City of Stockton, CA Chapter 16.64 OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING STANDARDS

§ 16.64.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to provide off-street parking and loading standards to:

A. Provide for the general welfare and convenience of persons within the City by ensuring sufficient parking facilities to meet the needs generated by specific uses;

B. Provide accessible, attractive, secure, and well-maintained off-street parking and loading facilities;

C. Increase public safety by reducing congestion on public streets;

D. Ensure access and maneuverability for emergency vehicles; and

E. Provide loading and delivery facilities in proportion to the needs of allowed uses.

(Prior code § 6-345.010)

§ 16.64.020 Applicability.

Every use, including a change or expansion of a use or structure, except as otherwise provided for in Chapter 16.228 (Nonconforming Uses, Structures, and Parcels), shall have appropriately maintained off-street parking and loading areas in compliance with the provisions of this chapter. A use shall not be commenced and structures shall not be occupied until improvements required by this chapter are satisfactorily completed.

(Prior code § 6-345.020)

§ 16.64.030 General parking regulations.

A. Parking and Loading Spaces to Be Permanent. Required parking and loading spaces shall be permanently available; off-site parking shall require a permanent covenant in compliance with Section 16.64.080(B)(4) (Location). The spaces shall be marked (except for single-family dwellings, duplexes, and triplexes) and maintained for parking or loading purposes for the use they are intended to serve. The Director may approve the temporary reduction of parking or loading spaces in conjunction with a seasonal or intermittent use for a period of not more than 30 days. Longer periods may be allowed with the approval of a temporary activity permit (Chapter 16.164).

B. Parking and Loading to Be Unrestricted. During business hours, parking and loading facilities required by this chapter shall be available to the general public without charge, except for colleges and universities. Required parking for residential uses shall be continuously available without charge to the residents and their guests. A fee for parking may only be charged for spaces that exceed the requirements of this chapter.

C. Maintenance. Parking spaces, driveways, maneuvering aisles, turnaround areas, and landscaping areas shall be kept free of dust, graffiti, and litter and shall be maintained to prevent the tracking of dirt, mud and/or gravel into the right-of-way. Striping, paving, walls, light standards, and all other facilities shall be permanently maintained and meet the requirements of Section 8.36.010 of the Municipal Code.

D. Surfacing. Parking spaces, driveways, maneuvering aisles and turnaround areas shall be paved with a permanent surface, consisting of concrete, asphalt or other similar material authorized by the City's Standard Specifications. Compacted soil and/or gravel shall not be considered an acceptable surface.

E. Vehicles for Sale. Vehicles, trailers, or other personal property shall not be parked upon a private street, parking lot, or private property for the primary purpose of displaying the vehicle, trailer, or other personal property for sale, hire, or rental, unless the property is appropriately zoned, and the vendor is licensed to transact a vehicle sales business at that location. Vehicles shall not be parked on public streets for the purpose of sale, hire, or rental, except for buses and taxis in compliance with Title 10 of the Municipal Code.

F. Fire Lanes. Parking is prohibited in marked fire lanes designated by the Fire Marshal in compliance with Section 10.04.1090 of the Municipal Code.

G. Official Parking Areas. The City Manager may designate official parking areas that are not available for public use in compliance with Section 10.04.1050 of the Municipal Code.

H. Commercial Parking Lots. Tractor-trailers, either with or without a trailer, shall be prohibited from parking overnight on residentially used property, and shall not be parked on commercially used property for more than 72 hours.

I. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations. Electric vehicle charging stations are permitted in all required and non-required off-street parking spaces. A parking space served by electric vehicle supply equipment or a parking space designated as a future electric vehicle charging space shall count as at least two standard automobile parking spaces for the purpose of complying with Chapter 16.64, up to a maximum reduction of 10 percent of the total required parking. An accessible parking space with an access aisle served by electric vehicle supply equipment or an accessible parking space with an aisle designated as a future electric vehicle charging space shall count as at least two standard automobile parking spaces for the purpose of complying with Chapter 16.64.

(Prior code § 6-345.030; Ord. 023-07 C.S. § 43; Ord. 001-08 C.S. §§ 7, 9; Ord. 015-09 C.S., eff. 12-3-09; Ord. 011-11 C.S. § 1, eff. 10-27-11; Ord. 2016-09-27-1601 § II; Ord. 2020-06-09-1501 C.S. § 16; Ord. 2020-12-01-1502 C.S. § 19)

§ 16.64.040 Number of parking spaces required.

Each land use shall provide at least the minimum number of off-street parking spaces, including disabled access spaces, except where a parking reduction has been granted in compliance with Section 16.64.050 (Adjustments to off-street parking requirements). Additional spaces may be required through approval of a discretionary permit.

A. Expansion/Remodeling of Structure, or Change in Use.

1. When the use of a structure changes to a use that requires the same number of parking spaces as the immediately previous use:

a. The number of required parking spaces for the new use shall be the same as the requirement for the previous use, regardless of the number of spaces actually provided by the previous use, provided that:

i. The previous use was legally established; and

ii. No spaces were eliminated by the previous use.

b. Uses that were located in zones which did not allow the overnight parking of vehicles before the adoption of this Development Code, may have company-owned vehicles parked on their premises, provided the parking is in compliance with subsection G of this section (Company-owned vehicles).

2. When a structure is enlarged or increased in capacity, or when a use is changed to one that requires more off-street parking than the existing or previous use:

a. Only the number of parking spaces required for the addition needs to be provided; or

b. The difference in the required number of parking spaces for the new use and the existing use only needs to be provided.

3. When a structure (or a portion of a structure) is intentionally demolished, any new use or structure shall provide the number of parking spaces required by this chapter.

4. Additional parking spaces shall not be required for an addition to a structure made solely for the purpose of increasing access for disabled persons.

B. Residential Uses. Residential uses shall provide parking in compliance with Table 3-9 (Parking Requirements by Land Use).

1. Conversion of a garage for a single-unit residence is permitted in accordance with Section 16.80.310 (Accessory dwelling units).

2. A single-unit use that does not conform to the provision of this chapter shall be brought into compliance at the time additions or alterations to the primary structure are made that cumulatively increase the existing floor area (habitable space) by more than 50 percent, unless waived under Section 16.64.050(B) (Reduction or waiver of parking requirements).

