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1998 La Quinta Village - Design Guidelines - SUPERSEDED ORD 553OF ~� r] fffslarsfillfL�VfS Prepared by: Community Development Department Adopted by the La Quinta City Council July 7, 1998 I. /NTRODUCT/ON 1 I.A OVERVIEW 1 1.13 GOALS AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES 2 11. VILLAGE AT LA QU/NTA DES/GN GU/DEL/NES 3 II.A. LAND USE '3 I1.B. CIRCULATION CONSIDERATIONS 5 1. Vehicle Traffic and Parking 5 2. Pedestrian Movement 8 II.C. SITE AND BUILDING DESIGN 9 1. Building Character 9 2. Site Design and Activity Space 11 II.D. ACCESSORY PROVISIONS 13 1. Streetscape 13 2. Signing 13 3. Lighting/Landscaping 14 REFERENCES 17 APPENDIX 18 1. INTROD UC T/ON , his document provides a flexible and positive approach to regulating development in The Village area. When looking at The Village, there are several problems which relate primarily to the size of parcels and the existing street patterns in the area. There are a myriad of lot sizes and configurations, which make it difficult to apply some of the most basic zoning standards, such as setback, parking and lot coverage requirements. In addition, the existing circulation system incorporates jogs, intersections and access situations which are not conducive to typical property development requirements. However, site design and development solutions set forth by these Guidelines can serve to build on the positive attributes in the Village, such as climate, ambiance and the natural views, afforded the area. LA. Overview 0 ver the past several years, there have been numerous discussions on many different levels, involving the City Council and Planning Commission, City staff, residents, property owners, realtors and business interests, regarding development potential in The Village and what the area identity should be. The common theme continues be one of a village -oriented area that will maintain the quiet seclusion of the mountain surroundings and the friendly atmosphere, while encouraging business development within that context. LB. Goals and Guiding Principles GOAL; Establish The Village at La Quinta as a mixed-use area, providing a wide range of residential and commercial opportunities. Principle - Permit a variety of commercial, residential and lodging uses, which will promote and serve The Village area while allowing private forces to dictate the extent of market availability for various uses in the area. GOAL: Promote the presence and awareness of artistic and cultural influences in The Village environment. Principle - Focus efforts of the Arts in Public Places Program into The Village area. Principle - Encourage public and private open spaces which can accommodate artistic displays, shows, and similar events. GOAL: Create a sense of design, scale and place that will lend itself to The Village environment. -1- -2- I Principle - Provide for active and passive pedestrian space, street furniture, traffic calming techniques and similar methods to enhance the concept of a Village environment. Principle - Prepare building, architecture and site design guidelines which promote The Village concept and allow flexibility in project proposals and staff direction to applicants � in achieving a sense of that concept. 11. V/L LA GE DES/GN GU/DEL/NES H.A. LAND USE These Land Use Guidelines have been developed based on La Quinta General Plan policies and other documents as listed under References. The Village area covered by these Guidelines shall be as shown on the area map in this document (Figure 1). Land uses in all zoned properties within the Guideline boundary shall be consistent with these Guidelines to the extent that they apply, recognizing that these Guidelines are applicable in zone districts other than Village Commercial. • Village land uses shall include a diverse mix of retail, office and residential at varying densities and scale. • Land uses in The Village shall include residential mixes, at densities as set forth by the General Plan. Uses which are 100% residential are permissible. In general, residential uses shall locate above commercial uses in common buildings, or may be located in stand-alone multi- family residential buildings. • Mixed-use development projects are defined as commercial office/retail, along with residential uses, as part of one project site or building. • Retail mixed-use projects are not subject to any floor/area ratio (F.A.R.) or lot coverage standards. The intensity of the commercial component and residential density shall be determined on a site-specific basis, under the Village Use Permit process. Multi -story commercial retail/office projects shall generally locate office uses on upper floors, but will be reviewed on a site-specific basis. • Land uses which encourage entertainment, artistic displays and other interactive components as part of the primary use are desirable. -3- -4- • Village land use patterns will be encouraged to reflect a sensitivity to the overall accommodation of pedestrian activity. • Compact groupings of shops, offices and other uses are encouraged so as to promote pedestrian mobility and space. Attached has the Appendix to these Guidelines 'are excerpts from various design documents, which visually represent some of the concepts referred to. H.B. C/RCULA TION CONS/DERA TIONS Many circulation issues can be directly related to street improvements and design criteria that cannot be addressed in a generalized planning guidance document. However, there are many aspects of site design that can impact circulation patterns and can be addressed to a certain degree. 1. Vehicle Traffic and Parking • Development projects shall address the feasibility of vacating unnecessary street and alley rights-of-way, especially relating to potential adaptive reuse as pedestrian and/or bike access, on -street parking, etc. • Right-of-way abandonment and merger of lots shall be encouraged and accommodated where logical and feasible. It is desirable to create larger blocks and parcels for siting commercial and mixed-use projects, and such actions taken for traffic purposes may also have this benefit. • Both City and private streetscape projects shall equally consider the pedestrian and bicycle in any street improvement and site planning. • Streetscape items such as lighting, benches, bus stops and shelters, trash receptacles, bicycle racks, etc., shall be addressed by all private and public development projects. • Alleys used for vehicles shall be designated one-way to reduce traffic conflicts from adjacent parking areas, deliveries and through traffic. • Rights-of-way for Calle Estado and Avenida La Fonda, between Desert Club and Bermudas, shall be investigated for reduction and redesign of medians, curbs and sidewalks to allow better pedestrian movement and on - street parking design. -5- -6- • Access driveways and intersection configurations such as those existing at the bank building at the intersection of Calle Estado and Avenida Bermudas, shall be discouraged. • The City shall establish design standards for special sidewalk and pedestrian 'street ,crossing treatments and materials. • All development projects, public and private, shall investigate the use of various traffic calming and pedestrian enhancement techniques, such ''as traffic chokers, curb bulbs, partial or full street closures, traffic circles, etc. as alternatives in developing all project improvements in The Village. • off-street parking areas shall not be located in the front of buildings, but to the rear and sides to allow integrated shared parking areas between structures and open up the street frontage to pedestrian access and outdoor activities. Parking areas shall be clustered whenever possible; any off-street parking not provided on-site shall be located in designated City (public) parking areas to achieve this. • Where feasible and appropriate, on -street parking maybe credited toward meeting off-street parking requirements. 