The purpose of the Town Center (TC) District is to provide for the development and redevelopment of the City's downtown area. The intent of this Chapter is to implement the following objectives that relate to the downtown area:
A. 
Accommodate and promote traditional specialty retail uses.
B. 
Enhance pedestrian activities through street furniture, landscape, and hardscape amenities.
C. 
Promote entertainment activities.
D. 
Respect established traditional building designs.
E. 
Encourage well designed and pedestrian oriented signage.
F. 
Promote inviting storefront design.
(Prior code § 19-11.1; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
The Town Center District comprises the parcels and uses primarily oriented along Bellflower Boulevard, bounded by the Southern Pacific RR to the north and the Artesia (91) Freeway to the south.
The official map depicting the boundaries of the Town Center District is on file with the City Clerk.
(Prior code § 19-11.2; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
Whenever this Chapter imposes more restrictive regulations upon buildings or structures, or on the use of land, or otherwise establish more restrictive regulations and standards then imposed or required by any other law, the provisions of this Chapter will govern.
(Prior code § 19-11.3; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
Land, buildings, and other facilities must be designed, developed, and used only for those activities indicated for the Town Center District in Table 17.48.040. Where indicated with the letter "P," the use is permitted. The letters "CUP" indicate the use is conditionally permitted subject to the approval of a Conditional Use Permit pursuant to BMC Chapter 17.96. The letters "AUP" indicate the use is subject to the approval of an Administrative Use Permit pursuant to BMC Chapter 17.98. Where indicated with the letters "NP," the use is not permitted. Uses are subject to the special use or development regulations indicated in the "Special Provisions" column.
Table 17.48.040
Town Center District
Allowable Uses
Uses
Special Provisions
A
Accessory Uses
1
Alcohol Sales (on-sale and off-sale)
CUP
2
Drive-in/Drive-through
CUP
BMC § 17.48.140
3
Gun Sales
CUP
4
Incidental Instruction
P
BMC § 17.48.095
5
Outdoor Dining
P
BMC Chapter 17.74
6
Tasting Room (non-alcoholic)
P
7
Wireless Communication Facility
CUP
B
Eating and Drinking Establishments
1
Bar, Cocktail Lounge, Pub or Tavern
CUP
2
Restaurant, Cafe, Bakery or Coffee Establishment
P
3
Restaurant with On-Sale Alcohol
AUP
BMC § 17.48.085
C
Educational Uses
1
Child Care Center, less than or equal to 5,000 sq. ft.
AUP
Second floor and above
BMC § 17.48.125
2
Child Care Center, more than 5,000 sq. ft.
CUP
Second floor and above
BMC § 17.48.125
3
School (commercial, vocational or trade), less than or equal to 5,000 sq. ft.
AUP
Second floor and above
BMC § 17.48.125
4
School (commercial, vocational or trade), more than 5,000 sq. ft.
CUP
Second floor and above
BMC § 17.48.125
D
Entertainment/Cultural Uses
1
Banquet/Fraternal Hall, less than or equal to 5,000 sq. ft.
AUP
BMC § 17.48.125
2
Banquet/Fraternal Hall, more than 5,000 sq. ft.
CUP
BMC § 17.48.125
3
Community Center, less than or equal to 5,000 sq. ft.
AUP
BMC § 17.48.125
4
Community Center, more than 5,000 sq. ft.
CUP
BMC § 17.48.125
5
Hookah Bars/Cafés (water pipe smoking lounge)
AUP
6
Indoor/Outdoor Commercial Recreational Facility (arcade, archery, axe throwing, billiard parlor, bowling alley, escape room, indoor playground, laser tag, miniature golf, skating rink, virtual reality room), less than or equal to 5,000 sq. ft.
AUP
BMC §17.48.125
7
Indoor/Outdoor Commercial Recreational Facility (arcade, archery, axe throwing, billiard parlor, bowling alley, escape room, indoor playground, laser tag, miniature golf, skating rink, virtual reality room), more than 5,000 sq. ft.
CUP
BMC § 17.48.125
8
Museum, less than or equal to 5,000 sq. ft.
AUP
BMC § 17.48.125
9
Museum, more than 5,000 sq. ft.
CUP
BMC § 17.48.125
10
Religious Facility, less than or equal to 5,000 sq. ft.
AUP
BMC § 17.48.125
11
Religious Facility, more than 5,000 sq. ft.
CUP
BMC § 17.48.125
12
Theater, less than or equal to 5,000 sq. ft.
AUP
BMC § 17.48.125
13
Theater, more than 5,000 sq. ft.
CUP
BMC § 17.48.125
E
Small-Scale/Artisanal Manufacturing
1
Artisan Manufacturing
P
BMC § 17.48.065
2
Brewery, Micro-Brewery, Distillery or Winery with OnSale or Off-Sale Alcohol
AUP
BMC § 17.48.065
F
Office Uses
1
Administrative/Executive/Professional Office
P
BMC § 17.48.060
2
Laboratories
P
BMC § 17.48.060
3
Medical or Dental Offices, General and Specialty
P
BMC § 17.48.060
4
Veterinary
P
BMC § 17.48.060
G
Public and Semi-Public Institutional
1
Government Facility
P
2
Parking Lot/Parking Structure
P
Fronting on side streets lying perpendicular to Bellflower Boulevard.
