes:
1 Unless use is specifically listed elsewhere in this table.
2 With no consumption of alcohol on the premises.
3 If part of a mixed-use project per Section 9.140.090.
4 If not part of a mixed use project: Subject to Section 9.30.070 (RH, High Density Residential District) for density.
5 Subject to Section 9.100.110, Outdoor storage and display.
6 Mini-storage warehousing operating on December 17, 2008 (the effective date of the ordinance codified in this
section), are considered legal, conforming land uses. Existing facilities may be reconstructed if damaged, and may
be modified or expanded within the boundaries of the lot on which they occur as of December 17, 2008 with
approval of a site development permit. Any modification or expansion shall conform to the development standards
for the commercial park zoning district contained in Chapter 9.90, Nonresidential Development Standards.
7 Property must also be located within the SOB (sexually oriented business) overlay district.
57
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:34 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 32 of 71
(Ord. 584 § 2, 2020; Ord. 562 § 1, 2017; Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 538 § 4, 2016; Ord.
523 § 1, 2015; Ord. 492 § 1, 2011; Ord. 480 § 1, 2010; Ord. 472 § 1, 2009; Ord. 471 § 2,
2009; Ord. 466 § 1, 2009; Ord. 449 § 1, 2007; Ord. 429 § 1, 2006; Ord. 414 § 1, 2005;
Ord. 397 § 1, 2004; Ord. 325 § 1, 1998; Ord. 307 § 1, 1997; Ord. 299 § 1, 1997; Ord. 284
§ 1, 1996)
Chapter 9.100 SUPPLEMENTAL NONRESIDENTIAL
REGULATIONS
9.100.280 Emergency and homeless shelters, Low Barrier Navigation
Centers.
A. Purpose.
1. To ensure the zoning code facilitates emergency and homeless shelters under the
Housing Accountability Act (California Government Code Section 65589.5) and in
accordance with the requirements set forth in California Government Code Section
65583, as amended.
2. To provide zoning, development, and management procedures for emergency and
homeless shelters.
3. To implement the city's general plan housing element policies and programs
relating to the provision of emergency and homeless shelters.
B. Definitions. See Chapter 9.280.
C. Development Standards.
1. The maximum capacity of an emergency or homeless shelter shall be twenty (20)
beds or persons.
2. On site management and security shall be provided on a twenty-four (24)-
hour/seven (7) day per week basis.
3. Residency in an emergency or homeless shelter shall be limited to six (6) months
or less per individual.
D. Low Barrier Navigation Centers: A Low Barrier Navigation Center development is a use
by right in areas zoned for mixed use and nonresidential zones permitting multifamily
uses, if it meets the following requirements:
1. It offers services to connect people to permanent housing through a services plan
that identifies services staffing.
2. It is linked to a coordinated entry system, so that staff in the interim facility or staff
who co-locate in the facility may conduct assessments and provide services to
connect people to permanent housing. “Coordinated entry system” means a
centralized or coordinated assessment system developed pursuant to Section
576.400(d) or Section 578.7(a)(8), as applicable, of Title 24 of the Code of Federal
Regulations, as those sections read on January 1, 2020, and any related
requirements, designed to coordinate program participant intake, assessment, and
referrals.
58
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:31 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 33 of 71
3. It complies with Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 8255) of Division 8 of the
Welfare and Institutions Code.
4. It has a system for entering information regarding client stays, client demographics,
client income, and exit destination through the local Homeless Management
Information System as defined by Section 578.3 of Title 24 of the Code of Federal
Regulations.
Chapter 9.110 SPECIAL PURPOSE/OVERLAY DISTRICTS
9.110.100 AHO Affordable Housing Overlay District.
A. Purpose and Intent.
1. To permit the development of affordable housing at higher densities within
commercial zones and other specified residential sites while maintaining
consistency with underlying base land use designations.
2. To provide increased and enhanced housing opportunities for low and very low
income residents.
3. To accommodate the city's regional housing need.
4. To encourage lot consolidation and maximize the housing potential of vacant and
underutilized sites.
5. To provide mixed use nodes that minimize vehicle trips and enhance proximity to
services and mass transit, consistent with implementation measures CI-13 and
ND-4 of the city's greenhouse gas reduction plan, as well as transportation
demand management principles.
6. To allow owner-occupied and rental multi-family residential units by right for
developments with at least 20% of the units affordable to low, very low or
extremely low income households at a density of at least 20 units per acre, and at
least 16 units per site, consistent with Government Code Section 65583.2(h) and
(i).
B. Development Standards. See Table 9-9. In addition:
1. Density: Minimum 20 units per acre; maximum 36 units per acre.
2. Minimum livable floor area excluding garage shall be six hundred (600) square
feet.
2. Minimum project distance buffer from Highway 111 shall be three hundred (300)
feet.
3. Minimum common area open space shall be thirty percent (30%).
C. District Boundaries. The boundaries of the AHO overlay district shall include the CC, CP,
CN, CR, and VC districts and other sites identified on the official zoning map.
(Ord. 577 § 1, 2019; Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 512 § 1, 2013)
59
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:31 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 34 of 71
Chapter 9.130 SPECIAL PURPOSE DEVELOPMENT
STANDARDS
9.130.010 Table of development standards.
Table 9-9 contains standards for development of property within special purpose districts:
Table 9-9 Special Purpose District Development Standards
District
Development
Standard
PR GC OS FP HC EOD AHO A/ER MU
Minimum building
site
n/a n/a n/a * 20,00
0 sf
*** 1 acre 10,000
sf/20,0
00 sf
multifa
mily
1
acr
e
Minimum lot
frontage
n/a n/a n/a n/a 100
ft.
n/a 100 100 n/
a
Maximum structure
height (ft.)1
28 28 28 * 28 *** 40 28 **
*
Maximum lot
coverage
n/a n/a n/a n/a 30% n/a 60% 40% **
*
Maximum number
of stories
2 2 2 * 2 *** 4 2 **
*
Minimum setbacks n/a n/a n/a n/a Front:
30
Int./E
xt.
Side:
10/20
Rear:
30
n/a Front:
20 10
Int./Ex
t.
Side:
10/15
5/5
Rear:
20 10
Front:
30
Garage:
20
Side:
20
Rear:
30
**
*
Minimu
m
perime
ter
buildin
g/
landsc
ape
setbac
ks
(ft.)2, t4
From
Highway
111 right-
of-way
50/
50
50/
50
50/
50
50/
50
50/50 50/
50
n/a *** **
*
From
perimeter
street
ROWs
30 30 30 * 10′
min,
20′
avera
ge
*** 10′
min,
20′
averag
e
20 **
*
From all
image
corridor3
30/
20
30/
20
30/
20
30/
20
30/20 30/
20
*** *** **
*
60
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 35 of 71
rights-of-
way
(except
Hwy 111)
and from
all major
and
primary
arterials
From
abutting
residential
property
or
districts
30 30 30 * ** *** *** *** **
*
From
abutting
commerci
al and
other
nonreside
ntial
property
or
districts
20 20 20 * ** *** *** *** **
*
Minimum setback
from interior
property lines
within the same
project4
0 0 0 * ** *** *** *** **
*
Parking and signs See Chapters 9.150 and 9.160
Fences and walls See Section 9.100.030
Landscaping and
screening
See Sections 9.100.040 and 9.100.050
Notes:
* As required for needed flood control structures.
** As provided in the HC supplemental regulations, Section 9.140.040.
*** As provided in the underlying base district regulations, subject to the additional requirements of the overlay
district in Chapter 9.140.
1 Not including basements. Also, notwithstanding above table, the maximum structure height equals 22 feet for all
buildings within 150 feet of any General Plan image corridor and major or primary arterials. Any proposed
building height over 22 feet requires minor use permit approval and shall not exceed a maximum building
height of the existing zone.
61
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 36 of 71
2 Landscape setback shall consist of landscaped area within the building setback. Number given is minimum
landscaped setback from the street right-of-way. The remaining building setback may contain parking,
driveways and similar facilities.
3 The image corridors as identified in the General Plan.
4 In the AHO, for interior yards, 5 feet minimum plus 1 foot additional setback for every foot of building height
above 28 feet, or fraction thereof, up to a maximum setback of 15 feet when said height above 17 feet is
located between 5 and 10 feet from said side yard property line. If the building is over 28 feet in height, the
setback is 10 feet plus 1 foot for every foot over 28 feet in height or fraction thereof, to a maximum setback
of 15 feet The additional setback may be provided entirely at grade level or may be a combination of at grade
and airspace above the 28-foot building height.
( Ord. 588 § 2(Exh. A), 2-2-2021; Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 512 § 1, 2013; Ord. 445 § 4,
2007; Ord. 284 § 1, 1996)
Chapter 9.140 SUPPLEMENTAL SPECIAL PURPOSE
REGULATIONS
9.140.080 AHO affordable housing overlay regulations.
A. Applicability. The AHO overlay district and the provisions of this section apply to all
areas of the city containing the "AHO" overlay designation on the official zoning map.
These include the CC, CP, NC, CR, and VC commercial zones, and other sites, as
designated on the zoning map. These regulations shall apply in addition to the
regulations of the underlying base district. In case of conflict between the base district
and the AHO regulations, the AHO regulations shall control.
B. Definitions. See Chapter 9.280.
C. Permitted Uses. See Section 9.120.020.
1. Any use permitted, either expressly or by conditional use permit, in the underlying
zone;
2. Affordable housing residential units on lots one (1) acre or greater in size,
including those that are stand-alone, next to, and/or above nonresidential uses.
D. Development Standards, All Residential Uses. See Section 9.130.010.
(Ord. 577 § 1, 2019; Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 512 § 1, 2013)
9.140.100 Agricultural/equestrian overlay.
A. Permitted Uses.
Table 9-10 Permitted Uses in the Agricultural/Equestrian Residential District
LAND USE
Residential Uses
Single-family detached dwellings P
Farmworker housing C
Mobile home parks C
Mobile home subdivisions and mobilehomes or manufactured homes on P
62
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 37 of 71
individual lots
Child daycare facilities as an accessory use, serving 8 or fewer children,
subject to Section 9.60.190
A
Child daycare facilities as an accessory use, serving 9—14 children, subject
to Section 9.60.190
M
Caretaker's residence P
Open Space and Recreational Uses
Public parks playfields and open space P
Bicycle, equestrian and hiking trails P
Tennis court or other game court as an accessory use associated with a
private residence
P
Tennis court or other game court for public use M
Golf course and country club, with or without driving range P
Driving range with or without lights C
Accessory Uses and Structures
Home occupations, subject to Section 9.60.110 H
Patio covers, decks and gazebos, subject to Section 9.60.040 A
Fences and walls, subject to Section 9.60.030 A
Satellite dishes and other antennas subject to Section 9.60.080 A
Swimming pools, spas and cabanas, subject to Section 9.60.070 A
Guest houses, subject to Section 9.60.010 M A
Second units, "granny flats" and employee quarters, subject to Section
9.60.090 M
A
Garages and carports, subject to Section 9.60.060 A
Keeping of animals, subject to Section 9.60.120 A
Equestrian and Agricultural Uses
Stables, private P
Stables, commercial or riding academy C
Polo grounds, including stables, clubhouse C
Veterinary offices and hospitals C
The grazing and breeding of cattle, horses, llamas, or other farm stock or
animals, not including hogs, not to exceed five animals per acre of all the
land available
P
The grazing and breeding of sheep or goats, not to exceed 15 animals per
acre of all land available
P
Farms for rabbits, fish, frogs, chinchilla or other small animals P
Nurseries, greenhouses, orchards, aviaries, apiaries P
Tree crop farming P
Field crop or turf farming P
Winery and incidental uses with established vineyard P
Produce stands, subject to Section 9.100.100 P
The drying, packing, canning, freezing and processing of produce resulting
from permitted uses when such activity is conducted within permanent
P
63
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 38 of 71
buildings and structures
Noncommercial raising of hogs, not to exceed two per acre P
Community auctions and sales yards (2-acre minimum) C
Feed stores C
Kennels and catteries, 5 to 10 animals M
Kennels and catteries, 10 to 25 animals on 1-acre minimum C
Menageries C
Commercial composting facilities C
Other Uses
Guest ranches and bed and breakfasts C
Restaurants C
Fraternal lodge halls C
Churches, temples and other places of worship C
Schools C
Libraries C
Public utility facilities P
Communication towers and equipment subject to Chapter 9.170 C
B. Designation on Zoning Map. When the A/ER overlay district is used, the zoning
designation on the official zoning map shall consist of the base district symbol followed
by the overlay district symbol enclosed in parentheses. For example, RL (A/ER).
C. Development Standards, Residential Uses. See Table 9-9.
D. Development Standards, All Nonresidential Uses.
1. All buildings shall be limited to two (2) stories in height and a maximum of thirty-
five (35) feet, measured from the finished Grade 6 of the pad.
2. Setbacks. The following minimum setbacks shall apply from the property line:
Pasture: zero (0) feet
Accessory buildings: twenty (20) feet
Accessory structures: twenty (20) feet
Manure storage: twenty-five (25) feet
3. Fencing. Properties containing one (1) or more uses may be fenced to a maximum
of six (6) feet. Permitted fencing materials include chain link, cement block, wood,
wrought iron or tubular steel. Razor wire or concertina wire is permitted for those
uses listed under "Equestrian and Agriculture Uses" in Table 9-10.
4. Parking. Parking shall be provided as required by Chapter 9.150.
5. Lighting. All lighting shall comply with Sections 9.60.160 and 9.100.150.
6. Loudspeakers. Loudspeaker systems or other amplified sound are limited to
operation or use between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. unless otherwise specified by
an approved conditional use permit.
E. "Right to Farm" Intent and Policies.
64
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 39 of 71
1. Intent. It is the intent of the city to conserve, protect and encourage the
development, improvement, and continued viability of its agricultural land and
industries for the long-term production of food and other agricultural products, and
for the economic well-being of the city's residents. It is also the intent of the city
to balance the rights of farmers to produce food and other agricultural products
with the rights of non-farmers who own, occupy, or use land within or adjacent to
agricultural areas. It is the intent of this section is to reduce the loss to the area of
its agricultural resources by limiting the circumstances under which agricultural
operations may be deemed to constitute a nuisance. Nothing in this chapter shall
be construed to limit the right of any owner of real property to request that the
city consider a change in the zoning classification of his or her property in
accordance with the procedures set forth in the La Quinta Development Code.
2. Policies.
a. No agricultural activity, operation, or facility, or appurtenances thereof, in a
manner consistent with proper and accepted customs and standards, as
established and followed by similar agricultural operations in the same
locality, shall be or become a nuisance, private or public, due to any changed
condition in or about the locality, after the same has been in operation for
more than three (3) years if it was not a nuisance at the time it began.
b. This section shall not invalidate any provision contained in the Health and
Safety Code, Fish and Game Code, Food and Agricultural Code, or Division 7
(commencing with Section 13000) of the Water Code of the State of
California, if the agricultural activity, operation, or facility, or appurtenances
thereof, constitutes a nuisance, public or private, as specifically defined or
described in any such provision.