2. ' Pedestrian Movement • Public and private projects shall provide a clear delineation of all pedestrian circulation areas. • Adequate shading, , through landscaping or building design features, for pedestrians along street frontages as well as interior project areas shall be provided. • Pedestrian focal points, such as community gardens, plazas, courtyards, piazzas, etc., shall'be provided in public and private projects where deemed appropriate. Consideration shall be given to existing surroundings and the project relationship to the overall circulation in the vicinity. • Paving accents, interlocking stones/tiles, and other materials and patterns shall be employed in all Village projects so as to define pedestrian zones and spaces, and maintain separation from vehicle tra ffic. • Building frontages along streets require adequate space for pedestrian movement, street furnishings and outdoor spaces, but shall also maintain a close proximity to pedestrian travel ways. • Pedestrian links shall be incorporated in all public and private development projects. Linking shall consider the existing pedestrian environment and provide for future access p ten tial. • The City shall consider linking pedestrian areas created by private and public projects into a Villa e- wide system, once development activity demonstrates the potential need. Attached as the Appendix to these Guidelines are excerpts from various design documents, which visually represent some of the concepts referred to. //. C. SITE AND BU/LD/NG DES/GN The main focus of the site and building design portions of these Guidelines is to promote the element of human scale, consistent with the objective of creating a pedestrian environment in The Village. 1. Building Character • Building mass and scale shall be compatible with that of surrounding structures. Buildings shall be designed with appropriate architectural variation and detailing to break . up monotonous building elevations. Treatments such as graduated heights, balconies, recessed and extended building sections, staggered setbacks, etc. should be employed. • Buildings located on corners shall attempt to orient pedestrian entryways to the corner,. providing an opportunity for a small entry court or plaza, water feature location, etc. This also allows for better intersection visibility. • Retail buildings along s tree t frontages shall be close to the street and sidewalk areas 'to promote window shopping and streetside activity. • Commercial buildings shall be- enhanced- e- enhanced- with various architectural elements such as arcades, trellises, porches, bays, towers and balconies, with the intent of promoting the pedestrian environment. • Buildings shall incorporate design elements that draw in pedestrians and reinforce street activities, especially along streets such as Calle Estado and Avenida La Fonda. • Variations in floor levels, steps and stairs, building faces, roof forms and other treatments that help create the appearance of a smaller project shall be encouraged. Building heights shall gradually transition between each other. In order to preserve mountain views and the intrinsic qualities of The Village environment, building height shall not exceed 2 stories. However, architec tural features integral to the building design and which contribute to a consistent building appearance ' ' and scale should be permitted to exceed any prescribed ,height limit to a reasonable extent. 2. Site Design and Activity Space As an area that promotes outdoor activities, proper design of outdoor spaces isessential to The Village. These spaces must provide for both passive and active outdoor needs, from sitting quietly to accommodating an art display or outdoor musical performance. • Courtyards and other types of pedestrian and passive open space shall be provided when off- site parking scenarios are employed. • Layout of building sites in The Village shall consider movement of pedestrians as significant as the movement of vehicles. Adjacent retail and mixed-use projects shall consider use of pedestrian alleys, which can be used to lure pedestrians to interior shop areas, plazas, courtyards, restaurants, etc. These can be used effectively to create a desire to explore a given space, drawing pedestrians to different activity areas. • The site layout for any project shall demonstrate adequate capacity for the use envisioned (e.g., an outdoor cafe will require greater streetside setback than a typical retail store); otherwise the use should not be allowed. • Water features shall be incorporated into projects where appropriate. • Structures shall be sited to create internal spaces, with pedestrian access available from the street or off-street parking areas. • Entries into shops and offices shall access directly to a pedestrian oriented street or other pedestrian access; single access multiple tenant buildings should be discouraged. -11- -12- I //.D. ACCESSORY PROVISIONS buildings they relate to, and be in good scale and proportion to the structures. Streetscape Village Entry Identification Signs shall be established at key • Public and private development intersection locations around The projects shall encourage and Village area, and shall be facilitate provision of street supplemented with Village furnishings, such as bicycle directional signs where racks, trash receptacles, benches, appropriate. The following key drinking fountains, etc. intersection locations are I ides tified: • Street furniture shall be appropriately sited and should not Washington Street and obstruct or block pedestrian Calle Tampico travel, or interfere with sidewalk Eisenhower Drive and Calle businesses. Tampico ° A venida Bermudas and 52' ° The ' City shall investigate Avenue establishing a streetside banner mast program, to be used for Additional or alternate locations announcing and defining the area may be identified and designated for special events such as as may be deemed appropriate. Mainstreet Marketplace. Street lighting posts could be used as Entry and directional signs shall the banner masts. be monument type, with indirect lighting. Sign designs shall • The formation of a Downtown incorporate common landscaping Business Association, which and design characteristics. would address issues such as a business improvement district, Directional signs shall be in attraction, retention and other appropriate proportion to entry assistance efforts, shall be sign design. encouraged. Project applications involving 2. Signing specified locations will be required to participate in establishing these signs, in ° Building signs shall be designed concert with any City or other as an integral feature of the -13- -14- established procedures or programs in effect at such time. 3. Lighting/ Landscaping • Lighting shall be maintained at a low level and limited primarily to landscaped areas; consistent with the Outdoor Light Control Ordinance. • Any building mounted lighting shall be designed to highlight building en tries, drama tize specific architectural Matures and accentuate light and shadow to articulate facades. Landscaping treatments shall be provided to enhance architectural features and to provide shade for pedestrian and parking areas. • Continuity of landscape design shall be maintained between adjacent developments. • Standards for tree wells and street trees shall be prepared and adopted. • Where building sites limit the available planting area, the placement of trees in parkways and paved areas shall be encouraged. • Screening of parking areas, utility boxes, servicing and waste enclosures, and other unsightly areas shall be accomplished by using combinations of landscaping, walls and earthen berms. Hearty species shall be used to insure year-round effectiveness. Attached as the Appendix to these Guidelines are excerpts from various design documents, which visually, represent some of the concepts referred to. -15- -16- REFERENCES • City, of Belmont, CA; Design Control District, Belmont Zoning Ordinance, 1996 • City of Downey, CA; General Plan Design Element, 1992 • City of La Quinta, CA; Village at La Quinta Specific Plan, SP 87-009, 1988. I • City of La Verne, CA; General Plan Design Element, 1990 • City of Merced, CA; Merced Village Design Guidelines, 1991 • City of San Bernardino, CA: - Property Development Standards, Development Code, 1991 - Main Street Overlay District, Development Code, 1991 • City of Seattle, WA; Making Streets That Work, Seattle Engineering Department and the Office of Planning and Management, May 1996 • County of Santa Cruz, CA; Felton Town Plan, 1987 Mil 0111061MA, 4 0 4 1 a 13 Q4 • Peter Calthorpe; The Next American Metropolis: Ecology, Community and the American Dream, Princeton Architectural Press, 1993 • CSPU Pomona, Department of Urban and Regional Planning; Class 431 /432 Design Studio, conducted by Professor Richard E. Lloyd Chamber of Commerce, October 1996 to July 1997: - "The Village" Study and Improvement Proposals, April 1997 - Village Impressions: Design Images for La Quinta Village -17- exercise for U RP for the La Quinta APPENDIX: GRAPHIC EXAMPLES OF DESIGN GUIDELINE REPRESENTATIONS M C D bpw Cd vi � U U O .550 S. °o H ^ a • cd [ o u u CA e' W v� o 'd '� CCJ H V) d o rA o a c c a C V . C$g ch .ed C'..a `O ,� C 'O c �v H eA u y c V C O K U y 3 '> ed E o u d .550 H ^ a u u o e' > h 3 N d o o a c c a C A . .