3
Public Open Space/Amenities
P
4
Public/Private Utility/Communication
CUP
Fronting on side streets lying perpendicular to Bellflower Boulevard.
H
Residential
1
Home Occupation
P
In permitted residential structure/use.
2
Family Day Care Homes
P
In permitted residential structure/use.
3
Residences (second floor and above)
P
BMC § 17.48.130
4
Cottage Food Operations
P
In permitted residential structure/use, BMC § 17.16.190
I
Retail Sales
1
Animal Adoption, Sales or Supplies
P
2
Antique Store
P
3
Apparel/Clothing and Accessories
P
4
Appliance Store
P
5
Art Gallery
P
6
Art Supplies
P
BMC § 17.48.095
7
Auto Parts and Accessories, Retail Only, less than or equal to 5,000 sq. ft.
P
8
Automobile Dealership
CUP
BMC § 17.48.105
9
Beauty Supplies
P
10
Bicycle Shop
P
11
Book Store
P
12
Candy/Confectionaries
P
13
Cigar Shop
P
14
Collectibles (cards, coins, comics, stamps)
P
15
Convenience Store/Mini Mart
P
16
Cookware Shop
P
BMC § 17.48.095
17
Drugstore/Pharmacy
P
18
Electronic Cigarette and/or Electronic Liquid Shop
CUP
19
Electronics Sale and Repair (cellular phone, computer, television, video game)
P
20
Florist/Floral
P
21
Furniture or Home Goods
P
22
Gift, Stationery, Greeting Cards
P
23
Grocery/Food Store
P
24
Hardware/Home Improvement Store
P
25
Hobby/Craft Supplies
P
26
Jewelry, Gems and Repair
P
27
Liquor Store (off-site sale of liquor, beer and wine)
CUP
28
Luggage and Leather Goods
P
29
Medical Equipment and Supplies
P
30
Motor Sports Dealership
CUP
BMC § 17.48.105
31
Music Store (equipment, instruments, records, supplies)
P
BMC § 17.48.095
32
Office Supplies
P
33
Optical Shop
P
34
Party Supplies
P
35
Pawn Shop
CUP
BMC § 17.48.120
36
Photography Supplies, Cameras and Photo Processing
P
37
Secondhand Store
CUP
38
Shoe Sales, Repair and Shoe Shine
P
39
Smoke Shop
CUP
40
Specialty Retail Shop
P
41
Sporting Goods
P
42
Swimming Pool Supplies
P
43
Toys and Games
P
44
Tuxedo, Costume, Formal Wear Rental
P
J
Service Uses
1
Animal Grooming or Training
P
2
ATM
P
BMC § 17.48.140 for a drive-through
3
Bank
P
4
Barber Shop or Beauty Salon
P
5
Copy/Reproduction/Blueprint Services and Center
P
6
Dry Cleaner/Cleaning/Pressing
P
Drop off service only.
7
Gym/Fitness Facility/Club, less than or equal to 5,000 sq. ft.
AUP
8
Gym/Fitness Facility/Club, more than 5,000 sq. ft.
CUP
9
Locksmith
P
10
Mailboxes/Mailroom/Postal Store
P
11
Massage Establishment
NP
12
Fuel Station
CUP
BMC § 17.48.070
13
Studio (martial arts, dance, photo, music), less than or equal to 5,000 sq. ft.
AUP
14
Studio (martial arts, dance, photo, music), more than 5,000 sq. ft.
CUP
15
Tailor Shop
P
16
Tattoo Parlor
AUP
(Prior code § 19-11.4; Ord. 1150 § 1 (Exh. 7), 11/26/07; Ord. 1179 § 1 (Exh. G), 5/26/09; Ord. 1182 § 8, 6/8/09; Ord. 1208 §§ 1, 2, 1/24/11; Ord. 1217 § 12, 9/26/11; Ord. 1247 § 3, 8/12/13; Ord. 1272 § 8, 4/28/14; Ord. 1281 § 11, 9/8/14; Ord. 1293 § 5, 8/24/15; Ord. 1300 § 6, 10/12/15; Ord. 1319 § 16, 10/10/16; Ord. 1344 § 7, 10/23/17; Ord. 1408 § 9, 9/27/21; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
To ensure the Town Center District permits all similar uses, the Director, upon written request, may determine if a use not specifically listed on Table 17.48.040 (Allowable Uses) be permitted on the basis of similarity to the uses listed, the purpose and intent of the Town Center District, and the goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan.
A. 
Application. Application for determination of similar uses must be made in writing to the Director. Such request must include a detailed description of the proposed use, operating characteristics, and any other information deemed necessary by the Director.
B. 
Investigation. The Director must compare the proposed use characteristics with the goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan as well as with the purpose and intent statement of the Town Center District to determine if the proposed use will be a permitted, conditionally permitted, administratively permitted or not permitted use.
C. 
Findings. The Director must make all of the following findings:
1. 
The proposed use meets the intent of, and is consistent with, the applicable goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan;
2. 
The proposed use meets and conforms to the purpose and intent statement of the Town Center District;
3. 
The proposed use does not adversely impact the public health, safety and general welfare of the City's residents; and
4. 
