A. 
Except as provided in this chapter, no building shall be erected, reconstructed or structurally altered, nor shall any building or land be used for any purpose other than is specifically permitted in the zone in which such building or land is located.
B. 
Unless otherwise specifically stated in this title, an individual lot or building site as each is defined herein is intended to be the unit to which all of the provisions, requirements, permitted uses, yards and open spaces apply.
(Prior code § 44-92)
A. 
In developing and adopting the ordinance from which this chapter derives, it has been the purpose of the City Council to employ the fact that the characteristics of uses may be recognized and established whereby comparable, compatible or similar uses may be grouped together thus creating classifications of uses. This title establishes several classifications each permitting uses of a similar character and type, and certain uses are specifically named to further define the types of uses permitted. The City Council is also aware of the fact that it is not possible to enumerate and classify within this title every use to which land may be devoted, either now or in the future. It is further recognized that ambiguity may exist with reference to the appropriate and consistent classification of any use. Therefore, with reference to any use in either of the following three categories, it shall be the responsibility and duty of the Planning Commission to ascertain all pertinent facts relating to any of such uses and, by resolution, set forth its findings and its interpretations, the City Council shall govern unless appealed by any party at interest, which appeal shall be taken to the City Council.
1. 
Any use identified by a long-established title, trade name or operating characteristics which type of use has existed and persisted in great numbers over a period of years but which use has been omitted from the lists in any classification.
2. 
Any use already listed in a classification in this chapter by a known title, trade name or designation but which because of new technology, equipment, substances or materials used, possesses measurably different performance standards than those uses in the same classification and possibly warrants being made permissible in a more restrictive classification.
3. 
Uses which have newly come into existence by reason of developments in the trades and in the sciences and the processing of new materials or the operation of equipment and devices resulting therefrom, including forms of communications.
B. 
For purposes of arriving at determinations under this section, the degree of compatibility of any such use to other uses listed as permissible in each of the several classifications shall be evaluated. So far as technical evidence and scientific means of measurement are available they shall be considered in determining the form and intensity of performance standards typically associated with any identifiable type of use. The term "performance standards" as here employed refers to such conditions, effects or results which flow from the maintenance and operation of any use including, but not limited to, the flow of sound measured in decibels; ambient level of sound; vibrations above and below the auditory range; odors, fumes; smoke or other emissions whether toxic or nontoxic; incidence of hazard, including explosion or contamination; the identification and classification in terms of chemical composition of the emissions from any type of use whether industrial, commercial or domestic; the traffic-generating capacity, both in terms of freight and passengers, the volume of either or both, and the time or times of daily cycle that represent peak flow or minimum flow; the consuming capacity of and need for electrical energy, natural gas, oil, water, sewage disposal and transportation facilities including water, rail and air.
C. 
The City Council, or Planning Commission, on its own motion, may initiate proceedings under this section, or any person desiring to ascertain the most restrictive zone in which a use may be located shall file a written application for such determination with the Planning Commission upon forms supplied by the City, and accompanied by such data as is available upon the factors enumerated herein.
D. 
An up-to-date list of all uses classified pursuant to this section shall be maintained in the office of the Planning Commission and, at least once each year, copies of such list shall be prepared and made available to all persons requesting the same.
(Prior code § 44-94)
If, in the administration of the provisions of this title a property owner believes and alleges that there is error in any order, requirement, permit, decision or determination made by an administrative official in the administration or enforcement of this title, an appeal may be taken to the Planning Commission, whereupon such commission shall deal with the matter in the manner set forth in this title pertaining to clarification of ambiguities.
(Prior code § 44-95)
Wherein the zoning map establishes only zone boundaries and the text of this title establishes the permitted use of land in the various zones and the conditions applicable to such use, a site plan, as the term is employed in this title, has a two-fold purpose:
A. 
To correlate the detailed provisions, conditions and requirements of this title and other applicable provisions of this Code and other ordinances as they apply to the site by means of a map on which shall be shown, among other things, the design and placement of essential related facilities such as off-street parking, loading and unloading areas, points of ingress and egress particularly related to bordering traffic flow, pattern and flow of on-site traffic, placement and arrangement of buildings as well as any other subjects included in this title which are essential to the best utilization of the land in order to conserve public safety and general welfare and which will encourage modern specialized land development and use. A site plan may be used as the means for applying the provisions of this title or other ordinances to undivided property or to consolidated subdivided property the dimensions, shapes and sizes of which do not individually lend themselves advantageously to modern land utilization.
B. 
If the site plan contains any area that may require acquisition for public purposes, such as opening and widening of streets or alleys, such features in addition to being indicated on the site plan shall be identified in exact detail on a precise plan showing dimensions, directions, radii, bearings and any other information pertinent for identification as a precise plan within the meaning of the State Planning Law. Hearings on the site plan and the precise plan shall be separately noted in the public notice of hearing, but may be held concurrently, and action on each shall be taken separately.
(Prior code § 44-96)
In order to assure that the purpose and provisions for a formally adopted site plan of record shall be conformed to, the land reclassified within any site plan shall be limited exclusively to such uses as are first permitted in the zone to which it is classified unless otherwise stipulated in the plan itself. Uses shown on such site plan, including automobile parking, shall conform to such site plan even though such use, or uses, are not otherwise specifically classified by this chapter as permissible in any given zone.
(Prior code § 44-97)
The provisions of this title shall not be construed to limit or interfere with the installation, maintenance and operations of public utility pipelines and electric or telephone transmission lines, or railroads (but not including switching yards or round houses), when located in accordance with the applicable rules and regulations of the Public Utilities Commission of the State within rights-of-way, easements, franchises or ownerships of such public utilities; nor shall they restrict the right of a public utility to increase the capacity of facilities necessary to and used directly for the delivery of or distribution of services; provided, however, that in any "R" zone all yard requirements of the zone in which the site is located shall be maintained, and no enlargement of the site is involved.
(Prior code § 44-99)
A. 
Construction Buildings. Temporary structures for the housing of tools and equipment, or containing supervisory offices in connection with major construction on major construction projects may be established and maintained during the progress of such construction on such project, and shall be abated within 30 days after completion, or 30 days after cessation of work.
B. 
Construction Signs. Signs identifying persons engaged in construction on a site shall be permitted as long as construction is in progress, but not to exceed a six-month period; provided, that at any time the removal is required for a public purpose such signs shall be moved at no expense to the City or other public agency.
C. 
Real Estate Offices. One temporary real estate sales office may be located on any new subdivision in any zone; provided, that the activities of such office shall pertain only to the selling of lots within the subdivision upon which the office is located; and, provided further, that if the subdivision is in any "R" zone, the temporary real estate office shall be removed at the end of a 12-month period measured from the date of the recording of the map of the subdivision upon which such office is located.