� U o 'b > N C 'O c C c V C O K U y 3 '> ed E o u , O(D jr Building Design Multi-level structures include covered patios on the ground floor and balconies above. A variety of building elements can be used to create trellises for shade on balconies and increase design appeal. A variety of components can be used to create different and unusual effects. Wood, stucco, glass and iron work produce textures that are interesting and inviting. Planter boxes permit landscape materials to grow just about anywhere. Structures are transformed and softened with plants. Window openings should be proportionate to the buildings, should be multi -pained and allow maximum light at each level. ilk 'At -q a�— Stairway at Tlaquepaque Arcade ' l !• f�" .. �-, Decorative wooden balcony MIRMI lu Street Furniture Design Bus stops, newspaper racks, public telephones, and other services should be housed in similarly designed architectural structures. These are functional items that should not be left out of the design scheme. Carefully designed street furniture helps build character for the street and creates consistency in the Village. die r�� Fountains are important visual elements for streetscape. They provide decoration for open spaces and courtyards. They should be designed to enhance and complement the surroundings. The sound of running water is also soothing and stimulates relaxation and comfort. Sidewalk Design Pla7.a anti rardem T-)P.qiun Sidewalk design is important to the success of the Village. Sidewalks need to provide comfort, safety and visual stimulation for pedestrian traffic. Trees that hang over the sidewalk provide protection from the hot desert sun. Trees are also visually interesting and offer a variety of shades of green and color. Sidewalk construction should consist of a combination of diverse textures, materials, and patterns. Creative designs and colors break up the dull image of a regular concrete sidewalk. Streetscape Design r om t Building frontages are essential to the downtown pedestrian character of the village. The building should provide openings at street level, to allow display windows for pedestrians and passing traffic. These large windows provide visual interest, and encourages pedestrian activity. Buildings Buildings should be designed to increase activity. Restaurants and entertainment adjacent to major pedestrian paths increase traffic in the Village. Outdoor uses should be encouraged in the Village. should be designed to locate high activity uses such as restaurants and entertainment„ adjacent to major pedestrian paths. Outdoor uses are especially encouraged along pedestrian paths Minimal parking spaces in front of buildings ensures a pedestrian friendly atmosphere. Streetscape Design Street Furniture There are several kinds of street furniture: benches, drinking fountains, kiosks, clocks and others. Be careful to locate street furniture away from crosswalks, curb cuts, fire hydrants, loading and bus zones. Remember that sidewalks must have five feet of clear passage to ensure pedestrian safety. best used if The community wants to: • increase social activity on a street • add distinctive features that help identify an area • provide places to sit or get information (from kiosks or signs) best used If • the entire block would like to plant trees along their street • neighborhood has a plan for the final design of their street • tree placement does not block existing street lighting • a neighborhood plan identifies streets that are most appro- priate for street tree projects • there is both adequate space for trees and for a minimum sidewalk width. Flower Planters and Banners Street Trees Flower planters are a delightful way to show off a business district. The use of district—wide "cross - street" or "pole" banners are an effective way to advertise upcoming events or to identify an area. best used If • community wishes to add attractive detail to the street • community would like to create a visual link throughout entire business district • community would like to promote an area or special event • neighborhood consensus favors a consistent planter or banner. program. Calle Estado/La Fonda: Schematic Street Plan .................................................... ........ One-way ....... Pedestrian path One-way .................................................................. ...................... F .... ................... 10' sidewalk 1.2' parking Nater ftaturc i Za' travel 36' center i median - usable as pedestrian promenade The above plan is a conceptual view based on the existing 100 -foot R.O.W. on both Calle Estado and La Fonda. Travel way, sidewalk, median widths, etc. would be adjusted based on desired intent for pedestrian/vehicular traffic accommodation, appropriate City standards and changes in design concept as shown. Planter areas, fountains, art pieces and pedestrian walks are some of the improvements which are contemplated for the central median concept. Angle parking could be incorporated into such a median, or permitted in lieu of the parallel parking scheme shown here. More Traffic Calming.. . Pedestrian Refuge Islands i Pedestrian refuges are raised islands in the center of the street protecting the pedestrian from moving traffic. They allow pedestrians an opportunity to cross one half of the roadway, with a safe place to stop before crossing the second half of the roadway. They are typically constructed at marked crosswalks either at a midblock location or at an intersection. Full Street Closure A full closure is a physical barrier that closes the street to motor vehicles. Usually landscaped, a full closure can be built to accommodate pedestrians, bicycles and wheelchairs. best used If • street is used as a cut—through route • a less restrictive device cannot address concerns • there is a desire to create a pedestrian place. Partial Street Closure A partial closure is a curb bulb that physically blocks one direction of traffic at an intersection on an otherwise two—way street. A temporary partial closure is accomplished through striping and signs (No Right Turn, No Left Turn, Do Not Enter). Traffic Calming'Techniques Choker A choker is a set of two curb bulbs that extend out into the street. A choker narrows the road, sometimes down to one lane, and causes motorists to slow when entering and exiting the street. Curb bulbs extend the sidewalk into the street. The bulbs, which may be landscaped, improve pedestrian crossings by providing better visibility between pedestrians and motorists, shortening the crossing distance, and reducing the time that pedestrians are in the street. Curb bulbs located at the inter- section also prevent people from parking in a crosswalk or blacking a curb ramp. Curb bulbs may encourage motorists to drive more slowly by restricting turning speeds and narrowing the roadway. Marked Crosswalks .m i Curb Bulbs U 1 Legal crosswalks exist at all intersections, but they are not always marked by signs or pavement markings. Crosswalks can be marked at intersections and at midblock locations. Marked crosswalks alert motorists that they are approaching a high pedestrian location, and guide pedestrians to a safer crossing. Crosswalks are usually marked lines, either two parallel lines or a ladder—type pattern. They can also be -tex- tured or made of colored concrete. Midblock crosswalks are accompanied by signs or flashing beacons. # 9.65.010 6Chapter 9.65 VILLAGE C011ERCIAL DISTRICT* Sections: 9.65..010 Introduction. 9.65.020 Permitted uses. 9.65.030 General development standards. 