HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC Resolution 2026-007 ZOA 2026-0001 Title 9 Code AmendmentsPLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2026 — 007
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA,
RECOMMENDING CITY COUNCIL AMEND SEVERAL
SECTIONS OF TITLE 9 OF THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL
CODE REGARDING REGULATIONS ON FENCES AND
WALLS; SCREENING; YARD STRUCTURES;
PROHIBITED SIGNAGE TYPES; APPLICATION TIME
LIMITS; AND DEFINITIONS
CASE NUMBER:
ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 2026-0001
PROJECT: 2026 ZONING CODE UPDATES
APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of La Quinta, California, did on
May 12, 2026, hold a duly noticed Public Hearing for review of a Zoning Ordinance
Amendment to amend several chapters of the La Quinta Municipal Code, as identified by
Title of this Resolution; and
WHEREAS, said Zoning Ordinance Amendment has complied with the
requirements of "The Rules to Implement the California Environmental Quality Act of
1970" (CEQA) as amended (Resolution 83-68). The Design and Development
Department has determined that the proposed amendment is exempt from environmental
review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3), Review for Exemptions — Common Sense Rule,
in that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility for this action to have a
significant effect on the environment; and
WHEREAS, the Design and Development Department published a public hearing
notice for this request in The Desert Sun newspaper on April 21, 2026, as required by
applicable law; and
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 pursuant to La Quinta Municipal
Code Section 9.220.020 to recommend approval of said Zoning Ordinance Amendment
to the City Council [Exhibit A]:
1. The code amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the
general plan.
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2026-007
ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 2026-0001
PROJECT: 2026 ZONING CODE UPDATES
LOCATION: CITYWIDE
APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA
ADOPTED: MAY 12, 2026
PAGE 2 of 3
definitions, and are consistent with the following goals, objectives, and policies of
the General Plan:
Goal LU-1: "Land use compatibility throughout the City."
Program LU-1.1.b: "The Zoning Ordinance will include design
standards in all zoning districts that assure high quality
development."
Policy LU-1.2: "All land use decisions shall be consistent with
all applicable General Plan policies and programs and shall
uphold the rights and needs of property owners as well as
those of the general public."
The amendments propose minor code revisions to development standards and
regulatory processes to ensure development remains compatible throughout the
City. The amendments will correct or add code references; create consistency
between various sections; set additional standards for block wall materials; define
height limitations on combination walls in Cove Residential; establish additional
parameters on entitlement review; clarify yard structure allowances, equipment
screening criteria, and additional sign prohibitions. The amendments balance the
needs of property owners and the general public, create consistency between
certain sections, and continue to assure high -quality development with effective
design standards.
2. Approval of the code amendment will not create conditions materially detrimental
to the public health, safety, and general welfare.
Findings of Fact: The amendments clarify language in the municipal code and do
not incorporate any changes that affect the regulation and/or provision of public
services, utility systems, or other foreseeable health, safety and welfare
considerations.
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.
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2026-007
ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 2026-0001
PROJECT: 2026 ZONING CODE UPDATES
LOCATION: CITYWIDE
APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA
ADOPTED: MAY 12, 2026
PAGE 3 of 3
SECTION 2. That the Planning Commission does hereby recommend approval of Zoning
Ordinance Amendment 2026-0001, as set forth in attached Exhibit A, to the City Council
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 May 12, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES: Commissioners Bohlinger, Guerrero, Hernandez, Hundt, McCune,
Nieto, and Chairperson Hassett
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
\� K-
DOUG HA SETT, Chairperson
City of La Quinta, California
ATTEST:
DAV(D A. NEWELL, Design and Development Director
City of La Quinta, California
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2026-007
EXHIBIT A
9.50.090 Architectural design standards.
In addition to the requirements of Chapter 9.30 (Residential Districts) and Chapter 9.60 (Supplemental
Residential Regulations) the following shall be required for homes:
A. Requirements.
1. Architectural Design Guidelines. The city council shall, by resolution, adopt architectural
design guidelines to be used as guidelines in reviewing landscape materials, architectural
style, exterior building materials, colors, and mass and scale;
2. Architectural Variety. Duplication of houses having the same architectural design features
on the front elevation of other houses located within two hundred (200) feet of each other
shall make provisions for architectural variety by using different colors, roof treatments,
window treatments, garage door treatments, and methods;
