City of Garden Grove, CA Section 9.08.040 Single-Family Residential Development Standards

Note: Section ordinance history: 2769 § 1, 2010; 2758 § 2, 2009.

§ 9.08.040.010 Single-Family Residential—General Requirements.

The following general requirements pertain to all residential zoned property and shall be determined to be minimal requirements, unless stated as maximum by this code:

A. Setbacks.

1. Every required setback shall be open and unobstructed from the ground to the sky, aside from landscaping, or unless otherwise specified.

2. No setback or open space provided around any building for the purpose of complying with the provisions of this section shall be considered as providing a setback or open space for any other building or on which a building is to be erected.

B. Modification of Required Front Yard Setbacks on Lots Fronting on the Curves of Cul-de-Sacs or Knuckles.

1. The required front setbacks may be reduced by one-half where:

a. The street pattern of a subdivision includes lots fronting upon cul-de-sac turnarounds or knuckle widenings at right angles or approximate right-angle turns in a street; and

b. Where cul-de-sac or knuckle designs create a greater street width resulting in reduced depth of the lots fronting the cul-de-sac or knuckle widening.

2. The required front setback may be reduced to not less than one-half of the required front setbacks for the zone in which the property is located when the lot line that represents the depth of the lot intersects any portion of the arc formed by the constant radius of a cul-de-sac or knuckle.

C. Permitted Intrusions. The following intrusions may project into any required setback a maximum of two feet.

1. Cornices;

2. Eaves;

3. Belt courses;

4. Sills;

5. Buttresses;

6. Planter boxes;

7. Masonry planters;

8. Guard railings;

9. Chimneys.

D. Lot Area Regulations.

1. Lot area shall not be reduced. No lot area shall be reduced or diminished so that the lot area, setbacks or other open spaces shall be less than prescribed for the zone in which it is located.

2. Substandard Lots. When a lot has less than the minimum required area or width as set forth in the development standards of each zone, or in a site plan, and was of record on November 17, 1960, the lot shall be deemed to have complied with the minimum required lot area or width as set forth in the zone or site plan.

E. Height Limits.

1. Residential buildings shall comply with the requirements shown in the Table of Building Requirements but in no case shall be higher than 35 feet, unless otherwise specified below.

2. Fire or parapet walls, skylights, towers, flagpoles, chimneys, smokestacks, radio masts and similar structures may be erected above the height limits prescribed if done so in conjunction with a development plan or the filing of a conditional use permit.

3. No penthouses or roof structures or any space above the height limit prescribed for the zone and area district in which the building is located shall be allowed for the purpose of providing additional habitable floor spaces, except for the following:

Usable floor space may be provided above allowable heights for religious institution and public, private or parochial schools when employed as a unique structure, tower or spire, subject to a conditional use permit.

F. Placement of Buildings. Placement of buildings on any lot shall conform to the following:

1. No habitable portion of a building shall occupy any portion of any required setback, except as provided for in the development standards addressing permitted intrusions.

2. Any garage or carport that opens directly to any street or alley shall observe a setback of not less than 20 feet unless otherwise permitted by this title.

3. When a garage or carport abuts an alley and the access to the garage or carport is perpendicular to the alley, the building shall not be constructed closer than 20 feet to the centerline of the alley and shall maintain a minimum setback of five feet from the property line.

G. Mechanical Equipment, Metering Devices. All roof and ground mounted mechanical equipment and metering devices shall be screened from view from either on or off the property.

Ground-mounted mechanical equipment, including, but not limited to, water heaters, heating, cooling or ventilating equipment, swimming pool or spa heaters, pumps or filters, may be permitted to be located in a side yard setback on any property improved with a single-family residence, provided that the equipment is screened from view from all public rights-of-way. If required by manufacturer's specifications, equipment may be installed within exterior equipment enclosures. All equipment enclosures, including any flues, accessories, or other appurtenances, shall be painted to match the main house. If the equipment is to be located between a structure and the property line, an unobstructed path at least three feet wide shall be provided between the equipment and the property line.

(2947, 11/28/2023)

§ 9.08.040.020 Residential—General Development Standards.

A. Specific development standards for R-1 (Single-Family Residential) zone are in the following table:

R-1 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS TABLE
Placement	R-1
Setbacks Front (1, 2) Side setback (interior) Street side Rear setback (6)	20 ft. 5 ft. 10 ft. 20% of lot depth not to exceed 25 ft. (Main structures—See diagrams for R-1 required rear yards) 5 ft. (detached accessory structures)
Building height Main structure Accessory structure	Not to exceed 35 ft. 17 ft.
Lot coverage (3)	50%
Maximum front setback coverage (4)	50%
Lot area per dwelling (minimum)	15,000 sq. ft. 11,000 sq. ft. 9,000 sq. ft. 7,200 sq. ft. 6,000 sq. ft. 5,000 sq. ft.
Minimum lot area per lot per zone R-1 (15,000 sq. ft.) R-1 (11,000 sq. ft.) R-1 (9,000 sq. ft.) R-1 (7,200 sq. ft.) R-1 (6,000 sq. ft.) R-1 (5,000 sq. ft.)	15,000 sq. ft. 11,000 sq. ft. 9,000 sq. ft. 7,200 sq. ft. 6,000 sq. ft. 5,000 sq. ft.
Lot width interior lots R-1 (15,000 sq. ft.) R-1 (11,000 sq. ft.) R-1 (9,000 sq. ft.) R-1 (7,200 sq. ft.)	100 ft. 90 ft. 75 ft. 60 ft.
R-1 (6,000 sq. ft.) R-1 (5,000 sq. ft.)	60 ft. 55 ft.
Corner lots R-1 (15,000 sq. ft.) R-1 (11,000 sq. ft.) R-1 (9,000 sq. ft.) R-1 (7,200 sq. ft.) R-1 (6,000 sq. ft.) R-1 (5,000 sq. ft.)	100 ft. 90 ft. 75 ft. 65 ft. 65 ft. 55 ft.

1.	In no case shall the setback be less than 10 feet.
2.	Garages opening directly to the street may be permitted to have an 18-foot setback, but only for properties zoned for 5,000 and 6,000 square foot lots, and provided that the garage is equipped with a roll-up garage door. Garages may be permitted with 15-foot setbacks on properties zoned for 5,000 and 6,000 square foot lots if the garage door is perpendicular to the front property line.
3.	Lot coverage includes all building and structures (primary and accessory) and required uncovered parking areas, and excludes uncovered swimming pools and permeable or semi-permeable recreational surface areas.
4.	Hardscape counted toward maximum coverage percentage includes driveways and pedestrian walkways, excepting portions of driveways that directly lead to a private garage, or legally converted garage, in the following amounts: 200 square feet for a one-car garage, 400 square feet for a two-car garage, 600 square feet for a three-car garage, and 800 square feet for a four-car garage.
5.	Applications for density bonuses may be made as provided for by state law.
6.	Also see Section 9.08.040.030.A.1.

B. When two or more buildings are, by definition, considered main buildings, then the front setback requirements shall apply only to the buildings closest to the front lot line.

C. Any construction occurring on a lot, where said lot abuts a street that has not been fully improved, shall observe all building setbacks from the ultimate right-of-way of the street.

D. Patios, balconies, landings, porches, stairwells, bay windows and chimneys may not encroach into front or side street setbacks.

E. Minimum Dwelling Unit Area. Every dwelling unit hereafter constructed shall have a minimum floor area, excluding garages, as specified below:

Number of bedrooms	0	1	2	3 or more
Single-family dwellings	—	750 sq. ft.	900 sq. ft.	1,050 sq. ft.

Exceptions: No efficiency units shall be provided without processing of a planned unit development.

F. For the purposes of open space provisions, swimming pools, spas, patios, and decks shall be counted as open space, as well as playing courts provided with clear, permanent barriers that preclude their use as parking areas, excluding above grade decking greater than 30 inches above grade or that could be used as both a patio cover and attached deck.

G. On corner lots, no attached garage shall be located less than 20 feet from the rear property line and shall be provided with a driveway apron that has a depth a minimum of 20 feet from any adjacent property line.

H. Bathrooms. All bathrooms shall be accessed from the interior of a dwelling unit unless the intended use is for providing facilities to serve an existing or proposed swimming pool and/or spa.

I. Interior Standards for Single-Family Residential Units.

1. Bedroom Access.

a. Each bedroom must have its own access to a hallway or communal space, except for junior accessory dwelling units permitted subject to Chapter 9.54 (Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units).

b. No bedroom shall have sole access from another bedroom.

2. Sinks and Wet Bars.

a. Sinks are only permitted in a kitchen, a bathroom(s), a laundry/utility room, and/or as part of a permitted wet bar.

b. Sinks in a laundry room shall only be a deep utility sink.

c. No more than one wet bar shall be permitted within a dwelling unit. The wet bar shall be located within an open communal area of the dwelling, such as a living room, family room, or recreation room. For purposes of this section, a wet bar shall mean an area intended for beverage service only, with a sink with running water but no appliances provided for the preparation of food. A wet bar may include a refrigerator with a storage capacity of no more than 2.6 cubic feet.

J. External Access.

1. External staircases shall lead only into communal areas. Bedrooms shall not be accessed via an external staircase, except for junior accessory dwelling units permitted subject to Chapter 9.54 (Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units).