9.65.040 Village use permit review process. * Prior ordinance history: Ord. 284 11 Exh. A. 9.65.010 Introduction. A. Role of The Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines. The provisions of this chapter, regulating uses and structures within The Village at La Quinta area, implement the concepts and guidance set forth in The Villate at La Quinta Design Guidelines ("guidelines'. Land uses and development proposed in The Village area shall be designed and evaluated in conjunction with those guidelines. B. purpose of Design and Development. The following purpose statements reflect the design concepts envisioned by the guidelines: 1. Develop The Village area as a year-round commercial, residential and recreational location, serving residents and guests of the greater La Quinta community; 2. promote development standards to accommodaite projects and activities which will provide goods, services and housing in a design environment supportive of the concepts set out in the guidelines: promoting pedestrian accessibility and scale, maintaining connections to La Quinta's artistic and architectural heritage, and guiding design to acknowledge and embrace the desert environment. (Ord. 323 § 3 (Exh. B) (part), 1998) 9.65.020 Permitted uses. A, permitted uses in the VC zoning district will combine essential day-to-day neighborhood goods and services, tourism and visitor -based retail and entertainment opportunities, and facilities necessary for the operational demands of such uses. B. The following uses are permitted in the VC zoning district with approval of a Village use permit (VUP), ptusuant to the procedures set forth in Section 9_+65.040. Where a determination on a particular use is necessary, it shall be made pursuant to Section 9.65-040(C)- 1. Single and multifamily dwellings. Such uses include town homes, condominiums, apartments and similar housing types. Residential density shall be deterrrined on a site specific basis; based on the development capacity for the proposed project uses on the site. The ul timate decision on density shall rest with the planning commission; 2. Commercial guest lodging (including bed and breakfast) and associated uses, such as retail shops, restaurants and conference rooms; 3. Indoor or outdoor professional art studios, displays and/or galleries, for all artistic endeavors and production, to include dance, painting, sculpting, ceramics, jewelry, glass blowing, photography, hand -made furniture, stone cutting, and similar activities. There may be sales, presentations and displays or demonstrations to the public; 4. Professional service offices providing limited sales, such as medical, dental, veterinary clinic, dietician, optician„ catering, attomey, real estate, banking, mortgage broker, social and community service offices, property management, financial services, beautician, barber, reproduction service, tailor, cleaners and laundry, postal services, services such as shoe, watch, jewelry and bicycle repair, and similar uses. Offices with larger scale service aspects, such as limousine and auto rental services, are permitted (vehicles may be stored in the district). Uses such as construction management offices are permitted provided construction materials and job equipment are not kept on premises; 5. prepared food service for on-site consumption, drive-in and drive-through, and/or carry -out, including fast-food restaurants, delicatessen, tea, coffee and ice cream shops, pizzerias, and similar uses; 6. prepared food sold specifically for on-site consumption, with indoor/outdoor seating. Such uses include fine dining and other low to medium turnover restaurants; cocktail lounges, dinner clubs, sports bar/lounge, 257 cr.a Qa;m 3-M # 9.65.020 bar/grill, night clubs and similar uses, with alcohol sales for on-site consumption only, along with live, recorded or other entertainment in or outdoors such as music and/or dancing, karaoke, arcade games, pool, billiard or shuffleboard tables, etc.; 7. Public indoor assembly/entertainment facilities; such'as auditoriums, theaters, dinner theaters, conference center, gymnasium facilities, concert halls and related uses; . 8. Indoor facilities for education, training, self-help and improvement, hobbies, or vocational purposes, both public and private. These may be located in any facility which can accommodate the use, such as ability to meet occupancy requirements, etc.; - . 9. Indoor/outdoor cultural, historic and similar displays and galleries for all types of artifacts and/or artistic media, such as museums, auction houses and consignment rooms. Such uses may include sale of display art pieces; 10. Retail merchandise sales of limited goods (goods that can be carried out and hauled by the customer), such as antiques, appliances, bicycles, wholesale and/or retail foods, newspaper and magazines, tobacco products, kitchen and bath shops, video and audio equipment, clothing, pets and pet supplies, office equipment and supplies, party and/or costume rentals, sporting good.,, home furnishings, hardware and home improvement, and other related uses.. C. The permitted uses in The Village area do not preclude other similar uses which are compatible with the specifically identified uses and otherwise meet the criteria for Village use permits. (Ord. 323 § 3 (Exh. B) (kart), 1998) 9,65,030 {General development standards. A, purpose. This section outlines the development standards to .be adhered to in the VC zoning district. These relate primarily to the performance standards commonly, associated with typical zoning enforcement, such as parking, setbacks, and height limits. This district is to be considered as stand-alone, in that application of the overall zoning code to Village area projects shall be accomplished through design review during the Village use permit process, prioritizing the guideline concepts and the VC zoning district above the applicable zoning code standards. 1. Setbacks. Setback criteria shall be determined based on the existing site conditions and surroundings, in conjunction with the guidelines and the proposed project characteristics. a. Along La Fonda and Calle Estado, between Avenida Bermudas and Desert Club Drive, a minimum of ten feet must be provided from property lines fronting on those streets and at their intersections, to allow for pedestrian access. b. Setbacks along side and rear property lines are not required; however, any setback provided must be made wide or deep enough to be usable space, such as for pedestrian access to side -loading commercial space, stairwells, or through -access between front and rear of the building(s). c. Arcades, trellises, awnings and similar architectural treatments are exempt from setback requirements, but must be designed to accentuate a pedestrian atmosphere, the proposed use(s), and the project architecture. d. Upper floors of buildings shall be designed to be set behind the immediately lower floor, to achieve a terraced effect. This reduces the appearance of mass to the structure, allows for upper floor outdoor areas and walkways, and enhances pedestrian scale. e. projects with any retail commercial components shall maintain a minimum ten -foot landscaped setback from any RVL, RL or RMH zoned properties. 2. Heights. Building height shall be limited to thirty-five feet, or two stories, for main building mass. Architectural and roof projections not providing habitable or otherwise usable space, such as chimneys, spires, finials, and similar features shall be pernutted to extend up to three feet above the maximum structure height. Structure height shall be measured pursuant to zoning; code Section 9.50.050. 3. parking. Parking area requirements for permitted uses shall be determined by staff asset forth in Chapter 9.150 of the zoning code, with the following consideration: a. All current parking regulations shall be applicable, such as required number of stalls, space and aisle dimensions, location of parking areas, etc. However, in the VC zoning district, variations to any parking standards can be approved. Such site specific findings may include the ability to provide off-site parking potentially 40 including payment of in -lieu fees. 4. Landscaping. Project landscaping shall be provided to implement the guidelines and existing city policies. (c, QWm 3.99) 258 9.65.030 5. Screening. Project parking service area and trash enclosure screening shall be provided to implement the guidelines and existing city policies. 6. Lighting. Project landscape, parking, building and pedestrian lighting shall be provided to implement the guidelines and existing city policies. 