D. 
Real Estate Signs. Two temporary real estate signs or billboards, not to exceed 50 square feet in area per face, or one sign or billboard not to exceed an area of 100 square feet per face may be located on any new subdivision in any area; provided, that such signs or billboards, if in an "R" zone, shall be removed at the end of a 12-month period measured from the date of the resolution by the City Council accepting the public improvements of the subdivision upon which such signs or billboards are located.
(Prior code §§ 44-100—44-103)
When a lot in a "C" zone is located at a corner formed by intersecting or intercepting streets, highways or both, and the lot has a depth of 100 feet or less as measured from the corner along the side property line away from the corner toward "R" classified properties fronting upon such side street or highway and in the same block, then additional lots to the rear of the "C" classified property may be utilized to provide an extension of the "C" use; provided, that the first lot so used is contiguous to the "C" classified property and the balance of the property so used is in sequence thereto. Such additional property and the property classified for "C" purposes shall not aggregate a depth greater than 160 feet measured as in this section provided, and no entrance, exit or driveway shall be established or used upon the 40 feet farthest removed from the corner formed by the intersecting or intercepting streets, highways or both.
(Prior code § 44-104)
Unless otherwise provided in this section, no building or structure shall be used on any lot which abuts a street or major or secondary highway unless the one-half of the street or highway which is located on the same side of the center line as the lot has been dedicated and improved as provided in this section.
A. 
Exceptions. This section does not apply to the following buildings or structures which if they comply with all other provisions of this title, may be used without complying with any provision of this section:
1. 
Accessory agricultural buildings where used primarily for agricultural purposes.
2. 
Gas distribution, meter and control stations of a public utility.
3. 
Outdoor advertising displays.
4. 
Temporary uses permitted in this chapter for a period not to exceed 30 days.
5. 
Other similar uses which, in the opinion of the Planning Commission, will not generate a greater volume of traffic than the uses enumerated in this subsection.
B. 
Dedication Standards for Streets and Highways. Streets and major and secondary highways shall be dedicated to the width from the center line specified in this subsection and, in the case of corner cut-offs, to the radius specified in the division of land regulations of the City; except, that dedication in any case shall not be required to such an extent as to reduce either the area or width of any lot to less than 75% of the minimum required area or width for such lot.
1. 
Dedication shall be to a distance of 50 feet from the center line of every major highway.
2. 
Dedication shall be to a distance of 40 feet from the center line of every secondary highway.
3. 
Dedication shall be to a distance of one-half the planned ultimate width of all streets pursuant to the standards of the division of land regulations of the City, unless in the opinion of the City Manager, topographic features, subdivision plans or other conditions create an unnecessary hardship or unreasonable regulation and he or she deems a lesser width adequate. The City Manager shall designate the distance from the center line in any case where such ultimate width is not specified.
C. 
Agreement to Dedicate. In lieu of dedication, the City Engineer may accept an agreement to dedicate, signed by all persons having any right, title, interest or lien in the property or any portion thereof to be dedicated. The signatures on such agreement shall be acknowledged, and the agreement shall be recorded in the office of the County Recorder of this County.
D. 
Completion of Improvements. Before a building or structure subject to the provisions of this section may be used, curbs, gutters, sidewalks and drainage structures where required shall be constructed in accordance with City specifications.
E. 
Agreement to Improve. In lieu of the required improvements, the Superintendent of Streets may accept from any responsible person a contract to make such improvements. Such improvements shall be completed within the time specified in the agreement to improve; except, that the Superintendent of Streets may grant such additional time as is deemed necessary if, in the opinion of the Superintendent of Streets, a good and sufficient reason exists for the delay.
1. 
Such contract shall be accompanied by a good and sufficient improvement security, acceptable to the City, which, in the opinion of the Superintendent of Streets, equals the cost of the required improvements.
2. 
Upon the failure of such responsible person to complete any improvement within the time specified in an agreement, or grant of additional time, the City Council may, upon notice in writing of not less than 10 days served upon the person signing such contract, or upon notice in writing of not less than 20 days served by registered mail addressed to the last known address of the person signing such contract, determine that such improvement work or any part thereof is incomplete and may cause to be forfeited to the City such portion of deposits given for the faithful performance of such work, or may cash any instrument of credit so deposited in such amount as may be necessary to complete the improvement work.
F. 
Modification of Improvement Requirements by Superintendent of Streets. The Superintendent of Streets may modify any improvement requirements, if he or she finds that any of the following conditions exist:
1. 
Because of the location of the property, the terrain or condition of the property or other similar reasons, the construction of the curbs, gutters, sidewalks or drainage structures would be impractical or unnecessary.
2. 
Because of lack of adequate data in regard to grades, plans or surveys, the construction of curbs, gutters, sidewalks or drainage structures should be waived.
3. 
The construction of curbs, gutters, sidewalks or drainage structures is included in a budgeted City project or within an approved assessment district.
G. 
Existing Structures. This section does not apply to the use, alteration or enlargement of an existing building or structure or the erection of one or more buildings accessory thereto, or both, on the same lot or parcel of land, if the total value of such alteration, enlargement or construction does not exceed one-half of the current market value of all existing buildings on such lot or parcel of land.
H. 
Variance. Any person deeming him or herself aggrieved may apply for a variance from any provision of this section pursuant to Chapter 17.48 whether he or she has applied for a modification or not. In such case, the normal zone variance case fees are waived. The provisions of subsection F of this section shall constitute additional grounds for the approval of a variance from any provision of this section.
(Prior code § 44-104.1)
Development of automobile service stations and automobile laundries shall be subject to the following conditions:
A. 
Buildings, other structures, and landscaping shall be located between streets and gasoline pumps in such a manner that activity at gasoline pumps is screened. Service bays within the building shall be designed to open only to the rear of an interior lot or to the interior corner of a corner lot. The minimum lot area shall not be less than 22,500 square feet and the minimum lot width shall not be less than 150 feet.
B. 
That minimum setbacks shall be provided as follows:
1. 
All buildings shall be not less than 10 feet from any property line and not less than 25 feet from any property line abutting a street or highway.
2. 
All gasoline pumps or other facilities for providing motor vehicles with fuel, and the pump islands on which they are placed, shall be not less than 15 feet from any property line.
C. 
Distance from a property line abutting a street or highway shall be measured as required for measurement of front yards by Section 17.44.280.
D. 
That a six-foot high decorative masonry wall shall be installed and maintained along all interior property lines not occupied by a building.