2. Stairwells shall be centrally located within the interior of a dwelling unit.

3. Except for a master bedroom that leads to a patio or junior accessory dwelling units permitted subject to Chapter 9.54 (Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units), no bedroom shall have a door that leads to an exterior area.

K. Required Parking Area of Enclosed Garages.

1. Each enclosed garage shall maintain the following minimum interior parking clearance based on the number of cars it is designed to hold. No storage cabinets or mechanical equipment, including, but not limited to, water heaters, utility sinks, or washers and dryers, shall encroach into the required parking area.

a. 10 feet by 20 feet for a one car garage.

b. 20 feet by 20 feet for a two-car garage.

c. 20 feet by 30 feet for a three-car garage.

d. 20 feet by 40 feet for a four-car garage.

2. Each garage shall be equipped with an automatic garage door.

3. Each garage shall maintain the ability to park the required number of vehicles at all times.

(2939 § 3, 2022; 2947, 11/28/2023; 2967, 8/12/2025)

§ 9.08.040.030 Special Requirements—R-1 Zone.

A. All plans for new construction, attached additions, and/or detached structures to properties zoned for, or improved with, single-family residences shall be reviewed for approval by the City Manager or designee. Approval by the City shall be based on the following criteria. Wherein any of these criteria have not been met, the plans shall be denied.

1. All zoning requirements of the R-1 zone are complied with and no variances or waivers are requested.

2. The architectural style and design features of the primary residential unit and each attached or detached addition or accessory structure shall match one another, as provided below:

a. The type, pitch, color, material, and texture of the roof and eave details of an attached or detached addition or accessory structure shall be the same as the primary unit.

b. The color, material, and texture of all building walls, windows, and doors of an attached or detached addition or accessory structure shall be the same as the primary unit.

3. The total footprint coverage of the primary structure, any accessory structure(s), driveways and uncovered parking does not exceed 50% of the total lot area.

4. All areas designed and/or intended to be used as living or habitable area are integrated into a single, cohesive dwelling unit.

B. Single Story Attached Additions. In addition to the requirements of Section 9.08.040.030.A, single story additions, including covered and/or enclosed patio structures, may be permitted on the lot in accordance with all development standards, except that structures are permitted in the otherwise required rear yard setback area, provided the following conditions are met:

1. Required rear yards shall be a minimum of 20% of the depth of the lot, to a depth not to exceed 25 feet;

2. Single story attached additions may encroach into the required rear yards to a depth not to exceed 10 feet from the rear property line, provided that:

a. Only a single story is added at this depth,

b. One thousand square feet of usable open space is maintained in the required rear yard.

c. Exemptions: Manufactured aluminum and metal patio covers and non-habitable enclosures, including sunrooms, shall be exempt from the architectural requirements of Section 9.08.040.030.A, provided they are located to the rear or interior side of the main building.

C. New Two-Story Structures and Two-Story Additions to Single-Family Residences. In addition to the requirements of Section 9.08.040.030.A the following development standards shall apply to all new two-story structures and two-story additions in the R-1 zone.

1. All of the following privacy provisions shall be complied with:

a. All new two-story windows and balconies shall be situated so that they are not directly opposite those windows of adjacent residential dwelling units;

b. Second-story windows and balconies shall not have direct views into adjacent property's recreation areas, such as side and rear yards, and amenities, which may include pools, spas, seating areas, play equipment, patios, gazebos, gardens, or other similar recreation areas or amenities located on portions of an adjacent lot that are not visible from the public right-of-way. Where there are direct views into adjacent recreation areas from proposed window and balcony locations, visual intrusion mitigation measures shall be provided, such as the following:

i. High windows with a minimum sill height of six feet, as measured from the finished floor.

ii. View-obscuring treatment such as wing walls.

iii. Obscure, opaque, or frosted fixed (non-slider) windows.

iv. A row of screening/canopy trees evenly spaced shall be placed along the property line(s), which shall be of a minimum height that blocks any direct views. Screening/canopy trees shall be maintained in perpetuity.

D. Accessory Structures. In addition to the requirements of Section 9.08.040.030.A, all accessory structures, constructed on a property used for single-family residential purposes shall comply with all of the following provisions, unless otherwise required by this title:

1. Maximum floor area for any detached accessory structure shall not exceed 800 square feet inside dimension;

2. No more than three detached accessory structures may be permitted on a lot;

3. Maximum height of a detached accessory structure shall not exceed one story and 17 feet;

4. The combined floor area of all detached accessory structures on a lot shall not exceed 1,000 square feet;

5. One thousand square feet of usable open space shall be maintained in the required rear yard as defined in Section 9.08.040.030.B.1;

6. The width of any single accessory structure shall not exceed one-half of the width of the lot;

7. No kitchens or other food preparation appliances or fixtures shall be provided;

8. Plumbing may be permitted, but in no case shall more than a one-half bathroom (one water closet and one lavatory) be permitted.

Exemptions:

a. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool sheds, playhouses and similar uses shall be exempt from the architectural requirements contained in Section 9.08.040.030.A, provided any such structure does not exceed 120 square feet of projected roof area and is located to the rear and interior side of the main building.

b. Accessory dwelling units, including porch and/or patio areas and enclosed parking areas dedicated to the accessory dwelling unit that are within the maximum area for an accessory dwelling unit, shall be exempt from the provisions of this subsection.

9. Interior Standards for Accessory Structures.

a. Accessory structures such as workshop spaces, garages, or other similar spaces shall not have insulation or heating/cooling equipment.

b. Each wall within an accessory structure shall only have one outlet for every 10 feet.

c. Only non-egress windows are allowed within an accessory structure.

10. No detached accessory building walls shall be closer than six feet to any main building walls or other accessory building walls on the same lot or building site, and no detached accessory building eaves shall be closer than four feet to any main building eaves or other accessory building eaves on the same lot or building site. When the distance between either the walls or the eaves of a detached accessory building and a main building or living unit are less than specified in this section, the buildings are deemed attached for the purpose of determining setbacks and both must meet the setbacks prescribed for a main building.

E. Placement of Buildings. Placement of buildings on any lot in the R-1 (Single-Family Residential) zone shall conform to the following:

1. For any lot abutting an alley, no building shall be constructed closer than 15 feet to the centerline of the alley, but in no case closer than 10 feet from the property line.

2. All new single-family residential units developed in the multiple-family residential (R-2 and R-3) zones or additions to existing single-family residential units in any zone shall conform to the residential standards as prescribed in the single-family development districts.

3. Single-family residential properties, that do not have an existing two-car garage, may build a new two-car garage that encroaches no more than two feet into the required front yard setback and that meets the following criteria:

a. The new garage shall meet all zoning and building codes relative to size and configuration;

b. The garage shall be equipped with a roll-up type door.

F. Height of Towers, Spires and Unique Structures in the R-1 (Single-Family Residential) Zone.

1. Usable floor space may be provided above allowable height for religious institutions, and public, private or parochial schools when employed as a unique structure, tower or spire, subject to a conditional use permit.

2. Fire or parapet walls, skylights, flagpoles, chimneys, wireless masts and similar nonhabitable structures may be erected 15 feet above the height of the structure to which it is attached.

G. Landscaping in the R-1 (Single-Family Residential) Zone. Landscaping in the required front yard shall cover no less than 50% of that yard.

H. Driveway Width. Minimum paved access-way width of 16 feet is required when off-street parking for open or garage spaces is located at the rear of a unit. When a new, conforming, garage is proposed to be constructed to the rear of an existing residence, and when the location of that residence interferes with providing the required 16-foot driveway width, the minimum accessway may be reduced to 12 feet.

I. Swimming Pools. Swimming pool setbacks shall be subject to any applicable standards of the California Building Code, but in no case shall be less than five feet to the side and rear property lines, and 20 feet to the front property line. Separations between swimming pools and any structures shall be subject to any applicable standards of the California Building Code, but in no case shall be less than six feet. See also Section 9.08.040.010.G and 9.08.040.020.F.

J. Any yard accessories taller than 36 inches, including, but not limited to, statues, fountains, planters, barbecues, counters, diving boards, slides, play and sports equipment, rock walls, and fireplaces or fire pits, shall not be taller than 17 feet in height, and shall be subject to the following setbacks: five feet to the side and rear property lines, 10 feet to any street side property lines, and 20 feet to the front property line.

(2882 § 5, 2017; 2939 § 3, 2022; 2967, 8/12/2025)

§ 9.08.040.040 Landscaping—Purpose.

To establish landscape standards and water waste prevention in order to mitigate the effects of urbanization and excessive water use on the environment and to provide an aesthetically pleasing urban setting, this title establishes water-efficient landscape design standards consisting of maximum applied water allowance, plant material percentages, and standards for design, quantities, location, species types, combinations of plant types (i.e., shrubs and groundcover) and size and shape of materials. The City recognizes the importance of landscaping and water efficiency to the health and well-being of the community, and desires to enhance the overall appearance of development projects in the City. It is the intent of this section to establish a measure of uniformity in landscaping that will provide a structure for designing, installing and maintaining water-efficient landscapes for new projects as well as providing a mechanism to require updating and upgrading of existing landscaping in existing developments when improvements are intended.

§ 9.08.040.045 Definitions.

The following definitions are applicable to this title.

"Applied water"

means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape.

"Backflow prevention device"

means a safety device used to prevent pollution or contamination of the water supply due to the reverse flow of water from an irrigation system.