7. Special Sign Allowances. For Village area development, it is determined that in order to preserve the greater aesthetic benefits and historic character of The Village area, designated landmarks or historic resources, as defined in Chapter 7.02 of this code, are considered exempt from the regulations set forth in Chapter 9.160, with the exception that any signs proposed shall be subject to obtaining an approved sign program through the certificate of appropriateness process for historic buildings and structures. (Ord. 323 § 3 (Exh. B) (part), 1998) 9.65,040 Village use permit review process. A. pulse and Intent. This section is intended to provide for specific design review procedures for uses and projects proposed in The Village area. B. Prelirninary Development Plans. Any potential project applicant in The Village area has the option to file a preliminary development plan (PDP) to ascertain anticipated conditions, requirements and costs associated with a proposal. This allows the applicant to be informed of any potentially significant issues which may affect any decision to pursue the project_ There shall be no fees charged to any applicant who wishes to utilize this process, which offers the following advantages: 1. Provides a comprehensive overview of city applications, fees, and other requirements necessary to obtain project approval, in writing; 2. Provides previous project background which can speed up the formal approval process when the project is submitted; 3. The written information can be used as the basis for an estimate of project costs, in order to determine a project's viability. Submittal for this process consists of five sets of a site plan, floor plan and four -point elevations, in conceptual format, and a brief, written project overview which should list the site location, assessor's number, acreage, etc. Within thirty calendar days of receipt of a preliminary development plan application, a review letter shall be issued to the applicant, incorporating all comments received during the review period. C. Interpretations on Permitted Uses. Where it is unclear as to whether a use is permitted, a request for an interpretation of the use in question may be made, in writing, to the community development director. Within ten calendar days of receipt of such a request, the director shall either render a decision on the request or inform- the inquiring party of deferral of his decision to the planning commission. A written decision to defer to the planning commission shall specify the earliest available planning commission meeting for the decision to be considered to be no later than thirty calendar days from the date of the director's notice of deferral. A decision by the director or planning commission may be appealed pursuant to Section 9.2.0.040. W-10owD. Village Use Permit Requirements. All new development proposals in The Village area shall be required to file an application for a village use permit. A "new development proposal" is defined as any ofthe following. 1. New building construction proposed for vacant property or associated with demolition and reconstruction of an existing building; 2. Any change of use exceeding fifty percent or more of the building floor area of the originally permitted use; and 3. Any expansion/addition to an existing use comprising a twenty-five percent or more increase in the existing building's net floor area. Village use permits shall be subject to review by she planning commission as a public hearing. E. Any proposal in the VC zoning district determined as not meeting the criteria in subsection D of this section shall be subject to review as either a minor or major deviation. 1. Minor deviations maybe approved by the community development department with no public healing or other formal review process. A n3inor deviation is any proposal not meeting the criteria in subsection D of this section, which constitutes a change of less than five percent of any approved or existing building area; columns, dormer vents, window size changes, plant -on locations, color and stucco texture changes. 2. Major deviations are subject to review and approval by the planning commission. A major deviation is any proposal not meeting the criteria in subsection D of this section, which constitutes a change of five 259 (1a Quints 3.99) a s aA QWM 3.-M 260 9.65.040 •percent to twenty-five percent for any approved or existing building area; any exterior architectural modification not determined to be a minor deviation. 3. Major deviations shall be processed under the site development permit process, as set forth under Section 9.210.010. F. Findings for Approval. The following findings shall be made by the decision-making authority prior to the approval of any village use permit: . 1. Consistency with General Plan. The development of the proposed use is consistent with the La Quinta general plan; 2. Consistency with Zoning Code. The development of the proposed use is consistent with the La Quinta zoning code; 3. Compliance with CEQA. The proposed Village use permit application has been processed in compliance with -the requirements of CEQA; 4. Surrounding Uses. Approval of the proposed Village use permit will not create conditions materially detrimental to the public health, safety and general welfare, or injurious to or incompatible with other properties or land uses in the vicinity; 5. Architectural Design. The architectural design of the project, including but not limited to the architectural style, scale, building mass, materials, colors, architectural details, roof style, and other architectural elements are compatible with surrounding development and the quality of design illustrated in the Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines; 6. Site Design. The site design of the project, including but not limited to project entries, interior circulation, pedestrian and bicycle access, pedesu-ian amenities, screening of equipment and trash enclosures, exterior lighting, and other site design elements are compatible with surrounding development and the quality of design illustrated in the Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines; 7. Landscape Design. Project landscaping, including but not limited to the location, type, size, color, texture and coverage of plant materials, has been desiigned so as to provide visual relief, complement buildings, visually emphasize prominent design elements and vistas, screen undesirable views, provide a harmonious land between development open space, and an overall unifying transition between adjacent uses and and provide influence design, and elements of the Village use permit are compatible with surrounding development and The concepts of the Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines; 8. Sign programs. Per Section 9.160.090 (Sign permit review), in order to approve a planned sign program the decision-making authorit-y must find that.- hat:a. a.The sign program is consistent with the purpose and intent of Chapter 9.160 (Signs), b. The sign program is in harmony and visually related to: i. All signs within the planned sign program, via the incorporation of several common design elements such as materials, letter style, colors, illumination, sign type or sign shape, ii. The buildings they identify. This may be accomplished by utilizing materials, colors or design motif included in the building -being identified, iii. Surrounding development. Implementation of the planned sign program will not adversely affect surround- ing land uses or obscure adjacent conforming signs. E. Appeals, Amendments and Time Extensions. Appeals, amendments and time extensions relating to Village use permits shall be reviewed pursuant to Chapter 9.200 of this title. (Ord. 323 § 3 (Exh. B) (part), 1998) s aA QWM 3.