E. 
1. 
Facilities for Nonorganic Recyclable Materials, Organic Waste, and Solid Waste. Receptacles (including, but not limited to, barrels, bins, carts, containers, or dumpsters), facilities, and storage for garbage, waste, refuse, trash, organic waste, and nonorganic recyclables shall comply with Chapter 17.118.
2. 
Public restroom facilities shall be provided free of charge during business hours, for use by service station customers. The public restroom shall not be temporary or portable but shall be permanent and shall include separate facilities for men and women, each with toilets and sinks suitable for use by the handicapped in accordance with Section 19955-5 of the Health and Safety Code and Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations and shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary manner. Entrances to restroom facilities shall be located within a building obscured from view from surrounding areas.
F. 
That landscaping shall be provided as follows:
1. 
Landscaping shall comprise at least 20% of all nonbuilding area. Landscaping shall consist of trees of at least 15-gallon size, shrubs of at least five-gallon size, and suitable ground cover. 10-foot wide planters shall be permanently maintained adjacent to every street and highway frontage for the full length thereof except for driveways. Six-foot planters shall be permanently maintained adjacent to any interior lot line.
2. 
Not less than 400 square feet of planting areas shall be installed and maintained at the intersection of two property lines at street or highway corners.
3. 
Raised planters not less than three feet wide shall be constructed and maintained along the full length of each building façade facing any street or highway.
4. 
All planting areas shall be separated from adjacent asphalt or concrete paving by a curb or wall at least 12 inches in height.
5. 
All planting, other than trees, shall be of a variety that will not achieve a height greater than 30 inches, shall not be thorny or spiked and shall not extend over the sidewalk.
6. 
Planters not less than three feet wide shall be installed and maintained adjacent to all interior property lines for a total distance of not less than one-half the length of such property lines.
7. 
Permanent underground irrigation systems shall be installed and maintained for every landscaped area, and all such landscaped areas shall be planted and maintained in a clean and workmanlike manner.
G. 
That access and circulation shall comply with the following requirements:
1. 
Not more than two driveways or means of access shall be provided to any one street or highway.
2. 
Every driveway shall be separated from adjacent property by a full-height curb extending at least five feet in length from the adjacent property line.
3. 
No driveway shall exceed a width of 30 feet at the sidewalk.
4. 
No driveway shall encroach into the curve of a street or highway corner.
5. 
There shall be a minimum distance of 22 feet of full-height curb between driveways serving the station.
H. 
That required parking shall be provided as follows:
1. 
Two parking spaces shall be provided for each service bay in the building.
2. 
One parking space shall be provided for each employee on the largest shift.
3. 
Vehicles may only be parked in designated parking spaces.
4. 
Vehicles being repaired on the premises may be stored outside only during business hours and for no more than 24 hours.
I. 
That all hydraulic hoists and pits, all equipment for lubrication, greasing, automobile washing and permitted repairs shall be enclosed entirely within a building.
J. 
That the entire lot shall be paved, except as otherwise provided herein, and surface drainage provided as required for off-street parking areas.
K. 
That any lights provided for illumination shall be so arranged as to prevent glare, reflections, nuisance or hazardous interference of any kind on adjoining street, highways or property.
L. 
That all operations, sales and service shall be limited as specified by Section 17.04.010, thereby further providing that:
1. 
No sale of automobiles, boats, trucks, trailers, motor bikes, peat moss, fertilizer, toys or other merchandise not clearly incidental to operation of a service station shall be permitted; provided however, that convenience items such as soft drinks and cigarettes may be sold from dispensers within or abutting the main building.
2. 
Rentals of trailers, etc., where otherwise permitted in the zone, may only be conducted on property in excess of the required minimum site size. Such areas must be screened from all surrounding areas by a six-foot-high decorative masonry wall.
M. 
All entrances to restrooms shall be located within the building in such a manner as to not be visible from adjacent property.
N. 
That plot and preliminary architectural plans indicating compliance with the provisions of this section and embodying "Spanish," "Mediterranean" or other acceptable design shall be submitted for approval and made a condition of an approved conditional use permit.
O. 
Noise shall be muffled so as not to become objectionable due to intermittence, beat frequency or shrillness, and the decibel level measured at property lines shall not exceed street background noise normally occurring at location of site.
P. 
Signs must conform to the following standards:
1. 
A sign drawing must be submitted to the Director of Planning for approval prior to the installation of any sign. All necessary permits shall be obtained prior to the installation of any sign.
2. 
All name, logo, and pricing information is limited to a maximum sign area of one-half-foot of signage per one lineal foot of street frontage not to exceed 100 square feet.
3. 
Name and logo information shall be contained entirely on monument or wall signs.
4. 
One monument sign shall be allowed for each 150 lineal feet of street frontage.
5. 
Monument signs shall be placed in a landscaped planter area of not less than 400 square feet.
6. 
Monument signs shall have a concrete or brick base and shall not exceed six feet in height.
7. 
In no case shall a monument sign be located closer than a distance computed as 40% of the lot width from any side property line (excluding side property lines adjacent to a public street).
8. 
Pricing information may be displayed on monument or wall signs and may be permitted on identification signs or pump island canopies provided that the distance from the top to the bottoms of the sign face be no greater than three feet. Pricing information may be displayed as a digital sign on a monument sign only. Only pricing numbers and common symbols for currency may be displayed in digital form on a monument sign. Digital display pricing shall remain static for a minimum of four hours. Scrolling, flashing, rotating, pulsating, moving, or blinking of pricing information is prohibited. The intensity of digital illumination shall be static between messages.
Q. 
That the requirements and limitations contained in this section shall be considered minimum standards and conditions of an approved conditional use permit; provided, however, that the Commission may:
1. 
Require such additional conditions as are deemed necessary within the intent of Section 17.48.020(B); or
2. 
Modify or waive such requirements or limitations contained herein which, in the opinion of the Commission, are inappropriate or inapplicable either to the intended use of the property, to the property itself or to adjacent property.
(Prior code § 44-104.2; Ord. 1140 § 7, 2020; Ord. 1198, 4/22/2025; Ord. 1207, 10/28/2025)
If any service station is closed, vacated, abandoned or not operated so as to engage in the sale of petroleum products or the dispensing of gasoline for a period of six consecutive months, any legal permits and City entitlements in effect at the end of such six-month period will become null and void and no further sales or service from such service station will be allowed. Any service station that is closed, vacated, abandoned or not operated so as to provide sales of petroleum products for a period of six consecutive months is hereby found to create a condition tending to reduce the value of private property, to promote blight and deterioration, to invite plundering and vandalism, to create fire hazards and constitute an attractive nuisance creating a hazard that will be injurious to the health, safety and welfare of the general public. The presence of a service station that has been vacated or abandoned for a period of six consecutive months is hereby declared to constitute a public nuisance and shall be cause for removal from the premises of all pumps, pump islands, tanks, canopies, signs and other appurtenances related to the dispensing of gasoline after proper notification by the chief building official in accordance with the Building Code, dangerous building provisions. Prior notification shall be made by the City Planner to the property owner of record at least 90 days prior to the expiration date setting forth the intent to declare such abandoned service station a nuisance and revoke any active permits.