3. Reserved.
4. Reserved.
5. Reserved.
6. Reserved.
7. Reserved.
8. Landscaping. All front and exterior side yards shall be landscaped to property line;
9. The landscaping shall include trees, shrubs and ground cover of sufficient size, spacing
and variety to create an attractive and unifying appearance;
10. An irrigation system shall be provided for all areas required to be landscaped;
11. The landscaping shall be continuously maintained in a healthy and viable condition;
12. Screening. Refuse containers and bottled gas tanks shall be concealed by view -
obscuring landscaping, fencing or walls, as referenced in screening Section
9.60.140(B);
13. Reserved.
14. Lighting. All exterior lighting shall be located and directed so as not to shine directly on
adjacent properties, as referenced in outdoor lighting Section 9.100.150(F)(4);
15. Reserved.
16. Earth fill shall not exceed what is necessary to provide minimum required drainage to the
street.
(Ord. 594 §§ 1, 2(Exh. A), 6-1-2021; Ord. 588 § 2(Exh. A), 2-2-2021; Ord. 574 § 1, 2018; Ord. 562 § 1,
2017; Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 505 § 1, 2012; Ord. 361 § 1, 2001; Ord. 325 § 1, 1998)
Ord. 588 § 2(Exh. A), adopted Feb. 2, 2021, amended the title of § 9.50.090 from "RC district
development standards" to "Architectural design standards," as herein set out.
(Supp. No. 7)
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9.60.030 Fences and walls.
A. Purpose. For purposes of this section, "fence" or "wall" means any type of fence, wall, retaining wall,
sound attenuation wall, screen or windscreen. The terms "fence" and "wall" are used
interchangeably in this section to mean any or all of the preceding structures. Rear and side yards
shall be completely enclosed and screened by view -obscuring fencing, walls, or combinations,
unless:
Adjoining property owners waive the rear or side yard fencing requirements; or
The fence abuts open space, such as golf course, lake front, or similar areas; or
A minor use permit is approved by the design and development director for an alternative
approach.
B. Measurement of Fence Height. Except as otherwise specified in this section, fence heights shall be
measured from finish grade at the base of the fence to the highest point of the fence on the interior
or exterior side, whichever is higher.
FENCES MORE THAN 30"
APART (between adjacent faces)
SHALL BE CONSIDERED
SEPARATE STRUCTURES FOR
OPEN RAILING UP TO 48" HIGH
PURPOSES/ OF MEASURING HEIGHT
ON TOP OF MAX. HEIGHT WALL
FOR PEDESTRIAN SAFETY INDEPENDENT WALL
)ENT WALL
Measurement of Fence Height
In addition, the following provisions shall apply to the measurement of fence height:
Open railings, up to forty-eight (48) inches high, placed on top of a retaining or other wall and
required for pedestrian safety shall not be included in the height measurement.
Fences less than thirty (30) inches apart (measured between adjoining faces) shall be
considered one (1) structure and fence height shall be measured from the base of the lower
fence to the top of the higher fence. Fences thirty (30) inches or more apart shall be
considered separate structures and their heights shall be measured independently. The
director may require that the area between such fences be provided with permanent
landscaping and irrigation.
C. Fence Heights. The construction and installation of fences shall be in compliance with the following
standards:
(Supp. No. 7)
Within Main Building Area. In the area of a lot where a main building may be constructed, the
maximum freestanding fence height shall be twelve (12) feet.
Setback Areas Not Bordering Streets. The maximum fence height shall be six (6) feet within
any required setback area not adjoining a street. Where the elevation of an adjoining building
site is higher than the base of the fence within a side or rear setback area, the height of the
fence may be measured from the elevation of the adjoining building site to the top of the fence.
Created: 2026-03-25 09:57:45 [EST]
Page 1 of 4
However, fence height shall not exceed eight (8) feet measured from either side �^�if�o.th-t the
exception of the RC district Within the RC district, combination retaininq and garden walls
shall not exceed a combined height of four (4) feet retaining wall and six (6) feet garden wall.