The proposed use shares characteristics common with and is not of greater intensity or density or does not generate more environmental impacts than those uses listed on Table 17.48.040 (Allowable Uses).
D. 
Determination. The Director's determination may be appealed to the Planning Commission in the manner provided by this Code.
(Prior code § 19-11.5; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
A. 
Purpose. The purpose of this section is to reasonably limit the number and type of office uses permitted in the Town Center District. It is found that excessive office uses in the downtown area conflict with the following goals and objectives of the Town Center District:
1. 
Accommodate and promote traditional specialty retail uses.
2. 
Promote inviting storefront design.
B. 
Office Uses Defined. For the purposes of the Town Center District, office uses are:
1. 
Administrative, executive, and professional offices (e.g., architect, lawyer, engineer, accountant, tax preparer, real estate agent).
2. 
Medical, dental, laboratory, and veterinary offices and clinics.
C. 
Office Uses Limited in the Town Center District.
1. 
Office uses may not occupy more than 25% of the total gross floor area of available first floor building space fronting Bellflower Boulevard. An inventory of existing office locations is kept on file with the City Clerk.
2. 
There is no limit or "threshold" on the number of office uses (gross floor area) situated within second floor locations or within downtown building space fronting any street lying perpendicular to Bellflower Boulevard unless specifically stated in this Code.
3. 
Medical, dental, laboratory, and veterinary offices and clinics must incorporate a permanent retail floor space if fronting Bellflower Boulevard. The retail floor space must be a minimum of 25% of the gross floor area of the tenant space, incorporate a store front, and be located at the front of the tenant space fronting Bellflower Boulevard. The office/clinic floor space may not exceed 75% of the gross floor area of the tenant space and must be located behind the retail floor space.
(Prior code § 19-11.6(a); Ord. 1272 § 8, 4/28/14; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
In addition to any other requirement of this Code, the following applies to any manufacturing use:
A. 
All activities must occur within buildings; outdoor storage/repair is prohibited;
B. 
All uses must be carried on in such a manner that they do not create smoke, gas, odor, dust, sound, vibration, soot, heat, glare or lighting to a degree that is readily detectable at any point beyond the property line of the use; and
C. 
A storefront consisting of a showroom, tasting room, or retail space must be included. The storefront must be a minimum of 25% of the gross floor area.
(Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
A. 
Applicability. A new fuel station or the enlargement or alteration of an established fuel station requires a Conditional Use Permit. In approving a Conditional Use Permit for a fuel station in the Town Center District, the Planning Commission must make the following findings:
1. 
That the proposed fuel station use will not substantially increase vehicular traffic on any street in the immediate vicinity, especially those serving residential uses; and
2. 
That the proposed fuel station use will not create increased traffic hazards to pedestrians.
B. 
Location and Site Requirements. New fuel stations are only permitted contiguous to Bellflower Boulevard at arterial/street intersections. When considering an application for a new fuel station, the following standards apply:
1. 
A maximum of two fuel stations are allowed at each intersection;
2. 
A minimum distance of 500 feet is required between fuel stations located on the same side of the street; and
3. 
The parcel size for a new fuel station must be a minimum of 15,000 square feet, with a minimum frontage of 100 feet.
C. 
Definition of Permitted Uses. Fuel station use is limited to the sale of motor fuels.
D. 
Development Standards. Fuel stations must be designed so that form and scale are integrated with adjacent development and complement the traditional character of Town Center. Fuel stations are subject to the following standards:
1. 
Setbacks.
a. 
No building or structure may be located within 20 feet of a property line which abuts a residential district.
b. 
Pump islands must be located a minimum of 20 feet from a street property line; however, a canopy or roof structure over a pump island may encroach up to 10 feet from a street property line.
2. 
Access.
a. 
No more than two vehicular access points to any one street is allowed.
b. 
A minimum distance of 30 feet must be provided between driveway aprons (curb cuts) along a street frontage.
c. 
No driveway may be located closer than 10 feet to the end of a curb return.
d. 
No driveway may be located closer than 20 feet to a common property line which abuts a residential district.
e. 
The width of a driveway apron (curb cut) cannot exceed 30 feet.
f. 
The use of shared access ways (aprons, curb cuts) and reciprocal access between parcels are encouraged.
3. 
Parking.
a. 
One parking space for each 200 gross square feet of floor area or fraction thereof in any building or structure must be provided. Gasoline queuing spaces used for the fueling of vehicles cannot count towards fulfilling this requirement.
b. 
On-site parking for ancillary convenience marts (mini marts) and fast food franchises must be provided at the following ratios: Convenience marts one parking space for each 200 gross square feet of floor area; Fast food franchises one parking space for each 75 square feet of floor area dedicated to the fast food use. For drive-through parking (queuing) requirements, see Commercial Establishments with Drive-In and Drive-Through.
c. 
Outside storage of motor vehicles is prohibited. For the purpose of this section, "outside storage" means the parking of a motor vehicle in an unenclosed area of the fuel station site for a period longer than 24 hours.
d. 
No new or used vehicles may be parked on the premises for the purpose of sale, rental, or lease.
e. 
Parking must be located and screened so as to minimize visibility of parked cars from the public right-of-way.
f. 
No vehicle may be parked on sidewalks, driveways, or alleys.
4. 
Landscaping.
a. 