(Prior code § 44-104.3)
Conversion of an automobile service station structure to a new use shall be subject to the following standards and conditions:
A. 
A conversion of an abandoned station to a new automobile service station use shall be subject to a conditional use permit as provided in the provisions of this title.
B. 
A conversion of an abandoned automobile service station to a different use shall be subject to approval of the Development Review Board as provided in Chapter 17.60 of this title. The minimum standards of development for such conversion shall be as follows:
1. 
Curb cuts and drive approaches within 25 feet of intersections shall be removed and replaced with full curbs, sidewalks and landscaping to match existing or proposed improvements unless it can be shown that the conversion traffic pattern requires such drives.
2. 
All underground tanks shall be removed or filled in with acceptable material such as sand or concrete if conversion use does not involve gas sales to general public.
3. 
Canopies shall be removed unless they are made an integral part of an enclosed structure to be a part of the conversion use.
4. 
Sign structures and lighting structures shall be removed or be made a part of new use.
5. 
Service station buildings shall be refaced with wood, masonry or stucco. Service stations having these materials already may be retained with no reface upon Development Review Board approval.
6. 
Pumps and pump islands shall be removed.
7. 
If the service station building is placed at an angle across the corner the applicant must justify retention of the building by proving that it will be compatible with the conversion use.
8. 
Unless it can be shown by the applicant that the converted use requires such overhead doors or windows, such doors or windows shall be removed and replaced with solid walls or windows.
9. 
All remaining service station equipment inside the building shall be removed unless it can be shown that it is needed as an integral part of the conversion use.
(Prior code § 44-104.4)
The conditions regulating the development of worm farms shall be, but not limited to, the following conditions:
A. 
Worm farms, as defined by Section 17.04.010, shall be permitted in the light manufacturing and heavy manufacturing zones only, and shall be subject to a conditional use permit.
B. 
All worm beds or containers used for the keeping, propagating or raising of earthworms shall be placed on the property or adequately screened so as not to be visible from the public street or adjacent properties.
C. 
All worm beds or containers used for the keeping, propagating or raising of earthworms, for the purpose of enumerating such containers, shall not exceed four feet in width, eight feet in length and two feet in depth.
D. 
Worm food material shall include any organic decaying material comprised of horse, cow, rabbit or bird excreta. Such food shall not include garbage material, as defined by Section 13.20.020 of this Code. All such food material shall be treated so as to prevent the infestation of flies or other insects.
E. 
All solid material, organic or chemical, used in conjunction with the raising of worms shall be stored so as not to be objectionable to adjacent properties.
F. 
All areas used in conjunction with the placement of active worm beds shall be surfaced with two inches of gravel.
(Prior code § 44-104.5)
The City Council finds and determines that condominiums and community apartments differ from apartments in numerous respects, and for the benefit of public health, safety and welfare, such projects should be treated differently from apartments. The City Council further finds that because such conversions are subdivisions and governed by the map act, such conversion also must meet reasonable conditions adopted by the City Council, including, but not limited to, local design conditions. Thus, it is the purpose of this section to provide reasonable standards for the location, design, and development of condominium and community apartment projects.
A. 
Applicability of Section. The provisions of this section shall apply to housing units in the R-M (Multiple Family Residential) development zone.
B. 
Division of Land Required. A tentative and final map for a condominium project or a community apartment project shall be prepared and processed in accordance with Title 16 of this Code.
C. 
Criteria for Conversion to Condominium Project. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Code, no tentative tract or parcel map which would have the effect of creating a condominium or a community apartment project shall be approved, nor shall a final map be recorded, unless the project complies with all applicable regulations of this Code and the following requirements are met or guaranteed in a manner provided by this Code.
1. 
All existing buildings and structures shall be made to comply with all applicable building regulations of the City in effect at the time of filing the tentative map.
2. 
Units built prior to the City's adoption of the 1982 Los Angeles County Building Code shall be eligible to request conversion when they have been substantially rehabilitated or remodeled to meet the regulations of the City in effect at the time of filing the tentative map, specifically including, but not limited to, meeting current building and safety codes.
3. 
Projects which contain less than three dwelling units shall not be eligible for conversion.
4. 
Each dwelling unit shall contain no less than the following minimum required floor area, exclusive of stair-ways, bathrooms, and garage or carport:
a. 
One bedroom unit: 850 square feet.
b. 
Two bedroom unit: 1,000 square feet.
c. 
Three bedroom unit: 1,250 square feet.
d. 
Each additional habitable room must contain at least 150 square feet.
5. 
Common outdoor space shall be provided at a ratio of 250 square feet per two-bedroom or larger dwelling unit; 150 square feet per one-bedroom unit. Such areas shall not include private streets, driveways, private yards or patios, parking or loading spaces or utility easements where the ground surface cannot be used appropriately for active or passive recreation, nor other areas primarily designed for other operational functions.
6. 
Each unit shall have air conditioning, or provision for future installation of air conditioning, in compliance with California Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Energy Code) as adopted by the City. All mechanical equipment for air conditioning must be screened from view of the other units and the public right-of-way.
7. 
Exterior storage space for each unit shall be provided on site in an enclosed and lockable area of permanent construction such as garage, carport, or accessory storage room. Minimum exterior storage area shall be 80 cubic feet for each unit.
8. 
Each unit shall be equipped with individual plumbing hookups for installation of washing machines and dryers. If the units are not equipped with individual hookups, the applicant shall submit a timeline and plan for providing individual hookups for washers and dryers prior to completion of conversion.
9. 
On-site parking shall comply with Article 3 (Loading Areas and Off-Street Parking) of Chapter 17.44 and underlying zone requirements of this Code. The applicant shall submit a site plan showing all parking spaces provided for the project. The applicant shall indicate on the site plan the spaces that are assigned to specific dwelling units, and the spaces provided for guest parking. The City Council review and approval of the site plan is required.
10. 
All resident parking areas shall be equipped with a security system, which may include a security gate.
11. 