3. Enclosed tandem parking spaces may be permitted to meet the parking requirements in Table 3-9 (Parking Requirements by Land Use) in those cases in which:

a. The configuration of an existing site would not allow a two car garage, as determined by the director; or

b. A proposed development would be located on a lot that is less than 5,000 square feet and has a frontage of less than 50 feet.

4. Required garages shall have an unrestricted interior of at least:

a. Two car garages: 18 feet by 19 feet;

b. Single-car garages: Nine feet by 19 feet; or

c. Tandem parking garages: Nine feet by 36 feet.

5. Parking spaces required in compliance with Table 3-9 (Parking Requirements by Land Use) that are not required to be covered or enclosed shall be located:

a. Outside the required setback area; and

b. So as to not interfere with the ingress and egress from the other required parking spaces.

C. Freeway-Oriented Uses. Uses that are intended to serve the motoring public (e.g., lodging facilities, service stations, truck stops, mini-marts, restaurants, and similar freeway-oriented uses) that are located within 500 feet of the freeway right-of-way and 500 feet from the right-of-way of the road intersecting the freeway shall provide designated spaces for the parking of commercial trucks with trailers, large recreational vehicles, and vehicles pulling trailers.

1. General Requirements.

a. Circulation. A percentage of parking spaces for large vehicles in compliance with Table 3-8 (Parking Requirements for Freeway-Oriented Use) shall be designed to be pull-through so that vehicles exit the space in a forward direction. On-premises circulation shall provide for exiting of the site to the public right-of-way in a forward direction.

b. Modification of Requirements. The Director shall have the authority to modify these requirements for uses and locations that do not require the parking of large vehicles and vehicles pulling trailers.

2. Specific Requirements.

a. Parking for large vehicles, recreational vehicles, and vehicles pulling trailers shall provide parking for each identified freeway use as required in Table 3-8 (Parking Requirements for Freeway-Oriented Uses).

TABLE 3-8 PARKING REQUIREMENTS FOR FREEWAY-ORIENTED USES
Type of Requirement	Truck Stops	Other
Percentage of pull-through spaces required	80%	5%
Dimensions	10 ft. x 80 ft.	10 ft. x 60 ft.

b. These spaces shall be clearly marked for "recreational vehicles, large vehicles, or vehicles with trailers only."

c. A clearing height of 12 to 14 feet shall be provided.

D. Uses Not Listed. The parking requirement for any use not listed in Table 3-9 shall be determined by the Director based upon the requirements for the most similar comparable use, the particular characteristics of the proposed use, and any other relevant data regarding parking demand.

E. Rounding of Quantities. When calculating the number of parking spaces required, space requirements greater than one-half shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number and requirements of less than one-half shall be eliminated.

F. Fixed Seating. Where fixed seating is provided in the form of benches or bleachers, a seat shall be defined as 24 inches of continuous bench space for the purpose of calculating the number of required parking spaces.

G. Company-Owned Vehicles. The number of parking spaces required by this chapter does not include spaces needed for the parking of company-owned vehicles. Parking spaces to accommodate company-owned vehicles shall be provided in excess of the requirements for a particular land use.

H. PT (Port) Zoning District. Parking shall be in compliance with the PT (Port) zoning district in compliance with Section 16.24.150 (PT (Port) zoning district standards) or the Rough and Ready Island Development Plan for the Port of Stockton, California (Development Plan) as applicable.

I. Parking Requirements by Land Use. Each land use shall be provided the minimum number of parking spaces required by Table 3-9. Additional spaces may be required through discretionary permits.

TABLE 3-9 PARKING REQUIREMENTS BY LAND USE
AGRICULTURAL AND RESOURCE-RELATED USES
Uses	Number of Spaces Required
	Gross Floor Area Space(s)/sq. ft.	Other/Additional Spaces
Agricultural activities and facilities	None
Cannabis cultivator operator	1/2,000	1/2,000 for storage, employee break rooms, equipment rooms, offices, and circulation corridors
Conservation area	Per land development permit
Mining	Per use permit

BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL USES
Uses	Number of Spaces Required
	Gross Floor Area Space(s)/sq. ft.	Other/Additional Spaces
The following business uses listed on Table 2-2: Banks and financial services Business support services Offices	1st 50,000 sq. ft.—1/200	———
	Portion over 50,000 sq. ft.—1/500	———

INDUSTRIAL USES
Uses	Number of Spaces Required
	Gross Floor Area Space(s)/sq. ft.	Other/Additional Spaces
The following uses listed under "Industrial Uses" on Table 2-2, except for the following:	Up to 50,000 sq. ft. of floor area—1/500	Offices/sales over 5,000 sq. ft.—1/250 sq. ft.
	50,001 to 100,000 sq. ft.—100 spaces plus 1/1,000 for area over 50,000 sq. ft.
	100,001 to 500,000 sq. ft.— 150 spaces plus 1/2,000 for area over 100,000 sq. ft.
Cannabis distributor operator	1/2,000	Offices over 5,000 sq. ft. – 1/250
Cannabis manufacturer (volatile and non-volatile)	1/2,000	Offices over 5,000 sq. ft. – 1/250
Cannabis microbusiness (by subtype)		*1/2,000 for storage, employee break rooms, equipment rooms, offices, circulation corridors, cultivation and manufacturing areas
RDC	1/250″
RDM	1/250″
RCM	1/250″
DCM	1/2,000*
Cannabis testing laboratory	1/1,000	Offices over 5,000 sq. ft. – 1/250
Laundries and dry cleaning plants	1/1,000	Offices/sales over 5,000 sq. ft.—1/250 sq. ft.
Research and development (R&D)	1/500	Offices/sales over 5,000 sq. ft.—1/250 sq. ft.
Contractor shops and yards	———	2/facility + 1/250 sq. ft. of office
Warehouses	1st 500,000 sq. ft. of floor area—1/2,000	Offices/sales over 5,000 sq. ft.—1/250 sq. ft.
	Portion over 500,000— 1/4,000
Wholesaling and distribution	1st 500,000 sq. ft. of floor area—1/2,000	Offices/sales over 5,000 sq. ft.—1/250 sq. ft.
	Portion over 500,000— 1/4,000