Irrigated landscaping must comprise a minimum of 10% of the fuel station site area and must be permanently maintained.
b. 
A minimum eight foot inside dimension planter area bounded by a six inch high curb, must be provided along interior property lines, except openings to facilitate reciprocal access to adjacent parcels. Within the planter area, trees must be planted at a rate of one, 48 inch (minimum), box tree for every 15 linear feet of planter area.
c. 
A minimum planter area of 400 square feet must be provided at the corner of two intersecting streets.
d. 
A minimum 10 foot inside dimension planter area, bounded by a six inch high curb, must be provided contiguous to the sidewalk.
e. 
Additional landscaping may be required at the determination of the Director to screen and buffer the fuel station from adjacent properties.
5. 
Site Maintenance.
a. 
No used or discarded automotive parts or equipment, or permanently disabled, junked, or wrecked vehicles may be located outside of a building.
b. 
A refuse storage area, completely enclosed within a six foot high decorative masonry wall (split face concrete block, or equivalent) with solid metal gates, large enough to accommodate standard sized commercial trash bins, must be located on the rear portion of the property in such a manner as to be accessible to refuse collection vehicles. Wall and gate materials, textures, colors, and design must be architecturally compatible with the surrounding buildings.
c. 
Driveways and service areas must be maintained and kept free of oil, grease, and other petroleum products without washing them into drainage, gutter, or sewer systems.
7. 
Lighting. All light sources, including canopy, perimeter, and flood lights must be shielded or recessed within the roof canopy so that the station will be indirectly visible and light is deflected away from adjacent properties and public streets. Lighting cannot be of such a high density as to cause a traffic hazard or adversely affect adjoining properties. The light standard may not be higher than 12 feet above finished grade.
8. 
Perimeter Walls.
a. 
Where a fuel station abuts property in a residential district, a six foot high decorative masonry perimeter wall (split face concrete block, or equivalent) must be constructed. Materials, textures, colors, and design of the wall must be compatible with, and complement, on-site development and adjacent properties. Perimeter walls located adjacent to residential districts may extend to a maximum height of eight feet with Director approval.
b. 
When the perimeter wall reaches the established front yard setback line of any residentiallyzoned lot abutting the fueling station, the perimeter wall must decrease to a maximum height of 42 inches.
9. 
Public Service Facilities. All automobile service stations are required to provide public restrooms on site.
10. 
Restroom Screening. Restroom entrances visible from adjacent properties or the public right-of-way must be concealed from view by planters or decorative screening.
(Prior code § 19-11.6(b); Ord. 1319 § 17, 10/10/16; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
The City Council may issue an Entertainment License for non-adult business oriented entertainment. In approving the Entertainment License for entertainment as an ancillary use in the Town Center District, the City Council must make the following additional findings:
A. 
That the proposed use will not substantially increase vehicular traffic on adjacent streets serving residential uses;
B. 
That the proposed use will not create increased pedestrian traffic in adjacent residential areas;
C. 
That the proposed use will not generate adverse impacts that negatively affect adjacent parcels, such as noise; and
D. 
That the proposed use will include adequate restroom facilities, trash receptacles, and recycling bins, which will be properly maintained by the applicant and are sufficient for the needs of the proposed use.
(Prior code § 19-11.6(c); Ord. 1247 § 3, 8/12/13; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
Restaurants seeking an on-sale alcohol license are eligible to apply for an Administrative Use Permit. Businesses that do not qualify must apply for a Conditional Use Permit. In addition to any other requirement of this Code, a qualifying restaurant must comply with all of the following restrictions:
A. 
Only full service and quick service restaurants with an operational kitchen and a full menu are eligible. Food must be served during all business operating hours;
B. 
Daily hours of operation are limited to the hours between six a.m. to two a.m. There is no after-hours use of the establishment, other than for routine clean-up and maintenance;
C. 
Before serving alcohol, the owner/operator must possess a valid on-sale alcoholic beverage license and be in compliance with all applicable regulations and guidance issued by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control at all times;
D. 
The establishment must allow patrons of all ages, at all times;
E. 
No cover charges and entry fees may be charged/required of patrons;
F. 
Signs advertising brands and types of alcohol may not be visible from the exterior of the premises. The display of alcoholic beverages must be interior only (no outdoor display) at all times;
G. 
Customized lighting and sound system conducive of a nightclub atmosphere are prohibited at all times.
(Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
Incidental instruction is permitted so long as no more than an aggregate of 15% of the total gross floor area within the building space is occupied by the incidental instruction area.
(Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
A new automobile/motor sports dealership or the enlargement or alteration of an established automobile/motor sports dealership in the Town Center District requires a Conditional Use Permit. In addition to any other requirement of this Code, the following applies to the sale of automobiles and/or motor sport vehicles:
A. 
Minimum lot frontage width: 100 feet, as measured along any public street; and
B. 
Minimum lot size: 15,000 square feet.
(Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
The Planning Commission may approve a pawn shop subject to the following standards:
A. 
Ancillary gun sales may be allowed within a pawn shop. Ancillary gun sales must not exceed more than 25% of total gross annual retail sales.
B. 
Not more than two pawn shops may be established, located, operated or maintained within the Town Center District.
C. 
Security window coverings must conform to this Code.
(Prior code § 19-11.6(g); Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
A. 