-M 260 RESOLUTION NO. 98-76 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING THE VILLAGE AT LA QUINTA DESIGN GUIDELINES VILLAGE AT LA QUINTA DESIGN GUIDELINES WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of La Quinta, California, did on the 7th day of July, 1998, hold a duly -noticed Public Hearing to consider a recommendation on adoption of The Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines; and, WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of La Quinta, California, did on the 26`h day of May, 1998, hold a duly -noticed Public Hearing to consider a recommendation on adoption of The Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines; and, WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, the Planning Commission did in fact recommend that the City Council adopt The Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines; and, WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of The Rules to Implement the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970" (as amended; Resolution 83-68 adopted by the La Quinta City Council) in that the' Community Development Department has prepared an Initial Study (EA 98-353); and, WHEREAS, the Community Development Director has determined that said Guidelines will not have a significant adverse effect on the environment and that a Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact should be filed; and WHEREAS, upon hearing and considering all testimony and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring tb be heard, said City Council did find the following facts, findings, and reasons to justify adoption of said Guidelines: 1. The recommended Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines are consistent with the goals, objectives and policies of the La Quinta General Plan, as they incorporate the General Plan land use and design concepts as stated therein. 2. The recommended Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines will not have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, as The Village area, under the Guidelines, will not be developed in any manner inconsistent with the General Plan and other current City standards. F:\CITYCLRK\COUNCIL\PLANNING\Res 98-76.wpd Resolution 98 -76 Adopted 7/7/98 Page 3 ATTEST: iUNDRA L. JUHOLA, City Clerk City of La Quinta, California APPROVED AS TO FORM: DAWN C. HONEYWELL, City Attorney City of La Quinta, California F:\CITYCLRK\COUNCIL\PLANNING\Res 98-76.wpd Ordinance 323 Adopted 7/20/98 Page 2 3. The recommended Zoning Code Amendment is consistent with applicable provisions of the City's Zoning Code, as adoption of the proposed zoning revisions will permit uses which allow project types desired in The Village area and similar to those already contemplated under ultimate development of the La Quinta General Plan, and which were addressed in the EIR previously certified for the General Plan. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of ,La Quinta, California does ordain as follows: Seclim 1. That the Recitals set forth above are true and correct and are incorporated herein by this reference. Section 2. That Chapter 9.64 to the La Quinta Charter and Municipal Code, entitled "Village Overlay District", is hereby created and established as fully set forth in Exhibit "A" attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. tin 3. That prior Chapter 9.65 to the La Quinta Charter and Municipal Code entitled "Village Commercial" is hereby revised and established as fully set forth in Exhibit "B" attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall, be in full force and effect thirty (30) days after its adoption. POSTING. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Ordinance, and shall cause the same to be posted in at least three public places designated by resolution of the City Council and the same shall be in full force and effect immediately after its adoption, and shall cause this Ordinance and its certification, together with proof of posting, to be entered into the Book of Ordinances of this City. The foregoing Ordinance was approved and adopted at a meeting of the City Council held on this 20" day of July, 1998, by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Adolph, Henderson, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Pena NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None F:\CITYCLRK\COUNCIL\PLANNING\Ord 323.wpd ORDINANCE ,NO. 323 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,'CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A ZONING CODE AMENDMENT TO TITLE .9 OF THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE, ADDING CHAPTER 9.64, VILLAGE OVERLAY DISTRICT, AND REVISING -CHAPTER 9.65, FOR THE VILLAGE COMMERCIAL DISTRICT r ZONING CODE AMENDMENT. 98-060 CITY OF LA QUINTA WHEREAS,' the City Council of the City of La Quinta, California, did on the 71' day of July, 1998, hold a duly -noticed Public Hearing to consider a recommendation on Zoning Code Amendment 98-060; and, WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of La Quinta, California, did on the 26`'' day of May, 1998, hold a- duly -noticed Public Hearing to consider a recommendation on Zoning Code Amendment 98-060; and, WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, the Planning Commission did in fact recommend that the City Council adopt Zoning Code Amendment 98-060; and, WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of The Rules to Implement the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970" (as amended; Resolution 83-68 adopted by the La Quinta City Council) in that the Community Development Department has prepared an Initial Study (EA 98-353); and, WHEREAS, the Community Development Director has determined that said applications will not have a significant adverse effect on the environment and that a Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact should be filed; and WHEREAS, upon hearing and considering all testimony and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said City Council did find the following facts, findings, and reasons to justify adoption of said Zoning Code Amendment: 1. The recommended Zoning Code Amendment will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or general welfare of the community, either indirectly or directly, in that no significant impacts have been identified. 2. The recommended Zoning Code Amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives and policies of the La Quinta General Plan, in that adoption of these revisions will further the protection of the health, safety and general welfare of the citizens of La Quinta, and protection of the physical environment desired in The Village area. F:\CITYCLRK\COUNCIL\PLANNING\Ord 323.wpd Ordinance 323 Adopted 7/20/96 Page 3 �J JOHN*PEH, yor City of La Quinta, California ATT, §AUNDRA L. JUHOLA, City Clerk City of La Quinta, California APPROVED AS TO FORM: DAWN C. HONEYIN LL, City Attorney City of La Quinta, California F:\CITYCL'RK\COUNCIL\PLANNING\Ord 323.wpd STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss. CITY OF LA QUINTA ) I, SAUNDRA L. JUHOLA, City Clerk of the City of La Quinta, California, do hereby certify the foregoing to be a full, true and correct' copy of Ordinance No. 323 which was introduced ori the 7T" day of July, 1998 and was adopted at a regular meeting held on the 201' day of July, 1998 not being less than 5 days after date of introduction thereof. I fu her certify that the foregoing ordinance was posted in three (3) places within the Cit f La Quinta as specified in a resolution of the City Council. J.AUNDRA L. JUHOLA, City Clerk City of La Quinta, California DECLARATION OF POSTING I, SAUNDRA L. JUHOLA, City Clerk of the City of La Quinta, California, do hereby cern y that the foregoing ordinance was posted on July 30, 1998 pursuant to City Co cil Resolution. AUNDRA L. JUHOLA, City Clerk City of La Quinta, California EXHIBIT A CHAPTER 9.64: VILLAGE OVERLAY DISTRICT Sections: 9.64.010 9.64.020 9.64.030 9.64.040 9.64.010 Introduction Introduction Applicability Permitted Uses Village Entry Identification Signs A. The provisions of this Chapter implement an overlay zoning district for the area covered by The Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines, as set forth in the document containing said Guidelines. 9.64.020 Applicability A. The Village Overlay District (VDD) shall apply within the boundaries,of the Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines, as established in the Guidelines document and as may be amended by resolution of the City Council. Notwithstanding the requirements set out in this Chapter, the provisions of the underlying zoning district shall be in effect and govern development and permitted uses for properties located in said underlying district. The Village Overlay District shall be appropriately designated on tate City's official Zoning Map 9.64.030 Permitted Uses A. Permitted uses in the Village Overlay District shall be as set forth in the underlying zone district in which the proposed or existing use is located. 