Setback Areas Bordering Streets, Alleys and Other Accessway.
a. Within all districts, the maximum fence height shall be six (6) feet within any front, rear or
side setback area adjoining a public street.
b. Notwithstanding other fence height restrictions, where, because of the orientation of the
lots, a property line fence separates a front yard on one (1) lot from a rear yard on an
adjacent lot, the maximum fence height shall be six (6) feet.
C. Arches or trellises up to nine (9) feet in overall height and five (5) feet interior width may
be constructed over a gate on a lot provided the arch/trellis is integrated into the
fence/gate design. The director may refer arch designs exceeding the standard to the
planning commission for approval.
d. Any portion of a building site where vehicular access is taken shall conform to the access
intersection requirements of subsection (C)(4) of this section.
e. City- or state -required sound attenuation walls bordering freeways or arterial highways
may exceed six (6) feet in height if so recommended by a noise attenuation study and
approved by the director.
f. When there is a combined retaining and garden wall, and the retaining wall exceeds three
(3) feet, the garden wall shall not exceed five (5) feet in height;
Adjacent to a Nonresidential Zone or Use. The maximum fence height between a residential
zone or use and a nonresidential zone or use shall be eight (8) feet.
a. The height of fences, trees, shrubs and other visual obstructions shall be limited to a
maximum height of thirty (30) inches within the triangular area formed by drawing a
straight line:
Between two (2) points located on and twenty (20) feet distant from the point of
intersection of two (2) ultimate street right-of-way lines.
Between two (2) points located on and five (5) feet distant from the point of
intersection of an ultimate street or alley right-of-way on one hand and the edge of a
driveway or another alley right-of-way on the other if parkway width is less than
twelve (12) feet wide.
For purposes of this code, "point of intersection" means the intersection of the
prolongation of the right-of-way lines, excluding any curved portion joining the two (2)
lines.
C. The height restrictions of this subdivision shall apply to fences, walls, trees, shrubs,
vegetation, or any other material which obstructs or may obstruct visibility.
D. Gates.
(Supp. No. 7)
Materials. Gates shall be constructed of ornamental iron/tubular steel, vinyl and/or wood. Such
gates may be placed in any location provided they meet the requirements of this section and
provided any wood used is not less than a grade of construction heart or merchantable and
better redwood or No. 2 and better (no holes) western red cedar, stained or painted to match
or complement the adjacent wall or structure. Alternatively, if left in natural color, all wood shall
be treated with a water -repellant material. Wood gates over thirty-six (36) inches wide shall
have a metal frame. Chain link gates are prohibited. Vehicular driveway gates shall be
constructed of ornamental iron/tubular steel and metal if solid. If screening an RV, the gate
shall be constructed of a solid opaque material.
Created: 2026-03-25 09:57:45 [EST]
Page 2 of 4
Width. Pedestrian gates shall not exceed five (5) feet in width, except that gates may be any
width within side yard setbacks of at least twelve (12) feet.
E. Fence Construction and Materials. All fencing in residential districts shall conform to the following
construction and material standards:
Wood Fencing.
a. Except for gates, split two (2)-rail fencing, and for equestrian fencing regulated by Section
9.140.060, wood or similar recycled fencing materials are permitted in rear or interior side
yards only, and only if not visible from the street. Wood -framed fencing with a stucco finish
is permissible in any location on the lot provided the color of the masonry or stucco
matches or complements the adjacent wall or structure. Gates may be of wood in any
location provided they comply with the standards of this section.
b. All wood fencing shall be constructed of not less than a grade of construction heart or
merchantable and better redwood or No. 2 and better (no holes) western red cedar,
stained or painted to match or complement the adjacent wall or structure. Alternatively, if
left in natural color, all wood shall be treated with a water -repellant material.
C. Fence boards may be horizontal or vertical. Support posts shall be a minimum of nom'Rat
four inches by four inches (4"x4") redwood, pressure -treated lumber, tubular steel or block
and installed per the Uniform Building Code.
d. Split Rail Fencing. Split two (2)-rail fencing shall be allowed in the front yard or along the
front property line with columns a maximum height of four (4) feet and three (3) feet for the
top rail. All columns shall be cemented with footings. Materials for the columns shall be
wood, brick, or block. The rails may be either wood or other non -wood products that have
the appearance of split rail. A building permit shall be obtained prior to construction.