3. This section is not to be construed so as to modify abridge the state law set out in
the California Civil Code relative to nuisances, but rather it is only to be utilized in
the interpretation and enforcement of the provisions of county ordinances and
regulations.
F. Notice to Buyers of Land.
1. The director shall cause the following notice to be included on all tentative land
division proposed that lies partly or wholly within, or within three hundred (300)
feet of any land zoned for primarily agricultural purposes:
Lot(s) No. _______, as shown on this map, is (are) located partly or wholly
within, or within three hundred (300) feet of land zoned for primarily agricultural
purposes by the County of Riverside and the City of La Quinta. It is the declared
policy of the City of La Quinta that no agricultural activity, operation, or facility, or
appurtenances thereof, conducted or maintained for commercial purposes in the
city, and in a manner consistent with proper and accepted customs and standards,
as established and followed by similar agricultural operations in the same locality,
shall be or become a nuisance, private or public, due to any changed condition in
or about the locality, after the same has been in operation for more than three (3)
years, if it was not a nuisance at the time it began. The term "agriculture activity,
operation, or facility, or appurtenances thereof" includes all uses permitted in the
Agricultural Overlay District, and includes, but is not limited to, equestrian
activities, the cultivation and tillage of the soil, dairying, the production,
cultivation, growing, and harvesting of any agricultural commodity, including
65
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 40 of 71
timber, viticulture, apiculture, or horticulture, the raising of livestock, for bearing
animals, fish, or poultry, and any practices performed by a farmer or on a farm as
incident to or in conjunction with such farming operations, including preparation
for market, delivery to storage or to market, or to carriers for transportation to
market.
2. The city engineer shall cause the notice described in paragraph 1 of this subsection
to be included on any final land division proposed for recordation that lies partly or
wholly within, or within three hundred (300) feet of, any land zoned for primarily
agricultural purposes.
G. Preservation of Agricultural Land Uses in Perpetuity. Any land owner wishing to
continue a land use listed in Table 9-10, Permitted Uses in the Agricultural/Equestrian
Residential District, may, at any time, exercise his or her rights under Chapter 9.190,
Transfer of Development Rights.
(Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 489 § 1, 2011; Ord. 368 § 1, 2002)
Chapter 9.150 PARKING
9.150.070 Spaces required by use.
A. Land Uses Not Listed. If no provisions for the required number of off-street parking
spaces are set forth in Tables 9-11 or 9-12 of this section or the provisions are not
clear for a specific use, the decision-making authority for the applicable use or project
shall determine the number of parking spaces required.
B. Parking for Residential Land Uses. Table 9-11 contains the minimum number of parking
spaces required for each type of residential land use. Whenever any commercial or
industrial use is located on a building site that is also used for residential purposes,
parking facilities shall be provided in conformance with Section 9.150.070 (Shared
Parking).
C. Parking for Nonresidential Land Uses.
1. Adequate Parking Required. All nonresidential land uses shall provide off-street
parking in compliance with this subsection and with Table 9-12 unless modified by
the provisions contained in Section 9.150.050. Table 9-12 sets forth the minimum
and maximum requirements for each use. It shall be the responsibility of the
developer, owner or operator of any use to provide adequate off-street parking.
2. Bicycle Parking. In addition to the automobile parking spaces required per Table 9-
12, bicycle parking shall be provided for certain nonresidential uses in accordance
with subsection (C)(3) of this section.
Table 9-11 Parking for Residential Land Uses
Land Use Minimum Off-Street
Parking Requirement
Additional
Requirements
Single-family detached,
single-family attached and
duplexes
2 spaces per unit in a
garage plus 0.5 guest
spaces per unit if no on-
For all single-family
residential zones except
RC, parking in excess of
66
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 41 of 71
street parking is available the minimum required
may be tandem
In a garage, tandem
parking may be used to
meet the above-stated
minimum required parking
in the RC district only
Employee quarters 1 space per unit. This
space shall not be
tandem.
Apartments, townhomes
and condominiums:
All parking spaces shall be
distributed throughout the
site to ensure reasonable
access to all units.
(1) Studio 1 covered space per unit,
plus 0.5 guest spaces per
unit
(2) One- and two-
bedroom
2 covered spaces per unit
plus 0.5 guest spaces per
unit
(3) Three or more
bedroom
3 covered spaces per unit
plus 0.5 covered spaces
per each bedroom over
three, plus 0.5 guest
spaces per unit
Mobilehome parks 2 covered spaces/unit,
which may be in tandem,
plus 0.5 guest spaces per
unit
Senior housing (excluding
single family units)
1 covered space per unit,
plus 0.5 guest spaces per
unit
Senior group
housing/senior citizen
hotels and congregate
care facilities
0.5 covered spaces per
unit plus 0.5 guest spaces
per unit
Lodging and Child Daycare Uses
Bed and breakfast inns 1 space per guest room
plus parking for residents
as required by this code.
Boardinghouse,
roominghouse, and single
room occupancy hotels
1 space per sleeping room
Child daycare centers,
including preschools and
nursery schools
1 space per staff member
plus 1 space per 5
children. Parking credit
may be given if queuing
Stacking analysis may be
required to define a drop-
off facility that
accommodates at least 4
67
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 42 of 71
area for more than 4 cars
is provided, but resulting
parking shall be not less
than 1 per staff member
plus 1 per 10 children
cars in a continuous flow,
preferably one-way, to
safely load and unload
children
Recreational vehicle parks 1 automobile parking
space on each recreational
vehicle lot plus 1 space
per 20 recreational lots for
visitors
Table 9-12 Parking for Nonresidential Land Uses
Land Use Minimum Off-
Street Parking
Requirement
Maximum Off-
Street Parking
Requirement
Additional
Requirements
Commercial Uses
Bars and cocktail
lounges
1 space per 50 sq.
ft. GFA including
indoor/outdoor
seating areas (see
also Restaurants)
1 space per 25 sq.
ft. GFA including
indoor/outdoor
seating areas (see
also Restaurants)
Lumberyards and
nurseries
1 space per 1,000
sq. ft. GFA indoor
area, plus 1 space
per 1,000 sq. ft. of
outdoor display or
sale area
1 space per 500
sq. ft. GFA indoor
area, plus 1 space
per 1,000 sq. ft. of
outdoor display or
sale area
Model home
complexes
10 spaces N/A
Personal service
establishments
3 spaces per 1,000
s.f.
4 spaces per 1,000
s.f.
Restaurants:
(1) Conventional sit-
down, including any
bar area
1 space per 125
sq. ft. GFA
including indoor
and outdoor
seating areas
1 space per 75 sq.
ft. GFA including
indoor and outdoor
seating areas
(2) Drive-through
and fast food
1 space per 100
sq. ft. GFA,
including indoor
and outdoor
seating areas, but
not less than 10
spaces.
N/A
68
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 43 of 71
(1) General retail
uses under 100,000
sq. ft. GFA
1 space per 300
sq. ft. GFA
1 space per 250
sq. ft. GFA
For shopping
centers,
freestanding
restaurants and
non-freestanding
restaurant space
in excess of 20%
of the total
shopping center
GFA shall be
computed
separately using
the applicable
restaurant parking
ratio(s)
(2) General retail
uses 100,000 sq. ft.
GFA and greater
1 space per 350
sq. ft. GFA
1 space per 300
sq. ft. GFA
Furniture and
appliance stores
1 space per 1000
sq. ft. GFA
1 space per 750
sq. ft. GFA
Warehouses, storage
buildings or
structures used
exclusively for
storage
1 space per 2,000
sq. ft. of gross
area for storage
purposes
1 space per 1,000
sq. ft. of gross
area for storage
purposes
Mini-storage
facilities
1 space per 5,000
sq. ft. plus 2
spaces for any
caretaker's unit
N/A
Office and Health Care Uses
Convalescent
hospitals, nursing
homes, children's
homes and
sanitariums
1 space per 4 beds
based on the
resident capacity
of the facility as
listed on the
required license or
permit
Minimum 30% of
required spaces
shall be covered
by a trellis or
carport structure
See also senior
group housing
(senior citizen
hotels) under
residential uses
General offices,
other than medical,
dental, banks,
savings and loans,
credit unions and
similar financial
institutions
1 space per 300
sq. ft. GFA
1 space per 250
sq. ft. GFA
Minimum 30% of
required spaces
shall be covered
by a trellis or
carport structure
Rates are for office
uses only. If
ancillary uses are
69
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 44 of 71
included, such as
restaurants or
retail
establishments,
parking for such
uses must be
provided per their
applicable rates
Hospitals 1.75 spaces per
bed
Medical or dental
offices/clinics
1 space per 200
sq. ft. GFA
1 space per 175
sq. ft. GFA
Minimum 30% of
required spaces
shall be covered
by a trellis or
carport structure
Veterinary hospitals
and clinics
1 space per 400
sq. ft. GFA
exclusive of
overnight boarding
areas
1 space per 300
sq. ft. GFA
exclusive of
overnight boarding
areas
Automotive Uses
Automobile repair
facilities
1 space per 250
sq. ft. of sales
area
1 space per 200
sq. ft. of sales
area, plus 2
spaces per service
bay
Automobile Fueling: N/A
(1) Without retail
sale of beverage and
food items
1 space per 500
sq. ft. GFA
(2) With retail sale
of beverage and
food items
1 space per 400
sq. ft. GFA
Automobile, truck,
boat, and similar
vehicle sales or
rental
establishments
1 space per 500
sq. ft. GFA (not
including service
bays), plus 1
space per service
bay
N/A Parking is for
customers and
employees, and is
not to be used for
display.
Car washes: N/A Applicant may be
required to submit
a parking study
which includes a
stacking analysis
for the proposed
(1) Full-service 10 spaces
(vacuuming or
drying areas shall
not be counted as
parking spaces)
70
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 45 of 71
(2) Express-service 2 spaces per
facility (wash bays
shall not be
counted as parking
spaces)
facility
Industrial Uses
General
manufacturing,
research and
development and
industrial uses
1 space per 500
sq. ft. GFA
N/A
Warehousing and
distribution space
1 space per 1,000
sq. ft. GFA
N/A
Assembly Uses
Auditoriums,
theaters, cinemas
1 space per 3
seats
1 space per 2.5
seats
18 lineal inches of
bench shall be
considered 1 fixed
seat.
Churches, temples
and similar places of
assembly
1 space per 5
seats of assembly
area
1 space per 3
seats of assembly
area
18 lineal inches of
bench shall be
considered 1 fixed
seat. Parking will
be required at the
same rate for
other auditoriums,
assembly halls or
classrooms to be
used concurrently
with the main
auditorium
Nightclubs,
dancehalls, lodge
halls and union halls
1 space per 50 sq.
ft. GFA, plus
required parking
for other uses on
the site
1 space per 35 sq.
ft. GFA, plus
required parking
for other uses on
the site
Mortuaries and
funeral homes
1 space for every
5 seats of
assembly room
floor area
1 space for every
3 seats of
assembly room
floor area, plus 1
space for each
vehicle stored
onsite, plus 5
spaces for
employees
Community centers 1 space per 300 1 space per 200
71
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 46 of 71
sq. ft. GFA sq. ft. GFA
Lodging and Child Daycare Uses
Daycare centers,
including preschools
and nursery schools
1 space per 300
sq. ft. GFA, plus
1.5 spaces per
employee
1 space per 250
sq. ft. GFA, plus
1.5 spaces per
employee
Stacking analysis
shall be required
to define a drop-
off facility that
accommodates
safely loading and
unloading children
Hotels & motels 1.3 spaces per
guest bedroom
plus required
parking for other
uses on the site
1.1 spaces per
guest bedroom
plus required
parking for other
uses on the site
Timeshare facilities,
fractional ownership
and similar facilities
1.5 spaces per
dwelling or guest
unit plus required
parking for other
uses on the site
1.3 spaces per
dwelling or guest
unit plus required
parking for other
uses on the site
Recreational Uses
Arcade, game and
video
1 space per 200
sq. ft. GFA
Billiard or pool
establishments
1 space per 150
sq. ft. GFA
1 space per 100
sq. ft. GFA
Bowling alleys 4 spaces per alley
plus required
parking for other
uses on the site
5 spaces per alley
plus required
parking for other
uses on the site
Golf uses: N/A
(1) Driving ranges 1 space per tee,
plus the spaces
required for
additional uses on
the site
(2) Pitch and putt,
par three and
miniature golf
courses
3 spaces per hole,
plus the spaces
required for
additional uses on
the site
(3) Regulation
courses
5 spaces per hole,
plus the spaces
required for
additional uses on
the site
8 spaces per hole,
plus the spaces
required for
additional uses on
the site
Tennis courts, 3 spaces per court 4 spaces per court
72
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 47 of 71
handball/racquetball,
and other court-
based facilities
Health clubs,
membership gyms
and commercial
swimming pools
1 space per 200
sq. ft. GFA (for
purposes of this
use, swimming
pool area shall be
counted as floor
area)
1 space per 150
sq. ft. GFA (for
purposes of this
use, swimming
pool area shall be
counted as floor
area)
Libraries/museums 1 space per 300
sq. ft. GFA
1 space per 200
sq. ft. GFA
Shooting ranges 1 space per
shooting station
plus 5 spaces for
employees
Skating rinks, ice or
roller
1 space per 250
sq. ft. GFA
1 space per 200
sq. ft. GFA
Stables, commercial 1 space per each 5
horses kept on the
premises
1 space per each 4
horses kept on the
premises
Public and Semipublic Uses
Public utility facilities
not having business
offices on the
premises, such as
electric, gas, water,
telephone facilities
1 space per
employee plus 1
space per vehicle
used in connection
with the facility
N/A
Schools: N/A
(1) Elementary and
junior high or middle
schools
2 spaces per
classroom
(2) Senior high
schools
10 spaces per
classroom
(3) Colleges,
universities and
institutions of higher
learning
20 spaces per
classroom
(4) Trade schools,
business colleges
and commercial
schools
20 spaces per
classroom
Emergency and
Homeless Shelters,
Low Barrier
1 space per
employee.