RECREATION, EDUCATION, AND PUBLIC ASSEMBLY USES
Uses	Number of Spaces Required
	Gross Floor Area Space(s)/sq. ft.	Fixed Seats (24″ = 1 seat)	Other/Additional Spaces
All uses listed under "Public and Semi-Public, Recreational, and Institutional Uses" on Table 2-2, except for the following or otherwise listed in this table:	1/50	OR 1/4	———
Auditoriums, meeting halls, and theaters
Cinemas	———	1/4	4/screen
Bridge clubs and non-gambling board games	———	———	4/table
Card rooms/poolhalls/billiard parlors
Card rooms	———	———	4/table
Poolhalls	———	———	2/table
Commercial amusement facilities	1/250		———
Dancehalls—Dance floor areas	1/50		———
Educational facilities
Colleges and universities	———	———	1/classroom + 0.75 per each student in the largest shift on site at one time
Public and private elementary and secondary schools	———	———	2/classroom
Public and private high schools	———	———	2/classroom + 1/6 per each student in the largest shift on site at one time
Equipment repair and maintenance training; vehicle repair and maintenance training	———	———	2/classroom + 1 per each student in the largest shift on site at one time
Specialized education and training; vocational and technical schools	———	———	2/classroom + 1 per each student in the largest shift on site at one time
Equestrian facilities	———	———	1/5 horses
Golf courses/country clubs	———	———	6/hole + 1 per clubhouse/ ancillary over 3,000 sq. ft.
Golf driving ranges	———	———	1/tee
Indoor recreation facilities
Bowling alleys	———	———	4/lane + ancillary
Skating	1/100 of rink area	———
Tennis/racquet ball/handball or other courts	———	———	3/court + ancillary
Libraries and museums	1/500	———
Marinas	———	———	1/2 berths + ancillary
Dry storage	———	———	0.75/boat space
Outdoor assembly facility	Per use permit
Outdoor commercial recreation facilities	———	———	Per use permit
Parks and playgrounds	———	———	Per director
Recreational vehicle parks	———	———	2 for manager + 4 for employee/guests
Studios	1/250	———

RESIDENTIAL
Uses	Number of Spaces Required
	Space(s)/Unit or other criteria	Guest Parking
Caretaker and employee housing	1 covered/unit	———
Duplexes	1 covered/unit, except in the Downtown Core, ½/unit	———
Cottage Court	1/unit	———
Mobilehome parks	1/mobilehome	1/4 units
Multi-unit dwellings	1/unit	1/4 units
Greater Downtown	½/unit	———
Downtown Core1	½/unit	———
Affordable housing	½/unit	1/8 units
Organizational houses	1/3 occupants	1/6 occupants
Residential care facilities
All, except care homes (6 or fewer)	1/5 beds	1/10 beds
Family Care Homes, 7 or more	2/house in enclosed garage	1/10 beds
Rooming and boarding houses	1/3 occupants	———
Senior residential projects	½/2 units	1/10 units
Single-unit dwellings	2/house in enclosed garage	———
Townhouses	1 covered/unit, except in the Downtown Core, ½/unit	———
Triplexes	1/unit, except in the Downtown Core, ½/unit	———
Fourplexes	1/unit, except in the Downtown Core, ½/unit	———

RETAIL TRADE
Uses	Number of Spaces Required
	Gross Floor Area Space(s)/sq. ft.	Other/Additional Spaces
All uses listed under "Commercial, Business, and Service Uses" on Table 2-2, except for the following or otherwise listed in this table:	1/250	———
Alcoholic beverage sales
Bars and nightclubs with dancing or live entertainment	1/150	———
Auto and vehicle sales—New	1/2,000 sq. ft. of outdoor sales and storage area
Auto and vehicles sales—Used	1/2,000 sq. ft. of outdoor sales and storage area
Auto and vehicle leasing/rental	1/2,000 sq. ft. of outdoor sales rental and storage area
Convenience stores	1/150	———
Furniture, furnishings, and appliance stores	1st 5,000 sq. ft.—1/500	———
	Over 5,000 sq. ft.—1/1,000
Nurseries and garden supply stores	1/250	1/2,000 sq. ft. outdoor sales and storage
Restaurants
Table service	1/200	———
Fast food/take out	1/100	———
With dancing or live entertainment	1/150
Shopping centers
Regional (400,000 sq. ft. or more)	1/200 up to 400,000 sq. ft. + 1/250 over 400,000	———

SERVICES
Uses	Number of Spaces Required
	Gross Floor Area Space(s)/sq. ft.	Other/Additional Spaces
All uses listed under "Commercial, Business, and Service Uses" on Table 2-2, except for the following or otherwise listed in this table:	1st 50,000 sq. ft.—1/200	———
	Over 50,000 sq. ft.—1/500
Adult day care facilities	1/500	2 spaces for drop off
Animal services
Kennels and boarding facilities	1/500	1/800 boarding area
Grooming	1/400	———
Training facilities	1/500	———
Auto/vehicle services
Car washes—Full service	———	3 spaces/wash lane; Separate parking for ancillary uses
Car washes—Self-service	———	1 space
Fueling stations	1/400	———
Inoperable vehicle storage	———	2/facility
Maintenance/minor repair	1/400	———
Major repair/body work	1/400	———
Parking facilities, public	———	None
Vehicle storage, other than marinas	1/200 of office	2/facility
Auto rental	1/400	1/rental space
Cannabis retailer – non-storefront (delivery only)	1/250	1/2,000 for storage, employee break rooms, equipment rooms, offices, and circulation corridors
Cannabis retailer – storefront	1/250	1/2,000 for storage, employee break rooms, equipment rooms, offices, and circulation corridors
Child care
Child day care centers	———	1/employee + drop-off space
Large family child care homes	———	Per Section 16.80.100
Small family child care homes	———	———
Equipment rental	1/250	———
Funeral services
Cemeteries	———	Per use permit
Mortuaries	1/50	OR 1/4 fixed seats
Crematorium	1/50	OR 1/4 fixed seats
Health/fitness facilities	1/250	Ancillary activities as otherwise designated
Lodging facilities
Bed and breakfast	———	1/room + 1 for manager
Extended-stay facilities	———	1/guest room + 4 + ancillary
Co-living (lodging facility)	———	1/2-space/guest room
Single room occupancy facilities (SRO)	———	1/2-space/guest room
Hotels and motels	———	1/guest room + 4 + ancillary
Medical services
Extended care	———	1/2-space/bed
Hospitals	———	2/bed
Personal services
Restricted	1/250	———
Unrestricted	1/250	———
Repair services	1/250	———
Social services facilities	———	Per use permit
Transitional housing		1/2 beds
Storage facilities
Personal storage facilities (mini-storage)	———	4 spaces

TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNICATION, AND UTILITY USES
Uses	Number of Spaces Required
	Indoor Gross Floor Area Space(s)/sq. ft.	Other/Additional Spaces
Broadcasting studios	1/200 indoor space	———
Communication facilities	———	1 space
Transit stations and terminals	1/250 indoor space
Vehicle and freight terminals	1/250 indoor space	1/bay

OTHER USES
Uses	Number of Spaces Required
	Gross Floor Area Space(s)/sq. ft.	Other/Additional Spaces
Live/work facilities	———	2 covered/unit + 1/unit for customer or guest
Major impact facilities	———	Per use permit
Motion picture production	1/500 indoor space	Ancillary use requirements
Multi-use facilities	———	Aggregate of requirements for specific uses in the multi-use
Public institutions	1/200	———
Public and semi-public utility facilities	———	1 space
Signs—Off-premises	———	———
Transient-Oriented Development	No minimum if within ¼ mile of station

Notes:
1	Exemptions for parcels within a parking assessment district per Section 16.64.060

(Prior code § 16-345.040; Ord. 023-07 C.S. §§ 44, 45; Ord. 001-08 C.S. § 8; Ord. 015-09 C.S., eff. 12-3-09; Ord. 011-11 C.S. § 1, eff. 10-27-11; Ord. 2019-03-05-1501 C.S. § 5; Ord. 2019-07-16-1504 C.S. § 5; Ord. 2020-12-01-1502 C.S. § 20; Ord. 2022-07-12-1601-02 C.S. § 19; Ord. 2025-06-03-1601, 6/3/2025)

§ 16.64.050 Adjustments to off-street parking requirements.

A. Joint Use of Parking Facilities. Where two or more adjacent nonresidential uses have distinct and differing peak parking usage periods, (e.g., a theater and a bank), a joint use of parking spaces that results in a reduction in the total number of required parking spaces may be approved by the Director, provided:

1. The most remote space is located within 500 feet of the use it is intended to serve or as approved by Director;

2. The amount of reduction may be no greater than the number of spaces required for the least intensive of the uses sharing the parking;

3. The applicant is responsible for providing sufficient data, including a parking study if required by the Director, to indicate that there is no conflict in the peak parking demand for the uses proposing to make joint use of the parking facilities; and

4. The property owners involved in the joint use of parking facilities shall record an agreement between the parties that is approved by the Director and whose form is approved by the City Attorney. This agreement shall be recorded with the County Recorder, and a copy shall be filed with the Director.

B. Reduction or Waiver of Parking Requirements. The Director or Commission may approve reductions or waivers to the number of required parking spaces for a particular use as provided below:

1. Existing Structures.

a. Director Approval. The Director may reduce or waive up to 20 percent of the parking requirements, or a minimum of one space, under the following conditions:

i. Change in Use. Parking requirements, increased by virtue of a change in use, may be waived or reduced by the Director when all of the following conditions are present:

(A) The structure was designed and intended for nonresidential use;

(B) The owner or developer substantiates that the provision of additional parking is unreasonable and economically unsound and the compliance with the provisions of this chapter would entail severe hardship; and

(C) The structure or structures were originally built before the effective date of the current parking requirements.

ii. Expansion of Structure Area. Parking requirements, increased by virtue of an expansion of structure area may be waived or reduced by the Director when all of the following conditions are present:

(A) No substantial change in use is involved;

(B) In the case of nonresidential land uses, the increase in floor area does not exceed 25 percent of the existing gross floor area;

(C) In the case of the expansion of an existing single-family residential structure, the increase in floor area does not exceed 50 percent of the existing gross floor area;

(D) The owner or developer substantiates that the provision of additional parking is unreasonable and economically unsound and that compliance with the provisions of this chapter would entail severe hardship; and

(E) The structure or structures were originally built before the effective date of the current parking requirements.

b. Commission Approval. The Commission may reduce or waive parking requirements in circumstances not delegated to the Director for approval in compliance with the following:

i. Hearing Required. A hearing shall be noticed and held in compliance with Chapter 16.88 (Review Procedures).

ii. Appeals. The applicant or other person dissatisfied with the decision of the Commission may appeal to the Council in compliance with Chapter 16.100 (Appeals).

2. New Construction. Any reduction to the parking required by this chapter shall require the approval of a variance in compliance with Chapter 16.172 (Variances).

C. Ministerial Parking Reductions. Ministerial ("by-right") parking reductions for all development requests (i.e., building permits, ministerial, and discretionary) and may be approved by the Director or designee according to the following options for reductions to the minimum parking requirement per Section 16.64.040 (Number of parking spaces required). These options can be used in various combinations; however, the total parking reductions shall not exceed 20 percent of required parking.

1. Reduction for Secure Bicycle Parking. Developments which provide additional secure bicycle parking facilities over and above the minimum requirement may reduce their parking requirement by one vehicle space for every five additional bicycle spaces provided. Maximum reduction: 5% of required parking.

2. Preferred Carpool/Vanpool Parking Spaces. Developments which guarantee preferred parking spaces (e.g., covered, shaded, or near building entrance) to employees or residents who participate regularly in a carpool or vanpool may reduce their parking requirement by one vehicle space for every one space which is marked and reserved for carpools/vanpools at a preferred location. Maximum reduction: 5% of required parking.

3. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations. For development that provides electric vehicle charging stations beyond the minimum requirements of the California Building Standards Code, a reduction in required parking is permitted. The electric vehicle charging space shall comply with all standards for parking areas pursuant to this chapter. Maximum reduction: two required parking spaces for each electric vehicle charging space provided.

4. Reduction for Parking Near Major Transit Stops (e.g., train stations or significant bus facilities). Parking requirements may be reduced for development within one-quarter mile of a major transit stop. Maximum reduction: 10 percent of required parking.