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Code, public assembly use is defined as any use that is established for the purpose of: (1) gathering, deliberating, worshiping, educating, entertaining, or conducting workshops, including, without limitation, banquet halls, educational institutions (which are to be permitted on second floor and above only), commercial recreational facilities (e.g., bowling alleys, skating), and theaters; or (2) establishing a permanent, headquarters-type and meeting facility for organizations, including, without limitation, religious facilities and fraternal halls.
B. 
All public assembly uses must provide at least one parking space for every four permanent seats. A "seat" means 18 lineal inches of seating space when seats are arranged in rows or benches. Where there are no fixed seats, a "seat" means seven square feet of floor area. Any required parking spaces may be located in a separate lot from the property where the public assembly use is proposed, subject to the off-street parking requirements.
C. 
If property is located within Parking District No. 1 and proposed public assembly use requires more parking than the existing use, then the parking requirement may be satisfied by the payment of an inlieu fee for every such additional required parking space. The amount of the in-lieu fee will be established by City Council resolution.
D. 
The Director may approve alternative parking for any public assembly use, including, without limitation, use of public parking lots, to meet some, or all, of the on-site parking requirements, subject to the parking assessment requirements of this Chapter.
E. 
The public assembly use must comply with this Code.
(Ord. 1208 § 3, 1/24/11; Ord. 1247 § 3, 8/12/13; Ord. 1272 § 8, 4/28/14; Ord. 1319 § 18, 10/10/16; Ord. 1361 § 5, 9/10/18; Ord. 1362 § 5, 9/24/18; Ord. 1373 § 5, 3/25/19; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
The Planning Commission may approve the establishment of a residential use subject to the following standards:
A. 
The exterior design and appearance of the building is compatible with the purpose and intent of the Town Center District; and
B. 
The residential use must be located on the second floor and above.
(Prior code § 19-11.6(h); Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
A. 
A Conditional Use Permit is required for drive in or drive-through uses, subject to the following standards:
1. 
Drive-in and drive-through establishments may be located only on lots having street frontage on Bellflower Boulevard. Such establishments must be located so as not to: (a) be a hazard or nuisance to nearby uses; (b) create traffic congestion or vehicular hazards; and (c) conflict with pedestrian circulation movements.
2. 
The minimum lot size for a drive-in or drive-through establishment is 15,000 square feet.
3. 
Drive-through aisles must have a minimum 12-foot width on curves, and a minimum 11-foot width on straight sections.
4. 
Drive-through aisles must provide sufficient queuing area behind the pick-up window to accommodate a minimum of six automobiles.
5. 
All service areas, rest rooms, and ground/roof mounted mechanical equipment must be screened from public view.
6. 
Pedestrian walkways should not intersect the drive-through drive aisles, but where as a practical matter they must, they must have clear visibility, and must be emphasized by enriched pavement treatments (e.g., interlocking pavers or stamped concrete).
7. 
Each such establishment must have a minimum street frontage of 70 linear feet.
8. 
The architectural design of any drive-in or drive-through establishment must be compatible with surrounding uses and the traditional architectural character of Town Center.
9. 
No driveway can be located closer than 10 feet to the end of a curb return.
(Prior code § 1911.6(i); Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
Limited outside display of merchandise may be permitted pursuant to this Code.
(Prior code § 19-11.7; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
The following table sets forth minimum lot dimensions and maximum height limitations and lot coverage for parcels located in Town Center District.
Table 17.48.160
Site Dimensions, Height Limitations and Lot Coverage
Feature
Standard
1. Site/Lot Area (minimum)
3,000 square feet1,2
2. Lot Width (minimum)
25 feet1,2
3. Lot Depth (minimum)
115 feet1,2
4. Height Limitations (maximum)
a. Adjacent (within 50 feet) to a residential district or existing residential development4
15 feet (one story)5
b. Other locations
35 feet (two and one-half stories)3,6
5. Lot Coverage (maximum)
100 percent
Notes:
(1)
A lot that does not comply with the applicable requirements is considered to be a legal building site for the purposes of development or the establishment of a new land use only if: (a) the parcel was previously a legal lot of record; and (b) the parcel has a valid certificate of compliance or conditional certificate of compliance issued in accordance with this Code and the Subdivision Map Act (Government Code §§ 66410, et seq.). The creation of new lots must abide by the minimum lot area, width, and depth provisions listed.
(2)
No minimum lot area, width, or depth requirements may be required for individual parcels created as condominium developments if part of an integrated Master Planned Development.
(3)
Existing and proposed theaters and religious facilities may exceed this height limit, up to a maximum height of 55 feet, in order to accommodate ancillary roof projections (e.g., theater proscenium, spires, towers, campanile, minarets).
(4)
Adjacent: Having lot lines or zoning boundaries in common.
(5)
This height limit may be exceeded when one foot side and rear setback is provided for every foot higher than 15 feet, up to two stories or 30 feet.
(6)
This height limitation may be exceeded when one foot front setback is provided for each two feet higher than 35 feet, up to four stories or 45 feet, whichever is less.
(Prior code § 19-11.9(a); Ord. 1319 § 19, 10/10/16; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
The following table sets forth setback requirements for buildings and parking lots located in the Town Center District.