Sound attenuation between units shall meet Sound Transmission Class 50 or current State standards with confirmation by a property report prepared by a State of California-licensed architect, structural engineer, or civil engineer.
12. 
Floors between units shall meet Impact Insulation Class 50 or current State standards with confirmation by a property report prepared by a State of California-licensed architect, structural engineer, or civil engineer.
13. 
Along with any application for conversion, if applicable, the applicant shall submit a report to the City setting forth all repairs and replacements necessary to place the buildings in substantial compliance with current building and safety codes upon completion of the conversion. Such report shall include remedies for any identified property nuisance listed under Section 13.20.470 of this Code and any site improvement in a condition contrary to a development requirement of the City Council, Planning Commission, or Development Review Board. Such report shall include a report prepared by a licensed mechanical engineer verifying the condition of the mechanical elements in the project, including, but not limited to, furnaces, air conditioners, pumps, water heaters, and plumbing fixtures. Such work shall be included within the plans submitted for the conversion.
14. 
Copies of the required covenants, conditions and restrictions, articles of incorporation, and bylaws or other documents of the owner's association or other identity which controls the common facilities shall be submitted to the City for approval.
15. 
All open areas, with the exception of outdoor storage, vehicular accessways and parking areas, pedestrian walkways and paved or covered recreational facilities, shall be landscaped and irrigated with a permanent irrigation system. Such landscaping and irrigation shall be permanently maintained. All landscaping and irrigation shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 17.96 (Water-Efficient Landscape Provisions) of this Code and the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) of the State of California as those may be amended from time to time.
16. 
Utility systems shall exist or shall be constructed to adequately provide for individual metered utility services to all condominium units.
17. 
The project shall comply with organic waste requirements of Chapter 13.09 (Mandatory Organic Waste Disposal Reduction) of this Code as those may be amended from time to time.
D. 
Application. Prior to the filing of a tentative tract or parcel map creating a condominium or community apartment project with an existing structure, the applicant shall submit to the Planning Commission and City Council for approval development plans containing the following information in compliance with all current City and other applicable codes:
1. 
Application for condominium conversion, including required submittals.
2. 
A list of all current tenants in the complex, including names and mailing addresses and evidence of notice as required by law and subsection F below, and the date on which each tenant or prospective tenant began occupancy and ended occupancy.
3. 
Location, height, gross floor area, and proposed uses of each existing structure to remain and for each proposed structure.
4. 
Location, use, and type of surfacing of all open storage areas.
5. 
Location and type of surfacing of all driveways, pedestrian ways, vehicle parking areas, and curb cuts.
6. 
Location, height, and type of material for walls or fences.
7. 
Location of all landscaped areas, type of landscaping and irrigation, and a statement specifying the method by which the landscaping areas shall be maintained in compliance with Chapter 17.96 (Water-Efficient Landscape Provisions) of this Code and the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) of the State of California.
8. 
Location of all recreational facilities and a statement specifying the method of maintenance thereof.
9. 
Location of parking facilities to be used in conjunction with each condominium unit.
10. 
Architectural elevations of all structures showing types and materials of construction, including details of the method used to provide sound insulation in all common walls.
11. 
Compliance with the requirements of subsection C, above, and specifically of subsection (C)(13) if applicable.
E. 
Public Hearings Required. Applications for condominium conversions shall be subject to public hearings before the Planning Commission and City Council. Notice of such hearings shall be provided as required by California Government Code Sections 65090 and 66451.3, subsection (b).
F. 
Additional Notice Requirements. In addition to any other notice requirements, the City Council may not approve a final map for a condominium conversion unless the applicant can show notice of all of the following at the applicant's expense and in the form and within the timeframes set out below:
1. 
Each tenant of the proposed condominium or community apartment project, and each person applying for the rental of a unit in the residential real property, has received or will have received all applicable notices and rights now or hereafter required by this section and State law as that may be amended from time to time.
2. 
Each of the tenants of the proposed condominium or community apartment project shall receive each of the following notices at the times specified:
a. 
Written notification of the applicant's intention to convert provided at least 60 days prior to the filing of a tentative map. The notice shall be provided in the form set out in Government Code Section 66452.18 as that may be amended from time to time. Notice shall be provided in compliance with legal requirements for service by mail.
b. 
Within the period at least 60 days before filing of the tentative map, the applicant shall provide written notice to any prospective tenant, before receipt of any rent or deposit, in the form and manner set out in Government Code Section 66452.17.
c. 
Ten days prior written notification that the applicant will or has submitted an application for a public report to the Bureau of Real Estate, that the period for each tenant's right to purchase begins with the issuance of the final public report, and that the report will be available on request to the applicant.
d. 
Written notification within five days after the date the applicant receives the public report from the Bureau of Real Estate.
e. 
Written notification within 10 days after approval of a final map for the proposed conversion.
f. 
One hundred eighty days prior written notification of termination of tenancy during the period of time after approval of tentative map and before the approval of the final map for the conversion. Such notice shall be in the form set out in Government Code Section 66452.19, as that may be amended from time to time and shall state that such notice does not alter or abridge the rights or obligations of the parties in performance of their covenants, including, but not limited to, the provision of services, payment of rent, or the obligations imposed by Sections 1941, 1941.1, and 1941.2 of the California Civil Code.
g. 
Written notice of the tenant's exclusive right to contract for the purchase of their unit upon the same terms and conditions that the unit will be initially offered to the general public or terms more favorable to the tenant pursuant to Government Code Section 66452.20. The exclusive right to purchase shall commence and shall run for a period of not less than 90 calendar days, unless the tenant gives prior written notice of his or her intention not to exercise the right.
3. 
If a rental agreement was negotiated in Spanish, Chinese, Tagalog, Vietnamese, or Korean, all required written notices regarding the conversion of residential real property into a condominium project or a community apartment project shall be in that language.
G. 
Tenant Assistance.
1. 
Limitation on Evictions. No eviction shall occur as a result of conversion for at least 180 days after the approval of a tentative map.
2. 
Financial Assistance. The applicant shall provide financial assistance equal to twice the average monthly rent for the three-month period prior to the filing of the tentative map to any tenant that relocates after the approval of a tentative map by the City Council. The financial assistance payment shall be made 30 days prior to the termination of the tenant's tenancy.
3. 
Interference with Tenants during Conversion. The applicant shall not perform construction, renovation or remodeling of occupied units in anticipation of conversion unless that unit's tenant has agreed to purchase that unit. Notwithstanding, nothing in this section shall prevent the owner from performing routine maintenance or other work required to maintain the unit in a habitable condition.
(Prior code § 44-104.6; Ord. 1162 § 5, 2022)
A. 