5. Small Lot-Infill Projects. For infill lots of 6,400 square feet or less. Maximum reduction: 10 percent of required parking.

6. Scooter and Motorcycle Parking. Five scooter or motorcycle spaces may be substituted for one on-site vehicle parking space. Maximum reduction: two spaces or 5% of the required parking spaces, whichever is greater.

7. Other. Additional reductions may be approved in accordance with Chapter 16.176 (Waiver).

D. Magnolia Historic District. Parking requirements for the Magnolia historic district shall be in compliance with Section 16.28.060 (Magnolia historic district overlay district).

E. Downtown Parking. Parking requirements for the Central parking district and Parking Improvement District No. 2001-1 shall be in compliance with Section 16.64.060 (Parking assessment districts).

F. Transit-Oriented Development. There is no minimum off-street parking requirement for uses within one-quarter mile from the Altamont Commuter Express (ACE) Robert J. Cabral Train Station or a proposed California High-Speed Rail station.

G. Variance. Other than changes to parking requirements provided for in this section, a variance in compliance with Chapter 16.172 (Variances) shall be required for any change to a parking requirement.

H. Nonconforming Uses and Structures. Parking requirements may be modified for nonconforming uses and structures in compliance with the following provisions:

1. Parking Standards. If the use of a structure that is nonconforming because it does not meet parking standards is changed, regardless of how long the structure may have been vacant, the structure may be occupied by any use allowed in the zoning district in which it is located, provided that it meets the requirements, provisions, and standards, other than parking, identified for the use, and the proposed use has:

a. The same or lesser parking requirements as the current or previous use;

b. A greater parking requirement than the current or previous use and complies with one of the following:

i. Additional parking shall be provided in compliance with the following formula:

S = E + (Rp - Re)

Where:

S = Number of off-street parking spaces required to be provided

E = Number of existing parking spaces

Rp = Number of parking spaces required for the proposed use

Re = Number of parking spaces required for the current/previous use

ii. If existing physical constraints on the site limit the amount of parking that can be provided, additional parking shall be at the discretion of the Director.

(Prior code § 16-345.050; Ord. 023-07 C.S. § 46; Ord. 2020-12-01-1502 C.S. § 21)

§ 16.64.060 Parking assessment districts.

A. Off-Street Parking Exemption. Whenever public off-street parking facilities have been established by means of a special parking assessment district, all uses and structures within the district, as established by the City Council, shall be exempt from the parking requirements of this chapter if the owners/operators of the uses or structures pay the assessment, except as follows:

1. Where the use of a structure that was erected after the levying of the special parking district assessment, or after the establishment of public off-street parking facilities creates the need for an unusual or exceptional amount of off-street parking; or

2. Where an alteration, expansion, or change in use of a structure, after levying of a special parking district assessment, or the establishment of public off-street parking facilities, creates a need for off-street parking spaces in excess of the spaces required for the structure or use before the alteration, expansion, or change in use.

B. Parking Improvement District No. 2001-1. The boundaries of the City of Stockton Parking Improvement District No. 2001-1 shall be the boundaries of the West End Redevelopment Area (generally bounded by Park Street on the north, Mormon Slough on the west, Sonora Street on the south, and the Union Pacific Railroad tracks on the east).

1. Any property located within these boundaries, except residential land uses, religious facilities, schools, and emergency shelters, shall have the option of providing all off-street parking on-site as required by this chapter or annexing to the City of Stockton Parking Improvement District No. 2001-1 if any of the following occur:

a. New construction of a structure on a vacant parcel;

b. Remodeling or reconstruction of an existing building or structure to the extent that the cost of remodeling exceeds 50 percent of the assessed value of the property. All remodeling costs within a five year period shall be cumulative to determine if it exceeds 50 percent;

c. Additions to the square footage of an existing structure which exceeds 10 percent of the existing square footage or floor area; or

d. Change in use of the property that increases the number of required parking spaces in compliance with this chapter.

2. If a property is annexed into the City of Stockton Parking Improvement District No. 2001-1, it shall no longer be subject to the Central Parking District assessments.

3. Residential land uses, religious facilities, schools, and emergency shelters that opt to not be part of the district shall meet the parking requirements of this chapter.

(Prior code § 16-345.060; Ord. 2016-04-12-1602 § III)

§ 16.64.080 Development standards for off-street parking.

Off-street parking areas shall be developed in the following manner:

A. Access. Off-street parking spaces shall be accessible by drives and aisles as follows:

1. Parking Areas. Access to off-street parking areas shall be provided in the following manner:

a. Nonresidential and Multifamily. Parking areas for nonresidential and multifamily uses:

i. Shall provide suitable maneuvering room so that vehicles enter an abutting street or alley in a forward direction.

ii. The Director may approve exceptions for parking areas immediately adjoining a public alley, provided suitable maneuvering room is provided to enter an abutting street in a forward direction.

iii. Off-street parking lots shall conform to City standards and specifications for parking facilities (Section 16.64.080, Development standards for off-street parking).

iv. Parking garages adjacent to residential zoning districts shall be set back a minimum of 15 feet and landscaped.

b. Other Residential. The required parking spaces for single-family homes, duplexes, and triplexes shall not be located within 20 feet of a right-of-way, measured from the property line, except attached side entry garages which may be 15 feet from the right-of-way in compliance with Section 16.36.110(D)(1)(a)(3) (Allowed projections into setbacks) provided there is at least a 20-foot driveway from the sidewalk.

2. Access to Adjacent Sites. Applicants for nonresidential developments are encouraged to provide shared vehicle and pedestrian access to adjacent nonresidential properties for convenience, safety, and efficient circulation. A joint access agreement guaranteeing the continued availability of the shared access between the properties and running with the land shall be recorded by the owners of the abutting properties, as approved by the Director.

3. Traffic Sight Area. In all cases, a minimum unobstructed clearance adjacent to a street intersection shall be maintained in compliance with Section 16.36.140 (Traffic sight area).

B. Location. Required off-street parking areas shall be located as follows:

1. For single-family homes, duplexes, and triplexes, parking shall be located on the same parcel as the residence.

2. For townhouses and multifamily uses, parking shall be located within 200 feet of the units they are intended to serve.