"Budget-based tiered-rate structure"

means tiered or block rates for irrigation accounts charged by the retail water agency in which the block definition for each customer is derived from lot size or irrigated area and the evapotranspiration requirements of landscaping.

"Ecological restoration project"

means a project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.

"Effective precipitation"

means the portion of total precipitation that is used by plants. Precipitation is not a reliable source of water, but can contribute to some degree toward the water needs of the landscape.

"Estimated applied water use" or "EAWU"

means the average annual total amount of water estimated to be necessary to keep plants in a healthy state, calculated as provided in the Guidelines. The amount is based on the reference evapotranspiration rate, the size of the landscape area, plant water use factors, and the relative irrigation efficiency of the irrigation system.

"ET adjustment factor" or "ETAF" (evapotranspiration adjustment factor)

is equal to the plant factor divided by the irrigation efficiency factor for a landscape project, as described in the Guidelines. The ETAF is calculated in the context of local reference evapotranspiration, using site-specific plant factors and irrigation efficiency factors that influence the amount of water that needs to be applied to the specific landscaped area. A combined plant mix with a site-wide average plant factor of 0.5 (indicating a moderate water need) and average irrigation efficiency of 0.71 produces an ET adjustment factor of (0.7) = (0.5/0.71), which is the standard of water use efficiency generally required by this section, and the Guidelines, except that the ETAF for a special landscape area shall not exceed 1.0.

"Evapotranspiration"

means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil surfaces and transpired by plants during a specific time.

"Guidelines"

refers to the Guidelines for Implementation of the Landscape Water Efficiency Provisions, as adopted by the City Council, and as subsequently amended by resolution of the City Council, which describes procedures, calculations, and requirements for landscape projects subject to this section. The Guidelines are attached to Title 9 as Appendix 1 and may be amended from time to time by resolution of the City Council.

"Hardscapes"

means any durable material or feature (pervious or non-pervious) installed in or around a landscaped area, such as pavements, pavers, stonework or walls. Pools and other water features are considered part of the landscaped area and not considered hardscapes for purposes of this section.

"Homeowner installed landscape"

means any landscaping either installed by a private individual for a single-family residence or installed by a licensed contractor hired by a homeowner. A homeowner, for purposes of this section, is a person who occupies the dwelling he or she owns. This definition excludes speculative homes, which are not owner-occupied dwellings and which are subject under this section to the requirements applicable to developer-installed residential landscape projects.

"Hydrozone"

means a portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs and typically irrigated by one valve/controller station. A hydrozone may be irrigated or non-irrigated. For example, a naturalized area planted with native vegetation that will not need supplemental irrigation once established is a nonirrigated hydrozone.

"Irrigation efficiency"

means the measurement of the amount of water beneficially used, divided by the amount of water applied. Irrigation efficiency is derived from measurements and estimates of irrigation system characteristics and management practices. The minimum average irrigation efficiency for purposes of this section is 0.71. Greater irrigation efficiency can be expected from well-designed and maintained systems.

"Landscaped area"

means all the planting areas, turf areas, and water features in a landscape design plan subject to the maximum applied water allowance and estimated applied water use calculations. The landscaped area does not include footprints of buildings or structures, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, decks, patios, gravel or stone walks, other pervious or non-pervious hardscapes, and other non-irrigated areas designated for non-development (e.g., open spaces and existing native vegetation).

"Landscape contractor"

means a person licensed by the State of California to construct, maintain, repair, install, or subcontract the development of landscape systems.

"Landscape documentation package"

means the documents required to be provided to the City for review and approval of landscape design projects, as described in the Guidelines.

"Landscape project"

means total area of landscape in a project, as provided in the definition of "landscaped area," meeting the requirements under Section 9.08.040.055, paragraphs A, B, and C of this section.

"Landscape water efficiency provisions"

means the following sections and paragraphs of this chapter relating to landscape water efficiency: Sections 9.08.040.040; 9.08.040.045; 9.08.040.055; and 9.08.040.060 (introductory paragraph); Section 9.08.040.060, paragraphs B, P, Q, R, S, and T; and Section 9.08.080, paragraph C.

"Local agency"

means a local water purveyor or city or county, including a charter city or charter county, that is authorized by the City to implement, administer, and/or enforce any of the provisions of this section on behalf of the City. The local agency may be responsible for the enforcement or delegation of enforcement of this section, including, but not limited to, design review, plan check, issuance of permits, and inspection of a landscape project.

"Local water purveyor"

means any entity, including a public agency, city, county, or private water company that provides retail water service.

"Maximum applied water allowance" or "MAWA"

means the upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area as specified in the Guidelines. The "MAWA" is based upon the areas reference evapotranspiration, the ET adjustment factor, and the size of the landscaped area. The estimated applied water use shall not exceed the maximum applied water allowance.

"Mined-land reclamation projects"

means any surface mining operation with a reclamation plan approved in accordance with the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975.

"New construction"

means, for the purposes of this section, a new building with a landscape or other new landscape such as a park, playground, or greenbelt without an associated building.

"Non-pervious"

means any surface or natural material that does not allow for the passage of water through the material and into the underlying soil.

"Overspray"

means the water that is delivered beyond the landscaped area, wetting pavements, walks, structures or other nonlandscaped areas.

"Pervious"

means any surface or material that allows the passage of water through the material and into the underlying soil.

"Permit"

means an authorizing document issued by local agencies for new construction or rehabilitated landscape.

"Plant factor" or "plant water use factor"

means a factor that when multiplied by reference evapotranspiration (Eto), estimates the amount of water needed by plants. For purposes of this section, the plant factor range for low water use plants is 0 to 0.3; the plant factor range for moderate water use plants is 0.4 to 0.6; and the plant factor range for high water use plants is 0.7 to 1.0. Plant factors cited in this section are derived from the Department of Water Resources 2000 publication "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species."

"Rain-sensing device"

means a system that automatically shuts off the irrigation system when it rains.

"Recycled water" or "reclaimed water"

means treated or recycled waste water of a quality suitable for non-potable uses such as landscape irrigation and water features. This water is not intended for human consumption.

"Reference evapotranspiration" or "ETo"

means a standard measurement of environmental parameters which affect the water use of plants. ETo is expressed in inches per day, month, or year as represented in the Guidelines, and is an estimate of the evapotranspiration of a large field of four-to seven-inch tall, cool-season grass that is well watered. Reference evapotranspiration is used as the basis for determining the maximum applied water allowances.

"Rehabilitated landscape"

means any re-landscaping project that meets the applicability criteria of Section 9.08.040.055.A, where the modified landscape area is greater than 2,500 square feet, is 50% of the total landscape area, and the modifications are planned to occur within one year.

"Runoff"

means water that is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to which it is applied and flows from the area. For example, runoff may result from water that is applied at too great a rate (application rate exceeds infiltration rate) or when there is a severe slope.

"Smart automatic irrigation controller"

means an automatic timing device used to remotely control valves that operate an irrigation system and which schedules irrigation events using either evapotranspiration (weather-based) or soil moisture data.

"Special landscape area"

means an area of the landscape dedicated solely to edible plants such as orchards and vegetable gardens, areas irrigated with recycled water, water features using recycled water, and areas dedicated to active play such as parks, sports fields, golf courses, and where turf provides a playing surface.

"Turf"

means a ground cover surface of mowed grass. Annual bluegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, Perennial ryegrass, Red fescue, and Tall fescue are cool-season grasses. Bermudagrass, Kikuyugrass, Seashore Paspalum, St. Augustine grass, Zoysiagrass, and Buffalo grass are warm-season grasses.

"Valve"

means a device used to control the flow of water in an irrigation system.

"Water feature"

means a design element where open water performs an aesthetic or recreational function. Water features include ponds, lakes, waterfalls, fountains, artificial streams, spas, and swimming pools (where water is artificially supplied). The surface area of water features is included in the high water use hydrozone of the landscaped area. Constructed wetlands used for on-site wastewater treatment, habitat protection or stormwater best management practices that are not irrigated and used solely for water treatment or stormwater retention are not water features and, therefore, are not subject to the water budget calculation.

§ 9.08.040.050 Landscaping—General Provisions.

A. General landscaping requirements as defined herein shall be provided in all zones.

B. Parcels zoned or used for single-family purposes shall provide landscaping in all areas not covered by buildings, structures, patios or driveways.

C. For the purpose of this section, the front yard shall be defined as the front yard setback.

D. The following regulations are for maximum coverage of hardscape in the R-1 (Single-Family Residential) zone:

1. The maximum permitted hardscape coverage in the front yard setback shall be 50%, inclusive of pedestrian walkways and portions of driveways not excepted pursuant to Section 9.08.040.020.

2. The measurement for the front yard setback shall be from the back of sidewalk or street dedication line. The public parkway area between the curb and sidewalk must be fully landscaped.

E. All developed properties shall be required to be in compliance with the provisions of this subsection when any building additions of one or more square feet are proposed.

F. It is not the intent of this section to require identical landscape materials or landscape designs for all developments. Where existing mature landscaping is in good, healthful condition, every effort shall be made to retain and to incorporate said landscaping into the overall landscape theme.

G. The hearing body may, through the site plan review procedure, modify the requirements with consideration to the size and species of trees used, and may require landscaping in excess of the minimum area specified for a proposed development in order to achieve a superior project.

H. Adjacent uses shall be considered when designing landscaping to mitigate the negative impacts of parking areas, activities, storage, or structures by appropriate screening measures.