73
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:35 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 48 of 71
Navigation Centers
3. Required Bicycle Parking. Bicycle parking shall be provided for certain
nonresidential uses in order to encourage the use of bicycles and to mitigate motor
vehicle pollution and congestion. The minimum bicycle parking requirements for
nonresidential uses are as follows:
a. Land uses required to provide bicycle parking equal to minimum three percent
(3%) of the total parking spaces required per Table 9-12 include: video
arcades, bowling alleys, cinemas/movie theaters, commercial recreation,
tennis clubs, health clubs, libraries, schools, and skating rinks.
b. Land uses required to provide a minimum of five (5) bicycle parking spaces
include: churches, clubs/halls, hospitals and restaurants (all categories).
c. Land uses required to provide a minimum of one (1) bicycle parking for every
twenty-five thousand (25,000) square feet of gross floor area include
governmental, general, medical and financial office uses.
d. In addition to the requirements of subsections (C)(2)(a) through (c) of this
section, retail centers shall provide five (5) bicycle parking spaces for each
tenant having over twenty thousand (20,000) square feet of gross floor area.
The spaces shall be provided at or near the major tenant's main entry.
e. Bike racks shall be placed in shaded locations, out of the way of pedestrian
flows and shopping cart storage and shall be provided with a mechanism
which permits locking a bicycle onto the rack.
(Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 528 § 3, 2016; Ord. 505 § 1, 2012; Ord. 361 § 1, 2001; Ord.
325 § 1, 1998; Ord. 284 § 1, 1996)
Chapter 9.280 DEFINITIONS
9.280.030 Definition of terms.
"Abandoned" means a structure or use, the development or operation of which has been
ceased or suspended.
"Abutting" or "adjacent" means two (2) or more parcels sharing a common boundary at one
(1) or more points.
"Access/egress" means provision for entering a site from a roadway and exiting a site onto
a roadway via motorized vehicle.
"Accessory building or structure" means a building or structure, the use of which is
subordinate and incidental to the main building or use on the same building site. As it
pertains to Section 9.140.060, Equestrian overlay district, "accessory building" means any
building subordinate to a permitted or conditionally permitted equestrian use, including, but
not limited to, hay and tack barns, stables and other structures and uses customarily
appurtenant to the primary permitted use. Also pertaining to Section 9.140.060, Equestrian
overlay district, "accessory structure" means any structure subordinate to a permitted or
conditionally permitted equestrian use, including, but not limited to, arenas, grandstand
74
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 49 of 71
seating, corrals, exercise rings, and other structures associated with the permitted use.
Fences are not considered structures for the purposes of this section.
"Accessory use" means a land use subordinate and incidental to the principal use on the
same building site.
"Actual construction" means the actual placing of construction materials in their permanent
position fastened in a permanent manner except that where a basement is being excavated,
such excavation shall be deemed to be actual construction, or where demolishing or
removal of an existing building or structure has begun, such demolition or removal shall be
deemed to be actual construction, providing in all cases that actual construction work be
diligently carried on until the completion of the entire building or structure involved.
"Administrative office" means a place of business for the rendering of service or general
administration, but not including retail sales.
Adult Business, Adult Entertainment Business or Adult Oriented Business. See Sexually
oriented businesses, Chapter 5.80 of the municipal code.
Advertising Device or Display. See sign definitions, Section 9.160.130.
"Affordable housing cost" bears the same meaning as defined in Section 50052.5 of the
California Health and Safety Code.
"Affordable housing unit" means a dwelling unit within a housing development which will be
rented or sold to and reserved for very low income households, lower income households,
moderate income households (where qualified) and/or senior citizens at an affordable
housing cost for the respective group(s) in accordance with Section 65915 of the California
Government Code and Section 9.60.260 of this code.
"Affordable rent" means that level of rent defined in Section 50053 of the California Health
and Safety Code.
"Agricultural activity, operation, or facility, or appurtenances thereof" includes all uses
allowed under the agricultural overlay district, including, but be limited to, the cultivation
and tillage of the soil, dairying, the production, cultivation, growing, and harvesting of any
agricultural commodity, including timber viticulture, apiculture, or horticulture, the raising of
livestock, fur bearing animals, fish, or poultry, and any practices performed by a farmer or
on a farm as incident to or in conjunction with such farming operations, including
preparation for market, delivery to storage or to market, or to carriers for transportation to
market.
"Alley" means a secondary means of access to abutting property located at the rear or side
of the property.
"Alteration" means any physical change in the internal or external composition of a building
or other structure.
Animal Hospital or Animal Clinic. See "Veterinary clinic."
"Antenna" means a device for transmitting or receiving radio, television, satellite,
microwave or any other transmitted signal.
"Apartment" means a dwelling unit within an apartment building designed and used for
occupancy by one (1) family on a rental basis.
75
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 50 of 71
"Apartment building" or "apartment project" means a building or group of buildings in a
single ownership with three (3) or more dwelling units per building and with most or all
units occupied on a rental basis.
Area, Project Net. See "Project net area."
"Arena" means an enclosure physically similar to a corral, designed and constructed so as to
be used for conducting equine-related entertainment and events open to the public,
including, but not limited to, rodeos, polo matches, riding shows and exhibitions, etc.
"Attached structures" means two (2) or more structures which are physically connected with
a wall, roof, deck, floor, bearing or support structures, trellises, architectural features or any
other structure, fixture or device that exceeds thirty (30) inches in height above the finished
grade.
Attached Dwelling or Attached Residential. See "Dwelling, attached."
"Automobile repair specialty shop" means a retail and service place of business engaged
primarily in light repair and sale of goods and services for motor vehicles, including brake,
muffler and tire shops and their accessory uses. Heavier automobile repair such as major
body and paint work, transmission repair, or engine repair are not included in this definition.
"Automobile service station" means a retail place of business engaged primarily in the sale
of motor fuels and supplying those incidental goods and services which are required in the
day-to-day operation of motor vehicles.
"Automobile wrecking" or "automobile dismantling" means the storage or taking apart of
damaged or wrecked vehicles or the sale of such vehicles or their parts.
"Awning" means a roof-like cover that is attached to and projects from the wall of a building
for the purpose of decoration and/or providing shielding from the elements.
"Bar and cocktail lounge" means an establishment whose primary activity is the service of
alcohol, beer or wine.
"Basement" means a habitable building level which is partly or completely underground. A
basement shall be counted as a building story if more than five (5) feet of the height of any
portion is above adjoining finish grade.
"Bed and breakfast" means a residential dwelling occupied by a resident, person, or family,
containing individual living quarters occupied for a transient basis for compensation and in
which a breakfast may be provided to guests. The breakfast provided shall not constitute a
restaurant operation and may not be provided to persons other than guests of the inn.
"Bedroom" means any habitable room that may be used for sleeping purposes other than a
kitchen, bathroom, hallway, dining room or living room.
"Berm" means a mound or embankment of earth.
Billboard. See sign definitions, Section 9.160.130.
"Boardinghouse" means any building or portion thereof with access provided through a
common entrance to guest rooms having no cooking facilities. Guest rooms are rented on a
monthly basis or longer and meals are provided.
"Buildable area" means the portion of a building site remaining after deducting all required
setbacks and meeting any requirements regarding maximum lot coverage or minimum open
area.
76
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 51 of 71
"Building" means an enclosed structure having a roof supported by columns or walls.
"Building height" means the height of a building relative to the surrounding ground area.
Measurement of maximum building height is defined in Sections 9.50.050 and 9.90.010.
Building, Main. "Main building" means the building containing the main or principal use of
the premises.
Building, Relocatable. "Relocatable building" means a building which is not placed on a
permanent foundation and is designed to be movable from one (1) location to another
without the need for a special permit such as that required to move a conventional house.
Relocatable buildings include, but are not limited to, mobilehomes, construction trailers, and
modular buildings.
"Building site" means a parcel or contiguous parcels of land established in compliance with
the development standards for the applicable zoning district and the city's subdivision code.
"Building site area" means the horizontal area within a building site expressed in square
feet, acres or other area measurement.
Building Site Coverage. See "Lot coverage."
Building Site, Panhandle or Flag. See "Lot" definitions.
Building Site, Through. "Through building site" means a building site having frontage on two
(2) parallel or approximately parallel streets. See "Through lot."
Business Park. See "Industrial park."
"CEQA" means the California Environmental Quality Act.
"Caretaker" means a person who lives on the premises for the purposes of managing,
operating, maintaining or guarding the principal use or uses permitted on the premises.
"Caretaker residence" means a residential unit not exceeding one thousand (1,000) square
feet, which is not the principal use on the property, to be occupied by a caretaker or
watchman who is responsible for the security of the principal use of the property.
"Carport" means a roofed structure or a portion of a building which is open on two (2) or
more sides for the parking of automobiles belonging to the occupants of the property.
"Cattery" means any building, structure, enclosure or premises within which five (5) or
more cats are kept or maintained primarily for financial profit for the purpose of boarding,
breeding, training, marketing, hire or any other similar purpose.
"Cellar" means a nonhabitable building level which: (1) has more than one-half of its height
below the adjoining finish grade at all points; and (2) has a floor area no more than one-
half (½) that of the floor immediately above. A cellar is not counted as a building story.
"Certificate of occupancy" or "certificate of use and occupancy" means a permit issued by
the city prior to occupancy of a structure or the establishment of a land use to assure that
the structure or parcel is ready for occupancy or use and that all ordinance requirements
and project conditions of approval are fulfilled.
"Child day care center" or "preschool" means a child day care facility operated by a person,
corporation or association used primarily for the provision of daytime care, training or
education of children at any location other than their normal place of residence. The
maximum number of children accommodated is determined by state licensing provisions
and city use permit conditions.
77
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 52 of 71
"Child day care facility" means, consistent with Section 1596.750 of the State Health and
Safety Code, a facility which provides nonmedical care to children under eighteen (18) years
of age in need of personal services, supervision, or assistance essential for sustaining the
activities of daily living or for the protection of the individual on less than a twenty-four
(24)-hour basis. Child day care facility includes both child day care centers and child day
care homes.
"Child day care home" or "family day care home" means, consistent with Section 1596.78 of
the State Health and Safety Code:
1. "Family day care home" means a home that regularly provides care, protection,
and supervision for fourteen (14) or fewer children, in the provider's own home,
for periods of less than twenty-four (24) hours per day, while the parents or
guardians are away, and is either a large family day care home or a small family
day care home.
2. "Large family day care home" means a home that provides family day care for
seven (7) to fourteen (14) children, inclusive, including children under the age of
ten (10) years who reside at the home.
3. "Small family day care home" means a home that provides family day care for
eight (8) or fewer children, including children under the age of ten (10) years who
reside at the home.
"City" means the city of La Quinta.
"City council" means the city council of the city of La Quinta.
"Cleaning plant" or "laundry plant" means a central processing facility for dry cleaning or
laundering of clothing and fabrics collected from and returned to patrons and dry cleaning
and laundry agencies.
Clinic, Medical. "Medical clinic" means an organization of medical doctors providing physical
or mental health service and medical or surgical care of the sick or injured, but not including
inpatient or overnight care.
"Club" means an association of persons for some common purpose, but not including
organizations which provide goods or services and which are customarily carried on as
businesses.
"Code" means this zoning code unless another code, ordinance or law is specified.
"Commercial" means operated or conducted on a frequent basis for the purpose of financial
gain.
"Commercial filming" means the production of still or moving pictures on public property.
Commercial Center. See "Shopping center."
"Commercial recreation" means any use or activity where the primary intent is to provide
amusement, pleasure or sport but which is operated for financial gain. It includes
establishments where food and beverages are sold as a secondary or ancillary use, but does
not include restaurants, nightclubs and cocktail lounges.
"Commercial stable" means any facility specifically designed or used for the stabling of
equine animals not owned by the residents of the subject property, for purposes such as on-
site breeding, boarding, training, riding or other recreational use as a commercial service to
the owners of said animals.
78
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 53 of 71
"Commercial vehicle" means a vehicle customarily used as part of a business for the
transportation of goods or people.
"Commission" means the planning commission of the city unless another commission is
indicated.
"Common interest development" bears the same meaning as defined in Section 1351 of the
California Civil Code.
"Community apartment project" means a project in which an undivided interest in the land
is coupled with the right of exclusive occupancy of any apartment located thereon.
"Community auction and sales yard" means a facility which periodically holds auctions of
farm equipment, fixtures and other related materials in an enclosed building.
Community Care Facility. See "Residential care facility."
"Community center" means a non-commercial use established for the benefit and service of
the population of the community in which it is located, including senior centers.
Conditional Use Permit. See "Use permit."
"Condominium" means, consistent with Section 1351 of the State Civil Code, an undivided
interest in common in a portion of real property coupled with a separate interest in space in
a residential, industrial or commercial building on such real property, such as an office or
store or multifamily dwelling. A condominium may include, in addition, a separate interest in
other portions of such real property.
"Condominium hotel" means a "hotel" or "group hotel" all or part of which constitutes a
condominium project in which one (1) or more of the units are individually owned, but are
intended to be available for "transient" use (as those terms are defined in Section 3.24.020
of the La Quinta Municipal Code), when not being used by the unit owner. See also "First
class condominium hotel."
"Congregate care facility" means a facility providing care on a monthly basis or longer and
which is the primary residence of the people it serves. It provides services to the residents
such as the following: dining, housekeeping, security, medical, transportation and
recreation. Any commercial services provided are for the exclusive use of the occupants of
the facility. Such a facility may be located in more than one (1) building and on contiguous
parcels within the building site.
"Congregate living facility" means a single family residential facility which is licensed by the
state to provide living and treatment facilities on a monthly or longer basis for six (6) or
fewer developmentally disabled persons or six (6) or fewer persons undergoing treatment
for alcohol or drug abuse and which is permitted in single-family residences by operation of
state law. (See also "Residential care facility.")
"Convalescent home" or "convalescent hospital" means a facility licensed by the State
Department of Health Services which provides bed and ambulatory care for more than six
(6) patients with postoperative convalescent, chronic illness or dietary problems and
persons unable to care for themselves, including persons undergoing psychiatric care and
treatment both as inpatients and outpatients, but not including persons with contagious
diseases or afflictions. A convalescent home may also be known as a nursing home,
convalescent hospital, rest home or home for the aged.
"Conversion project" means an apartment house or multiple or group dwelling which is
existing, under construction or for which building permits have been issued, and which is
79
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 54 of 71
proposed for conversion to a residential condominium, community apartment, residential
stock cooperative or planned development.
Corner Lot. See definitions under "Lot."
"Corral" means an enclosure designed for use as an open holding area for horses for the
purpose of confinement within that area for an indeterminate period of time.
"Cottage food operation" means an enterprise wherein an individual prepares and packages
non-potentially hazardous foods in a primary residential dwelling unit, which serves as his
or her private residence, said foods being for the direct and/or indirect sale to consumers,
and that does not have more than one (1) full-time equivalent employee, and generates not
more than: (1) thirty-five thousand ($35,000.00) dollars in gross annual sales in 2013; (2)
forty-five thousand ($45,000.00) dollars in gross annual sales in 2014; (3) fifty thousand
dollars ($50,000.00) in gross annual sales in 2015 and beyond as identified in California
Health and Safety Code Section 113758.
"County" means the county of Riverside unless another county is indicated.