3. For uses permitted in residential zones other than the above, parking shall be located on the same or abutting parcel as the use to be served.

4. For nonresidential uses, permanent parking shall be located on the same parcel as the uses served, except that parking may be located on a parcel adjacent to, or within 500 feet of, the use served subject to a permanent covenant recorded with the County Recorder guaranteeing that the required parking would be maintained exclusively for the use or activity served. The agreement shall be approved by the Director and as to form by the City Attorney and a copy shall be filed with the Department.

5. Car pool and bicycle spaces (Section 16.64.100, Bicycle parking requirements and development standards) shall be located as close as is practical to the entrance(s) to the use they are intended to serve. Spaces shall be situated so that they do not obstruct the flow of pedestrians at entrances or sidewalks.

C. Parking Space and Aisle Dimensions. The development of parking lots and parking spaces shall comply with the City's standard specifications and plans and the following:

1. Parking Spaces.

a. Standard Spaces. Parking spaces shall be:

i. Striped. Striped in parking lots; and

ii. Dimensioned. Dimensioned a minimum of nine feet wide by 19 feet long.

b. Compact Spaces. Up to 30 percent of the required parking spaces may be developed to compact space size standards: minimum of nine feet wide by 15 feet long and dispersed throughout the parking lot.

2. Aisle Dimensions. The width of aisles in parking lots shall depend on the configuration of the parking lot in compliance with the City's standard specifications and plans.

D. Drainage. Parking lots shall be designed in compliance with the stormwater quality and quantity standards of the City's best management practices and the City's standard specifications and plans.

E. Directional Arrows and Signs.

1. Parking spaces, driveways, circulation aisles, and maneuvering areas shall be clearly marked with directional arrows and lines to ensure the safe and efficient flow of vehicles. Any directional signs shall meet the requirements of Section 16.76.100(B) (Directional signs).

2. The Director may require the installation of the traffic signs in addition to directional arrows to ensure the safe and efficient flow of vehicles in a parking facility.

F. Landscaping. Landscaping for surface parking lots shall be provided as follows:

1. Landscape Plan Required. A comprehensive landscape plan shall be submitted to the Director for approval.

2. Landscape Materials. Landscaping materials shall be provided throughout the parking lot area using a combination of trees, shrubs, and vegetative groundcover. Water conserving landscape plant materials shall be emphasized.

3. Curbing. Areas containing plant materials shall be bordered by a concrete curb at least six inches high and six inches wide. Alternative barrier designs may be approved by the Director.

4. Irrigation. An automatic irrigation system, including features such as drip systems, bubblers, and soakers, shall be provided for all landscaped areas, including tree wells, planters, and planting islands.

5. Bumper Overhang Areas. A maximum of two feet of the parking stall depth may be landscaped with low-growth, hearty materials in lieu of paving or the walkway may be increased, allowing a two foot bumper overhang while maintaining the required parking dimensions. Bumper overhang areas shall not encroach into required walkways, required landscape areas, or rights-of-way.

6. Perimeter Parking Lot Landscaping.

a. Adjacent to Streets. Parking areas adjoining a public street shall be designed to provide a landscaped planting strip between the street right-of-way and parking area.

i. Parking areas adjoining a public street shall be designed to provide a minimum five foot-wide landscaped planting strip between the street right-of-way and parking area. The Director may grant an exception to this requirement if existing structures or substandard lots preclude its implementation. In this case, the maximum planting strip area shall be provided based on site conditions;

ii. The landscaping, other than trees, shall be designed and maintained to screen cars from view from the street and shall be approximately 36 inches in height;

iii. Screening materials may include a combination of plant materials, earth berms, raised planters, or other screening devices that meet the intent of this requirement and have been approved by the Director; and

iv. Plant materials, walls, or structures within a traffic sight area of a driveway shall not exceed 30 inches in height in compliance with Section 16.36.140 (Traffic sight area).

b. Adjacent to Residential Use.

i. Parking areas for nonresidential uses adjoining residential uses shall provide a landscaped buffer yard with a minimum 10-foot width between the parking area and the common property line bordering the residential use. A solid masonry wall in compliance with Section 16.48.060 (Walls required between different zoning districts) and landscaping shall be provided along the property line. Trees shall be provided at a rate of one for each 30 feet of landscaped area and shall be a minimum 15-gallon container stock with a caliper size, at time of planting, which is appropriate for a normal, healthy example of the specified tree variety and no less than three-fourths inch in diameter.

ii. Parking areas for shopping centers shall be provided in compliance with the standards for shopping centers in Section 16.80.330 (Shopping centers and large-scale commercial retail uses).

7. Interior Parking Lot Landscaping.

a. Trees Required.

i. Number and Location. Trees shall be evenly spaced throughout the interior parking area at a rate of one tree for every five parking spaces. The required number of trees shall not include required street trees.

ii. Size. All trees within the parking area shall be a minimum 15-gallon container stock with a caliper size, at time of planting, which is appropriate for a normal, healthy example of the specified tree variety and no less than three-fourths inch in diameter.

b. Planting Areas. Trees shall be located in planting areas that are designed and constructed throughout the parking area. In order to be considered within the parking area, trees shall be located in planters that are bounded on at least three sides by parking area paving. Planters shall have a minimum interior dimension of six feet. All ends of parking lanes shall have landscaped islands.

c. Larger Projects. Parking lots with more than 100 spaces shall provide an appropriate entry feature consisting of a concentration of landscape elements at primary entrances, including specimen trees, flowering plants, enhanced paving, and project identification.

8. Parking Structures. These landscaping standards shall not apply to parking garages or other parking structures.

9. Compliance with State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. For any new building permit, new landscaping installed shall be done so in compliance with the current version of the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, as adopted by the City Council at the time of building permit issuance.

G. Lighting. Parking areas shall have lighting capable of providing adequate illumination for security and safety. Lighting standards shall be energy-efficient and in scale with the height and use of the on-premises structure(s). All illumination, including security lighting, shall be directed downward, away from adjacent properties and public rights-of-way in compliance with Section 16.32.070 (Light and glare).

H. Striping and Identification.

1. Vehicular. Parking spaces shall be clearly outlined with four inch wide lines painted on the surface of the parking facility. Compact and car pool spaces shall be clearly identified for compact vehicle and car pool usage respectively.