I. Every effort shall be made to provide landscaping that is compatible with neighboring uses.

J. All unpaved areas shall be planted with an effective combination of trees, grass berms, groundcover, lawn, shrubbery and/or approved dry decorative landscape material.

(2939 § 3, 2022; 2947, 11/28/2023)

§ 9.08.040.055 Landscaping—Water Efficiency.

A. Beginning January 1, 2010, landscape water efficiency provisions shall apply to all planting, irrigation, and landscape-related improvements for projects included within the following categories:

1. New landscape installations or landscape rehabilitation projects by public agencies or private non-residential developers, except for cemeteries, with a landscaped area, including pools or other water features, but excluding hardscape, equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet, and which are otherwise subject to a discretionary approval of a landscape plan, or which otherwise require a ministerial permit for a landscape or water feature;

2. New landscape installations or landscape rehabilitation projects by developers or property managers of single-family and multifamily residential projects or complexes with a landscaped area, including pools or other water features, but excluding hardscape, equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet, and which are otherwise subject to discretionary approval of a landscape plan, or which otherwise require a ministerial permit for a landscape or water feature;

3. New landscape installation projects by individual homeowners on single-family or multifamily residential lots with a total project landscaped area, including pools or other water features, but excluding hardscape, equal to or greater than 5,000 square feet, and which are otherwise subject to a discretionary approval of a landscape plan, or which otherwise require a ministerial permit for a landscape or water feature.

B. The irrigation design criteria found in subsection T.1.c.ii of Section 9.08.040.060, Landscaping Requirements, shall apply to:

1. All landscaped areas, whether installed prior to or after January 1, 2010; and

2. All landscaped areas installed after January 1, 2010 to which Section 9.08.040.055.A is applicable.

C. The water efficient landscape regulations do not apply to the following:

1. Registered local, state, or federal historical sites;

2. Ecological restoration projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system; or

3. Mined-land reclamation projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system; or

4. Plant collections, as part of botanical gardens and arboretums open to the public.

D. The following submittals shall be required for all landscape projects subject to the landscape water efficiency provisions:

1. Prior to installation, a landscape documentation package shall be submitted to the City for review and approval of all landscape projects subject to the provisions of this section and the landscape water efficiency provisions. Any landscape documentation package submitted to the City shall comply with the provisions of the Guidelines.

2. The landscape documentation package shall include a certification by a professional, appropriately licensed in the State of California, stating that the landscape design and water use calculations have been prepared by, or under, the supervision of the licensed professional and are certified to be in compliance with the provisions of this section and the Guidelines.

a. Landscape and irrigation plans shall be submitted to the City for review and approval with appropriate water use calculations. Water use calculations shall be consistent with calculations contained in the Guidelines and shall be provided to the Water Department, as appropriate, under procedures determined by the City.

b. Verification of compliance of the landscape installation with the approved plans shall be obtained through a certification of completion in conjunction with a certificate of use and occupancy or permit final process, as provided in the Guidelines.

§ 9.08.040.060 Landscaping Requirements.

All landscaping shall comply with the landscape water efficiency provisions where applicable. When conflicts between general landscape requirements and the landscape water efficiency requirements found in this section and the Guidelines exist, the landscape water efficiency requirements shall have priority.

A. Minimums. All required landscaped setback areas, including front, side, side street, and landscaped areas within parking lots, shall meet the requirements prescribed herein.

B. Percentage. Ten percent of all parking areas for nonresidential uses permitted in the R-1 (Single-Family Residential) zone, excluding required setbacks and building footprints, shall be landscaped.

C. Parking Lot Landscaping.

1. Size. For parking facilities, a variety of tree sizes is required for every 10 parking spaces. Trees must be a minimum of 15-gallons diameter with a one-inch caliper truck, eight feet in height with a two-and-one-half-foot head or larger. These trees may be grouped or clustered and shall conform to the matrix of plant materials established by the City Manager or designee.

2. Street Frontage. One 24-inch box tree of a two-and-one-quarter-inch caliper trunk diameter, 10 feet in height, and a five-foot head is required for every 20 feet of street frontage. (These trees may be grouped or clustered.) All trees shall be placed within a root barrier per City of Garden Grove street tree planting detail specifications.

3. Area. Minimum landscaped area that may be counted is 24 square feet.

D. Trees.

1. No trees shall be planted under any eave, overhang or balcony.

2. All trees in landscape planters 10 feet in width or less shall be provided with tree root barricades.

E. Tree Numbers.

1. Parking area—One per eight spaces

2. Street setbacks—One per 20 linear feet

F. Tree Size. Forty percent of the trees on a site shall consist of minimum size 24-inch box, and the remaining 60% shall be of minimum size 15 gallons.

G. Tree Staking. All trees shall be double staked in accordance with City standards.

H. Planter Width. The minimum width of all planters shall be three feet clear, interior dimensions, not inclusive of retaining curb or wall.

I. Shrubbery. Fifty percent of all required shrubs shall be a minimum size of five gallons at time of planting.

J. Groundcover.

1. Live groundcover shall be planted and maintained where shrubbery is not sufficient to cover exposed soil. Mulch may be used in place of groundcover where groundcover will not grow or where groundcover will cause harm to other plants, but not more than 30% of the groundcover area shall have the mulch substitute.

2. All areas required to be landscaped shall be covered with turf, non-deciduous groundcover or other types of plantings. Artificial turf may be used as a groundcover within the R-1 (Single-Family Residential) zone, provided the turf allows for penetration of irrigation and stormwater runoff, as described in subsection N (Substitute Landscaping), below.

3. Groundcover Spacing. Groundcover plants shall be planted at a density and spacing necessary for them to become well established and provide surface coverage within 18 months of planting.

K. Paved Areas. Only those portions that are required by municipal code or by site plan to be used directly for parking spaces, aisles, refuse storage areas, drives or walkways shall be paved. All other areas not needed for the above shall be landscaped. Patios may be paved.

L. Excess of Minimum Areas—Authority. The hearing body may require landscaping in excess of the minimum area specified for a proposed development, provided that the additional landscaping is necessary to:

1. Screen adjacent objectionable uses, parking areas, activities, storage or structures that could cause a negative impact on new development based on aesthetics, noise, odors, etc.; or

2. Provide landscaping that is compatible with neighboring uses; or

3. Screen the use from neighboring negative impacts such as traffic, outside storage, etc.

M. Landscape Plans.

1. Each landscape plan shall be compatible with the shape and topography of the site and the architectural characteristics of the structure(s) on the site.

2. Each landscape plan shall be compatible with the character of adjacent landscaping, provided the quality of the adjacent landscaping meets the standard of these guidelines.

3. Each landscape plan shall illustrate a concern for design elements such as balance, scale, texture, form and unity.

4. Each landscape plan shall address the functional aspects of landscaping such as drainage, erosion prevention, wind barriers, provisions for shade and reduction of glare.

5. Each landscape plan shall demonstrate a concern for solar access, including exposure and shading of window areas and solar panels.

6. Landscaping shall be used to relieve solid, unbroken elevations and to soften continuous wall expanses.

7. The applicant must submit a planting inventory and plan of existing planting materials on a development site that are to be retained. Every effort shall be taken to ensure that mature existing landscaping is utilized as part of the development plan. A landscaping retention program shall be approved by action of the hearing body, at its discretion.

N. Substitute Landscaping.

1. Materials such as crushed rock, decomposed granite, redwood chips, pebbles and stone may be used in lieu of live plant materials for up to 30% of the required landscape coverage area. Artificial plants and synthetic groundcovers are prohibited, except where allowed within the R-1 (Single-Family Residential) zone, subject to the following standards:

a. Artificial turf is permitted, provided it complies with the following:

i. Artificial turf shall have a minimum eight-year "No Fade" warranty.

ii. Artificial turf shall be installed pursuant to manufacturer's requirements.

iii. Artificial turf shall be of a type known as cut pile infill, and shall be installed over a compacted and porous road base material, and shall be anchored at all edges and seams. Artificial turf may not be layered over concrete or other nonporous surfaces, according to the manufacturer's specifications for installation. A proper drainage system shall be installed underneath the turf to prevent excessive run-off or pooling.

iv. Artificial turf shall be installed and maintained to effectively simulate the appearance of a well-maintained lawn. The turf shall be maintained in a green fadeless condition and shall be maintained free of weeds, debris, tears, holes, and impressions. An infill medium consisting of clean washed sand or other approved mixture shall be brushed into the fibers to ensure that the fibers remain in an upright position, and to provide ballast that will help hold the turf in place and provide a cushioning effect.

v. The use of indoor or outdoor plastic or nylon carpeting as a replacement of artificial turf or natural turf shall be prohibited. No rubber infill is permitted.

vi. Artificial shrubs, flowers, trees, and vines in lieu of living plant material shall be prohibited.

vii. Areas of living plant material (i.e., flower beds, tree wells, etc.) shall be included in the overall landscape design when installing artificial turf. Living plant material shall include shrubs, vines, trees, and flowering groundcovers and shall constitute a minimum of 25% of the landscape area.

viii. Artificial turf shall be separated from flower beds by a concrete mow strip, bender board, or other barriers acceptable to the City to prevent intrusion of living plant material into the artificial turf.

ix. Artificial turf in front yards shall be limited to 75% of required landscape area.