Sale Frequency. Subject to the regulatory provisions as set forth in this chapter, a sale, as defined in Section 17.04.010 of the Paramount Municipal Code, in a residentially zoned property or legal nonconforming residential property may be conducted on two occasions every 12 months for up to two consecutive days each occasion. Such sale shall be by a person residing on such property.
B. 
Allowable Sales. For the purpose of this section, "sale" means a garage, estate, or yard sale of goods, merchandise, and equipment owned by the resident and confined to the lot or parcel of property upon which structure the person conducting their sale resides. Food sales are prohibited. No person shall sell or offer for sale any new goods, merchandise, or equipment. No person shall sell or offer for sale any used goods, merchandise, or equipment that has been consigned or otherwise acquired for the purpose of resale.
C. 
Permit. A permit issued by the Planning Director or designee shall be obtained by such resident before selling or offering to sell any goods, merchandise, or equipment. The application shall be in a form and content as the Planning Director or designee deems advisable. The applicant shall submit proof of residency (such as a government-issued identification or current utility bill) at the sale address to the satisfaction of the Planning Director or designee. An issued garage, estate, or yard sale permit shall be posted in a location clearly visible from the public street or right-of-way during each day and hour of operation of the approved sale.
D. 
Estate Sales. A permit for a garage or yard sale shall not be issued on the same lot or parcel more than two occasions in a 12-month period for up to two consecutive days each occasion. However, one additional sale permit may be issued on the same lot or parcel during the same 12-month period for a maximum of two consecutive days if it is for the sole purpose of an estate sale. An estate sale is defined as a sale conducted to sell goods, merchandise, and equipment of the property's deceased resident. The deceased person must be a principal resident of the property, and a death certificate is required to obtain the license to conduct the sale.
E. 
Religious Assembly Sales. Religious assemblies as defined in Title 17 of the Paramount Municipal Code may be permitted to have a garage or yard sale on the same lot or parcel not more than two occasions in a 12-month period for up to two consecutive days each occasion.
F. 
Change in Occupancy or Residence. A change in the occupancy or residence shall not operate to cause a permit to be issued more frequently than previously stated.
G. 
Signs. In accordance with Article 7 (Signs in the Public Right-of-Way, Public Property and Parkways - Prohibited) of Chapter 9.04 (Miscellaneous Offenses) of the Paramount Municipal Code, no signs advertising a garage, estate, or yard sale shall be placed, attached, or installed on any tree, shrub, tree stake or guard, or upon any public building or structure, or upon any building or structure located upon public property or in, over or across the public rights-of-way, or within a parkway.
(Ord. 1203, 8/12/2025)
A. 
Special Events.
1. 
No special event may be conducted without first obtaining a permit from, and receiving approval by, the Planning Director or designee. The application for this special event permit is subject to a fee as adopted by the City Council. A complete special event permit application shall be submitted a minimum of 10 business days in advance of the proposed first day of any special event.
2. 
No more than 20 days in each calendar year shall be devoted to special events. Excess days resulting from special events of lesser duration than the limits established by this chapter may not be utilized during special events in any subsequent calendar year.
3. 
Trash at the special event shall be continuously picked up and discarded in trash receptacles. The special event area shall be cleared of all stock in trade, merchandise, and equipment by 9:00 a.m. on the day immediately following termination of said special event.
4. 
Such special events shall be designed so as not to obstruct the orderly flow of pedestrian traffic in or about existing business areas, or obstruct or hinder the orderly movement of vehicular traffic or emergency vehicles. Special events shall not be permitted on any portion of the public sidewalk, alley, or street.
5. 
Temporary advertising devices may be permitted only in conjunction with a special event subject to the conditions as set forth below:
a. 
Temporary advertising devices shall include, but not be limited to, banners, balloons, flags, pennants, valances, or advertising displays constructed of cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard, plywood, or other light material, as well as any mechanical audible or animated statuary device. Feather flags are subject to the provisions of subsection D of this section and shall not be considered under the special event provisions.
b. 
All temporary advertising devices and their precise location shall be approved by the Planning Director or designee prior to their installation.
6. 
No such special event shall be permitted in any residential zone excepting religious assembly sites with an associated commercial (nonresidential) structure.
7. 
In reviewing a special event permit, the Planning Director or designee shall determine that the proposed special event would not be detrimental to existing uses on the site in which the proposed special event is to be located; would not be detrimental to adjacent properties, tenants, and residents; and that the site for the special event is properly designed and improved so as to carry the type and quantity of traffic generated or to be generated by the use.
8. 
The applicant shall comply with all conditions of approval imposed for safety, health, and the general welfare.
9. 
Every applicant shall have the right to appeal the actions and decisions of the Planning Director to the Planning Commission within 10 days after a decision. The decision of the Planning Commission may be appealed to the City Council in the manner provided in Section 17.60.050.
B. 
Grand Opening. A grand opening may be permitted in the parking area or walkway areas upon private property.
1. 
No grand opening may be conducted without first obtaining a permit from the Planning Department, and receiving approval by the Planning Director or designee. The application for this permit is subject to a fee as adopted by the City Council.
2. 
A grand opening shall be limited to a maximum of 30 days per calendar year per location as stated on the business license.
3. 
Trash at the grand opening shall be continuously picked up and discarded in trash receptacles. The premises shall be cleared of all stock in trade, merchandise, and equipment by 9:00 a.m. on the day immediately following termination of said grand opening.
4. 
Such grand openings shall be designed so as not to obstruct the orderly flow of pedestrian traffic in or about existing store areas, or obstruct or hinder the orderly movement of vehicular traffic or emergency vehicles. Grand openings shall not be permitted on any portion of the public sidewalk, alley, or street.
5. 
Temporary advertising devices may be permitted only in conjunction with a grand opening subject to the conditions set forth below:
a. 
Temporary advertising devices shall include, but not be limited to, banners, balloons, flags, pennants, valances or advertising displays constructed of cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard, plywood, or other light material, as well as any mechanical, audible or animated statuary device.
b. 
Temporary advertising may be permitted only during a grand opening for any business provided the display of temporary advertising devices shall not exceed 30 days.
c. 
All temporary advertising devices and their precise location shall be approved by the Planning Director or designee prior to their installation.
6. 
No such grand opening shall be permitted in any residential zone with the exception of religious assembly sites with an associated commercial (nonresidential) structure.
7. 
In reviewing a grand opening permit, the Planning Director or designee shall determine that the proposed grand opening would not be detrimental to existing uses on the site in which the proposed grand opening is to be located; would not be detrimental to adjacent properties, tenants, and residents; and that the site for the grand opening is properly designed and improved so as to carry the type and quantity of traffic generated or to be generated by the use.