Day Care Center. See "Child day care center."
"Decision-making authority" or "decision-making body" means a person or group of persons
charged with making decisions on proposals, applications, or other items brought before the
city.
"Density" means the number of dwelling units per gross acre, unless another area
measurement is specified.
"Density bonus" means a density increase over the otherwise maximum allowable
residential density under the applicable zoning ordinance and land use element of the
general plan as of the date of application by the applicant to the city.
"Detached building or structure" means a building or other structure that does not have a
wall or roof in common with any other building or structure.
"Development" means, on land or in or under water: the placement or erection of any solid
material or structure; discharge or disposal of any dredged material or of any gaseous,
liquid, solid or thermal waste; grading, removing, dredging, mining or extraction of any
materials; change in the density or intensity of use of land, including, but not limited to,
subdivision pursuant to the Subdivision Map Act, and any other division of land, including lot
splits, except where the land division is brought about in connection with the purchase of
such land by a public agency for public recreational use; change in the intensity of use of
water, or of access thereto; construction, reconstruction, demolition or alteration of the size
of any structure, including any facility of any private, public or municipal utility; and the
removal or harvesting of major vegetation other than for agricultural purposes.
"Development standard" means site or construction conditions that apply to a housing
development pursuant to any ordinance, general plan element, specific plan, charter
amendment, or other local condition, law, policy, resolution, or regulation.
"Director" or "planning director" means the city manager or designee.
District. See "Zoning district."
District, Nonresidential. See "Nonresidential district."
District, Residential. See "Residential district."
District, Special Purpose. See "Special purpose district."
80
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 55 of 71
"Downtown village directional sign panel" means an interchangeable sign panel which does
not require a sign permit, mounted on a monument base structure. The sign panels list
businesses in the Village commercial zoning district.
"Drive-in" or "drive-through" means designed or operated so as to enable persons to receive
a service or purchase or consume goods while remaining within a motor vehicle.
"Driveway" means a vehicular passageway providing access from a public or private street
to a structure or parking area or, in the case of residences, to a garage, carport, or legal
parking space. A driveway is not a street.
"Driveway approach" means a designated area between the curb or traveled way of a street
and the street right-of-way line that provides vehicular access to abutting properties. When
vehicular access to a building site is provided by way of a common driveway, the driveway
approach is the line of intersection where the individual driveway abuts the common
driveway.
"Duplex" means a permanent building containing two (2) dwelling units on a single lot.
"Dwelling" means a building or portion thereof designed and used for residential occupancy,
but not including hotels or motels.
Dwelling, Attached. "Attached dwelling" means a main dwelling unit attached to one (1) or
more other main dwelling units by means of a roof or interior wall.
Dwelling, Main or Primary Residence. "Main dwelling or primary residence" means the
dwelling unit permitted as the principal use of a parcel or building site, either by itself or
with other dwelling units (as in multifamily buildings).
Dwelling, Multifamily. "Multifamily dwelling" means a building containing three (3) or more
dwelling units on a single parcel or building site.
Dwelling, Patio Home. "Patio home dwelling" means a single-family detached dwelling
shifted to one (1) side of the lot, i.e., placed on the lot so that one (1) side setback is zero
(0) or nearly zero (0) and the other side setback is larger than if both side setbacks were
approximately equal.
Dwelling, Single-Family. "Single-family dwelling" means one (1) main dwelling unit on a
single parcel or building site.
Dwelling, Single-Family Attached. "Single-family attached dwelling" means a main dwelling
unit attached to one (1) other main dwelling unit by means of a roof and/or interior wall,
with each dwelling unit occupying its own lot.
Dwelling, Single-Family Detached. "Single-family detached dwelling" means a main dwelling
unit not attached to any other main dwelling unit.
Dwelling, Townhome. "Townhome dwelling" means a main dwelling unit attached typically
to two (2) or more other main dwelling units by means of a roof and/or interior wall, with
each dwelling unit occupying its own lot.
"Dwelling unit" means one (1) or more rooms, including a bathroom and kitchen, designed
and used for occupancy by one (1) family for living and sleeping purposes.
Dwelling Unit, Second. See "Second unit."
"Easement" means a recorded right or interest in the land of another which entitles the
holder thereof to some use, privilege or benefit in, on, over or under such land.
81
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 56 of 71
"Educational institution" means a private or public elementary or secondary school, college
or university qualified to give general academic instruction equivalent to the standards
prescribed by the state board of education.
"Elevation" means the vertical distance above sea level.
"Emergency shelter" means housing with minimal supportive services for homeless persons
that is limited to occupancy of six (6) months or less by a homeless person. Low Barrier
Navigation Centers are also included in this definition. No individual or household may be
denied emergency shelter because of an inability to pay.
"Employee's quarters" means quarters, which may include full bathroom and/or kitchen or
cooking facilities,, for the housing of domestic employees and located upon the same
building site occupied by their employer.
"Enclosed" means roofed and contained on all sides by walls which are pierced only by
windows, vents or customary entrances and exits.
"Environmental review" means all actions and procedures required of the city and of
applicants by the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA," State Public Resources Code
Section 21000 et seq.), the CEQA Guidelines (Public Resources Code Section 15000 et seq.)
and local environmental procedures.
"Exception" means a city-approved deviation from a development standard based on the
following types of findings by the decision-making authority:
1.General finding such as that notwithstanding the exception, the resulting project
will still be consistent with the goals and/or policies underlying the development
standard; and
2.One (1) or more specific findings justifying the particular exception requested.
"Family" means one (1) or more persons occupying one (1) dwelling unit. The word "family"
includes the occupants of congregate living and residential care facilities, as defined herein,
serving six (6) or fewer persons which are permitted or licensed by the state. The word
"family" does not include occupants of a fraternity, sorority, boardinghouse, lodginghouse,
club or motel.
Family Day Care Home. See "Child day care home."
"Farm" means a parcel of land devoted to agricultural uses where the principal use is the
propagation, care and maintenance of viable plant and animal products for commercial
purposes.
"Farmworker housing" means any building or group of buildings where six (6) or more farm
employees are housed.
"First class condominium hotel" means a condominium hotel where both of the following
apply:
1.The condominium hotel has a brand operator or an independent operator that is
experienced in the upscale segment or luxury segment of the hospitality industry
as defined by J.D. Power and Associates; and
2.The condominium hotel satisfies the published requirements that will be sufficient
for a ranking of no fewer than three (3) stars in the most recent annual awards list
published from time to time by AAA Travel Guides or by the Mobil Travel Guide.
Flag. See sign definitions, Section 9.160.130.
82
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 57 of 71
Flag Lot or Panhandle Lot. See definitions under "Lot."
"Flood" means a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of land
areas from the overflow of inland and tidal waters, the rapid accumulation of runoff of
surface waters from any source, or mudslides (i.e., mudflows) which are proximately caused
or precipitated by accumulations of water on or under the ground.
"Flood insurance rate map (FIRM)" or "flood boundary and floodway map" mean the official
maps provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) which delineate the
areas of special flood hazard, the risk premium zones and the floodways applicable to the
city.
"Floodplain" means the land area adjacent to a watercourse and other land areas
susceptible to being inundated by water.
"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.
"Floodway" means the channel of a river or other watercourse and that part of the floodplain
reasonably required to discharge the base flood without cumulatively increasing the water
surface elevation more than one (1) foot.
Floor Area, Gross. See "Gross floor area."
Floor Area, Livable. See "Livable floor area."
"Floor area ratio" means the numerical value obtained by dividing the gross floor area of all
buildings, except parking structures, located on a building site by the building site area.
"Fraternity house" or "sorority house" means a building or portion of a building occupied by
a chapter of a regularly organized college fraternity or sorority officially recognized by an
educational institution.
Freestanding Sign. See sign definitions, Section 9.160.130.
Front Lot Line. See definitions under "Lot line."
"Garage" means a building or portion of a building used primarily for the parking of motor
vehicles.
Gas Station or Service Station. See "Automobile service station."
"General plan" means the general plan of the city of La Quinta.
"Government code" means the California Government Code.
Grade, Average. "Average grade" means the elevation determined by averaging the highest
and lowest elevations of a parcel, building site or other defined area of land.
Grade, Average Finish. "Average finish grade" means the elevation determined by averaging
the highest and lowest elevations of a parcel, building site or other defined area of land
after final grading.
Grade, Finish. "Finish grade" means the ground elevation at any point after final grading.
"Grading" means the filling, excavation or other movement of earth for any purpose.
"Granny flat" or "granny housing" means a secondary dwelling unit which is: (1) intended
for the sole occupancy of one (1) or two (2) adult persons sixty-two (62) years of age or
over; and (2) located on a building site containing an existing single family detached
83
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 58 of 71
dwelling. The floor area of an attached granny flat does not exceed thirty percent (30%) of
the existing floor area of the primary single family residence and the floor area of a
detached granny flat does not exceed one thousand two hundred (1,200) square feet. (See
also "Second unit.")
"Grazing" means the act of pasturing livestock on growing grass or other growing herbage
or on dead grass or other dead herbage existing in the place where grown as the principal
sustenance of the livestock so grazed.
"Gross acreage" means the land area, expressed in acres, within a parcel or group of
contiguous parcels minus any right-of-way for arterial highways not including collector
streets. Each acre so determined is a gross acre.
Gross Density. See "Density."
"Gross floor area" means the total square footage of all floors of a building, including the
exterior unfinished wall structure but excluding courtyards and other outdoor areas.
Gross Lot or Parcel Area. See "Lot area, gross."
"Ground floor area" means all enclosed area within the ground floor of a structure, including
exterior walls and mechanical spaces. Carports, garages, accessory buildings and parking
structures are included in ground floor area but swimming pools and unenclosed post-
supported roofs over patios and walkways are not included.
Ground Sign. See "Freestanding sign" in sign definitions, Section 9.160.130.
"Guest house" means a detached or attached unit which has sleeping and sanitary facilities,
which may include full bathroom and/or kitchen or cooking facilities, and which is used
primarily for sleeping purposes by members of the family occupying the main building, their
nonpaying guests, and domestic employees.
"Guest ranch" means any property of five (5) acres or more operated as a ranch which
offers guest rooms for rent and which has outdoor recreational facilities such as horseback
riding, swimming or hiking.
Habitable Area. See "Livable floor area."
"Habitable room" means any room usable for living purposes, which includes working,
sleeping, eating, cooking or recreation, or a combination thereof. A room designed and used
only for storage purposes is not a habitable room.
"Hazardous waste" means a waste or combination of wastes which, because of its quantity,
concentration, toxicity, corrosiveness, mutagenicity or flammability, or its physical, chemical
or infectious characteristics, may: (1) cause or significantly contribute to an increase in
mortality or an increase in serious irreversible or incapacitating reversible illness; or (2)
pose a substantial present or potential hazard to human health or the environment when
improperly treated, stored, transported, disposed of, or otherwise managed.
Home for the Aged. See "Convalescent home."
Homeless Shelter. See “Emergency shelter.”
"Home occupation" means an occupation or activity conducted as an accessory use within a
dwelling unit incidental to the residential use of the property. See Section 9.60.110.
"Hospital" means a facility licensed by the State Department of Health Services providing
clinical, temporary or emergency service of a medical, obstetrical, surgical or mental health
nature to human patients.
84
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 59 of 71
"Hotel" means any building or portion thereof with access provided through a common
entrance, lobby or hallway to guest rooms which are rented on a daily or weekly basis.
Identification Sign. See sign definitions, Section 9.160.130.
"Industrial park," "business park" or "office park" means a nonresidential development
wherein the permitted uses are planned, developed, managed and maintained as a unit,
with landscaping, amenities, and common off-street parking provided to serve all uses on
the property.
"Intensity" means the level of development or activity associated with a land use, as
measured by one (1) or more of the following:
1. The amount of parking required for the use per Chapter 9.150.
2. The operational characteristics of the use such as hours of operation, the inclusion
of dancing or live entertainment as part of the use, or similar characteristics.
3. The floor area occupied by the use.
4. The percentage of the building site occupied by the use or by the structure
containing the use.
Interior Lot Line. See definitions under "Lot line."
"Kennel" means any building, structure, enclosure or premises within which five (5) or more
dogs are kept or maintained primarily for financial profit for the purpose of boarding,
breeding, training, marketing, hire or any other similar purpose.
"Kitchen" means any room all or part of which is designed and/or used for the cooking or
other preparation of food.
Land Use. See "Use."
Land Use Intensity. See "Intensity."
Landfill, Sanitary. "Sanitary landfill" means an area designed and used for the disposal of
solid waste on land by spreading it in layers, compacting it and covering it daily with soil or
other approved cover material.
Laundry Plant. See "Cleaning plant or laundry plant."
"Livable floor area" means the interior area of a dwelling unit which may be occupied for
living purposes by humans, including basements and attics (if permitted). Livable floor area
does not include a garage or any accessory structure.
"Live entertainment" means any act, play, revue, pantomime, scene, dance or song, or any
combination of the foregoing performed in person by one (1) or more persons whether or
not they are compensated for their performance.
Living Area. See "Livable floor area."
Lodginghouse. See "Boardinghouse."
"Lot" means an area of land under one (1) ownership which is identified as a lot or parcel on
a recorded final map, parcel map, record of survey recorded pursuant to an approved
division of land, certificate of compliance, or lot line adjustment. The terms "lot" and
"parcel" are interchangeable for purposes of this code. Types of lots and their definitions are
as follows:
85
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 60 of 71
1. "Corner lot" means a lot abutting two (2) streets intersecting at an angle of not
more than one hundred thirty-five (135) degrees. If the angle of intersection is
more than one hundred thirty-five (135) degrees, the lot is an "interior lot."
2. "Flag or panhandle lot" means a lot connected to the street with a narrow access
portion less than forty (40) feet wide and more than twenty (20) feet long and
situated so that another lot is located between the main portion of the flag lot and
the street.
3. "Interior lot" means a lot abutting only one (1) street or abutting two (2) streets
which intersect at an angle greater than one hundred thirty-five (135) degrees.
4. "Key lot" means a lot with a side lot line that abuts the rear lot line of one (1) or
more adjoining lots.
5. "Reverse corner lot" means a corner lot, the rear of which abuts the side of
another lot.
6. "Through lot" means a lot with frontage on two (2) parallel or approximately
parallel streets.
"Lot area" means the horizontal land area within a lot expressed in square feet, acres, or
other area measurement.
"Lot coverage" or "building site coverage" means the cumulative ground floor area of the
structures on a lot expressed as a percentage of the net lot area. For purposes of this
definition, "ground floor area" means all enclosed area within the ground floor of a
structure, including exterior walls and mechanical spaces. Carports, garages, accessory
86
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 61 of 71
buildings and parking structures are included in ground floor area but swimming pools and
unenclosed post-supported roofs over patios and walkways are not included.