O. Screening.

1. Landscaping shall be required to screen storage areas, trash enclosures, public utilities, freeways, highways and other similar land uses or elements that do not contribute to the enhancement of the surrounding area. Where plants are required for screening, such screening shall consist of the use of evergreen shrubs and/or trees closely spaced. Berming is suggested as an effective screening measure for parking lots and where adjacent site areas are contiguous to street frontages. Such berming with planting shall not exceed 36 inches above the highest adjacent curb.

2. Perimeter landscaping adjacent to the property lines is required in parking areas. Planter area curbs shall be used in place of wheel stops.

P. Separation.

1. All landscaping shall be separated from parking and vehicular circulation areas by a raised, continuous six-inch Portland cement concrete curb.

2. Other materials that accomplish the same purpose may be approved by the hearing body through the site plan review process.

Q. Arterial Site Entries.

1. Unless otherwise delineated, all developments having a contiguous property line to a primary or secondary arterial highway shall observe a 15-foot setback that shall be landscaped. All other non-arterial highways shall observe a 10-foot setback, unless otherwise delineated by the governing zone.

2. Landscaping at major entry points are considered the focal points for landscaping emphasis, and shall contain a variety of trees, flowers and shrubs with special concern for visibility and safety.

3. No landscaping material other than trees shall exceed a height of 36 inches above the highest adjacent curb at street entrances and parking lot accessway intersections.

4. No berming, with or without landscaping materials, at street entrances and parking lot accessway intersections shall exceed a total height of 36 inches above the highest adjacent curb.

5. All trees whether singularly placed or placed on clusters shall not inhibit standard visibility parameters.

6. Parking may be designed to overhang landscaped areas. Maximum permitted overhang is two feet where planter areas have a minimum dimension of five feet or more. Otherwise, concrete wheel stops shall be installed. Any broken or damaged wheel stops shall be replaced.

R. Landscaping and Irrigation Plans Required. Landscape and Irrigation Plans shall be required for all projects requiring approval by the hearing body and to which the landscape water efficiency provisions apply, except for individual homeowners on single-family or multifamily residential lots that have a total project landscape area, including pools or other water features, but excluding hardscape that is less than 5,000 square feet. Such plans shall be submitted for discretionary approval to the hearing body. Said plans shall be prepared in accordance with requirements and standards established pursuant to this chapter and the Guidelines (specifically refer to sections on Landscape Design Plan and Irrigation Design Plan).

S. In addition to the above, the following are requirements that shall apply to the Landscape Design Plan and are more fully explained in the Guidelines (Appendix 1, Title 9):

1. Any plants may be used in the landscape, providing the estimated applied water use recommended does not exceed the maximum applied water allowance, and that the plants meet the specifications set forth in this section.

2. Plants having similar water use shall be grouped together in distinct hydrozones.

3. Plants shall be selected appropriately based upon their adaptability to the climatic, geologic and topographical conditions of the site. Protection and preservation of native species and natural areas are encouraged. The planting of trees is encouraged wherever it is consistent with the other provisions of this section. To encourage the efficient use of water, the following are highly recommended for inclusion in the Landscape Design Plan:

a. The Sunset Western Climate Zone System which takes into account temperature, humidity, elevation, terrain, latitude, and varying degrees of continental and marine influence on local climate;

b. The horticultural attributes of plants (i.e., mature plant size, invasive surface roots) to minimize damage to property or infrastructure (e.g., buildings, sidewalks, and power lines); and

c. The solar orientation of the site and how plant placement will maximize summer shade and winter solar gain.

T. Irrigation Requirements.

1. All landscaped areas shall be provided with an approved irrigation system that meets the requirements of this section and the Guidelines. An Irrigation Design Plan meeting the design criteria in the Guidelines shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package for those projects subject to the landscape water efficiency provisions in Section 9.08.040.055.A.

2. Irrigation shall be performed in conformance with city ordinances and with water conservation practices.

U. System Design. For the efficient use of water, an irrigation system shall meet all the requirements listed in the Guidelines under Section 2.5, Irrigation Design Plan, and the manufacturers recommendations. The irrigation system and its related components shall be planned and designed to allow for proper installation, management, and maintenance. An Irrigation Design Plan meeting the design criteria of the Guidelines shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package.

V. In addition to the above, the following are requirements that shall apply to the Landscape Design Plan.

1. Irrigation Design Criteria.

a. Runoff and Overspray. Soil types and infiltration rate shall be considered when designing irrigation systems. All irrigation systems shall be designed to avoid runoff, low-head drainage, overspray or other similar conditions where irrigation water flows onto non-targeted areas, such as adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, hardscapes (walks, etc.), roadways or structures.

b. Special attention shall be given to avoid runoff on slopes and to avoid overspray on narrow and irregularly shaped areas, including turf, less than eight feet in width in any direction. Such narrow and irregularly shaped areas shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or a low volume overhead irrigation system.

c. Irrigation Efficiency.

i. For applicable landscape installations or rehabilitation projects subject to Section 9.08.040.055.A, the estimated applied water use allowed for the landscaped areas shall not exceed the MAWA calculated using an ET adjustment factor of 0.7, except for special landscaped areas where the MAWA is calculated using an ET adjustment factor of 1.0; or the design of the landscaped areas shall otherwise be shown to be equivalently water-efficient in a manner acceptable to the City; as provided in the Guidelines.

ii. Irrigation of all landscaped areas shall be conducted in a manner conforming to the rules and requirements, and shall be subject to penalties and incentives for water conservation and water waste prevention as determined and implemented by the water services division, or as mutually agreed by the water services division and the local agency.

iii. The project applicant shall understand and implement the requirements in the City of Garden Grove Water Conservation Ordinance.

d. Equipment. The Guidelines provide design criteria for irrigation equipment in Section 2.5 "Irrigation Design Plan."

2. Recycled Water.

a. At such time as recycled water is available, the installation of recycled water irrigation systems (dual distribution systems) shall be required to allow for the current and future use of recycled water.

b. Irrigation systems shall make use of recycled water unless a written exemption has been granted by the local water agency, stating that recycled water meeting all health standards is not available and will not be available in the foreseeable future.

c. The recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and operated in accordance with all local and state codes.

3. Irrigation Design Plan Specifications. Irrigation systems shall be designed to be consistent with hydrozones. Hydrozone areas shall be designated by number, letter, or other designation on both the Irrigation Design Plan and the Landscape Design Plan. The Irrigation Design Plan shall be separate from, but use the same format as, the Landscape Design Plan. The scale shall be the same as that used for the Landscape Design Plan. The Irrigation Design Plan, at a minimum, shall contain:

a. Location and size of separate water meters for the landscape;

b. Location, type and size of all components of the irrigation system, including controllers, main and lateral lines, valves, sprinkler heads, moisture sensing devices, rain switches, quick couplers and backflow prevention devices;

c. Static water pressure at the point of connection to the public water supply;

d. Flow rate (gallons per minute), application rate (inches per hour), and design operating pressure (psi) for each station;

e. Irrigation schedule parameters necessary to program smart timers specified in the landscape design;

f. The following statement: "I have complied with the Landscape Water Efficiency Provisions and the design criteria in the Guidelines and applied them accordingly for the efficient use of water in the Irrigation Design Plan"; and

g. The signature of a California-licensed landscape professional.

4. Maximum Applied Water Allowance. A project's maximum applied water allowance shall be calculated in a manner acceptable to the City, as provided in the Guidelines.

5. Irrigation Schedules. For the efficient use of water, all irrigation schedules shall be developed, managed, and evaluated to utilize the minimum amount of water required to maintain plant health. Irrigation schedules shall meet the following criteria:

a. Irrigation scheduling shall be regulated by automatic irrigation controllers.

b. Overhead irrigation shall be scheduled in accordance with the local water purveyors (City of Garden Grove, Water Services Division) Water Conservation Ordinance. Operation of the irrigation system outside the normal watering window is allowed for auditing and system maintenance.

6. Certificate of Completion.

a. Landscape project installation shall not proceed until the landscape documentation package has been approved by the City and any ministerial permits required are issued.

b. The project applicant shall notify the City at the beginning of the installation work and at intervals, as necessary, for the duration of the landscape project work to schedule all required inspections.

c. Certification of completion of the landscape project shall be obtained through a certificate of use and occupancy or a permit final. The requirements for the final inspection and permit closure include submittal of:

i. A landscape installation certificate of completion in the form included as Appendix D in the Guidelines, which shall include: (1) certification by a landscape professional that the landscape project has been installed per the approved landscape documentation package; and (2) the following statement: "The landscaping has been installed in substantial conformance with the design plans, and complies with the City of Garden Grove Landscape Water Efficiency Provisions."

ii. Documentation of the irrigation scheduling parameters used to set the controller.

iii. An irrigation audit report from a certified irrigation auditor, documentation of enrollment in regional or local water purveyors water conservation programs, and/or documentation that the MAWA and EAWU information for the landscape project has been submitted to the local water purveyor, may be required at the option of the City.

(2939 § 3, 2022; 2947, 11/28/2023)

§ 9.08.040.070 Landscaping—Compliance.

A. Any modification to an approved landscape or irrigation plan must be approved by the hearing body prior to installation of said landscaping or irrigation.

B. All approvals of such plans are subject to and dependent upon the applicant complying with all applicable ordinances, codes, regulations, adopted policies and the payment of all applicable fees and assessments.

C. No final inspection or occupancy clearance will be granted until all of the landscaping and irrigation is installed in accordance with the approved plans.