8. 
The applicant shall comply with all conditions of approval imposed for safety, health, and the general welfare.
9. 
Every applicant shall have the right to appeal the actions and decisions of the Planning Director to the Planning Commission within 10 days after a decision. The decision of the Planning Commission may be appealed to the City Council in the manner provided in Section 17.60.050.
C. 
Banners.
1. 
Banners shall be allowed subject to the following:
a. 
Prior to the installation of a banner(s), a permit shall be obtained from the Director of Planning.
b. 
Each business shall be allowed one banner, except:
i. 
Businesses occupying corner units, which shall be allowed one banner per building side, up to a maximum of two banners for each business;
ii. 
Businesses occupying single unit buildings, which shall be allowed one banner per building side, up to a maximum of four banners per building;
iii. 
No more than one banner may be placed on each separate building side.
c. 
The Director of Planning shall have the authority, as an administrative act, to allow more than one banner per building side for businesses located in corner units, which shall be allowed a maximum of two banners per business, and for businesses occupying single unit buildings, which shall be allowed a maximum of four banners per business.
2. 
All banners shall be constructed in a professional manner, installed flat against the wall or façade and anchored at all four corners.
3. 
Maximum banner length shall be 30% of the unit or building frontage.
4. 
Maximum banner width shall be four feet.
5. 
Banners shall not be permitted to replace permanent business signage. If a business does not contain a permanent sign at the time the banner permit is approved, a permanent sign must be installed within 30 days from the date of issuance of the banner permit. If a permanent sign is not installed within 30 days from issuance of the banner permit, the permit shall be subject to revocation by the Director of Planning.
6. 
All banners shall be maintained in good condition. The criteria utilized in evaluating the condition of the banners shall include, but not be limited to, faded and or discolored lettering and background, torn material, and damaged banner mounts.
a. 
The City shall regularly inspect the condition of banners.
b. 
The Director of Planning shall make the determination that a banner(s) in a deteriorated condition must be removed. The banner(s) must be removed within seven days from receiving a Notice of Violation.
c. 
The decision of the Director of Planning may be appealed to the City Council.
i. 
All appeals must be made in writing to the Director of Planning within seven days from receiving a notice of violation.
ii. 
If the City Council upholds the decision of the Director of Planning, the banner(s) shall be removed within seven days from the decision of the City Council. The decision of the City Council shall be final.
d. 
If the business owner neglects to remove the deteriorated banner(s) within the time frame permitted in this section, the banner permit shall be revoked. A $500.00 fee shall be assessed to the business owner to renew the banner permit.
D. 
Feather Flags.
1. 
Feather flags shall be allowed subject to the following:
a. 
Prior to the fabrication or installation of a feather flag, a permit shall be obtained from the Director of Planning. The applicant shall submit a site plan indicating the proposed location for a feather flag. Approval criteria includes, but is not limited to, a determination that the proposed flag will not contribute to an overproliferation of feather flags at the site, and vehicular and pedestrian safety will be maintained.
b. 
Each business shall be allowed one feather flag. A single suite that contains more than one business shall be allowed a maximum one feather flag.
c. 
A corner suite or single pad building shall be allowed a second feather flag. The second feather flag shall be displayed on a separate side of the suite or building from the first flag. The two flags shall maintain a minimum distance of five feet apart.
d. 
Feather flags shall be separated by distance to avoid overproliferation. When more than one feather flag is requested on a property that contains more than one business, a feather flag shall not be placed nearer than 10 feet from another feather flag of another business. Feather flags on separate properties shall be separated by a minimum of 10 feet.
2. 
Feather flags shall be displayed a maximum of 50 days in a calendar year.
3. 
Feather flags shall not be permitted to replace permanent business signage. If a business does not contain a permanent sign at the time the feather flag permit is approved, a permanent sign must be installed within 30 days from the date of issuance of the feather flag permit. If a permanent sign is not installed within 30 days from issuance of the feather flag permit, the feather flag permit shall be subject to revocation by the Director of Planning.
4. 
All feather flags shall be maintained in good condition. The criteria utilized in evaluating the condition of the feather flags shall include, but not be limited to, faded and or discolored lettering and background, torn material, and damaged feather flag poles.
a. 
The City shall regularly inspect the condition of feather flags.
b. 
The Director of Planning shall make the determination that a feather flag(s) in a deteriorated condition must be removed. The feather flag(s) must be removed within seven days from receiving a notice of violation.
c. 
The decision of the Director of Planning may be appealed to the City Council.
i. 
All appeals must be made in writing to the Director of Planning within seven days from receiving a notice of violation.
ii. 
If the City Council upholds the decision of the Director of Planning, the feather flag(s) shall be removed within seven days from the decision of the City Council. The decision of the City Council shall be final.
d. 
If the business owner neglects to remove the deteriorated feather flag(s) within the time frame permitted in this section, the feather flag permit shall be revoked. A $500 fee shall be assessed to the business owner to renew the feather flag permit.
(Prior code § 44-104.7; Ord. 1198, 4/22/2025)
A. 
No person shall use any lot or parcel of land for the purpose of conducting or maintaining thereon an open-air type facility for the display and sale of new or used vehicles without complying with the following minimum regulations:
1. 
The sale of new or used vehicles, as defined by Section 17.04.010, shall be permitted in the Commercial Manufacturing, Light Manufacturing, and Heavy Manufacturing zones only, and shall be subject to a conditional use permit.
2. 
The complete plans, showing the location and design of all buildings, structures, signs, lights, fences, bumpers or barricades and the proposed development thereof, including landscaping, shall first be submitted to, and be approved by, the Development Review Board, before any construction or improvement is commenced.
3. 
The entire area of such lot or parcel shall be surfaced, thereafter maintained in good condition with not less than a two-inch thickness of blacktop or other equally serviceable hard surface pavement, and prior to the laying of such surfacing, the entire area shall be effectively treated with a weed destroyer.
4. 
The property shall be attractively maintained in a neat and orderly condition, and the business conducted thereon shall be operated in a manner so as not to be detrimental to others residing or working in the vicinity.
5. 
Adequate devices or structures shall be installed and maintained so as to protect any boundary line fence, wall or building from damage and to prevent any part of a vehicle from extending across any public or private property lines and that all such installations and the maintenance thereof shall be in conformance with standards and specifications approved by the Planning Department.
6. 
Open areas shall be used solely for the display of new and used vehicles as defined by Section 17.04.010, and shall not be used for the display of vehicles acquired for dismantling purposes or vehicles classified as total loss salvage vehicles.