"Lot frontage" means the length of the front lot line. For corner lots the lot frontage shall be
measured from the interior lot corner to the outside of the corner cut-back.
"Lot line or property line" means any boundary of a lot. The classifications of lot lines and
their definitions are as follows:
1. "Front lot line" means the following:
a. On an interior lot, the line separating the lot from the street;
b. On a corner lot, the shorter line abutting a street. (If the lot lines are equal or
approximately equal, the director shall determine the front lot line);
c. On a through lot, the lot line abutting the street providing primary access to
the lot.
2. "Interior lot line" means any lot line not abutting a street.
3. "Rear lot line" means a lot line which does not intersect the front lot line and which
is most distant from and most parallel to the front lot line. In the case of an
irregularly-shaped lot or a lot bounded by only three (3) lot lines, the rear lot line
is a ten (10)-foot long line parallel to and most distant from the front lot line for
the purposes of determining setbacks and other provisions of this code.
4. "Side lot line" means any lot line which is not a front or rear lot line.
“Low Barrier Navigation Center” as defined in Government Code Section 65660 means a
Housing First, low-barrier, service-enriched shelter focused on moving people into
permanent housing that provides temporary living facilities while case managers connect
individuals experiencing homelessness to income, public benefits, health services, shelter,
and housing.
"Lower income households" bears the same meaning as defined in Section 50079.5 of the
California Health and Safety Code.
"Lowest floor" means, with regard to flood protection, the lowest floor of the lowest
enclosed area, including a basement or cellar. An unfinished or flood-resistant enclosure,
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 that such enclosure is
not built so as to render the structure in violation of the applicable design requirements of
the FP floodplain district, Section 9.140.030.
"Manufactured home" means a residential building transportable in one (1) or more sections
which has been certified under the National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety
Standards Act of 1974.
"Master commercial development" means a commercial center for which an overall site
development permit was approved and implemented, which may have remaining
unconstructed pads or buildings.
"Master plan of arterial highways" means a component of the circulation element of the
city's general plan designating adopted and proposed routes for all commuter, secondary,
primary and major highways within the city.
"Master plan of drainage" means an engineering report outlining the drainage facilities
needed for the proper development of the city.
87
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 62 of 71
"Maximum allowable residential density" means the density allowed under applicable zoning
ordinances, or if a range of density is permitted, means the maximum allowable density for
the specific zoning range applicable to the subject project.
"Median" means a paved or planted area separating a street or highway into opposite-
direction travel lanes.
Medical Clinic. See "Clinic, medical."
"Medical marijuana dispensary" means a facility or location which provides, makes available
or distributes medical marijuana to a primary caregiver, a qualified patient, or a person with
an identification card, in accordance with California Health and Safety Code Section 11362.5
et seq.
"Menagerie" means a lot on which more than one (1) wild, non-domestic reptile (not
including turtles or tortoises), bird (not including poultry) or mammal is kept. A tamed or
trained wild animal shall not be considered a domestic animal.
"Ministorage facility" means a building containing various size storage compartments not
exceeding five hundred (500) square feet each, wherein each compartment is offered for
rent or lease to the general public for the private storage of materials excluding materials
sold at the facility or delivered directly to customers.
"Minor adjustments" are deviations in standards which have little or no potential for adverse
impacts on the surrounding community and which are reviewed administratively.
Minor Use Permit. See "Use permit."
Mobilehome. See "Manufactured home."
"Mobilehome park" or "mobilehome development" means any area or tract of land used to
accommodate mobilehomes for human habitation, including pads for mobilehomes,
clubhouses, recreation facilities, and other ancillary structures and facilities. The term
includes mobilehome parks and mobilehome subdivisions. See Section 9.60.180.
"Moderate income" or "persons and families of moderate income" means those middle-
income families as defined in Section 50093 of the California Health and Safety Code.
Modular Home. See "Manufactured home."
Monument Sign. See sign definitions, Section 9.160.130.
"Motel" means a building or group of buildings containing guest rooms rented on a weekly
basis or less and with most or all guest rooms gaining access from an exterior walkway.
Multifamily Dwelling or Residence. See "Dwelling, multifamily."
"Net project area" means all of the land area included within a development project
excepting those areas with before-development slopes of thirty percent (30%) or steeper
and those areas designated for public and private road rights-of-way, schools, public parks,
and other uses or easements which preclude the use of the land therein as part of the
development project.
"Net site area" or "net lot area" means the total land area within the boundaries of a parcel
or building site after ultimate street rights-of-way and easements that prohibit the surface
use of the site are deducted.
88
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 63 of 71
"Noncommercial coach" means a vehicle, with or without motive power, designed and
equipped for human occupancy for classrooms and other nonresidential and noncommercial
uses.
"Nonconforming lot" means a lot or parcel which was lawful and in conformance with the
applicable zoning ordinances when established but which, due to subsequent ordinance
changes, does not conform to the current development standards applicable to the zoning
district in which it is located. See Chapter 9.270.
"Nonconforming structure" means a structure which was lawful and in conformance with the
applicable zoning ordinances when constructed but which, due to subsequent ordinance
changes, does not conform to the current development standards applicable to the zoning
district in which it is located. See Chapter 9.270.
"Nonconforming use" means a land use which was lawful and in conformance with the
applicable zoning ordinances when established but which, due to subsequent ordinance
changes, is not currently permitted in the zoning district in which it is located or is permitted
only upon the approval of a use permit and no use permit has been approved. See Chapter
9.270.
"Nonconformity" means a land use, lot or structure which was lawful when established or
constructed but, due to subsequent ordinance changes, is not in conformance with this
zoning code. The term nonconformity does not include illegal uses, lots, or structures, i.e.,
which were not lawful when established or constructed. See Chapter 9.270.
Nursery, Day Care. See "Child day care facility."
Nursing Home. See "Convalescent home."
Office Park. See "Industrial park."
Official Zoning Map. See "Zoning map."
"Off-site hazardous waste facility" means any structures, other appurtenances or
improvements on land and all contiguous land serving more than one (1) producer of
hazardous waste, used for the treatment, transfer, storage, resource recovery, disposal or
recycling of hazardous waste, including, but not limited to,:
1. Incineration facilities (i.e., rotary kiln, fluid bed, etc.);
2. Residual repository (i.e., receiving only residuals from hazardous waste treatment
facilities);
3. Stabilization/solidification facilities;
4. Chemical oxidation facilities;
5. Neutralization/precipitation facilities; or
6. Transfer/storage facilities.
"Open space" means any parcel or area of land or water, public or private, which is reserved
for the purpose of preserving natural resources, for the protection of valuable environmental
features, or for providing outdoor recreation or education. Open space does not include
roads, driveways or parking areas not related to recreational uses, any buildings, building
setback areas or the required space between buildings, or surface utility facilities.
Open Space, Usable. "Usable open space" means open space which is predominately level
(i.e., slopes less than five percent (5%)) but which may contain some steeper land (i.e.,
89
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 64 of 71
with slopes up to twenty percent (20%)) which has utility for picnicking or passive
recreation activities and which complements surrounding usable open space. Usable open
space is a minimum of fifteen (15) feet in width and three hundred (300) square feet in
area and may include structures and impervious surfaces such as tot lots, swimming pools,
basketball courts, tennis courts, picnic facilities, walkways or bicycle trails.
Outdoor Advertising Sign. See "Billboard" in sign definitions, Section 9.160.130.
"Outdoor light fixtures" means outdoor artificial illuminating devices, outdoor fixtures, lamps
and other devices, permanent or portable, used for illumination or advertisement. Such
devices shall include, but are not limited to, search, spot, or flood lights for:
1. Buildings and structures;
2. Recreational areas;
3. Parking lot lighting;
4. Landscape lighting;
5. Billboards and other signs (advertising or other);
6. Street lighting;
7. General area and yard lighting.
"Outdoor vendors" include hotdog stands, ice cream carts, and other retail uses which utilize
a movable or relocatable stand or cart for walk-up sales. The stand or cart must be of a size
and design suitable for placement on a private sidewalk, plaza, or pedestrianway.
Panhandle Lot or Flag Lot. See definitions under "Lot."
"Parcel" means an area of land under one (1) ownership which is identified as a lot or parcel
on a recorded final map, parcel map, record of survey recorded pursuant to an approved
division of land, certificate of compliance or lot line adjustment. The terms "lot" and "parcel"
are interchangeable for purposes of this code.
"Parking accessway" means a vehicular passageway that provides access and circulation
from a street access point into and through a parking lot to parking aisles and between
parking areas.
"Parking structure" means a structure which is open or enclosed and is used for the parking
of motor vehicles.
"Parkway" means the area of a public street that lies between the curb and the adjacent
property line or physical boundary, such as a fence or wall, which is used for landscaping
and/or passive open space.
"Pasture" means an enclosed holding area consisting of grass or similar vegetation,
specifically used for purposes of grazing or feeding of animals.
Patio Home. See "Dwelling, patio home."
"Permitted use" means a land use allowed within a zoning district under this zoning code
and subject to the applicable provisions of this code.
"Person" means any individual, firm, copartnership, joint venture, association, social club,
fraternal organization, company, joint stock association, corporation, estate, trust,
organization, business, receiver, syndicate, public agency, the state of California or its
90
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 65 of 71
political subdivisions or instrumentalities, or any other group or combination acting as a
unit.
"Person with a disability" is a person with a physical or mental impairment that limits or
substantially limits one (1) or more major life activities, anyone who is regarded as having
such an impairment, or anyone who has a record of such an impairment.
"Personal services" are establishments providing nonmedical services as a primary use,
including, but not limited to, barber and beauty shops, spas and tanning salons, clothing
rental, dry cleaning stores, home electronics and small appliance repair, laundromats (self-
service laundries), shoe repair shops, and tailors.
"Planned unit development" means a residential development characterized by
comprehensive planning for the entire project, the clustering of buildings to preserve open
space and natural features, and provision for the maintenance and use of open space and
other facilities held in common by the property owners within the project.
Pole Sign. See sign definitions, Section 9.160.130.
Portable Sign. See sign definitions, Section 9.160.130.
"Precise plan" or "precise plan of development" means the plan or plans for a project,
development or other entitlement approved by the decision-making authority. A precise
plan may include site, grading, architecture, landscaping plans and may also include a plan
text describing the project design, development phasing, and other characteristics.
"Precise plan of highway alignment" means a plan, supplementary to the master plan of
arterial highways, which establishes the highway centerline and the ultimate right-of-way
lines and may establish building setback lines.
Primary Residence. See "Main dwelling."
"Primary unit" means a single-family or multifamily residential unit constructed and
intended as the principal unit and building on a lot. The primary unit shall be the largest unit
on the lot.
"Principal use" means the primary or predominant use of any parcel, building site or
structure.
"Project area" means all of the land area included within a development project excepting
those areas designated for public and private road rights-of-way, schools, public parks, and
other uses or easements which preclude the use of the land therein as part of the
development project.
Projecting Sign. See sign definitions, Section 9.160.130.
"Property line" means a lot line or parcel boundary.
"Public agency" means the United States, the state, the county or any city within the
county, or any political subdivision or agency thereof.
Rear Lot Line. See definitions under "Lot line."
"Reasonable accommodation" means the process of providing flexibility in the application of
land use, zoning, and building regulations, practices, and procedures to eliminate barriers to
housing opportunities for persons with disabilities.
91
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 66 of 71
"Recreational vehicle" or "RV" means all trailers or any vehicle placed on a trailer such as a
boat, watercraft, or other vehicle, plus any vehicle designed and used for temporary
habitation, including motorhomes, travel trailers, "5th wheels" and camper shells.
"Recycling" means the process by which waste products are reduced to raw materials and
transformed into new products.
Relocatable Building. See "Building, relocatable."
"Residential care facility" or "community care facility" means a residential facility which is
licensed by the state to provide living and treatment facilities on a monthly or longer basis
for six (6) or fewer of the following: wards of the juvenile court, elderly persons, mentally
disordered persons, handicapped persons or dependent and neglected children. Such a
facility is permitted in all types of residences by operation of state law.
Residential, Multifamily. See "Dwelling, multifamily."
Residential, Single-Family. See "Dwelling, single-family."
"Restaurant" means any use providing for the preparation, retail sale and consumption on
site of food and beverages. Restaurants include, but are not limited to, cafés, coffee shops,
pubs, sandwich shops, ice cream parlors, fast food take-out and drive-through stores,
whose primary activity is food service and places of business with similar uses. If any
seating is provided in conjunction with a store where there is the preparation and retail sale
of food and beverages, that use shall be classified as a restaurant. The term "restaurant"
may include the licensed sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises.
Restaurant, Drive-Through. "Drive-through restaurant" means a restaurant with one (1) or
more automobile lanes which allow for the ordering and dispensing of food and beverages to
patrons who remain in their vehicles.
Rest Home. See "Convalescent home."
"Retail" means the selling of goods or merchandise directly to the ultimate consumer.
"Reverse vending machine" means a machine which accepts recyclable materials, such as
aluminum cans, newspapers, or other materials, from the public and dispenses money in
return.
"Riding academy" means a facility designed and used primarily for recreational riding,
training and instruction purposes, and allowing both on-site boarding or trailering of horses
to the facility.
"Riding and hiking trail" means a trail or way designed for and used by equestrians,
pedestrians and cyclists using nonmotorized bicycles.
"Right-of-way" means the entire width of property used for streets, highways, flood or
drainage works, overhead or underground utilities, or any related improvements.
Roof Sign. See sign definitions, Section 9.160.130.
Roominghouse. See "Boardinghouse."
"Satellite dish antenna" means an apparatus capable of receiving communications from a
man-made satellite.
"Scenic highway" means any highway designated a scenic and/or historic highway by an
agency of the city, state or federal government.
92
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 67 of 71
Second Unit. In accordance with Government Code Section 65852.2(i)(4), "second unit"
means an attached or a detached residential dwelling unit which provides complete
independent living facilities for one (1) or more persons. It shall include permanent
provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation and shall be located on the
same parcel as the single-family dwelling is situated. A second unit also includes the
following:
1. An efficiency unit, as defined in Section 17958.1 of the Health and Safety Code;
2. A manufactured home, as defined in Section 18007 of the Health and Safety Code.
"Section" means a portion of this zoning code beginning immediately after a six (6)- or
seven (7)-digit number beginning with 9., e.g., 9.10.010 or 9.280.030, and extending to
the next such six (6)- or seven (7)-digit number. (See also "Subsection.")
"Semi-permanent sign" means a non-illuminated sign which requires a sign permit, such as
advertising the future construction or opening of a facility, model home complex,
commercial, or residential subdivision identification which is intended to be erected or
posted for a minimum of sixty-one (61) days and a maximum of one (1) year. A permit for
semi-permanent signs advertising future facility construction shall not be approved until a
development review application has been submitted.