D. Landscaping and irrigation systems shall be located and designed as specified on the approved plans.

§ 9.08.040.080 Landscaping—Maintenance Requirements and Violations.

A. Maintenance. All landscaping shall be maintained. Maintenance of landscaping areas shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

1. Irrigation equipment shall be in working condition at all times.

2. Litter shall be removed from all landscaped areas in a timely fashion.

3. All sod areas shall be mowed on a regular basis. Sod areas shall at all times be kept green. Accumulation of leaves, bark and other similar plant materials shall be removed in a timely fashion. Planting areas must be kept in a weed free fashion.

4. Landscaping maintenance shall include pruning, cultivating, weeding, fertilizing, replacement of plants and watering on a regular basis.

5. Landscape maintenance shall also include pruning or removal of overgrown vegetation, cultivated or uncultivated, that is likely to harbor rats, vermin or other nuisances, or that causes detriment to neighboring properties or property.

6. Landscape maintenance shall also include the removal of dead, decayed, diseased or hazardous trees, weeds and debris constituting unsightly appearance, dangerous to public safety and welfare or detrimental to neighboring properties or property values. Compliance shall be by removal, replacement or maintenance requirements.

7. Any removal of mature landscaping must be replaced with landscaping of similar size and maturity as that which was removed.

B. Violations. Use of landscaped areas for purposes other than for landscaping as approved in the landscape plan shall be a misdemeanor. Wilful failure to maintain the landscaping shall be punishable by fine, or by imprisonment, or both fine and imprisonment.

C. Delegation. The City may delegate to, or enter into a contract with, a local agency to implement, administer, and/or enforce any of the landscape water efficiency provisions on behalf of the City.

§ 9.08.040.090 Walls, Fences and Hedges—Purpose and Intent.

The purpose of this section is to establish regulations for yard areas, fence heights, setback distances, vision clearances and building separations. This section addresses those development standards not found within each specific code section, due to these items having applicability to various code sections, as well as various development applications. The intent of this section is to provide regulations that establish a reasonable degree of uniform application, provide standards that supplement the individual code sections under Title 9, and maintain the intent and purpose of the General Plan.

§ 9.08.040.100 Walls, Fences and Hedges—Heights and Yards.

A. Yard Regulations. Except as provided elsewhere in Title 9, every required yard shall be open and unobstructed from the ground to the sky.

B. Modification of Required Front Yard Setback Where Nonconformities Exist. Unimproved lots located between lots that have nonconforming setbacks may develop the property with a reduction in setback of up to five feet, but in no instance shall the front yard setback be less than 15 feet.

C. Application of Required Front Yard Setback for Properties Having 15-Foot and Properties Having Greater Than 15-Foot Setbacks. Those properties that have existing, established 15-foot front yard setbacks may have new construction at that setback distance as measured from the ultimate right-of-way. In addition, the 15-foot setback at no time shall be permitted for a garage having a straight-in driveway approach. The garage may be set back at 15 feet only if the garage door is perpendicular to the street. Those properties having established setbacks greater than 15 feet and adjoining properties having greater than 15-foot setbacks shall adhere to the prescribed 20-foot front yard setback under the R-1 zone. Deviation from this latter provision would require the filing and approval of a variance.

D. Yard Requirements for Property Abutting Half-Streets or Streets Designated by a Specific Plan.

1. No property shall develop half-streets.

2. A building or structure shall not be erected on a lot that abuts a street having only a portion of its required width dedicated or potential subdivision dedication and where no part of such dedication would normally revert to said lot if the street were vacated, unless the yards provided and maintained in connection with such building or structure have a width or depth of that portion of the lot needed to complete the road width plus the width or depth of the yards required on the lot by this chapter, if any. This section applies to all zones and area districts. Where a specific plan or other legislation adopted pursuant to law includes plans for the widening of existing streets or alleys, the connecting of existing streets or alleys or the establishment of new streets or alleys, the placement of buildings and the maintenance of yards, where required by this chapter, shall relate to the future street or alley boundaries as determined by said precise plan or legislation.

E. Modification of Required Front Yards on Lots Fronting on the Curves of Cul-de-Sacs or Knuckles. Where the street pattern of a subdivision includes lots fronting upon cul-de-sac turnarounds or knuckle widenings at right angles or approximate right angle turns in a street, and where such fronting lots by reason of the cul-de-sac or knuckle creating a greater street width with the resultant reduced depth of fronting lots, the required front yard may be reduced in the following manner:

1. Any lot fronting entirely on an arc formed by a knuckle or cul-de-sac, the front setback shall be no less than one-half the required setback for that zone with the provision that no setback shall be less than 10 feet. The prescribed setback shall be measured by maintaining a constant parallel arc to the front property line.

2. Where lots have only a portion of the property located on a cul-de-sac, knuckle, reverse curve or where the street widens from the established parallel right-of-way, that portion where the reduction occurs may have the front yard setback reduced in the following manner. The setback shall be determined by first locating a point of reference on the property line, of the subject lot, that establishes the required setback for that zone in which the property is located. The second point of reference shall be established by locating a point on the property line establishing the property's depth from street's arc, by locating the point one-half the required setback for that zone and in no instance shall the setback at any point along the property street frontage be less than 10 feet. Once the two points are established, a line is drawn from one point to the other, thus reflecting the front yard setback.

3. The allowed setback deviation at no time shall permit any covered or uncovered parking spaces, in the R-1 zone, to be located less than 20 feet from property line if the garage access is directly straight in from the street. A garage may be located at the prescribed setbacks noted above in subdivisions 1 or 2 of this subsection, if the garage door is perpendicular to the front setback. If positioning of the garage is different than the two above-described situations, then the setback shall be a minimum of 18 feet set back from the front property line at the garage's closest point to the front property line.

F. Vision Clearance, Corner and Reverse Corner Lots. All corner lots and reverse corner lots subject to yard requirements shall maintain, for safety vision purposes, a triangular area one angle and two sides of which shall be formed by the intersection of the lot front and side lines or their projection to a point of intersection, and the sides of such triangle forming the corner angle shall each be 25 feet in length measured from the aforementioned angle. The third side of said triangle shall be a straight line connecting those points that are distant 25 feet from the intersection of the lot front and side lines or the intersection of their projection, and within the area comprising said triangle, no tree shall be allowed nor any fence, shrub or other physical obstruction higher than 36 inches above the established grade shall be permitted.

G. Permitted Intrusions Into Required Yards. The following intrusions may project into any single-family development required yard, but in no case shall such intrusion extend more than two feet into any required yard, except as provided below. Any such extension shall not reduce any remaining side yard or rear to a width less than three feet.

(2967, 8/12/2025)

§ 9.08.040.110 Walls, Fences and Hedges.

A. All fences shall be measured from the highest elevation on the subject lot. At no time shall any perimeter wall around a new development be less than six feet from the highest grade elevation on the subject lot.

B. Wall, Fence or Hedge May Be Maintained.

1. In any "R" zone a wall, fence or hedge 36 inches in height may be located and maintained on any part of a lot. If fences in the front yard are 36 inches in height and include pilasters, the pilasters may be extended up an additional six inches above the allowed height.

2. On interior lots, a fence, wall or hedge not exceeding seven feet in height may be located anywhere on the lot to the rear of the line of the required front yard.

3. On corner lots, a fence, wall or hedge not exceeding seven feet in height may be located anywhere on the lot to the rear of the rear line of the required front yard, unless the lot rears upon an alley, in which case on the rear property line and the side street property line a fence more than 36 inches in height may not extend within a triangle, two sides of which shall be the rear property line, and the side street property line measured from the point of intersection of such lines 10 feet in each direction, and the third side of which shall be a straight line connecting such two points.

4. On reverse corner lots, a fence, wall, or hedge not exceeding seven feet in height may be located anywhere on the lot to the rear of the rear line of the required front yard. Any such fence shall observe the triangular area of the required side yard on the side street side at the rear of corner lots. When the dwelling unit(s) on the lot abutting the rear line of said reversed corner lot front(s) a property line(s) other than the front line, the triangular area observance may be waived.

5. On corner lots or reverse corner lots, if a vehicular entrance is provided from the side street side, an area for safety vision clearance shall be maintained on each side of the driveway. Such area for vision clearance shall be defined by a diagonal line beginning at the intersection of the edges of the driveway and the inside line of the required side yard and extending away from the driveway at an angle of 45 degrees to the edge of the driveway toward the side street property line of the lot.

6. The provisions of this section shall not apply to fences required by the state to surround and enclose public utility installations, or to chain link fences enclosing school grounds and public playgrounds.

7. Where a retaining wall protects a cut below the natural grade, and is located on the line separating lots or parcels, the retaining wall may be topped by a fence, wall or hedge of the same height that would otherwise be permitted at the location if no retaining wall existed.

8. Where a retaining wall contains a fill, the height of the retaining wall built to retain the fill shall be considered as contributing to the permissible height of a fence, solid wall or hedge, provided that in any event a protective fence or wall not more than 36 inches in height may be erected at the top of the retaining wall. Any portion of a fence above the seven-foot maximum height shall be an openwork fence. An openwork fence means a fence in which the component solid portions are evenly distributed and constitute not more than 60% of total surface area of the face of the fence.

9. No wall, fence or hedge exceeding 42 inches in height may be located in open space required between buildings used for human habitation when the buildings are situated front to front, front to rear, or front to end.