Ornamental Iron and Tubular Steel Fencing. Ornamental iron or tubular steel fencing may be
used along the front or street side yards only. The iron or steel shall be painted to match or
complement the adjacent wall or structure.
3. Masonry Fencing. Solid masonry fencing (i.e., block, rock, brick, with or without stucco
covering) is permitted in any location on the lot provided the color of the masonry or stucco
matches or complements the adjacent wall or structure. Gray precision concrete block shall not
be used unless all exterior surfaces visible from outside the property are covered with stucco,
paint, texture coating, or other comparable coating approved by the director. Gray precision
concrete block may be used to match certain architectural styles with the director's approval.
4. Material Combinations. Combinations of two (2) or more of the preceding materials may be
used provided that the bottom one-half ('/2) of the fence is constructed of a masonry material.
Combinations incorporating wood materials shall only be used for the rear and interior side
yards and only when not visible from the street.
5. Other Materials. Other fence materials or combination of fence materials such as, but not
limited to, corrugated metal, vinyl, bamboo, and glass may be permitted in the front or street
side yard by the director in conjunction with approval of a building permit for fence construction
if the permit application includes a materials sample, a site plan with proposed fence alignment,
photographs of the main dwelling, and the following findings are made:
a. The design of the fence, including, but not limited to, the architectural style, materials,
colors, architectural details, and other architectural elements is compatible with a main
dwelling existing on site or in development review at time of application.
(Supp. No. 7)
The fence meets all screening requirements.
C. The material(s) are of good and durable quality.
Created: 2026-03-25 09:57:45 [EST]
Page 3 of 4
d. The material(s) will not be detrimental to the health, safety and general welfare of the
community in the area.
F. Fence Landscaping and Maintenance.
Landscaping. The area between the back of curb and any fencing shall be landscaped, have a
suitable permanent irrigation system, and be continuously maintained by the property owner.
Maintenance. All walls and fences shall be continuously maintained in good repair. The
property owner shall be provided thirty (30) days after receiving notice from the city to repair a
wall or fence. The building official may grant an extension to such time period not to exceed
sixty (60) days.
G. Prohibited Fence Materials and Construction Fences. The use of barbed wire, razor wire, chain link,
or similar materials in or on fences is prohibited in all residential districts. Chain link fencing is
permitted for temporary construction fences when authorized by a minor use permit issued in
accordance with Section 9.210.025. Said minor use permit shall not be approved until a permit for
grading, or construction, has been filed for, whichever comes first.
H. Equestrian Fencing. Notwithstanding any other requirements of this section, fencing shall be
regulated by the provisions of Section 9.140.060 (Equestrian overlay regulations) where the keeping
of horses is permitted.
Nonconforming Fences. Any fence which does not meet the standards of this section but which was
legally established prior to the adoption of these standards may be maintained provided such fence
is not expanded nor its nonconformance with these standards otherwise increased. Any fence which
is destroyed or damaged to the extent of more than fifty percent (50%) of its total replacement value
shall not be repaired, rebuilt, or reconstructed except in conformance with these standards.
(Ord. 618 § 1, Exh. A, 12-3-2024; Ord. 588 § 2(Exh. A), 2-2-2021; Ord. 584 § 2, 2020; Ord. 560 § 1,
2017; Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 466 § 1, 2009; Ord. 378 § 1, 2002; Ord. 361 § 1, 2001; Ord. 325 § 1,
1998; Ord. 299 § 1, 1997; Ord. 284 § 1, 1996)
(Supp. No. 7)
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9.60.040 Patio covers, decks and play equipment.
A. Applicability. For purposes of this section, the term "patio covers, decks, and play equipment"
includes any type of yard structure other than a building or a carport. Such structures include
aFe ^+ limited +^, open and solid patio covers, gazebos, trellises, and arbors, o play equipment
which is more than eight (8) feet in height; and other structures deemed similar by the director. All
such structures shall be 'open" on at least two (2) sides'^^ cis'^ - aR&) and are referred to in this
section as "yard structures." Enclosed structures with more than two (2) side walls greater than
three (3) feet in height shall be considered accessory buildings (see Section 9.60.050). Uncovered
decks and other structures less than eighteen (18) inches above finish grade shall not be subject to
the provisions of this section.