"Senior citizen" means a person fifty-five (55) years of age or older.
"Senior citizen residence" means a residential care facility which is licensed by the state to
provide living and treatment facilities on a monthly or longer basis for six (6) or fewer
senior citizens.
"Senior group housing" means a residential development which is developed or substantially
renovated for and occupied by seven (7) or more senior citizens.
"Service" means an act or any result of useful labor which does not in itself produce a
tangible commodity.
Service Station. See "Gas station."
"Setback" means the distance that a building or other structure or a parking lot or other
facility must be located from a lot line, property line or other specified boundary.
Sexually Oriented Business. See Chapter 5.80 of the municipal code.
"Shopping center" or "commercial center" means a commercial area or group of commercial
establishments, planned, developed, managed and maintained as a unit, with common
landscaping, amenities, and off-street parking provided to serve all uses on the property.
Side Lot Line. See definitions under "Lot line."
"Sidewalk sale" or "parking lot sale" means the temporary outdoor display and sale of
merchandise which is normally displayed indoors at the location of an individual retail
business not located within a shopping center. (See also "Special commercial event.")
"Sign" means any medium for visual communication, including, but not limited to, words,
symbols and illustrations together with all parts, materials, frame and background, which
medium is used or intended to be used to attract attention to, identify, or advertise an
establishment, product, service, activity or location, or to provide information. Also, see sign
definitions, Section 9.160.130.
Single-Family Dwelling or Residence. See "Dwelling, single-family."
93
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 68 of 71
"Single room occupancy (SRO) facility" or "SRO hotel" means a residential facility which is
rented on a weekly or longer basis and which provides living and sleeping facilities for one
(1) or two (2) persons per unit. Each unit contains a toilet and sink. Shower, kitchen, and
laundry facilities may be shared.
Site. See "Building site."
Site Area, Net. See "Net project or site area."
Site Coverage. See "Building site coverage."
Site Development Permit or Development Permit. See Section 9.210.010.
"Slope" or "slope gradient" means the vertical distance between two (2) points on a slope
divided by the horizontal distance between the same two (2) points, with the result
expressed as a percentage; e.g., "the slope has a twenty percent (20%) gradient" (usually
used to describe natural as opposed to manufactured, slopes).
"Slope ratio" means the steepness of a slope expressed as a ratio of horizontal distance to
the vertical rise over that horizontal distance; e.g., 2:1 (usually used to describe
manufactured as opposed to natural, slopes).
"Special commercial event" means the temporary outdoor display and sale of merchandise
by two (2) or more tenants within a commercial center, or arts and crafts shows, fairs, or
entertainment events within a commercial center.
"Specific plan" means a plan consisting of text, maps and other documents and exhibits
regulating development within a defined area of the city, consistent with the general plan
and State Government Code Section 65450 et seq.
"Stable" means a building or structure containing multiple stalls for the purposes of
sheltering, feeding, boarding, accommodating or otherwise caring for several horses at one
(1) time.
"Stall" means a division of a stable accommodating one (1) horse into an adequately sized
enclosure for the purpose of confining individual horses within a sheltered environment as
may be necessary for security, safety or other reasons pertinent to the health, welfare and
daily care of each animal.
"Stock cooperative" means a corporation which is formed primarily for the purpose of
holding title to, either in fee simple or for a term of years, improved real property, if all or
substantially all of the shareholders of such corporation receive a right of exclusive
occupancy in a portion of the real property, title to which is held by the corporation, which
right of occupancy is transferable only concurrently with the transfer of the shares of stock
or membership certificate in the corporation held by the person having such right of
occupancy.
"Storage" means a place where goods, materials, and/or personal property is placed for
more than twenty-four (24) hours.
"Story" means that portion of a building included between the surface of any floor and the
surface of the floor immediately above it or if there is no floor above, then the space
between the floor and the ceiling above it.
"Street" means a public or private vehicular right-of-way other than an alley or driveway,
including both local streets and arterial highways.
94
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 69 of 71
"Structure" means anything that is erected or constructed having a fixed location on the
ground or attachment to something on the ground and which extends more than thirty (30)
inches above the finish grade. A mobilehome or relocatable building, except when used as a
temporary use with its weight resting at least partially upon its tires, is a structure for the
purposes of this definition.
"Subsection" means a portion of a section of this zoning code designated by a section
number followed immediately by an upper case letter; for example, subsection 9.10.010(A).
(See also "Section.")
"Supportive housing" means housing with no limit on length of stay, that is occupied by the
target population as defined in subdivision (d) of Section 53260 of the Health and Safety
Code 50675.14(b) and that is linked to on-site or off-site services that assist the supportive
housing resident in retaining the housing, improving his or her health status, and
maximizing his or her ability to live and, when possible, work in the community. ("Target
population" includes adults with low income having one (1) or more disabilities, including
mental illness, HIV or AIDS, substance abuse, or other chronic health conditions, or
individuals eligible for services provided under the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities
Services Act and may, among other populations, include families with children, elderly
persons, young adults aging out of the foster care system, individuals exiting from
institutional settings, veterans, or homeless people.)
"Swimming pool" means an artificial body of water having a depth in excess of eighteen
(18) inches, designed, constructed and used for swimming, dipping or immersion purposes
by humans.
"Tandem parking" means any off-street parking space(s), or arrangement of such spaces,
configured in such a manner such that one (1) or more spaces is not directly accessible to a
street or other approved access without traversing any portion of another space.
"Temporary sign" means any non-illuminated sign which may require a sign permit and
which is intended to be posted for a maximum of forty-five (45) days. Temporary signs
include without limitation: political campaign signs, garage sale signs and seasonal sales
signs.
"Temporary use" means a land use established for a specified period of time, which use is
discontinued at the end of such specified time.
"Timeshare facility" means a facility in which a person receives the right in perpetuity, for
life or for a specific period of time, to the recurrent, exclusive use or occupancy of a lot,
parcel, unit, or portion of real property for a period of time which has been or will be
allocated from twelve (12) or more occupancy periods into which the facility has been
divided. A timeshare use may be coupled with an estate in the real property or it may entail
a license, contract, membership, or other right of occupancy not coupled with an estate in
the real property.
Townhome. See "Dwelling, townhome."
"Transient basis" means for a continuous period of two (2) weeks or less.
"Transitional housing" is buildings configured as rental housing developments, but operated
under program requirements that call for the termination of assistance and recirculation of
the assisted unit to another eligible program recipient at some predetermined future point in
time, which shall be no less than six (6) months.
95
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 70 of 71
"Transitional shelter" means a shelter for homeless persons or victims of domestic abuse
which provides accommodations for persons on a transient basis, i.e., for a continuous
period of two (2) weeks or less.
Two (2)-Unit Attached Dwelling. See "Dwelling, two (2)-unit attached."
"Ultimate right-of-way" means the right-of-way shown as ultimate on an adopted precise
plan of highway alignment or the street right-of-way shown within the boundary of a
recorded tract map, a recorded parcel map or a recorded planned community development
plan. The latest adopted or recorded document in such cases shall take precedence. If none
of these exist, the ultimate right-of-way is the right-of-way required by the highway
classification as shown in the general plan.
"Use" or "land use" means the purpose for which a structure or land is occupied, arranged,
designed or intended, or for which either a structure or land is or may be occupied or
maintained.
"Use permit" means a discretionary entitlement under the provisions of this zoning code
which authorizes a specific use or development on a specific property subject to compliance
with all terms and conditions imposed on the entitlement. Uses requiring a conditional use
permit have moderate to significant potential for adverse impacts on surrounding
properties, or residents while uses requiring a minor use permit have low to moderate
potential for adverse impacts on surrounding properties, residents, or businesses. See
Section 9.210.020.
Variance. See Section 9.210.030.
"Vehicular accessway" means a private, nonexclusive vehicular easement affording access
to abutting properties.
"Very low income households" bears the same meaning as defined in Section 50105 of the
Health and Safety Code.
"Veterinary clinic" means a place where animals no larger than the largest breed of dogs are
given medical and surgical treatment, primarily on an outpatient basis, and where the
boarding of animals under treatment is incidental to the principal clinic use.
Wall Sign. See "Building-mounted sign" in sign definitions, Section 9.160.130.
"Wing wall" means an architectural feature in excess of six (6) feet in height which is a
continuation of a building wall projecting beyond the exterior walls of a building.
"Yard" means an open space on a parcel of land or building site unobstructed and
unoccupied from the ground upward except for wall projections permitted by this code.
Yards are classified as follows:
1. "Front yard" means a yard extending across the full width of the lot between the
front lot line or the ultimate street right-of-way line and a setback line within the
lot. The depth of the front yard is equal to the setback established in the
development standards for the applicable zoning district and is measured along a
line drawn at a ninety (90)-degree angle to whichever of the following results in
the greatest setback: the front lot line or its tangent or the ultimate street right-
of-way or its tangent.
2. "Rear yard" means a yard extending across the full width of the lot between the
rear lot line and a setback line within the lot. The depth of the rear yard is equal to
the setback established in the development standards for the applicable zoning
96
Created: 2022-03-25 11:00:38 [EST]
(Supp. No. 2, Update 3)
Page 71 of 71
district and is measured along a line drawn at a ninety (90)-degree angle to
whichever of the following results in the greatest setback: the rear lot line or its
tangent or the ultimate street right-of-way or its tangent.
3. "Side yard" means a yard extending from the front setback line to the rear setback
line. The depth of the side yard is equal to the setback established in the
development standards for the applicable zoning district and is measured along a
line drawn at a ninety (90)-degree angle to whichever of the following results in
the greatest setback: the side lot line or its tangent or the ultimate street right-of-
way or its tangent.
"Zoning code" or "code" means the zoning code of the city, i.e., Title 9 of the city of La
Quinta Municipal Code, including the official zoning map and other maps and graphics
incorporated in the zoning code text or included therein by reference.
"Zoning district" or "district" means an area of the city designated on the official zoning map
and subject to a uniform set of permitted land uses and development standards.
"Zoning map" or "official zoning map" means a map incorporated into this code by reference
which covers the entire land area of the city and is divided into zoning districts for the
purpose of specifying for each such land area the uses permitted, development standards
required, and other applicable provisions of this code.
(Ord. 577 § 1, 2019; Ord. 562 § 1, 2017; Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 538 § 1, 2016; Ord.
512 § 1, 2013; Ord. 505 § 1, 2012; Ord. 489 § 1, 2011; Ord. 325 § 1, 1998; Ord. 284 § 1,
1996)
97
161
GOALS, POLICIES, AND PROGRAMS
The following goals, policies, and programs set forth a comprehensive
housing plan for the City of La Quinta during the 2022-2029 planning
period.
Adequate Sites for Housing
GOAL H-1
Provide housing opportunities that meet the diverse needs of the City’s
existing and projected population.
v Policy H-1.1
Identify adequate sites to accommodate a range of product types,
densities, and prices to address the housing needs of all household
types, lifestyles, and income levels. Provide new housing choices by
increasing affordable housing supply in high opportunity areas, and
improve housing mobility through encouraging various housing options
such as accessory dwelling units and creative housing solutions.
Program 1.1.a: To address the City’s RHNA allocation for extremely low
income households, 15% of units on the City’s land on Highway 111
(site #13) will be assigned to extremely low income households.
The City shall negotiate very low income units for all other
projects on sites identified in the Vacant Land Inventory (Table
II-50) individually to reach the target of 210 units during the
planning period.
§Timing: June 2025 for Highway 111 project, as projects are
constructed for additional units
§Funding Source: Private Funding, Tax Credit Financing, Other
sources as identified
§Responsible Agency: City Manager’s Office/Housing
§
Program 1.1.b: The City will merge its parcels in the Village (as listed in
Table II-51) to facilitate the consolidation of these lots for sale
through the Surplus Land Act.
§Timing: June 2023 for lot mergers. June 2024 for RFPs and
land sales.
§Funding Source: General Fund
§Responsible Agency: City Manager’s Office/Housing
ATTACHMENT 1
98
162
Program 1.1.c: To encourage the development of housing for extremely
low, low and special needs residents, the City will develop a
program of incentives for the subdivision of larger sites, to
include application fee waivers, DIF fee reductions and expedited
processing. The City will contact the owners of the three sites
listed in Table II-50 and encourage that they subdivide the land
and take advantage of the City’s incentive program.
§ Timing: June 2022 for development of program. June 2023 for
initial contacts with land owners, and annually thereafter.
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: Planning Division, City Manager’s
Office/Housing
v Policy H-1.2
Focus housing growth within existing City boundaries until it is
necessary to pursue annexation or development in planning areas for
affordable housing.
v Policy H-1.3
Direct new housing development to viable areas where essential public
facilities are provided and employment opportunities, educational
facilities, and commercial support are available.
v Policy H-1.4
The City shall promote and affirmatively further fair housing
opportunities through the community for all persons regardless of race,
religion, sex, marital status, ancestry, national origin, color, familial
status, disability, source of income, veteran or military status, or other
characteristics protected by the California Fair Employment and
Housing Act (FEHA), Government Code Section 65008, and any other
applicable state and federal fair housing and planning law.
Assist in the Development of Affordable Housing
GOAL H-2
Assist in the creation and provision of resources to support housing for
lower and moderate income households.
v Policy H-2.1
Increase housing choices for lower and moderate income households.
Address disproportionate housing needs and alleviate disproportionate
cost burdens on lower and moderate income households by providing
more affordable housing units.
99
163
Program H-2.1.a: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU)
The City will modify its Zoning Ordinance to comply with State
law regarding ADUs and JADUs and provide for the reduced
parking standards, setbacks and other incentives included in the
law. The City shall establish a program to encourage the building
of ADUs and JADUs, and monitor their development to gauge if
they are affordable alternatives for housing. The program will
include tracking annual permits, an annual survey of rents in
ADUs, and whether any ADUs are accepting housing subsidy or
restricting their units to very low or low income households.
§ Timing: Zoning amendments June 2022. Monitoring program
beginning June 2023.
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department
Program H-2.1.b: City-owned Lots
Aggressively pursue development of the City’s central-city
properties (sites 8 and 13) to generate up to 168 units of
extremely low, very low and low income units on these parcels.
To implement this program, the City will establish a schedule for
Requests for Proposals and include incentives. These incentives
may include elimination of Development Impact Fees, financial
assistance in the form of land contributions, and density bonuses
as provided in the Zoning Ordinance. In addition, the City will
consider affordable housing for other City-owned lots in the
Village when marketing the land for development, including
mixed use projects that combine retail and residential uses.
Wherever possible, include 15% affordable units in these projects
§ Timing: Annually, beginning with June 2023.