7. 
A solid masonry wall shall be erected and attractively maintained along all property lines.
8. 
No advertising sign, structure or device, whether temporary or permanent in character, shall be erected or maintained upon the premises without the design thereof and the proposed location having first been submitted to the Planning Department for approval. Temporary advertising devices shall include, but not be limited to: banners, balloons, flags, pennants, valance, or advertising display constructed of cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard, plywood, or other light material, as well as any mechanical, audible or animated statuary device. Temporary advertising may be permitted only during an approved special events sale which shall be limited to a maximum of eight days per calendar year. No single sale may exceed two consecutive days. All temporary advertising divides shall be approved by the Director of Planning prior to their installation.
B. 
Abatement of Nonconforming Uses. Wherever a vehicle sales lot exists upon any property within the City at the time of adoption of this section, such use shall be abated or shall meet all provisions of this section within 90 days after the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in this chapter.
(Prior code § 44-104.8; Ord. 1198, 4/22/2025)
A. 
Purpose. The purpose of this section is to establish an appropriate review process for making reasonable accommodations in zoning and land use laws, regulations, policies, or procedures when necessary to afford individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling while minimizing potential impacts on neighboring properties.
B. 
Applicability. The review process as established by this section applies to an individual with a physical or mental impairment that limits one or more major life activities, anyone who is regarded as having any such an impairment, or anyone who has a record of having such an impairment.
C. 
Notice to the Public of Availability of Accommodation Process. Under Federal and State fair housing laws, a jurisdiction has an affirmative duty to make reasonable accommodations in rules, policies, practices and procedures where accommodation may be necessary to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to housing. By providing the public with notice of the availability of its procedure for requesting accommodation, the City takes an affirmative step in accordance with the Federal and State mandates to make accommodation available to people with disabilities. Accommodation request forms shall be available in the Planning Department.
D. 
Application for Reasonable Accommodation.
1. 
In order to make housing available to an individual with a disability, any eligible person as defined in sub-section B of this section may request a reasonable accommodation in land use and zoning regulations, policies, practices and procedures.
2. 
Applications for reasonable accommodation shall be made in writing, and shall contain such information as may be specified by the Planning Department Director.
3. 
Requests must demonstrate a clear nexus with a disability. It is the applicant's responsibility to describe the connection between the disability and the reasonable accommodation requested by the applicant, and shall provide:
a. 
Name, address, and contact information of the individual requesting reasonable accommodation;
b. 
Name, address, and contact information of the property owner;
c. 
Address of the property for which accommodation is requested;
d. 
The specific code section, regulation, procedure, or policy of the City from which relief is sought;
e. 
A site plan or illustrative drawing showing the proposed accommodation, if applicable;
f. 
An explanation of why the specified code section, regulation, procedure, or policy is denying, or will deny a disabled person equal opportunity to use and enjoy the dwelling;
g. 
The basis for the claim that the fair housing laws apply to the applicant and evidence satisfactory to the City supporting the claim, which may include a letter from a medical doctor or other licensed health care professional, a disabled license, or any other appropriate evidence;
h. 
A detailed explanation of why the accommodation is reasonable and necessary to afford the disabled person an equal opportunity to use and enjoy the dwelling;
i. 
Any other information required to make the findings required by this section, consistent with the fair housing laws;
j. 
Any information identified by an applicant as confidential shall be retained in a manner so as to respect the privacy rights of the applicant and shall not be made available for public inspection;
k. 
When an application is made, the City may engage in an interactive process with the applicant to devise alternative accommodations that provide the applicant an opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling, where such alternative accommodations would reduce impacts to neighboring properties or the surrounding area.
E. 
Approval Process.
1. 
Requests for reasonable accommodation shall be reviewed by the Planning Department Director or designee using the criteria set forth in subsection F of this section. The Planning Department Director may refer the matter to the Development Review Board as appropriate.
2. 
The Director of Planning or designee shall render a written decision or refer the matter to the Development Review Board within 30 days after the application is complete, and shall approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application for reasonable accommodation in accordance with the required findings set forth in subsection F of this section.
3. 
If the application for reasonable accommodation is referred to or reviewed by the Development Review Board, then the Development Review Board shall approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application for reasonable accommodation in accordance with the required findings set forth in subsection F of this section.
4. 
If necessary to reach a determination on the request for reasonable accommodation, the Planning Department Director or Development Review Board may request further information from the applicant consistent with fair housing laws, specifying in detail the information that is required. In the event that a request for additional information is made, the 30-day period to issue a decision is stayed until the applicant responds to the request.
F. 
Required Findings. The written decision to approve, approve with conditions, or deny a request for reasonable accommodation shall be consistent with fair housing laws and based on the following factors:
1. 
Whether the housing, which is the subject of the request for reasonable accommodation, will be used by an individual with disabilities protected under fair housing laws;
2. 
Whether the requested accommodation is necessary to make housing available to an individual with disabilities protected under the fair housing laws;
3. 
Whether the requested accommodation would impose an undue financial or administrative burden on the City; and
4. 
Whether the requested accommodation would require a fundamental alteration in the nature of the City's land use and zoning.
G. 
Written Decision on the Request For Reasonable Accommodation.
1. 
The written decision on the request for reasonable accommodation shall explain in detail the basis of the decision, including the findings of the Planning Department Director or Development Review Board on the criteria set forth in subsection F above. All written decisions shall give notice of the applicant's right to appeal and to request reasonable accommodation in the appeals process as set forth below. The notice of decision shall be sent to the applicant by mail;
2. 
The written decision shall be final unless an applicant appeals a Planning Department Director decision to the Development Review Board or a Development Review Board decision to the City Council;
3. 
If the Development Review Board fails to render a written decision on the request for reasonable accommodation within the 30-day time period allotted by subsection E of this section the request shall be deemed approved; and
4. 
While a request for reasonable accommodation is pending, all laws and regulations otherwise applicable to the property that is the subject of the request shall remain in full force and effect.
H. 
Appeals.
1. 
Within 30 days of the date of the written decision, an applicant may appeal an adverse decision. Appeals from the adverse decision shall be made in writing.
2. 
If an individual needs assistance in filing an appeal, the City will provide assistance to ensure that the appeals process is accessible.
3. 
All appeals shall contain a written statement of the grounds for the appeal. Any information identified by an applicant as confidential shall be retained in a manner so as to respect the privacy rights of the applicant and shall not be made available for public inspection.
4. 
Nothing in this procedure shall preclude an aggrieved individual from seeking any other State or Federal remedy available.
(Prior code § 44-104.9; Ord. 1198, 4/22/2025)