B. Standards. Patio covers, decks, gazebos, play equipment or other yard structures, attached to or
detached from the main building shall comply with front and side yard setbacks for the main building
and the following requirements:
1. The location of decks shall be governed by the standards for wall projections in Section
9.50.060.
2. No yard structure shall be more than twelve (12) feet in height.
3. Yard structures shall not be constructed or established in the panhandle portion of a panhandle
or flag lot.
4. No yard structure shall be located less than five (5) feet from any adjacent residential lot or
from any rear property line adjacent to a public or private right-of-way.
5. No yard structure shall be located less than three (3) feet from any rear property line adjacent
to any common use easement or open space or recreational area which is at least ten (10) feet
deep.
6. Eaves or roofs may overhang into the required setback a maximum of eighteen (18) inches.
Setbacks shall be measured from the nearest supporting member of the structure to the
property line or, if the property line is at the toe of a slope, from the top of the slope.
7. Structures shall be constructed in a manner so as to prevent rooftop water from draining onto
any adjacent parcel.
8. Wood lattice cross -members in patio covers or trellises shall be of minimum nominal two (2)
inches by two (2) inches material.
9. No patio cover, trellis, gazebo, arbor, similar structure, or combination thereof shall cover more
than fifty percent (50%) of the rear area required setback.
(Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 325 § 1, 1998; Ord. 299 § 1, 1997; Ord. 284 § 1, 1996)
(Supp. No. 7)
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9.60.070 Swimming pools.
A. Applicability. The provisions of this section shall apply to any outdoor swimming pool, whirlpool, spa
(in -ground or above -ground), or open tank or pond containing or normally capable of containing
water to a depth of eighteen (18) inches or more at any point. For purposes of this section, the term
"pool" means all or any of the foregoing facilities.
B. Standards. Pools are permitted as accessory uses in residential districts subject to the following
requirements:
Location. Pools shall be located at least three (3) feet (measured from water's edge) from any
property line. No adjustments to this minimum shall be approved, with the exception of private
gated communities where any property line is adjacent to common open area.
Filtering and Heating Equipment. Use of equipment shall comply with the following
requirements:
a. Mechanical pool equipment such as a pump, filter, or heater, may be located within the
front or rear yard areas. The equipment shall be 8^�d fully screened on at least three
(3) sides by a masonry wall, fencing, or landscape planting with an open side not visible
to the street.
b. Mechanical pool equipment may be in an area between the side property line and the
residence provided a five (5)-foot side yard, clear of any permanent obstructions is
maintained between the side yard property line and any mechanical pool equipment.
C. Where there is no side property line wall, mechanical pool equipment may be in a side
yard of five (5) feet or less only if a recorded easement in perpetuity exists for the subject
property to use the adjacent side yard of the abutting property for access and a minimum
five (5) feet distance between the equipment and adjacent obstruction (i.e., building wall)
is provided.
d. Mechanical pool equipment may be in a side yard of five (5) feet or less if approved by
the design and development director if extenuating circumstances exist and there is a
three (3)-foot clearance of any permanent obstructions.
Fencing Requirements. All pools shall be fenced in accordance with the provisions of the city's
building code Chapter 8.02, state law and other applicable laws and ordinances.
4. Screening shall be provided as required in Section 9.60.140(B)(2).
(Ord. 588 § 2(Exh. A), 2-2-2021; Ord. 577 § 1, 2019; Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 361 § 1, 2001; Ord. 325 §
1, 1998; Ord. 299 § 1, 1997; Ord. 284 § 1, 1996)
(Supp. No. 7)
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9.60.075 Ground mounted mechanical equipment.
Use of equipment shall comply with the following requirements:
A. Ground mounted mechanical equipment such as air conditioner condensing units, water
softeners, etc., may be located within the rear yard areas. For lots of five thousand (5,000)
square feet or less, said equipment can be in the front yard if there is a wall around the yard, or
it is fully screened by a masonry wall, fencing, or landscape planting.
B. Where there is no side yard property line wall, mechanical equipment may be in an area
between the side property line and the residence provided a five (5)-foot side yard, clear of any
permanent obstructions is maintained between the side yard property line and any mechanical
equipment.