Table 17.48.170
Setbacks
Feature
Standard Building
Standard Parking Lot3
1. Front Property Line Setback (minimum/maximum)
0 feet1
5 feet
2. Rear Property Line Setback (minimum)
a. Adjacent to a residential district or existing residential development4
5 feet5
0 feet
b. Adjacent to existing or planned commercial or office development4
0 feet
0 feet
3. Interior Side Property Line Setback
a. Adjacent to a residential district or existing residential development (minimum)4
5 feet5
0 feet
b. Adjacent to existing or planned commercial or office development (minimum/maximum)4
0 feet2
0 feet
4. Street Side Property Line Setback
0 feet
5 feet
Notes:
(1)
All buildings must be located at the front property line (0 foot setback) in order to preserve the traditional main street image of Town Center. A three-foot indentation may be provided to accommodate door openings.
(2)
All front building façades must be constructed from side property line-to-side property line in order to promote a continuous, traditional, "street wall" of storefronts contiguous to Town Center streets. Separation between buildings are discouraged.
(3)
Parking fronting Bellflower Boulevard is discouraged and must be located to the rear of the parcel, where possible.
(4)
Adjacent: Having lot lines or zoning boundaries in common.
(5)
Buildings located on parcels located adjacent to residential districts or existing residential development which exceed the 15-foot height limit must provide a 10-foot side and rear property line setback.
(Prior code § 19-11.9(b); Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
An encroachment permit may be issued for the following within the Town Center District:
A. 
Building Features.
1. 
Eaves and cornice elements, not to exceed a projection of one foot.
2. 
Awnings, not to exceed a projection of six feet.
3. 
Canopies and marquees, not to exceed a projection of six feet.
4. 
Architectural features (e.g., window and door sills, columns, pilasters), not to exceed a projection of one foot.
5. 
Light fixtures, not to exceed a projection of two feet.
B. 
Signs.
C. 
Landscape Features. Plant containers.
(Prior code § 19-11.9(c); Ord. 1281 § 11, 9/8/14; Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
A. 
This section is applicable only where a portion of a lot or parcel is within an area planned to be part of a future street, alley, or other public right-of-way as determined from an officially adopted plan, and the acquisition of such portion would not reduce the minimum site/lot area as specified on Table 17.48.160, Site Dimensions, Height Limitations, and Lot Coverage.
B. 
Portions of any lot in the Town Center District within a future right-of-way area cannot be occupied by buildings or structures other than those encroachments identified in this chapter. All other required setbacks, yards, and open areas must be provided in addition to the future right-of-way areas, and the future right-of-way lines are considered to be lot lines (property lines) for purposes of measuring building and parking setbacks, site/lot area, lot width and depth, and lot coverage.
C. 
The following encroachments are permitted within future right-of-way areas:
1. 
Fences, walls, or hedges, not to exceed three feet.
2. 
Landscaping.
3. 
Access walkways and driveways.
(Prior code § 19-11.9(d); Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
No construction permit for a new or redeveloped building will be issued until street dedication and improvement requirements as shown on the circulation plans are met.
(Prior code § 19-11.9(e); Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
A. 
Parking. Parking requirements for new development within the Town Center District must maintain a minimum ratio of one parking space for every 400 gross square feet of floor area. All newly constructed, expanded, or redeveloped buildings and structures must provide adequate parking to maintain this minimum ratio. The Director may, subject to this Chapter, approve alternative parking.
B. 
Any use may apply to utilize the public parking lots to meet some, or all, of the on-site parking requirements. The Director will evaluate such request based on considerations such as the ease of pedestrian access; the reasonable adjacent or proximate distance to the public parking lot; the parking assessment report; and the practicability of transferring the parking obligation. The applicant must prepare and submit a Parking Assessment Report containing the following components:
1. 
An assessment of the proposed project's highest parking demand time periods;
2. 
An analysis of available public parking locations during high parking demand time periods; and
3. 
A plan to include the use of maps, guides, or other wayfinding showing the locations of Bellflower public parking lot locations, in any marketing materials or marketing methods generated by the applicant.
In addition, the applicant must also enter into an agreement with the City clarifying that the use of public parking spaces does not grant a possessory right to the applicant; that the public may freely use any parking space within the public parking area; and that any transfer of ownership requires a reapplication for off-site parking. The City Manager is authorized to execute any such agreement in a form approved by the City Attorney.
C. 
Driveways. Each project site must provide a 20-foot minimum driveway width or two 10-foot driveways for each project site. The minimum required back-out space must comply with the "Parking Standards" diagram in this Chapter. If a portion of the required driveway width is also used as a back-out space and the minimum required back-out space is greater than the minimum required driveway width, the minimum required back-out space requirement applies for the portion of the driveway used as back-out space.
D. 
Parking Space Dimension. Any permanently maintained parking space must be a minimum of nine feet by 18 feet for the parking of motor vehicles.
(Prior code § 19-11.9(f); Ord. 1179 § 1 (Exh. G), 5/26/09; Ord. 1192 § 1, 4/26/10; Ord. 1361 § 6, 9/10/18; Ord. 1362 § 6, 9/24/18; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
A. 
No wall or fence may be constructed within the Town Center District until the Director approves plans and designs. In addition, a wall or fence requires a building permit. All walls and fences, whether required or not, must be located and limited in accordance with the provisions of this section.