9.64.040 Village Entry Identification Signs A Signs identifying key entry locations to The Village shall be incorporated as set forth in The Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines. Directional signs as determined appropriate and in accordance with the Design Guidelines are also permitted. Temporary Village directional signs are permitted as established in Chapter 9.160, SIGNS. B . Village Entry Identification sign design shall be in accordance with the Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines. Unless a City -initiated program for design and installation of these signs is in place, permit applications at potential locations shall be reviewed for any required dedication, establishment or other participation in locating and erecting the identification signs. EXHIBIT B CRAFTER' 9.65: VILLAGE COMMERCIAL DISTRICT Sections: 9.65.010 Introduction 9.65.020 Permitted Uses 9.65.030 General Development Standards 9.65.040 Village Use Permit Review Process 9.65.010 Introduction A. Role of The Pillage at La Quinta Design Guidelines - The provisions of this Chapter, regulating uses and structures within The Village at La Quinta area; implement the concepts and guidance set forth in The Vuilage at La Quina Design Guidelines (Guidelines). Land uses and development proposed in The Village area shall be designed and evaluated in conjunction with those Guidelines. B. purpose of Design and Development - The following purpose statements reflect the design concepts envisioned by the Guidelines. 1. Develop The Village area as a year-round commercial, residential and recreational location, serving residents and guests of the greater La Quinta community. 2. Promote development standards to accommodate projects and activities which will provide goods, services and housing in a design environment supportive of the concepts set out in the Guidelines: promoting pedestrian accessibility and scale, maintaining connections to La Quinta's artistic and architectural heritage, and guiding design to acknowledge and embrace the desert environment. 9.65.020 Permitted Uses Permitted uses in the VC Zoning District will combine essential day-to-day neighborhood goods and services, tourism and visitor -based retail and entertainment opportunities, and facilities necessary for the operational demands of such uses. B. The following uses are permitted in the VC Zoning District with approval of a Village Use Permit (VUP), pursuant to the procedures set forth in Section 9.65.050. Where a determination on a particular use is necessary, it shall be made pursuant to Section 9.65.050-C. Single and multi -family dwellings. Such uses include town homes, condominiums, apartments and similar housing types. Residential density shall be determined on a site specific basis, based on the development capacity for the proposed project uses on the site. The ultimate decision on density shall rest with the Planning Commission. ?_ Commercial guest lodging (including bed and breakfast) and associated uses, such as retail shops, restaurants and conference rooms. ;. Indoor or outdoor professional art studios. displays and/or galleries, for all artistic endeavors and production, to include dance,'painting, sculpting, ceramics, jewelry, glass blowing, photography, hand -made furniture, stone cutting, and similar activities. There may be sales, presentations and displays or demonstrations to the public. 4. Professional service offices providing limited- sales, such as medical, dental, veterinary clinic, dietician, optician, catering attorney, real estate, banking, mortgage broker, social and community service offices, property management, financial services, beautician, barber, reproduction service, tailor, cleaners and laundry, postal services, services such as shoe, watch, jewelry and bicyclerepair, and similar uses. Offices with larger scale service aspects, such as limousine and auto rental services, are permitted (vehicles may be stored in the Districtl. Uses such as construction management offices are permitted provided construction materials and job equipment are not kept on premise. 5. Prepared food service for on-site consumption, drive-in and drive-through, and/or carry -out, including fast-food restaurants, delicatessen, tea, coffee and ice cream shops, pizzerias, and similar uses. 6. Prepared food sold specifically for on-site consumption, with indoor/outdoor seating. Such uses include fine dining and other low to medium turnover restaurants; cocktail lounges, dinner clubs, sports bar/lounge, bar/grill, night clubs and similar uses; with alcohol sales for on-site consumption only, along with live, recorded or other entertainment in or outdoors such as music and/or dancing, karaoke; arcade games, pool, billiard or shuffleboard tables, etc. 7, Public indoor assembly/entertainment facilities, such as auditoriums, theaters, dinner theaters, conference center, gymnasium facilities. concert halls and related uses. 8. Indoor facilities for education, training, self-help and improvement, hobbies, or vocational purposes, both public and private. These may be located in any facility which can accommodate the use, such as ability to meet occupancy requirements, etc. 9_ Indoor/outdoor cultural, historic and similar displays and galleries for all types of artifacts and/or artistic media, such as museums, auction houses and consignment rooms. Such uses may include sale of display art pieces. 10. Retail merchandise sales of limited goods (goods that can be carried out and hauled by the customer), such as antiques, appliances, bicycles, wholesale and/or retail foods, newspaper and magazines, tobacco products, kitchen and bath shops, video and audio equipment, clothing, pets and pet supplies, office equipment and supplies, party and /or costume rentals, sporting goods, home furnishings, hardware and home improvement, and other related uses. The permitted uses in The Village area do not preclude other similar uses which are compatible with the specifically identified uses and otherwise meet the criteria for Village Use Permits. 9.65.030 General Development Standards A. Purpose - This Section outlines the development standards. to be adhered to in the VC Zoning District. These relate primarily to the performance standards commonly associated with typical zoning enforcement, such as parking, setbacks, and height limits. This District is to be considered as stand-alone. in that applit+ation of the overall Zoning Code to Village area projects shall .be accomplished through design review during the Village Use Permit process, prioritizing the Guideline concepts and the VC Zoning District above the applicable Zoning Code standards. 1, Setbacks. Setback criteria shall be determined based on the existing site conditions and surroundings, in conjunction with the Guidelines and the proposed project characteristics. a. Along La Fonda and Calle Estado, between Avenida Bermudas and Desert Club Drive, a minimum of 10 feet must be provided from property lines fronting on those streets and at their intersections, to allow for pedestrian access. b. Setbacks along side and rear property lines are not required; however, any setback provided must be made wide or deep enough to be usable space, such as for pedestrian access to side -loading commercial space, stairwells, or through -access between front and rear of the building(s). C. Arcades,. trellises, awnings and similar architectural treatments are exempt from setback requirements, but must be designed to accentuate a pedestrian atmosphere, the proposed use(s), and the project architecture. d. Upper floors of buildings shall be designed to be set behind the immediately lower floor, to achieve a terraced effect. This reduces the appearance of mass to the structure, allows for upper floor outdoor areas and walkways, and enhances pedestrian scale. e. Projects with any retail commercial components shall maintain a minimum 10 foot landscaped setback from any RVL, RL or RMH zoned properties. Heights. Building height shall be limited to 35 feet, or two (2) stories, for main building mass. Architectural and roof projections not providing habitable or otherwise usable space, such as chimneys, spires, finials, and similar features shall be permitted 3. The written information can be used as the basis for an estimate of project costs, in order to determine a project's viability. Submittal for this process consists of five (5) sets of a site plan, floor plan and four -point elevations, in conceptual format, and a brief, written project overview which should list the site location, assessors number, acreage, etc. Within thirty (30) calendar days of receipt of a Preliminary Development Plan application, a review letter shall be issued to the applicant, incorporating all comments received during the review period. C Inierpretan.ons. on Permitted Uses. Where it is unclear as to whether a use is permitted, a request for an interpretation of the use in question may be made, in writing, to the Community Development Director. 