C. Mechanical equipment may be in a side yard of five (5) feet or less if: (1) a recorded easement
in perpetuity exists for the subject property to use the adjacent side yard of the abutting
property for access and a minimum five (5) feet distance between the equipment and adjacent
obstruction (i.e., building wall) is provided; or (2) if approved by the design and development
director if findings are made that extenuating circumstances exist.
(Ord. 588 § 2(Exh. A), 2-2-2021; Ord. 577 § 1, 2019; Ord. 562 § 1, 2017; Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 361 §
1, 2001)
(Supp. No. 7)
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9.60.140 Screening.
A. Parking Area Screening. Screening of common parking areas shall be provided for all residential
projects in accordance with the requirements for nonresidential uses in Section 9.100.050.
B. Equipment Screening.
1. Roof -Mounted Equipment. Roof -mounted utility and mechanical equipment, including, but not
limited to, air conditioning, heating, restaurant exhaust fans, electrical elevator structures, roof
accesses, etc., may be permitted only as follows:
a. For flat roofs, a screened enclosure behind the parapet wall may be used if it is made to
appear as an integral part of the building. Screening shall be an integral part of the roof
design and not appear as an afterthought.
b. Such screening shall be provided so that the highest point of the equipment is below the
surrounding architectural feature and is screened from view to a minimum horizontal sight
distance of one thousand three hundred twenty (1,320) feet as viewed from a point five
(5) feet above finish grade, whichever provides the most screening.
C. Roof -mounted equipment shall be screened from view of surrounding two (2)-story (or
more) residential development and, where feasible as determined by the city, from two
(2)-story commercial and other types of development.
d. No equipment shall be placed on any sloped roof.
e. Refuse containers and bottled gas tanks shall be concealed by view obscurir�g
landscaping fencing or walls;
2. Ground -Mounted Equipment. Ground -mounted utility, mechanical, and pool, spa, or water
feature equipment shall be fully screened from ground view of surrounding properties. Such
screening may consist of perimeter walls or fencing (of permitted), screen walls, or landscape
planting. Equipment within unenclosed exterior side yards shall be fully screened by aR Opaque
avail from surrounding properties and streets.
3. Solar Equipment. Solar heating equipment, whether roof- or ground -mounted shall be installed
so that the underside of the equipment is not visible from surrounding properties. Roof -
mounted solar panels shall not extend above the maximum allowable height of the structure
and may be mounted on racks which are suitably enclosed, screened behind a parapet wall or
otherwise architecturally designed to blend in with the proposed or existing structure and
screen any support structure mechanisms. Panels that do not conform to roof profiles shall not
exceed a height of eighteen (18) inches above the parapet or roof surface, whichever is
greater, unless an applicant demonstrates a reduction in energy performance by more than
10% as compared with a more visible location or angle and said design is approved by the
director. Manifolds, supply and return lines shall be painted to match the adjacent building or
roof surface.
4. Access Ladders. Wall -mounted exterior roof access ladders are prohibited unless screened
from view by surrounding features.
5. Refuse and Other Containers. Refuse containers, bottled gas tanks and other similar
containers shall be fully concealed from streets and adjacent properties by view -obscuring
landscaping, fencing or walls.
C. Facility Screening. Within multifamily and condominium projects, storage, trash and loading areas
shall be screened as follows:
1. Storage Areas. All storage, including cartons, containers, materials or equipment shall be
screened from public view as required by Section 9.100.110 (Outdoor storage and display).
(Supp. No. 7)
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Trash Areas. All outdoor trash and waste bins shall be enclosed by a solid wall not less than
six (6) feet in height in accordance with Section 9.60.210. Decorative overhead structures such
as trellises shall be integrated into the enclosure design if it is visible from higher terrain.
Loading Areas. Loading platforms and areas shall be screened from view from adjacent streets
and residential, open space and recreation areas.
(Ord. 588 § 2(Exh. A), 2-2-2021; Ord. 584 § 2, 2020; Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 325 § 1, 1998; Ord. 284 §
1, 1996)
(Supp. No. 7)
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9.160.100 Prohibited signs.