B. 
Wall and Fence Height.
1. 
A six foot high solid decorative masonry perimeter wall (split face concrete block, or equivalent) is required adjacent to all residential districts. When the wall reaches the established front yard setback line of a residentially-zoned lot abutting the Town Center District, it must be decreased to a height of 42 inches. Perimeter walls located adjacent to residential districts may be extended to a minimum height of eight feet with Director approval.
2. 
Walls which are not located adjacent to residential districts (internal lot walls) are allowed to be a maximum of six feet in height.
3. 
Fences must not exceed six feet in height.
4. 
A maximum three foot high solid decorative masonry wall may be permitted anywhere on the interior of a lot.
5. 
A maximum three foot high decorative non-view-obscuring fence may be permitted anywhere on the interior of a lot.
C. 
Wall and Fence Material and Design.
1. 
Perimeter and internal lot walls must be decorative, composed of split face concrete block, or equivalent with coping. Standard concrete masonry unit block is not allowed.
2. 
Fences must be decorative, composed of wrought iron, or equivalent, with 18 inch wide solid decorative pilasters located 25 feet on center.
3. 
Perimeter and internal lot walls must be finished on both sides.
4. 
Wall and fence colors, textures, and materials must be coordinated with building architecture to achieve compatibility of design.
D. 
Walls and fences must be maintained in good repair and appearance.
E. 
The use of chain-link, barb wire, razor wire, wood or plastic slats, or wire fencing is not allowed.
(Prior code § 19-11.9(g); Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
A. 
The use of shatter resistant laminated vigil pane security glass is encouraged for storefront security.
B. 
The use of exterior scissor style security grilles and roll-up metal doors or grates are prohibited.
C. 
Interior scissor style security grilles must be concealed from public view when not in use by retracting the grilles into casings which are in proportion and scale to the building's architecture.
D. 
Permanent security bars (defined as those clearly visible and fixed to the exterior of windows or doors) are prohibited.
E. 
Interior security mullions which mimic individual window panes may be allowed as a security device, as approved by the Director.
(Prior code § 19-11.9(h); Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
The conduct and operation of all uses in the Town Center District must comply with the minimum standards of performance set forth below:
A. 
Noise. The conduct and operation of all uses must comply with the following standards:
1. 
It is unlawful for any Town Center District activity to create noise that exceeds an exterior noise level of 60 dBA (a weighted method of measurement) during the hours of 10:00 p.m. to seven a.m. and 65 dBA (a weighted method of measurement) during the hours of seven a.m. to 10:00 p.m., as measured at the property line. It is unlawful for interior noise limits to impact residential interior spaces above 45 dBA (a weighted method of measurement).
2. 
It is unlawful for any person to load, unload, open, close, or handle boxes, crates, containers, building materials, garbage cans, or similar objects between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and eight a.m., in a manner which would cause a noise disturbance to an abutting residential district.
3. 
It is unlawful for any person to cause or permit the repairing, rebuilding, modifying, or testing of any motor vehicle (e.g., auto, truck, recreation vehicle, motorcycle, off-road vehicle) in such a manner as to create a noise disturbance between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and eight a.m. affecting an abutting residential district.
4. 
Exterior air conditioning equipment must have a sound rating number (SRN) in accordance with ARI (Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute) Standard 270.
5. 
Any live music, or music systems (e.g., CD players, radios, tape players, digital audio players) may be conducted, designed, installed, and operated in a manner which is not disturbing to surrounding Town Center District uses and abutting residential districts.
B. 
Lighting. The conduct and operation of all uses must comply with the following standards:
1. 
All lights and glare associated with operations and illuminated signs must be shielded or directed so as not to illuminate abutting residential districts.
2. 
Building lighting, for the purpose of accenting architectural elements through the use of exposed neon, may be approved by the Director.
C. 
Smoke. No operation or activity is permitted to have operations which emit excessive smoke, fumes, or dust or which exceed the requirements of applicable law.
D. 
Maintenance of Open Areas. All open areas must be landscaped or surfaced and permanently maintained in accordance with applicable law.
E. 
Vibration. No operation or activity is permitted which will create vibration noticeable without instruments at the perimeter of the subject property.
F. 
Mechanical and Electrical Equipment. All mechanical and electrical equipment, including, without limitation, air conditioners; antennas; satellite dishes; pumps; transformers; heating; and ventilating equipment must be located and operated in a manner that does not disturb adjacent uses and activities. All rooftop mechanical and electrical equipment must be screened from public view through the use of architectural features (e.g., parapet, cornice). Antennas, satellite dishes, and monopoles cannot exceed the building height limit, and must be located and designed so as to minimize the visual impact on surrounding properties and from public streets. Antennas, satellite dishes, and monopoles must be screened through the addition of architectural features and/or landscaping that harmonize with the elements and characteristics of the property. The materials used in constructing the antenna, satellite dish, or monopole cannot be unnecessarily bright, shiny, garish, or reflective.
G. 
Electrical Nuisance. No operation or activity may transmit, generate, or otherwise cause any electrical, magnetic, or electromagnetic radiation disturbance that affects the operation of any use, equipment, or process employed by any use beyond the boundary of the site.
H. 