10. A wall or fence not exceeding eight feet in height may be constructed along that portion of a lot or parcel that abuts a freeway right-of-way; provided that said wall or fence does not extend into any front yard.

11. Any other provision of the chapter notwithstanding, a wall, fence or hedge that is provided along a common boundary line separating property used for commercial or industrial purposes from "R" zoned property and that is permitted or required to maintain a height of six feet, may be extended to a height not to exceed eight feet.

12. When commercial or industrial property has a common property line with R-zoned property that is a right-of-way for a street, highway, freeway, railroad, or flood control channel, the hearing body may waive the requirement for a zone separation wall or fence.

(2967, 8/12/2025)

§ 9.08.040.120 Lot Areas, Frontages and Dwelling Unit Areas.

A. Through Lots May Be Divided in Certain Cases. Through lots 180 feet or more in depth may be improved as two separate lots, provided that:

1. The dividing line is midway between the street frontages; and

2. Each resulting one-half shall be subject to the controls applying to the street upon which this one-half faces.

3. If either or both of the lots proposed as a result of this section is below the minimum lot area as determined by this chapter, the lot shall not be divided. If the whole of any through lot is improved as one building site, the main building shall conform to the zone and area district of the frontage occupied by such main building on both streets, and no accessory building shall be located closer to either street than the distance constituting the required front yard on such street.

B. Lot Area Not to Be Reduced. No lot area shall be so reduced or diminished that the lot area, yards, or other open spaces shall be less than prescribed by this chapter for the zone in which it is located, except in conformity with the regulations established by this title or state Law.

C. Substandard Lots. When a lot has less than the minimum required area or width as set forth in any of the zones contained herein, or in a site plan, and was of record on November 7, 1960, such a lot shall be deemed to have complied with the minimum required lot area or width as set forth in the site plan. This provision does not apply to the specific plans where minimum lot sizes are established for new development. Unless otherwise specifically set forth in a zone, the lot area per dwelling unit, however, shall remain as specified in the applicable zone, except that in no instance shall this provision prevent the erection of a single-family dwelling on any substandard lot.

D. Use of Parcels Containing More Than Minimum Required Lot Area. When a lot in the R-1 zone contains substantially two or more times the minimum lot area required for the zone in which it is located, and the owner desires to use each unit of area equivalent to the minimum lot area as a separate building site, provided not more than four such units result, and no dedication of streets, alleys, or other public ways, public easements or public utility easements are involved, such area units may be so utilized by resorting to the parcel map procedures as prescribed in this title. When these units are defined in this way, then all of the provisions of this chapter governing the use of a lot in the zone in which such property is located shall apply. Each resulting unit shall have a frontage upon a dedicated public thoroughfare.

E. Permitted Reduced Lot Frontage in the R-1 Zones. Where, because of size, shape or topography, access to a street is provided by means of an extension of a lot established by a subdivision of record or by a lot split as provided herein, such extension having less than the prescribed minimum lot width fronting upon a public street, the lot shall be considered as conforming to the lot width requirements of the zone within which the property is located. The width of the main portion of the lot, however, shall have not less than the required minimum lot width, and no parcel shall be divided so that more than one lot having a reduced frontage, as permitted herein, is created.

(2967, 8/12/2025)

§ 9.08.040.130 Parking—Purpose.

A. The purpose of these regulations is to establish criteria for the regulation of on-site parking and circulation and to assure that parking facilities are properly designated and located in order to meet the parking needs created by specific uses within the respective zones.

B. The intent of these regulations is to:

1. Ensure adequately designed parking areas with sufficient capacity and adequate circulation to minimize traffic congestion;

2. Ensure the usefulness of the facilities by providing on-site circulation patterns that facilitate client/business relationships;

3. Contribute to public safety and health;

4. Promote efficient use of land and, where appropriate, buffer and transition land uses from foreseeable impacts; and

5. Utilize landscaping as an effective buffer between different uses and to promote an aesthetic quality within the parking area and site.

§ 9.08.040.140 Parking—General Provisions.

A. In all districts, off-street parking shall be provided subject to the provisions of this section for:

1. Any new building or structure constructed;

2. Any new use established;

3. Any structural addition or enlargement of an existing building or use; however, additional parking spaces may be required for the entire building or use as a condition of approval of a conditional use permit, site plan or other discretionary permit granted by the City; or

4. Any change in the occupancy or use of any building that would result in a requirement for additional parking spaces pursuant to this section.

B. Property within the ultimate right-of-way of a street or highway shall not be used to provide required parking or loading or unloading facilities.

C. On-street parking within public or private streets, driveways or drives shall not be used to satisfy the off-street parking requirements.

D. For developments required to provide garages, each such garage shall only be utilized for the parking of vehicles. No garage shall be used for storage, rental or lease or for any use other than the parking of vehicles related to the unit or development for which the garage is required by this section.

E. All off-street parking spaces and areas required by this section shall be designed and maintained to be fully usable for the duration of the use requiring such areas and spaces.

F. All required off-street parking spaces shall be designated, located, constructed and maintained so as to be fully available for use by patrons and employees of commercial, industrial, public or semi-public premises during operating hours, and by residents and guests in residential developments at all hours.

G. Parking facilities constructed or substantially reconstructed subsequent to the effective date of the ordinance codified in the title, whether or not required, shall conform to the City's design standards set forth in the construction standards section.

H. The parking requirement for uses not specifically listed in the parking schedule shall be determined by the Planning Commission for the proposed use on the basis of the requirements for similar uses and on any traffic engineering and planning data that is appropriate to the establishment of a minimum requirement.

I. All parking spaces, driveways and maneuvering areas shall be fully paved and maintained with asphalt, concrete or other city approved material.

J. Garages on lots developed with a single-family residence shall not exceed a four-vehicle capacity and 800 square feet inside dimension.

K. Tandem parking is prohibited, except for valet parking. If valet parking ceases, the parking lot shall be redesigned to incorporate new parking requirements. This prohibition does not extend to single-family residences; however, required covered parking may not be tandem.

L. Commercial vehicles shall not be parked or stored in residential zones or on properties used for residential purposes, except while the operator of the vehicle is making normal deliveries or providing services to the residential premises.

M. No commercial vehicle, trailer, recreational vehicle, camper, camper shell or vessel shall be parked on any property zoned commercial, industrial, open space, specific plan or PUD, or on any premises containing any commercial, industrial, public or semi-public use, except while the operator of the vehicle or trailer is patronizing or using the services of the commercial, industrial, public or semi-public use. The storing of any commercial vehicle, trailer, recreational vehicle, camper, camper shell, or vessel in any commercial, industrial, public or semi-public, specific plan or PUD zone, including, but expressly not limited to, any parking lot or parking space, is expressly prohibited, except in a lawfully approved and existing vehicle storage business.

N. No person shall park a vehicle, camper, camper shell or vessel upon a public or private street, parking lot or any public or private property for the purpose of displaying such vehicle thereon for sale, hire or rental, unless the property is duly zoned and permitted by the City to transact that type of business at that location, except that this section shall not prohibit persons from parking vehicles displayed for sale on private residential property belonging to or resided on by the registered owner of the vehicle, nor on the public street immediately adjacent to said private residential property. For purposes of this section, a vehicle, camper, camper shell or vessel shall be presumed to be for sale if there is a price, or phone number, or a contact person, or address displayed thereon. Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be guilty of an infraction.

O. No person shall repair, grease or service, or cause to be repaired, greased or serviced, any vehicle or any part thereof in a parking lot, or anywhere outside of a wholly enclosed building.

P. No person shall occupy or use any camp car, camper, mobile home, recreational vehicle, camper shell, trailer, vessel or other vehicle or trailer as a dwelling or for living or sleeping quarters upon any public street, right-of-way, alley, private street or alley, or any private property except in an approved trailer, mobile home or recreational vehicle park.

§ 9.08.040.150 Parking Spaces Required.

The number of off-street parking spaces required shall be no less than as set forth in the following schedule. Parking shall be calculated by the maximum building occupancy and/or the gross floor area, as applicable. Where the application of these schedules results in a fractional space, then the resulting fraction shall be rounded up to the higher whole number.

USE	REQUIRED MINIMUM PARKING SPACES
A. Residential Uses.
1. Primary dwelling unit(s) a. 0—4 sleeping rooms b. 5—7 sleeping rooms c. Over 7 sleeping rooms	2 spaces in an enclosed garage plus 2 open spaces 3 spaces in an enclosed garage plus 3 open spaces 4 spaces in an enclosed garage plus 4 open spaces
2. Community residential care facility	0.5 space per bed
B. Public and Semi-Public
1. Private school a. Elementary through high school b. College or university	1 space per each employee, plus 1 space for each 6 students 1 space per employee, plus 1 space per 3 students
2. Churches/religious institutions	Fixed seats: 1 space per each 3 fixed seats No fixed seats: 1 space for each 21 sq. ft. of area designated for assembly purposes All ancillary area(s) shall provide 1 space for each 250 sq. ft. of gross floor area
C. Commercial Recreation
1. Golf course	100 spaces per 9 holes; 200 spaces for 18 holes, plus requirements for other facilities
2. Golf driving range	1.5 spaces per tee

(2967, 8/12/2025)

§ 9.08.040.160 Parking—Special Requirements.