The signs and displays listed in this section are prohibited. Such signs are subject to removal by the city
at the owner's or user's expense. Prohibited signs include the following:
1. Any sign not in accordance with the provisions of this chapter;
2. Abandoned signs;
3. Rotating, revolving or otherwise moving signs;
4. Trailer signs and other signs with directional arrows affixed to vehicles which are used
exclusively or primarily for advertising, unless specifically permitted;
5. Flags, pennants, streamers, spinners, festoons, windsocks, valances or similar displays,
unless specifically permitted in this chapter;
6. Animated or flashing signs;
7. Portable signs, unless specifically permitted in this chapter;
8. Off -premises signs as defined in Section 9.160.130, unless specifically permitted to be off -
premises under the provisions of this chapter, or incorporated and approved as part of a
temporary use permit application;
9. Billboards or outdoor advertising signs;
10. Signs which identify or advertise activities which are illegal under federal, state or local laws in
effect at the location of such signs or activities;
11. Building -mounted signs placed on or above the roof or above the eave line of any structure;
12. Signs which purport to be, are an imitation of, or resemble an official traffic sign or signal;
13. Signs which, by reason of their size, location, movement, content, coloring or manner of
illumination may be confused with or construed as a traffic -control sign, signal or device, or the
light of an emergency vehicle, or which obstruct the visibility of any traffic or street sign or
signal device;
14. Signs that create a potential safety hazard by obstructing clear view of pedestrian or vehicular
traffic;
15. Signs located upon or projecting over public streets, sidewalks or rights -of -way (unless specific
approval has been granted);
16. Signs attached to utility poles or stop signs or other municipal sign structure;
17. Balloon signs, inflatable animal or other figures, or other inflatable displays, whether tethered
or not, except as otherwise permitted by a temporary or special outdoor event permit;
18. Signs located closer to overhead utility lines than the minimum distance prescribed by
California law, or by the rules duly promulgated by agencies of the state or by the applicable
public utility;
19. "For Sale" signs affixed to vehicles parked on public right-of-way or on any vacant property;
20. Neon signs, except those specifically approved as an activity's major identification sign;
21. Signs drawn or painted onto or otherwise affixed to trees or rocks unless specifically permitted
in this chapter;
22. Advertising statuary;
23. Any temporary sign or banner, unless specifically permitted in this chapter;
(Supp. No. 7)
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24. Translucent or transparent signs on internally illuminated awnings so that they allow light to
shine through the letters of the copy.
25. Signs with attachments which include balloons, flags or other add -on devices, unless
specifically permitted in this chapter.
(Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 506 § 1, 2013; Ord. 361 § 1, 2001; Ord. 284 § 1, 1996)
(Supp. No. 7)
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9.200.070 Time limits on processing applications.
A. Development review applications shall be processed within the time limits specified in Chapter 4.5 of
the State Planning and Zoning Law (Government Code Section 65920 et seq.). Time periods
specified in Section 9.200.120 regarding actions on appeals shall be in addition to the preceding
Government Code time limits.
B. incomplete Application Sunset Provisions. All applications which remain incomplete or inactive for a
minimum sox (6) month period shall have a written thirty (30) d I . - t0focatmon forwarded to the
applicant by means of certified mail or similar method. if no - - - on. is taken by the applicant regarding
the application within thirty (30) days thereafter, the application shall automatically be withdrawn and
closed.
Incomplete, Inactive, and Abandoned Applications.
1. For the purposes of this section, an "incomplete application" shall be an application for which
the city has contacted the applicant identifying documents or information necessary to
complete or process the application, and an "inactive application" shall mean an application
which is under review by the city for which the city has contacted the applicant requiring
corrections or supplements to the application to comply with applicable city laws and
standards, and for which the applicant has been nonresponsive for a period of six (6) months
or longer.
2. The city may send applicants with incomplete or inactive applications an "incomplete/inactive
notice" designating the information, materials, and measures required to cure the deficiency
in the incomplete or inactive application.
3. The applicant shall respond to the incomplete/inactive notice within the time period
designated thereon, or thirty (30) days, whichever is longer, supplying the missing
information, actions, and materials.