2. Disabled. Parking spaces for the disabled shall be striped and marked so as to be clearly identified in compliance with the applicable State standards.

I. Surfacing.

1. Parking spaces and maneuvering areas shall be paved and permanently maintained with asphalt, concrete, or interlocking paving stones in compliance with current City standards. Surfacing of temporary lots shall be approved by the City Engineer.

2. Paving thickness shall be in compliance with the City's standard specifications and plans.

3. Optional materials shall be approved by the City Engineer.

J. Wheel Stops/Curbing. Continuous concrete curbing at least six inches high and five and one-half (5.5) inches wide shall be provided for parking spaces located adjacent to fences, walls, property lines, landscaped areas, and structures. Individual wheel stops may be provided in lieu of continuous curbing when the parking is adjacent to a landscaped area, and the drainage is directed to the landscaped area subject to the approval of the Director. Wheel stops shall be placed to allow for two feet of vehicle overhang area within the dimension of the parking space.

(Prior code § 16-345.080; Ord. 023-07 C.S. §§ 47, 48; Ord. 001-08 C.S. § 10; Ord. 015-09 C.S., eff. 12-3-09; Ord. 011-11 C.S. § 1, eff. 10-27-11; Ord. 2020-12-01-1502 C.S. § 22)

§ 16.64.090 Parking in residential zoning districts.

A. Front and Street Side Setback Areas.

1. Front and side yard setback areas shall only be used for the temporary parking of motor vehicles. Storage of vehicles in this area shall not be allowed.

2. No vehicles shall be parked in the front and/or street side setback areas other than on a paved driveway. Paved driveways shall be limited to no more than 50 percent of the front and/or street side setback area in compliance with Section 16.56.030(A)(4) (General design standards). No parking shall be allowed in the landscaped areas.

B. Parking Lots.

1. Nonresidential Parking Facilities. Where parking lots are allowed in residential zoning districts in compliance with Chapter 16.20 (Allowable Land Uses and Permit Requirements), they shall be developed in compliance with the following requirements in addition to other applicable standards provided in this chapter.

a. Location of Parking Area. The parking area shall be accessory to, and for use of, one or more contiguous nonresidential uses allowed in residential zoning districts, or one or more uses allowed in a contiguous commercial or industrial zone. The Commission may grant a waiver for noncontiguous parking areas, but only under the following conditions:

i. The parking area would be designed to be compatible with the neighborhood;

ii. The parking area or areas would not fragment the surrounding neighborhood;

iii. The parking area would not be a hazard to the public convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare of persons residing or working in the neighborhood;

iv. The parking area would not be detrimental and/or injurious to property and improvements in the neighborhood;

v. The parking area would utilize a piece of residentially zoned land with certain constraints (e.g., next to freeway); and

vi. The parking area would be located within a reasonable walking distance of the use to which it is an accessory in compliance with Section 16.64.080(B) (Location).

b. Access. Access to parking areas shall be from commercial streets and in compliance with the requirements of Section 16.64.080(A) (Development standards for off-street parking— Access). An exception may be granted by the Commission if no commercial streets are available for access.

c. Passenger Vehicle Parking Only. Parking areas shall be used solely for the parking of passenger vehicles.

d. Signs. No signs, other than signs designating entrance, exits, and conditions of use, or required legal signs, shall be maintained in parking areas. Signs shall not exceed four square feet in area and five feet in height in compliance with Section 16.76.100(B) (Directional signs). The number and location shall be approved by the Director before installation.

e. Perimeter Wall. The parking facility shall have a solid masonry wall eight feet in height along all interior property lines adjacent to residential zoning districts and shall provide a screen 36 inches in height in a combination of plant materials, landscaped earth berms, raised planters, walls, and/or other screening devices if adjacent to streets, except for reciprocal parking agreements or arrangements approved by the Commission. A lesser height may be allowed by the Commission if specific conditions warrant.

f. Development Standards. The parking lot shall be developed in compliance with Section 16.64.080 (Development standards for off-street parking).

g. Overnight Parking. Overnight parking shall be prohibited unless the parking lot is completely enclosed by an approved barrier that is locked and limited to passenger vehicles and recreational vehicles that are parked for no more than 72 hours.

h. Nonconforming Uses. Legal nonconforming uses shall be subject to the requirements of Chapter 16.228 (Nonconforming Uses, Structures, and Parcels).

2. Residential Parking Facilities. Parking facilities for residential land uses shall be developed in compliance with the following requirements in addition to other applicable standards provided in this chapter.

a. Location of Parking Facility. The parking facility should be provided on the same parcel as the primary residential use and accessory to the primary residential use. As an alternative, parking facilities may be provided on parcels separate from the primary residential use which shall have a landscape strip that is a minimum of 15 feet from the property line of any residential structure and shall be in compliance with Section 16.64.090(A) (Front and street side setback areas).

b. Passenger Vehicle Parking Only. Parking facilities shall be used solely for the parking of passenger vehicles.

c. Development Standards. Parking facilities shall be developed in compliance with Section 16.80.220 (Multifamily development—Parking) and Section 16.64.080 (Development standards for off-street parking).

d. Fencing. The parking facility shall have a solid wall six feet in height along all interior property lines and shall provide a screen 36 inches in height in a combination of plant materials, earth berms, raised planters, and/or other screening devices if adjacent to the street, except as provided by the use permit.

C. Commercial, Company, and Nonprofit Organization Vehicle Parking. Commercial, company, and nonprofit organization vehicles having a gross load capacity greater than one ton or those vehicles having gross load capacity of one ton or more or those vehicles clearly commercial in nature (e.g., tow trucks, ambulances, mini-buses, vehicles with commercial, company, or nonprofit organization signs) or similar vehicles shall not be allowed to park:

1. Private Property. On private property in residential zones except for immediate loading or unloading of goods or people or if not visible from the street; and

2. Public Right-of-Way. Overnight in a public right-of-way, as enforced by the Police Department.

D. Recreational Vehicles and Boats. Recreational vehicles (RVs) and boats shall:

1. Not park in the front or street side yards;

2. Be partially screened by a fence that is a minimum of six feet in height; and

3. Be parked on improved surface.

E. Inoperable Vehicles. Inoperable, abandoned, wrecked or dismantled vehicles, or vehicle parts shall not be stored on public or private property in compliance with Chapter 8.12 of the Municipal Code.