'Within ten (10) calendar days of receipt.of a such a request, the Director shall either render a decision on the request or inform the inquiring party of deferral l of his decision to the Planning Commission. A written decision to defer to the Planning Commission shall specify the earliest available Planning Commission meeting for the 'decision to be considered. to be no later.than 30 calendar days from the date of the Director's notice ofdeferral. A decision by the Director or. Planning Commission may be appealed pursuant to Section 9.20.040. D. Village Use Permit Requirements. All new development proposals in the Village area shall be required to file an application for a Village Use Permit. A "new development proposal" is defined as any of the following: l , New building construction proposed for vacant property or associated with demolition and reconstruction of an existing building; 2. Any change of use exceeding 50% or more of the building floor area of the originally permitted use; and, 3. Any expansion/addition to an existing use comprising a 25% or more increase in the existing building's net floor area. Village Use Permits shall be subject to review by the Planning Commission as a Public Hearing. E Any proposal in the VC zoning district determined as not meeting the criteria in Section 9.65.040.13 shall be subject to review as either a Minor or Major Deviation. 1. Minor Deviations may be approved by the Community Development Department with no public hearing or other formal review process. A Minor Deviation is any proposal not meeting the criteria in Section 9.65.040.D, which constitutes a change of less than 5% of any approved or existing building area; columns, dormer vents, window size changes, plant -on locations, color and stucco texture changes. 2. Major Deviations are subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission. A Major Deviation is any proposal not meeting the criteria in Section 9.65.040.D, which r constitutes a change of 5% to 25% for any approved or existing building area. any exterior architectural modification not determined to be a Minor Deviation. Major Deviations shall be processed under the Site Development Permit process, as set forth under Section 9.210.010. F. Findings for Approval. The following -findings shall be made by the decision-making authority prior to the approval of any Village Use Permit: 1. Consistency with General Plan. The development of the proposed use is consistent with the La Quinta General Plan. 2. Consistency with Zoning Code. The development of the proposed use is consistent with the La Quinta Zoning Code. 3. Compliance with CEQA. The proposed Village Use Permit application has been processed in compliance with the requirements of CEQA. . 4. Surrounding Uses. Approval of the proposed Village Use Permit will not create conditions materially detrimental to the public health. safety and.general welfare, or injurious to or incompatible with other properties or land uses in the vicinity. 5. 'Architectural Design. The architectural design of the project, including but not limited to the architectural style, scale, building mass, materials, colors, architectural details, roof style, and other architectural elements are compatible with surrounding development and the quality of design illustrated in the Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines. 6. Site Design. The site design of the project, including but not limited to project entries, interior circulation, pedestrian and bicycle access, pedestrian amenities, screening of equipment and trash enclosures, exterior lighting, and other site design elements are compatible with surrounding development and the quality of design illustrated in the Village at La Quinta Design. Guidelines. 7. Landscape Design. Project landscaping, including but not limited to the location, type, size, color, texture, and coverage of plant materials, has been designed so as to provide visual relief, complement buildings, visually emphasize prominent design elements and vistas, screen undesirable views, provide a harmonious transition between adjacent land uses and between development and open space. and provide an overall unifying influence design and elements of the Village Use Permit are compatible with surrounding development and the concepts of the Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines. 8. Sign Programs. Per Section 9.160.090 (Sign Permit Review), in order to approve a planned sign program the decision-making authority must find that: a. The sign program is consistent with the purpose and intent of Chapter 9.160 (Signs); b. The sign program is in harmony and visually related to: (1) All signs within the planned sign program, via the incorporation of several common design elements such as materials, letter style, colors, illumination, sign type or sign shape. f t (2) The buildings they identify. This may be accomplished by utilizing materials. colors or design motif included in the building being identified. (3) Surrounding development. Implementation of the planned sign program will not adversely affect surrounding land uses or obscure adjacent conforming signs. E. Appeals, Amendmenis and Time Exiensions. Appeals, amendments and time extensions relating to Village Use Permits shall be reviewed pursuant to Chapter 9.200 of this Title. P AV illagerptdocs\V Cord. wpd to extend up to three feet above the maximum structure height. Structure height shall be measured pursuant to Zoning Code Section 9.50.050. 3. Parking. Parking area requirements for permitted uses shall be determined by staff as set forth in Chapter 9.150 of the Zoning Code, with the following consideration: a. All current parking regulations shall be applicable, such as required number of stalls, space and aisle dimensions, location of parking areas, etc. However, i� in the VC Zoning District, variations to -any parking standards can be approved. Such site specific findings may include .the ability to provide off-site parking potentially including payment of in -lieu fees. 4. Landscaping. Project landscaping shall be provided to implement the Guidelines and existing City policies. 5. Screening. Project parking service area and trash enclosure screening shall be provided to implement the Guidelines and existing City policies. 6. Lighting. Project landscape, parking, building and pedestrian lighting shall be provided to implement the Guidelines and existing City policies. 7. Special Sign Allowances. For Village area development, it is determined that in order to preserve the greater aesthetic benefits and historic character of The Village area, designated landmarks or historic resources, as defined in Chapter 7.02 of the La Quinta Municipal Code, are considered exempt from the regulations set forth in Chapter 9.160, with the exception that any signs proposed shall be subject to obtaining an approved sign' program through the Certificate of Appropriateness process for historic buildings and structures. 9.65.040 Village Use Permit Review Process A. Purpose and Intent. This Section. is intended to provide for specific design review procedures for uses and projects proposed in The Village area. B. Preliminary Development Plans. Any potential project applicant in The Village area has the option to file a Preliminary Development Plan (PDP) to ascertain anticipated conditions, requirements and costs associated with a proposal. This allows the applicant to be informed of any potentially significant issues which may affect any decision to pursue the project. There shall be no fees charged to any applicant who wishes to utilize this process, which offers the following advantages: l . Provides a comprehensive overview of City applications, fees, and other requirements necessary to obtain project approval, in writing. 2. Provides previous project background which can speed up the formal approval process when the project is submitted.