4. In the event an applicant has failed to cure the deficiency in an incomplete or inactive
application under this section following two (2) or more incomplete/inactive notices hereunder
or a period of one (1) year from initial submittal, whichever is longer, the director may deem
an application "abandoned," and suspend further application processing.
5. An applicant may remove an aoolication from "abandoned" status by oavina a reactivation fee
set by resolution of the city council.
6. This subsection B shall not apply if preempted by any state law regarding the processing of a
specific type of development application that, but for the state law, would otherwise be
subject to this section.
(Ord. 550 § 1, 2016; Ord. 538 § 6, 2016; Ord. 466 § 1, 2009; Ord. 284 § 1, 1996)
(Supp. No. 7)
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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
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.
(Supp. No. 7)
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"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.
"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 dwelling or Attached residential. See: "Dwelling, attached."
"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.
"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.
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"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.
"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 ('/2) of its height below the
adjoining finish grade at all points; and (2) has a floor area no more than one-half ('/2) 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.
(Supp. No. 7)
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"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:
"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.
"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.
"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 center. See: "Shopping center."
"Commercial filming" means the production of still or moving pictures on public property.
"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.
"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 4100 of the California
Civil Code (or successor provision).
"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.
(Supp. No. 7)
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"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 4125 of the California Civil Code (or successor provision),
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 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 ($50,000.00) dollars 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."
(Supp. No. 7)
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"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.
"Declaration of covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs)" has the same meaning as "declaration"
set forth in Section 4135 of the California Civil Code (or successor provision) as applicable to a common
interest development.
"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."
"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.
(Supp. No. 7)
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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 more than one (1) separate
residential dwelling unit, which is used or occupied, or is intended to be used or occupied, in whole or in
part, as the home or residence of one (1) or more persons 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.
"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 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:
(Supp. No. 7)
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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.
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.
"F000dway" 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.
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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 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.
(Supp. No. 7)
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"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."
"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.
Homeless Shelter. See: "Emergency shelter."
"Homeowner association" or "HOX means the "association," as defined in Section 4080 of the California
Civil Code (or successor provision) that serves as the nonprofit corporation or unincorporated association
created for the purpose of managing a common interest development.
"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.
"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."
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"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:
"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."
"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.
Lot Types and Lot Lines
3. '7nterior 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.
(Supp. No. 7)
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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 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. '7nterior 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.
(Supp. No. 7)
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"Master plan of drainage" means an engineering report outlining the drainage facilities needed for the
proper development of the city.
"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.
"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
(Supp. No. 7)
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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:
Incineration facilities (i.e., rotary kiln, fluid bed, etc.);
Residual repository (i.e., receiving only residuals from hazardous waste treatment facilities);
Stabilization/solidification facilities;
Chemical oxidation facilities;
Neutralization/precipitation facilities; or
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., 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;
(Supp. No. 7)
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Recreational areas;
Parking lot lighting;
Landscape lighting;
Billboards and other signs (advertising or other);
Street lighting;
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 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.
(Supp. No. 7)
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"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.
"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, cafes, 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.
Rest home. See: "Convalescent home."
(Supp. No. 7)
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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.
"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.
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.
(Supp. No. 7)
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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."
"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.
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"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.
"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.
"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.
(Supp. No. 7)
Created: 2026-03-25 09:57:50 [EST]
Page 19 of 21
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.
"Village hospitality home" means a unit located on a parcel size between four thousand five hundred
(4,500) square feet and ten thousand (10,000) square feet that is not occupied by an owner or manager
and that is rented in its entirety to transient guests for a period of thirty (30) consecutive calendar days or
less, subject to Chapter 3.24 [Transient Occupancy Taxl and Chapter 3.25 [Short Term Vacation
Rentals .
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:
(Supp. No. 7)
"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.
"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 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.
"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
Created: 2026-03-25 09:57:50 [EST]
Page 20 of 21
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.
REAR YARD
I INTERIOR
w SIDE YARD
w _
FRONT YARD
EXTERIOR SIDE YARD
STREET
TYPES OF YARDS
"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. No. 609, § 1(Exh. A), 2-6-2024; Ord. 603 § 1(Exh. A), 2022; Ord. 602 Exh. A, 2022; 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)
(Supp. No. 7)
Created: 2026-03-25 09:57:50 [EST]
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