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: City Manager’s Office/Housing
Program H-2.1.c: Creative Housing Solutions
In order to expand the variety of housing options for extremely
low and low income households in the City, study, research and
pursue the amendments to the Zoning Code and subdivision
ordinance that would be required to allow creative housing
solutions, including “tiny homes,” prefabricated or “kit” homes,
shipping container conversions, and other options available in
the market as they arise. Present the findings of the research to
the Planning Commission and Council for their consideration.
100
164
§ Timing: Research June 2024. Planning Commission and City
Council Study Session no later than June 2025.
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department
v Policy H-2.2
Support public, private, and nonprofit efforts in the development of
affordable housing.
Program H-2.2.a: Density Bonus Amendments
Revise the Zoning Ordinance to ensure compliance with
Assembly Bill (AB) 2345 as it pertains to Density Bonus
requirements.
• Timing: June 2022 regular Zoning Ordinance update
• Funding Source: General Fund
• Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department
v Policy H-2.3
Pursue a variety of forms of private, local, state, and federal assistance
to support development of affordable housing.
Program H-2.3.a: Collaborative Partnerships
The City shall continue to meet with affordable housing
development entities to discuss types of incentives available and
requirements for obtaining assistance, discuss appropriate sites
for housing for extremely low, low and special needs residents,
and foster professional collaboration between the City and
affordable housing stakeholders.
§ Timing: Project-by-project basis, by request, or on an annual
basis.
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department
Program H-2.3.b: Mixed Use in the Highway 111 Corridor
In order to take advantage of the high density residential
permitted in the Mixed Use overlay, develop a menu of
incentives, including reduction in development fees, density
bonuses and other provisions for the inclusion of affordable
housing units in Mixed Use projects within the Highway 111 Plan
area.
101
165
§ Timing: Menu of incentives, June 2023. As projects are
proposed
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: City Manager’s Office/Housing
Program H-2.3.c: Affordable Housing Renter-to-Owner Transition
There are many resources that the City, nonprofits, or for-profit
developers may utilize to subsidize the construction and
maintenance of affordable housing. Some of the most
prominent resources are described below.
§ Timing: Update website with funding information and
partnership opportunities by June 2022, and every six months
thereafter.
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: City Manager’s Office/Housing
Low Income Tax Credits
Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) provides federal tax
credits for private developers and investors that agree to set
aside all or a portion of their units for low income households. A
minimum of 20 percent of the units must be affordable to low
income households and 40 percent of the units must be
affordable to moderate income households.
Community Reinvestment Act
The Community Reinvestment Act provides favorable financing
to affordable housing developers. The Redevelopment Agency,
development community, and local, regional, and national banks
are encouraged to work together to meet their obligations
pursuant to the Community Reinvestment Act.
California Housing Finance Agency Program
The California Housing Finance Agency (CHFA) has three single-
family programs for primarily moderate and middle income
homebuyers: the Home Ownership Assistance Program and the
Affordable Housing Partnership Program. Each provides
permanent mortgage financing for first-time homebuyers at
below-market interest rates.
HOME Funds
HOME is the largest Federal block grant distributed to state and
local governments for the creation of lower income housing.
Cities apply when Notices of Funding Availability are issued.
102
166
Neighborhood Stabilization Program
HUD’s Neighborhood Stabilization Program makes emergency
assistance grants available to local governments for the
acquisition, redevelopment, and renting or resale of foreclosed
properties at-risk of abandonment.
Riverside County First-Time Homebuyers Program
Continue participation in the Riverside County First-Time
Homebuyers Program for low and moderate income households.
Mortgage Credit Certificate
The Riverside County Mortgage Credit Certificate Program is
designed to assist low and moderate income first time
homebuyers. Under the Mortgage Credit Certificate Program,
first-time homebuyers receive a tax credit based on a percentage
of the interest paid on their mortgage. This tax credit allows the
buyer to qualify more easily for home loans, as it increases the
effective income of the buyer. Under federal legislation, 20
percent of the funds must be set aside for buyers with incomes
between 75 and 80 percent of the county median income.
Finance Agency Lease-Purchase Program
Riverside/San Bernardino County Housing Finance Agency Lease
Purchase Program provides down payment assistance and
closing costs for eligible households up to 140 percent of the area
median income.
Housing Choice Voucher (formerly Section 8) Referrals
Housing Choice Vouchers allow lower income households to use
rental subsidies anywhere in the County, including La Quinta.
Program H-2.3.d: Sweat Equity and Shared Equity
Continue to work with organizations that offer sweat and shared
equity housing programs to lower and moderate income
households in La Quinta. Sweat equity and shared equity
programs provide lower and moderate income households with
ownership assistance. Sweat equity refers to the exchange of
time and effort, usually in the form of construction activities, for
an affordable ownership opportunity.
• Timing: Meet with CVHC and Habitat for Humanity annually
or more frequently (if requested) to identify opportunities
for coordinated efforts or potential housing projects.
• Funding Source: General Fund
103
167
• Responsible Agency: City Manager’s Office/Housing
Removal of Governmental Constraints to Housing
GOAL H-3
Create a regulatory system that does not unduly constrain the
maintenance, improvement, and development of housing affordable to
all La Quinta residents.
v Policy H-3.1
Remove unnecessary regulatory constraints to enable the construction
or rehabilitation of housing that meets the needs of La Quinta residents,
including lower income and special needs residents.
Program 3.1.a: All properties listed in the Affordable Housing Inventory
for extremely low, very low and low income units shall have the
Affordable Housing Overlay applied. Further, the AHO text shall
be amended to allow 30 units per acre and to allow 3 story
development. The analysis that accompanies the Zone text
amendment shall demonstrate that the development standards
being applied to the AHO, including setbacks, height and parking
requirements, allow a density of 30 units per acre. Consistent
with Government Code Section 65583.2(h) and (i), the AHO will
permit owner-occupied and rental multifamily residential use by
right for developments in which at least 20 percent of the units
are affordable to lower income households during the planning
period. These sites shall be zoned with minimum density and
development standards that permit at least 16 units per site.
§ Timing: October 2022 for Zoning Map and text amendments
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: Planning Division
v Policy H-3.2
Coordinate the development of affordable housing with the provision
of key utilities to ensure prompt and adequate service.
v Policy H-3.3
Incentivize the development of affordable housing to facilitate the
development of housing for the City’s lower and moderate income
households.
104
168
Program H-3.3.a: Priority Water and Sewer Service
Route the adopted Housing Element to the CVWD and notify
them of changes and future updates to the Housing Element. In
compliance with state law, the Coachella Valley Water District
(CVWD) must create procedures to provide priority water and
sewer service to lower income residential project. The law also
prohibits the denial or conditioning the approval of service
without adequate findings, and requires future water
management plans to identify projected water use for lower
income residential development.
§ Timing: Upon Housing Element adoption
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department,
Coachella Valley Water District
Program H-3.3.b: Encourage Lot Consolidation
Although not on the Site’s Inventory, several small lots in the
Village Commercial would have improved development potential
through lot consolidation. The Village Build Out Plan and Zoning
Code amendments have been completed to encourage
consolidation. The City continues to market its land in the Village,
and will also work with private land owners and developers to
assemble larger holding to allow multi-family projects which
increase the number of residents in the Village. The City will
consider potential incentives including fee deferral or
reductions, parking requirement reduction, and relief from
various other development standards that could potentially
increase the cost of the project.
§ Timing: As City staff reviews projects in the Village
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department
GOAL H-4
Conserve and improve the quality of existing La Quinta neighborhoods
and individual properties.
v Policy H-4.1
Protect the quality of La Quinta’s neighborhoods through the
rehabilitation of both affordable and market-rate homes.
105
169
v Policy H-4.2
Promote financial and technical assistance to lower and moderate
income households for housing maintenance and improvements.
v Policy H-4.3
Encourage the retention and rehabilitation of existing single-family
neighborhoods and mobile home parks that are economically and
physically sound.
v Policy H-4.4
Enhance neighborhoods that presently provide affordable housing with
drainage, lighting and landscape amenities, and parks and recreation
areas. Employ government and non-government resources to preserve
and revitalize neighborhoods and communities and thereby provide
protection against disinvestment-based displacement.
Program H-4.4.a: Housing Condition Survey & Monitoring
Complete an inventory of housing conditions (updated
approximately every five years) to enable the City to properly
target Code Compliance and rehabilitation resources. To better
understand the City’s housing needs the quality and condition of
the housing stock must be inventoried on a regular basis. The
inventory should focus on older neighborhoods, such as those
south of Calle Tampico, west of Washington Street, and north of
Highway 111.
§ Timing: Complete by June 2023
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department
Program H-4.4.b: Habitat for Humanity Residential Rehabilitation
Program
Complete the Memorandum of Understanding with Habitat for
Humanity to implement the “Brush with Kindness” program. The
program will be implemented by Habitat volunteers who will
donate time for repair and maintenance programs, including
yard work, weed abatement, window replacements, roof
repairs, and air conditioning repair. Residents will be prioritized
to focus on seniors, veterans, the disabled, low and very low
income residents, and those in affordably-designated homes.
The first-year City contribution will be $40,000, and the annual
amounts will be reviewed every year based on the success of the
program.
106
170
§ Timing: MOU by June 2022, assist 6 households annually
through the planning period
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: Habitat for Humanity, City Manager’s
Office/Housing
Program H-4.4.c: County of Riverside Home Repair Grant
Refer code violators and interested parties to the County of
Riverside for home repair grants. The County of Riverside
Economic Development Agency Home Repair Program provides
lower income households with up to $6,000 for home repairs
such as a new roof, new air-conditioner, or a handicap ramp. As
a jurisdiction in Riverside County, lower income La Quinta
households are eligible for this grant.
§ Timing: Throughout planning period, refer 5 households
annually
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department,
City Manager’s Office/Housing
Program H-4.4.d: Rehabilitation Resources List
Provide a rehabilitation resources list on the affordable housing
and code compliance pages of the City’s website. Use the list, in
online or printed form, as a reference for code violators. Lower
and moderate income homeowners may need assistance in
affording important home repairs and improvements. The City
can assist these households by compiling and sharing a listing of
local, state, and federal programs offering rehabilitation
assistance.
§ Timing: Create list by June 2022. Distribute to 15 households
annually.
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department,
Community Resources Department, City Manager’s
Office/Housing
Equal Housing Opportunity
GOAL H-5
Provide equal housing opportunities for all persons.
107
171
v Policy 5.1
Provide the regulatory framework to create an environment in which
housing opportunities are equal.
v Policy 5.2
Encourage and support the enforcement of laws and regulations
prohibiting discrimination in lending practices and in the sale or rental
of housing.
Program H-5.2.a: Collaborate and coordinate with government agencies
(e.g. Fair Housing Council of Riverside County) and nonprofit
groups (e.g. Habitat for Humanity) to support outreach and
expansion of lending programs for homeownership among
minority populations. Advertise workshops and webinars held by
these organizations on financial resources for homeownership on
the City website, under News page and Directory of Services (see
Program H-5.2.c).
• Timing: Annually (June) with adoption of budget, subject to
available funding.
• Funding Source: General Fund
• Responsible Agency: City Manager’s Office/Housing
Program H-5.2.b: Fair Housing Referrals
Continue to refer tenants and landlords to the Fair Housing
Council of Riverside County. Provide information on fair housing
resources on the City’s website and at City Hall. Identify and
coordinate with local nonprofits, service organizations and
community groups that can assist in distributing fair housing
information. Fair housing organizations provide dispute
resolution and legal assistance to tenants and landlords in
conflict. Such services are particularly important for lower and
moderate income households unable to afford counsel.
§ Timing: Referral service as needed. Information to be
maintained on website
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: City Manager’s Office/Housing
Program H-5.2.c: Directory of Services
Maintain the online directory of services and information to
provide La Quinta residents with contact information for
community organizations and service providers that address
special needs. While numerous services are available to special
108
172
needs and lower income households, it can be difficult to readily
have access to these resources. A directory provides the contact
information necessary to seek housing assistance.
§ Timing: Update website annually
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: City Manager’s Office/Housing
v Policy 5.3
Encourage support services for the Coachella Valley’s homeless
populations through referrals and collaborative efforts with non-profits
and other jurisdictions.
Program H-5.3.a: Regional Facilities for the Homeless
Continue to support and collaborate with the Coachella Valley
Association of Governments Homelessness Committee efforts to
maintain a regional homeless facility that provides housing as
well as supportive services. The Strategic Plan created by the
Homelessness Committee establishes a continuum of care for
the Coachella Valley.
§ Timing: City staff will continue to collaborate with CVAG
throughout the planning period and work with the
appropriate facilities directly.
§ Funding Source: Low and Moderate Income Housing Fund
§ Responsible Agency: City Manager’s Office/Housing
v Policy 5.4
Assist in the creation of a continuum of care for the homeless population
and those transitioning into permanent housing.
Program H-5.4.a: Low Barrier Navigation Centers
Review and revise, as necessary, the Zoning Ordinance to ensure
compliance with Assembly Bill (AB) 101 as it pertains to Low
Barrier Navigation Centers. Modify the definition of “homeless
shelter” to include this use.
• Timing: June 2022 at regular Zoning Ordinance update
• Funding Source: General Fund
• Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department
Program H-5.4.b: Zoning Amendments for Emergency Shelters,
Transitional and Supportive Housing
Revise the Zoning Ordinance to require that homeless shelters
only be required to provide parking for employees; and that
109
173
Transitional and Supportive Housing be permitted uses in the
Medium, Medium-High and High density residential zones.
• Timing: June 2022 at regular Zoning Ordinance update
• Funding Source: General Fund
• Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department
v Policy 5.5
Improve quality of life for disabled persons by facilitating relief from
regulatory requirements that may create barriers to accessible housing
and promoting universal design.
Energy and Water Conservation
GOAL H-6.1
Provide a regulatory framework that facilitates and encourages energy
and water conservation through sustainable site planning, project
design, and green technologies and building materials.
v Policy H-6.1
Promote higher density and compact developments that increase
energy efficiency and reduce land consumption.
v Policy H-6.2
Facilitate housing development and rehabilitation that conserves
natural resources and minimizes greenhouse gas emissions.
v Policy H-6.3
Encourage and enforce green building regulations or incentives that do
not serve as constraints to the development or rehabilitation of
housing.
v Policy H-6.4
Focus sustainability efforts on measures and techniques that also assist
the occupant in reducing energy costs; therefore reducing housing
costs.
v Policy H-6.5
Use and encourage emerging technologies to reduce high demands for
electricity and natural gas including use of passive solar devices and
where feasible other renewable energy technologies (e.g., biomass,
wind, and geothermal).
110
174
Program H-6.5.a: Going Green La Quinta Program
Implement green goals, policies, and programs that accurately
represent the City’s direction in resource conservation and
minimizing greenhouse gas emissions. Implement design
standards for residential and commercial structures that
encourage solar protection to directly result in energy
conservation.