The following parking requirements are applicable to all land uses, unless otherwise stated (spaces provided for the following uses shall be clearly designated by signs, colored lines or other appropriate indicators):

A. Handicapped Parking. Handicapped spaces shall be located to provide easy access to the main building or designated entrance to the building to be used by the physically handicapped in accordance with federal, state and local laws.

1. Parking spaces for the physically handicapped shall be provided at a ratio of not less than one space per 40 parking spaces provided on an office, commercial or industrial site and shall count toward fulfilling the total automobile parking requirements.

2. A minimum of one handicapped parking space shall be provided for each nonresidential building that requires more than 15 spaces.

3. Handicapped spaces shall be identified by blue striping and the installation of the appropriate signage incorporating the international physically handicapped symbol.

B. Required Types of Spaces. Resident parking spaces for primary dwelling units shall be provided in garages, and/or as open spaces on paved driveways..

C. Parking Space Size. All resident parking spaces, stalls and garages or carports shall conform to minimum stall sizes as adopted by the Planning Commission.

D. Compact Car Parking Spaces. Up to 20% of the required parking stalls may be compact parking spaces. Compact stall size is subject to public works standards for compact car spaces.

E. Motorcycle Parking Spaces. Commercial facilities with 25 or more parking spaces shall provide at least one paved designated parking area for use by motorcycles. Said area shall be constructed of concrete.

F. Bicycles. All nonresidential buildings and places of assembly shall provide adequate locking facilities for bicycle parking at any location convenient to the facility for which they are designated.

(2967, 8/12/2025)

§ 9.08.040.170 Location of Parking Spaces.

A. All required open parking spaces and garages shall be located on the same building site or within the same development, unless otherwise provided in accordance with state law.

B. All off-street open and enclosed parking spaces shall be located and maintained so as to be accessible and usable for the parking of motor vehicles.

1. Off-street parking spaces shall not be located in any required setback except on property developed with single-family homes in the R-1 zone, or as may be approved in any other residentiallyzoned property pursuant to an approved site plan.

2. All motor vehicles, trailers, vessels, campers and camper shells must be parked or stored on a fully paved surface with approved entrances and exits to the street.

3. For projects approved and developed after April 25, 1991, where security gates are proposed to be provided, 10% of the guest parking spaces shall be located outside the secured area.

(2967, 8/12/2025)

§ 9.08.040.180 Parking Dimensions and Design Lay-Outs.

A. Design standards are established to set basic minimum dimensions and regulations for design, construction and maintenance of parking within residential, commercial and industrial districts.

B. Parking Improvements.

1. Paving. Parking and loading facilities shall be surfaced and maintained with asphalt concrete, concrete or other permanent, fixed surfacing material sufficient to prevent loose surfacing materials and other nuisances. Parking lot striping shall be maintained at all times.

2. Drainage. All parking and loading facilities shall be graded and provided with permanent storm drainage facilities.

a. Surfacing, curbing and drainage improvements shall be sufficient to preclude free flow of water onto adjacent properties or public streets or alleys.

b. Measures listed above shall be taken to preclude standing pools of water within the parking facility.

3. Safety Features. Parking and loading facilities shall meet the following standards:

a. Safety barriers, protective bumpers or curbing and directional markers shall be provided to assure pedestrian and vehicular safety, efficient utilization, protection to landscaping and to prevent encroachment onto adjoining public or private property.

b. Pedestrians', bicyclists' and motorists' safety shall be assured upon entering and exiting parking lots. Unobstructed visibility shall be maintained at all times while vehicles are circulating within the parking area.

c. Internal circulation patterns and the location and traffic direction of all access drives shall be designated and maintained in accordance with accepted principles of traffic engineering and traffic safety.

d. Striping of parking lots must at all times be clearly visible and maintained throughout the life of the facility.

4. Lighting. Lights provided to illuminate any parking facility or paved area shall be designed with automatic timers (photovoltaic cells) and maintained in accordance with the provisions of this title. Parking lot security lights shall be maintained and shall be operated during all hours of darkness.

a. All nonresidential parking area lighting shall be provided during the hours of darkness the establishment is open at a minimum of two foot-candles of light on the parking surface.

b. A minimum of one foot-candle of light shall be provided during all other hours of darkness.

c. Lighting in the parking area shall be directed, positioned, or shielded in such a manner so as not to unreasonably illuminate the window area of nearby residences.

5. Noise. Areas used for primary circulation, or for frequent idling of vehicular engines or for loading facilities shall be designed and located to minimize impacts on adjoining properties, including sound attenuation to adjacent property and visibility screening from adjacent property.

6. Screening. Open off-street parking areas for nonresidential uses shall be screened from view of public streets and adjacent properties improved with residential uses.

7. Walls. High walls shall not block or otherwise impair visual access from adjacent residential properties.

8. Landscaping. Open off-street parking areas shall be landscaped in accordance with this title.

9. Dimensions. All parking spaces shall conform to the following minimum dimensions:

a. Nonresidential Uses.

Standard Space:	9 ft wide by 19 ft long
Compact Space:	8 ft wide by 15 ft long
Parallel Space:	8 ft wide by 22 ft long

i. Wherever a space is adjacent to a wall, fence, or hedge, an additional one foot of width shall be provided to that space.

ii. Up to 20% of the required parking stalls may be compact parking spaces.

b. Residential Uses.

i. Enclosed Parking Spaces. All enclosed parking spaces shall conform to the minimum interior dimensions of 10 feet wide by 20 feet long for each space. For example: A two-car garage shall maintain minimum interior dimensions of 20 feet wide by 20 feet long.

ii. Open Driveway Parking Spaces. All open parking spaces provided on a driveway shall conform to the minimum dimensions of nine feet wide by 19 feet long for each space.

(2967, 8/12/2025)

§ 9.08.040.190 Reserved.

(2967, 8/12/2025)

§ 9.08.040.200 Collection of Recyclable Materials—Purpose.

A. The City of Garden Grove must divert 50% of all solid waste by January 1, 2000, through source reduction, recycling and composting activities. Diverting 50% of all solid waste requires the participation of the residential, office, commercial, industrial and public sectors.

B. The lack of adequate areas for the collecting and loading of recyclable materials that are compatible with surrounding land uses is a significant impediment to diverting solid waste, and constitutes an urgent need for state and local agencies to address access to solid waste for source reduction, recycling and composting activities. This section has been developed to meet that need.

§ 9.08.040.210 Collection of Recyclable Materials—Definitions.

The following definitions shall apply to the language in this section:

"Recyclable material"

means any material that is capable of being diverted from disposal and then either reused, manufactured back to its original form, or used in the manufacturing process of a new product.

"Recycling"

means the process of collecting, sorting, cleansing, treating and reconstructing solid waste, and returning the material to the economic mainstream in the form of raw material for new, reused or reconstituted products that meet the quality standards necessary to be used in the marketplace.

"Refuse"

means any material that is the unwanted by-product of manufacturing, office, commercial or residential operations and that is not considered a recyclable or green waste material. Hazardous waste, low-level radioactive waste or untreated medical waste shall not be included in the definition of refuse and are not referenced in this section.

"Development project"

means:

1. A project for which a building permit is required to construct any commercial, industrial, institutional, office or residential building or complex where solid waste is collected and loaded; or

2. Any new public facility where solid waste is collected and loaded, and any improvements for areas of a public facility used for collecting and loading solid waste.

"Collection area"

means space allocated for collecting and loading of recyclable materials.

§ 9.08.040.220 Collection of Recyclable Materials—General Requirements.

A. Any new development project for which an application for a building permit is submitted shall include adequate, accessible and convenient areas for collecting and loading recyclable materials.

B. Any improvements to areas of a public facility used for collecting and loading of any solid waste shall include adequate, accessible and convenient areas for collecting and loading recyclable material.

C. Any project for which an application for a building permit is submitted for modifications that meet the following requirement shall include adequate, accessible and convenient areas for collecting and loading recyclable materials:

1. Modification to any development project that exceeds 1,000 square feet or 10% of the existing floor area, whichever is less.

2. Exemption: Construction of an addition to an existing single-family residence, or less than one full unit to multiple-family residential.

§ 9.08.040.230 Collection of Recyclable Materials—Minimum Collection Areas.

A. Single-Family Residential.

1. The exterior collection area shall consist of an area for the storage of three, 110-gallon mobile containers for each residential unit. Suggested area for each container is a minimum of 38 inches by 38 inches.

2. All residential projects shall provide a minimum of three cubic feet of space for the collection and storage of refuse and recyclable material within each residence.

3. All exterior collection areas shall be located either in a side yard, completely screened behind a gate, fence or wall, or inside a garage. Gates shall be a minimum of 40 inches in width to accommodate 110-gallon mobile containers. If located inside a garage, the minimum required dimensions for parking shall be maintained.

B. Institutional. Three-cubic-yard bins shall be utilized. A storage enclosure shall be provided sufficient to hold one or more standard three-cubic-yard bins. Each enclosure shall provide sufficient area for the collection of refuse and recyclable materials.

C. Areas for refuse and recyclable material storage shall be adequate in capacity, number and distribution to serve the development where the project occurs, and shall be based on the following requirements:

Building Square Footage	Types of Receptacles	Area Must Accommodate Number of Receptacles
0-5,000	Bin	1
5,001-10,000	Bin	2
10,001-15,000	Bin	3
15,001-20,000	Bin	4
20,001-25,000*	Bin	5

*	Each additional 5,000 square feet requires one additional bin, or more than one pickup per week, per bin.