Liquid and Solid Wastes. No discharge at any point into any disposal system, or into the ground, of any toxic or hazardous liquid or solid materials is allowed.
I. 
Heat or Cold. No operation or activity can emit heat which would cause a temperature increase or decrease on any adjacent property in excess of 10 degrees Fahrenheit, whether the change is in the air, on the ground, or in any structure.
J. 
Trash Areas. All refuse must be stored within City approved trash containers. All areas for the storage of trash containers must be effectively screened from public view or placed within an enclosure bounded by a six foot high solid masonry decorative (split face concrete block or, equivalent) wall, with solid metal doors. All trash enclosures must be securely designed to prevent access to anyone other than the authorized users and the refuse service company.
(Prior code § 19-11.10; Ord. 1281 § 11, 9/8/14; Ord. 1373 § 6, 3/25/19; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)
These provisions provide for the orderly termination of nonconforming structures and uses to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare, and to bring these structures and uses into conformity with the goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan. This section is intended to prevent the expansion of nonconforming structures and uses to the maximum extent feasible, to establish the criteria under which they may be continued or possibly expanded, and to provide for the correction or removal of these land use nonconformities in an equitable, reasonable, and timely fashion.
Nonconforming structures and uses within the Town Center District are detrimental to both orderly and creative development, and the general welfare of citizens and property.
A. 
Nonconforming Structures. A structure which lawfully existed before the effective date of the ordinance codified in this Chapter is a legal nonconforming structure, and may continue even though the structure fails to conform to the present requirements of the Town Center District. A legal nonconforming structure may be maintained as follows:
1. 
A legal nonconforming structure which is damaged to an extent of 50% may be restored only if made to conform to all provisions of this Chapter.
2. 
Reasonable repairs and alterations may be made to legal nonconforming commercial structures, provided that no structural alterations be made which would prolong the life of the supporting members of a structure, such as bearing walls, columns, beams, or girders. Structural elements may be modified or repaired only if the Director determines that such modification or repair is immediately necessary to protect the health and safety of the public or occupants of the nonconforming structure, or adjacent property. However, improvements required to reinforce nonreinforced masonry structures is permitted, provided that such retrofitting is strictly limited to compliance with earthquake safety standards.
3. 
Reasonable repairs required by law will be permitted.
4. 
Any additional development of a parcel with a legal nonconforming structure may require that all new structures be in conformance with this Chapter and all applicable portions of this Code.
5. 
If the nonconforming structure is unoccupied for a period of one year or more the structure will lose its legal nonconforming status, and will be removed or altered to conform to the provisions of this Chapter and all applicable portions of the Code. A use of a legal nonconforming structure must be considered discontinued when any of the following apply:
a. 
The explicit intent of the owner to discontinue use of the nonconforming structure is apparent, as determined by the Director.
b. 
Where characteristic furnishings and equipment associated with the use have been removed and not replaced with equivalent furnishings and equipment during this time, and where normal occupancy and/or use has been discontinued for a period of one year or more, unless the discontinuance of use was for the purpose of making repairs required by law.
c. 
Where there are no business receipts available for the one year period.
B. 
Abatement of Nonconforming Structures.
1. 
Legal nonconforming structures may be removed or structurally altered within the following specified time limit, from the effective date of the ordinance codified in this Chapter.
2. 
Nonconforming structures may be continued for a period not to exceed 22 years.
C. 
Nonconforming Uses. A nonconforming use is one which lawfully existed before the effective date of said ordinance, but which is no longer permitted in the Town Center District. The continuance of a legal nonconforming use is subject to the following:
1. 
Change of ownership, tenancy, or management of a nonconforming use will not affect its legal nonconforming status, provided that the use and intensity of use does not change.
2. 
If a nonconforming use is discontinued for a period of six or more consecutive calendar months, it will lose its legal nonconforming status, and the continued use of the property is required to conform with the provisions of this Chapter and all applicable portions of this Code.
3. 
Additional development of any property on which a legal nonconforming use exists will require that all existing and new uses conform to the provisions of this Chapter and all applicable portions of this Code.
4. 
If a nonconforming use is converted to a conforming use, no nonconforming use may be resumed.
5. 
No nonconforming use may be established or replaced by another nonconforming use, nor may any nonconforming use be expanded or changed.
D. 
Abatement of Nonconforming Uses. Legal nonconforming uses must be discontinued within the following specified time limits, from the effective date of said ordinance.
1. 
A nonconforming use which does not occupy a structure: five years.
2. 
The nonconforming use of a conforming structure: 22 years.
E. 
Structure Permits or Certificates of Occupancy Prohibited. When any nonconforming structure or use is no longer permitted pursuant to the provisions of this Chapter, no permit for a structure thereafter will be issued for further continuance, alteration, or expansion. Any permit issued in error must not be construed as allowing the continuation of the nonconforming structure or use.
F. 
Removal of Illegal Nonconforming Structures and Uses. Nothing contained in this Chapter must be construed or implied so as to allow for the continuation of illegal nonconforming structures and uses. Said structures and uses must be removed immediately subject to the enforcement provisions of this Code and other applicable law.
(Prior code § 19-11.13; Ord. 1217 §§ 13, 14, 9/26/11; Ord. 1373 § 8, 3/25/19; Ord. 1417 § 8, 8/8/22)