(Prior code § 16-345.090; Ord. 023-07 C.S. §§ 49, 50; Ord. 001-08 C.S. § 11; Ord. 015-09 C.S., eff. 12-3-09; Ord. 2020-12-01-1502 C.S. § 23)

§ 16.64.100 Bicycle parking requirements and development standards.

A. Applicability. Every use, including new construction, change of use or expansion of a use or structure that intensifies the required off-street parking required by 10 percent or more shall provide bicycle parking, except as otherwise provided for in Chapter 16.228 (Nonconforming Uses, Structures, and Parcels). A minimum of 50 percent of the bicycle parking shall be designated for long-term bicycle parking for facilities with over 100 employees or with a parking requirements that exceeds 50 parking stalls. Any bicycle parking requirement resulting in a fraction, shall be rounded up, to the nearest whole number.

B. Number of Spaces. The required minimum number of bicycle parking spaces shall be 10 percent of the total off-street parking requirement per Section 16.64.040.

C. General Requirements.

1. Bicycle parking shall be provided in a convenient, secure, highly visible, and well-lit area within 50 feet of a building entrances and exits.

2. Bicycle parking shall be at least as conveniently located as the most convenient automobile spaces, other than those spaces for persons with disabilities. Safe and convenient means of ingress and egress shall be provided that does not interfere with accessible paths of travel or accessible parking as required by this chapter.

3. Bicycle parking facilities shall be located on or within a concrete or similar surface and designed to support bicycles in a stable position without damage to wheels, frames, or other components.

4. Facilities shall be securely anchored to the surface to prevent easy removal and shall be of sufficient strength to resist vandalism and theft.

5. Bicycle parking areas shall contain signage that clearly shows how the bicycle should be locked for optimum security and a number where to contact the owner with questions or report theft.

6. Bicycle parking wayfinding signage is required for every site containing long-term bicycle parking.

7. Vertical bicycle parking racks must allow a user to securely lock a bike tire and frame to the rack.

8. Long-term bicycle parking shall be located on the same parcel as the use it serves. Long-term bicycle parking for commercial tenants shall be located on the ground floor within 50 feet of a building entrance if ground floor automobile parking is provided. If no ground floor automobile parking is provided, the bicycle parking may be located on the level immediately below or above the ground floor level within 50 feet of a public elevator or stairway.

9. All required long-term bicycle parking shall be covered. Covered parking can be provided inside buildings, under roof overhangs or awnings, in bicycle lockers, or within or under other structures. Long-term bicycle parking shall be in at least one of the following facilities:

a. An enclosed bicycle locker;

b. A fenced, locked or guarded bicycle storage area with bike racks within;

c. A rack or stand inside a building that is within view of an attendant or security guard or visible from employee work areas; or

d. A secure, non-public parking garage.

D. Alternative Design and Compliance. Upon written request by the applicant, the Director may approve alternative compliance from the provisions of this chapter, which may include, but are not limited to, a reduction or deviation in the number, type, or location of the required bicycle parking, and may include a waiver of the requirement.

(Prior code § 16-345.100; Ord. 001-08 C.S. § 12; Ord. 2020-12-01-1502 C.S. § 24)

§ 16.64.110 Off-street loading space standards.

A. Number of Loading Spaces Required. Nonresidential uses with less than 5,000 square feet of gross floor area shall provide one off-street loading space, which may be combined with an off-street parking space. Nonresidential uses with 5,000 square feet of floor area or more shall provide off-street loading space(s) in compliance with Table 3-11. Requirements for uses not specifically listed shall be determined by the Director based upon the requirements for comparable uses and upon the particular characteristics of the proposed use.

TABLE 3-11 REQUIRED LOADING SPACES
Type of Land Use	Total Gross Floor Area	Loading Spaces Required
Manufacturing, research and development, institutional, and service uses	10,000—30,000 sq. ft.	One
	30,001 + sq. ft.	One for each additional 20,000 sq. ft., plus additional as required by Director.
Office uses	35,000 to 70,000 sq. ft.	One
	70,001 + sq. ft.	One for each additional 35,000 sq. ft., plus additional as required by Director.
Commercial and other allowed uses	10,000 to 20,000 sq. ft.	One
	20,001 + sq. ft.	One for each additional 10,000 sq. ft., plus additional as required by Director.

B. Development Standards for Off-Street Loading Areas. Off-street loading areas shall be provided in the following manner:

1. Dimensions. Loading spaces shall be not less than 10 feet in width, 25 feet in length, with 14 feet of vertical clearance;

2. Lighting. Loading areas shall have lighting capable of providing adequate illumination for security and safety. Lighting sources shall be shielded to prevent light spill beyond the property line. Lighting standards shall be energy-efficient and in scale with the height and use of adjacent structure(s). Lighting shall meet the requirements for light and illumination (Section 16.36.095);

3. Plans. Plans for loading ramps or truck wells shall be accompanied by a profile drawing showing the ramp, ramp transitions, and overhead clearances;

4. Location. Loading spaces shall be located and designed as follows:

a. As near as possible to the main structure and limited to the rear two-thirds of the parcel, if feasible,

b. Situated to ensure that the loading facility is screened from adjacent streets as much as possible,

c. Situated to ensure that loading and unloading takes place on-premises and in no case within adjacent public rights-of-way or other traffic circulation areas on-premises,

d. Situated to ensure that vehicular maneuvers occur on-premises, and

e. Situated to avoid adverse impacts upon neighboring residential properties;

5. Screening. Loading areas abutting residentially zoned parcels shall be screened in compliance with Section 16.36.100 (Screening and buffering); and

6. Striping. Loading areas shall be striped indicating the loading spaces and identifying the spaces for "loading only." The striping shall be permanently maintained by the property owner/tenant in a clear and visible manner at all times.

7. Downtown and the Magnolia Historic District. New construction in the downtown or Magnolia historic district shall provide off-street loading spaces in compliance with this section. The use or reuse of an existing structure shall not require any additional off-street loading spaces.

(Prior code § 16-345.110; Ord. 2020-12-01-1502 C.S. § 25; Ord. 2025-06-03-1601, 6/3/2025)