§ Timing: As projects are proposed
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department
Program H-6.5.b: Energy Conservation Partners
Continue to meet with and seek insight from utilities, service
providers, and other entities involved in energy conservation
efforts appropriate for La Quinta. In working toward a
sustainable La Quinta, the City and its residents will need to
collaborate with utilities and service providers. Partnerships with
the Coachella Valley Water District, Imperial Irrigation District,
Southern California Gas, Burrtec Waste and Recycling Services,
Sunline Transit District, Coachella Valley Association of
Governments, Southern California Association of Governments
and other entities will be an important component of making La
Quinta a more livable city.
§ Timing: As part of regular coordination meetings with utilities
§ Funding Source: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: City Manager’s Office, Design and
Development Department
Program H-6.5.c: Energy Efficiency Programs
Investigate all potential energy efficiency programs and provide
a list of programs on the City’s Going Green website. In addition
to programs that may become available through IID, investigate
other opportunities, including state and federal incentives, and
promote them on the Going Green website.
§ Timing: Ongoing as programs are identified
§ Funding Source: General Fund, IID program funds, and other
programs as identified
§ Responsible Agency: City Manager’s Office, Design and
Development Department
111
175
Program H-6.5.d: Weatherization Assistance
Encourage low income homeowners or renters to apply for IID
and SCG programs, including free energy audits, home
weatherization, and utility rebate programs by advertising
available programs on the City’s website and at City Hall.
§ Timing: Advertise annually as program funds are available
§ Funding: General Fund
§ Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department,
City Manager’s Office
112
POWERPOINTS
PLANNING
COMMISSION
JUNE 14, 2022
Planning Commission Meeting June 14, 2022
1
Planning Commission Meeting
June 14, 2022
Pledge of Allegiance
1
2
Planning Commission Meeting June 14, 2022
2
Public Comment - Teleconference
Join virtually via Zoom:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82853067939
Meeting ID: 828 5306 7939
“Raise Hand” to speak
Or join via phone: (253) 215 - 8782
*9 = Raise Hand to speak when addressed
*6 = Unmute when prompted
Please limit your comments to 3 minutes.
How to “Raise Hand”
via Computer
How to “Raise Hand”
via Smart Phone App
3
4
Planning Commission Meeting June 14, 2022
3
Planning Commission Meeting
June 14, 2022
SS1 – HISTORIC RESOURCES SURVEY
UPDATE
5
6
Planning Commission Meeting June 14, 2022
4
Background
•City Council approved an agreement
with Urbana to conduct a citywide
Historic Resources Survey update.
•Urbana has started the process and is
prepared to discuss next steps.
Background
•City maintains a Historic Resources
Inventory List for Properties that was
adopted in 1997 and updated In 2006:
•https://laqlaserweb.laquintaca.gov/We
bLink/Welcome.aspx?repo=CityofLaQu
inta&dbid=1
7
8
Planning Commission Meeting June 14, 2022
5
Background
•No landmark designated properties or districts in La
Quinta.
•Planning Commission reviews historic landmark or
district designation applications and makes
recommendations to City Council.
•Permits to work on historic landmarks or districts
cannot occur without first obtaining a permit to be
reviewed by the Planning Commission and
approved by City Council.
9
10
Planning Commission Meeting June 14, 2022
6
Planning Commission
June 14, 2022
PH1 –Housing Element-Related Zone Changes
Background
•The Housing Element was adopted on
February 15, 2022.
•Policies and Programs in the Element
require updates to the Zoning Map and
Zoning Ordinance.
11
12
Planning Commission Meeting June 14, 2022
7
Zoning Map Changes
•Applying Affordable Housing Overlay to all
commercially-designated parcels.
•Also applies to all sites in the Housing
Element Site Inventory for lower income
housing units.
Zoning Text Changes
•Additions to Definitions for clarification.
•Required to conform to changes in State
law:
–Updates for the Accessory Dwelling and Junior
Accessory Dwelling section.
–Updates to Density Bonus Ordinance.
13
14
Planning Commission Meeting June 14, 2022
8
Zoning Text Changes
Required for consistency with the Housing
Element:
•Affordable Housing Overlay
–Density range of 20 to 36 units per acre.
–Permitted by right, when at least 20% of the
units are for lower income units, at a minimum
density of 20 units per acre.
Zoning Text Changes
•Special Needs Housing
–Adds Transitional and Supportive Housing
–Adds Low Barrier Navigation Centers, homeless
shelters
–Parking standard added for homeless shelters.
15
16
Planning Commission Meeting June 14, 2022
9
Recommendation
•Adopt a resolution recommending that the City
Council approve Zone Change 2022-0001, adding
the Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO) to specific
parcels identified in the Housing Element; and
Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2022-0001, making
text amendments necessary for consistency with
the Housing Element and find that these map and
text amendments were previously analyzed as part
of Environmental Assessment 2021-0010.
17
18
PRESENTATION
PLANNING
COMMISSION
JUNE 14, 2022
Planning Commission Presentation June 14, 2022
1
City of La Quinta
Historical Resource Survey Update
Code and Policy Recommendations
Introductions
Project Sponsor
City of La Quinta
Stakeholders
Planning Commission
La Quinta Historical Society
Project Contractor
Urbana Preservation & Planning, LC
1
2
Planning Commission Presentation June 14, 2022
2
Project Goals
Identify historic resources that are over 45 years old within La Quinta
Buildings
Structures
Objects
Districts
Document and evaluate 100 new historic-era properties
Update findings for 264 previously documented properties
Recommend updates to the City’s existing historic preservation planning program
La Quinta Desert Club, 1956
Code and Policy Recommendations
Historic Preservation Links and Resources
Historic Preservation Information
The following are links that provide access to a few of the many websites that provide information
on historic preservation related topics. The first link is to the National Park Service Technical
Preservation Services site which provides "how to" information on the repair and maintenance of
a variety of preservation topics. A few of the topics relate directly to many of La Quinta's historic
properties and are also linked below.
National Park Service Technical Preservation Services
Repair of Historic Adobe Buildings
Repair of Historic Wooden Windows
The Preservation and Repair of Historic Clay Tile Roofs
Preserving Historic Tile Floors
Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Structures
California State Historical Building Code
Historic Preservation Agencies and Organizations
These links will take you to a variety of local, State and national agencies and organizations that
focus on historic preservation and related cultural, archaeological and paleontological topics.
National Register of Historic Places
National Trust For Historic Preservation
State of California Office of Historic Preservation
California Preservation Foundation
Coachella Valley Historical Society
La Quinta Historical Society
La Quinta Museum
Aqua Caliente Cultural Museum
Coachella Valley Archaeological Society
Contact
If you have any questions regarding the information on this page please contact the La Quinta Design and
Development Department at 760-777-7000.
Last Updated: October 30, 2012
How Do I…
Historic Resources Survey/Database and Map
historic resources survey and inventory database
In 1997 the City conducted its first Survey of Historic Resources, surveying the entire City and
inventorying all structures 45 years of age or older along with any historically significant landscape
or agricultural features. The results of the survey identified 72 sites determined as eligible for either
local, State or national listing of historic places.
In 2006, the City conducted a second survey in order to update the inventory with the additional properties that
had reached the 45 year age requirement and to cover areas annexed to the City since the first survey; as well as
including any sites that may have been omitted in the first survey. As a result of the second survey, 183 sites were
added to the inventory database with 109 of the new sites eligible for listing.
In 2012, the City, with support from a grant from the California Office of Historic Preservation through its
Certified Local Government program, consolidated the two surveys and created a digitized interactive database of
the inventory of surveyed properties. The purpose of the consolidated survey and database project was to make
information easier to use and more accessible to the public.
To view the consolidated survey report and access the interactive database, click on the links below.
Historic Resources Survey Report
Historic Resources Inventory Database
historic resources inventory map
Below is the current mapping of surveyed sites included in the City's Historic Resources Inventory
Database. This is an interactive map providing the ability to pan, zoom in or out and click on a
marker to see information regarding that particular site.
Sites identified on the map by a blue marker with a black dot have been identified as individually
eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, blue markers without the black dot indicate sites that
are eligible for listing on the National Register as a contributor to a thematic district. The red markers with a black
dot identify sites that are individually eligible for listing as a historic site by either the State of California or the City
of La Quinta and the red markers without a black dot identify sites that are eligible for listing as a contributor to a
thematic district by the either the State or the City. The yellow markers identify sites that have been surveyed but
have been determined ineligible for either local (City), State or national listing.
How Do I…
History
Historic Context Statement
The Historic Context Statement tells about the early days of La Quinta, beginning with its early
inhabitants and continuing on through its settlement and development as a town. It concludes
prior to the City's incorporation as that event, along with the events since, occurred less than 50
years ago and although undeniably important, they are not yet within the scope of the City's
Historic Preservation Ordinance and Commission. Although it certainly serves as an interesting
and nostalgic read, its real purpose is to establish the context of the existing built environment along with other
features of the land to help determine the significance of such places and their importance in serving as evidence of
our past.
The City's Historic Context Statement is currently in a draft form and is available through the following link to
view. As it is still a draft and not yet formally adopted, your comments and suggestions are welcome, please
contact the Planning Department by phone or email to share your thoughts.
Draft Historic Context Statement
Contact
If you have any questions regarding the information on this page please contact the La Quinta Planning
Department at 760-777-7000.
Last Updated: October 30, 2012
How Do I…Goals, Policies and Regulations
GENERAL PLAN GOAL AND POLICIES
The 2002 La Quinta General Plan established the following goal and policies related to
historic preservation:
GOAL
The protection of significant archaeological, historical, and paleontological resources
which occur in the City.
POLICIES
• All reasonable efforts should be made to identify archaeological and historical resources in the
City.
• Assure that identified significant archaeological and historical resources are protected.
• Educate the public about the City’s history and paleontology.
• Make all reasonable efforts to identify paleontological resources in the City.
• All reasonable efforts should be made to preserve paleontological resources identified on a site.
They shall be professionally collected, catalogued and deposited in a recognized repository.
Historic Preservation Ordinance
In 1993, the City adopted its current Historic Preservation Ordinance establishing the
City's Historic Preservation Commission and the regulations regarding the
preservation, maintenance, alteration and demolition of potentially historic structures
and other features. To view this Ordinance click on the following link:
Historic Preservation Ordinance
If you have any questions regarding the information on this page please contact the
La Quinta Design and Development Department at 760-777-7000.
Last Updated: August 1, 2018
How Do I…
3
4
Planning Commission Presentation June 14, 2022
3
Historic-Era Tracts /
Neighborhoods
Avenida La Fonda
Calle Fortuna
Desert Club
Dune Palms Mobile Estates
Highland Palms Neighborhood
Indian Springs Neighborhood
La Quinta Country Club
Montero Estates
Sagebrush Neighborhood
The Cove
Yucatan Peninsula Cove
Washington Street Apartments
Westward Isle
Duna La Quinta
Santa Roca Cove
Previously
Surveyed
Properties
264 previously recorded properties
202 of the 264 previously
surveyed properties are within
the Cove
Approximately 19 of the 264
previously surveyed properties
have since been
demolished/significantly
altered
The survey update will document the
changes and conditions of these
properties.
5
6
Planning Commission Presentation June 14, 2022
4
Previous Documentation Forms
Desert Club, Recorded 1981 77618 Calle Colima, Recorded 2006
Newly Identified
Properties
216 historic-era properties that are
not previously surveyed
159 of the 216 properties are in The
Cove
15 of the 216 properties are in the
Indian Springs Neighborhood
The survey update will document
and evaluate 100 newly identified
properties and will provide the City a
list of all 216 location
7
8
Planning Commission Presentation June 14, 2022
5
Local History
References
Site Name Location
Dupont House 78310 Clarke Court
Hacienda Serena Near La Quinta Hotel
Dorothy Arzner House 49-800 Avenida Obregon
Ahmanson Ranch House
and landscape
79179 Ahmanson Lane
Lake Cahuilla Reservoir 58075 Jefferson Street
La Quinta Volunteer Fire
Department – Station
House
Francis Hack Lane
(possible)
Community Center Recreation District Building
on Avenida Montezuma
(possible)
La Quinta Stormwater
Protective Works
Unknown
Edgar Eisenhower House Unknown
George E. Allen House Avenida Fernanda
(possible), adjacent to La
Quinta Resort, but outside
boundaries of the resort
La Quinta
Tropics/Cunard’s Sandbar
78120 Calle Tampico
11 properties were identified
through local history books
Images of America: La Quinta
La Quinta: Legend in the
Making
The survey update will verify
status of these properties to
determine next steps
Stakeholder
Perspectives
Met with the La Quinta Historical
Society on June 10, 2022
Planning Commission kick-off on
June 14, 2022
What is important to local
preservationists?
Are there specific properties that
should be considered?
Are there any sites or areas that
have been overlooked by previous
survey efforts?
Are there any properties that may
be difficult to access?
Are there other stakeholders that
we should reach out to?
City of La Quinta Historical Resource Survey
Hello,
Urbana Preservation & Planning, LLC (Urbana) is working on
behalf of the City of La Quinta Design and Development
Department to document historic resources including buildings,
structures, objects, and districts throughout the city.
What Are Historic Resources?
Buildings, structures, objects and districts within La Quinta that possess integrity of
Location, Design, Setting, Materials, Workmanship, Feeling, and Association, and:
a) Are associated with important events or patterns of events; or
b) Are associated with important persons; or
c) Represent a significant architectural style, property type or work of a master; or
d) Have the ability to yield information important to history
Urbana is updating previous documentation for 260+ properties and will prepare new
documentation and evaluation for 100 properties. Our citywide survey will focus on sites that are
45 years or older.
What is a Survey?
An inventory of an historic resource’s location and features as to create a map, plan, or
description. It is a tool for planning and development projects in the city.
We are recording districts, buildings, and other structures constructed prior to 1977 to
help the City of La Quinta better understand the scope and types of historic structures
built within the city
Do you have any recommendations on sites we should survey?
Please email or call us if you know of any buildings or structures constructed prior to 1977
that should be included in our survey efforts.
Contact information: urbana@urbanapreservation.com or (844) 872-2623
This project will not affect your ownership of the building / structure or land. This is a way for the
City to identify historic resources and to acknowledge and record their significance. If you have
any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us below.
Contacts
City of La Quinta
o Carlos Flores, Senior Planner
o (760) 777-7069
o cflores@laquintaca.gov
Urbana
o Alex Baker, MCP, Planner
o (844) 872-2623
o alex@urbanapreservation.com
9
10
Planning Commission Presentation June 14, 2022
6
Next Steps / Deliverables
Provide comments and recommended revisions package for policy and
code language
Update the existing historic context statement
Select the 100 new properties for intensive survey and documentation
Field Survey
Complete documentation
Prepare and submit the survey report / project findings
Deliver a GIS layer to the City
Submit final package in Fall 2022
11